Cloud vs. SD card for surveillance cameras – Which storage solution is best?

Cloud or local storage?

Anyone who buys a surveillance camera faces an important question:

Should I save my recordings in the cloud or on an SD card directly in the camera?

Both options have their advantages—but also clear disadvantages. In this article, we highlight the differences and explain why local SD card storage is the better choice in many cases.

1. Cloud storage – convenient, but dependent on the Internet

With a cloud solution, your camera's videos are uploaded to an external server of the provider.

Advantages of cloud storage:

• Worldwide access to stored recordings
• No physical memory that can be lost
• Easy video sharing

Disadvantages of cloud storage:

• Constant internet connection required
• Monthly or annual subscription fees
• Data protection risk: Data is stored by the cloud provider
• No recording in case of network failure

The last point is particularly critical: If your internet fails – due to a disruption, a router defect, or even a Wi-Fi jammer – cloud recording stops immediately.

2. Local storage on SD card – independent and secure

With SD card storage, the videos are saved directly in the camera. This offers key advantages:

Advantages of SD card storage:

1. Independent of the Internet
   Recording continues even if Wi-Fi or internet is down.
   Weber Protect cameras also protect against movements in the event of Wi-Fi disruptions or targeted attacks such as Wi-Fi jamming.
2. Quick access to recordings
   No waiting – recordings are available immediately.
3. No subscription costs
   One-time purchase of the SD card, no ongoing fees.
4. Maximum data protection
   Your videos stay in your home and do not go to the cloud.
5. Full video quality
   No compression like with many cloud providers – the recordings remain in their original resolution.

Disadvantages of the SD card – and how to reduce them

• If the camera is stolen or destroyed, the SD card is gone
  Tip: Push notifications in the Weber Protect app increase the chance of saving important recordings in time.
• Limited storage space
  Solution: Larger SD cards or automatic overwriting of the oldest recordings.
• Regular checks necessary
  Modern cameras automatically check the storage status and report errors in the app.

Conclusion: Which storage solution is the right one?

If you want maximum security, privacy, and independence from the Internet, local SD card storage is the best choice.

Weber Protect cameras combine SD card storage with modern features like app notifications, motion detection, and optional cloud connectivity. This ensures optimal protection even in the event of disruptions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long can an SD card store recordings?

This depends on the storage size and resolution. 64 GB usually allows for several weeks of video recording.

Is cloud storage secure?

Security depends on the provider. Nevertheless, your data leaving your home poses a risk.

Which solution is better in case of Wi-Fi failure?

Clearly: SD card storage, because it works independently of the Internet.