Where Are My Videos? Understanding Ring's Approach to Local Storage
If you've recently purchased a Ring camera or doorbell, you might be looking for the SD card slot to store your recordings locally. This is a common point of confusion for new users. The simple answer is that most Ring devices are designed without local storage capabilities. This guide will explain why, how Ring's storage system works, and what options are available to you.
The Cloud-First Model: How Ring Stores Your Videos
Ring cameras operate on a 'cloud-first' basis. This means that when motion is detected or the doorbell is pressed, the device records video and uploads it directly to Ring's secure servers over your internet connection. This footage is then accessible to you through the Ring app on your phone, tablet, or computer.
Key things to understand:
- No SD Card Slots: Your standard Ring Video Doorbell, Floodlight Cam, or Stick Up Cam does not have a microSD card slot. You cannot insert your own storage card.
- Ring Protect Plan is Essential for Recordings: To save, review, and share your recorded videos, you must have an active subscription to a Ring Protect Plan. Without a plan, you can still get real-time motion alerts and answer your doorbell with live view, but no footage is stored.
What Are the Benefits of Cloud Storage?
While some users prefer local storage, the cloud-based approach offers several distinct advantages:
- Security and Redundancy: If a burglar were to steal or destroy your camera, your recorded footage would be unaffected. It remains safe on Ring's servers, ready to be used as evidence. With local storage, the recordings would be lost along with the device.
- Accessibility: You can access your videos from anywhere in the world with an internet connection, directly from the Ring app. You don't need to be at home to see what's happened.
- Easy Sharing: Sharing a video clip with family or law enforcement is as simple as sending a link from the app. There's no need to physically remove an SD card and transfer files.
Is There Any Way to Get Local Storage?
While most Ring devices don't offer local storage, there is one major exception to the rule.
Introducing Ring Edge with the Ring Alarm Pro
For users who absolutely want local storage, Ring offers a solution called Ring Edge. This feature is available exclusively on the Ring Alarm Pro base station.
- How it Works: The Ring Alarm Pro base station has a built-in eero Wi-Fi 6 router and a slot for a microSD card. You can insert your own card (sold separately), and then your compatible Ring cameras can be configured to save their recordings directly to this card in the base station.
- Benefits of Ring Edge:
- Local Control: Your recordings are stored in your home, not just in the cloud.
- Reduced Data Usage: Video is processed locally, using less of your internet bandwidth.
- Simultaneous Storage: With a Ring Protect Pro plan, you can even have your videos saved both locally to the SD card and to the cloud for extra backup.
It's important to note: This capability requires the specific Ring Alarm Pro base station. It is not a feature of the standard Ring Alarm system or any standalone camera.
Conclusion: Choosing What's Right for You
For the vast majority of users, the combination of a Ring camera and a Ring Protect Plan subscription provides a seamless, secure, and accessible way to manage video recordings. It's a system designed for convenience and security. However, for those who prioritise local storage and control, the Ring Alarm Pro with the Ring Edge feature offers a powerful alternative, blending the best of both local and cloud storage.