Can you have a video doorbell without a subscription? 

Man standing outside front door with finger poised in front of video doorbell
(Image credit: Getty Images/Jorge Elizaquibel)

It’s a question many people ask when they decide to boost home security: can you have a video doorbell without a subscription? Spending out each month having already paid to purchase the doorbell isn’t always the preferred option.

The good news if you’re among those who favour a one-off investment in a video doorbell as part of your home security system? You can have one of these without incurring a monthly cost – although it’s worth knowing that there are features you might miss out on.

Head and shoulders photograph of safety expert Anthony Neary of Safe.co.uk
Anthony Neary

Anthony Neary is the founder and security expert at home and business security retailers Safe.co.uk. With over 15 years of industry experience, he specialises in security solutions and how to keep properties safe.

Head and shoulders image of Karl Woolley, head of product securing at Yale
Karl Woolley

Karl Woolley is the head of product security for Yale UKI, leading the product innovation, strategy and go-to-market execution. With a wealth of experience in product management and a deep understanding of the evolving home security landscape, Karl is dedicated to delivering compelling, market-driven solutions that meet evolving customer demands.

Sarah is a freelance journalist and editor writing for websites, national newspapers, and magazines. She’s spent most of her journalistic career specialising in homes. 

She loves testing the latest home appliances and products, and investigating the benefits, costs and practicalities of home improvement. She is an experienced renovator and is currently remodelling the ground floor of her new home.

She was Executive Editor of Ideal Home and has worked for Your Home and Homes & Ideas. Her work has published by numerous titles, including The Guardian, channel4.com, Houzz, Grand Designs, Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Homes & Antiques, Real Homes, The English Home, Period Living, Beautiful Kitchens, Good Homes and Country Homes & Interiors.