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Recently, a friend of ours asked, do Ring cameras record all the time?
In this article, I will address that question and examine some of the essential features of Ring Cameras.
No, Ring cameras do not record all the time, only when motion is detected by your device. Ring captures frequent Snapshots every 30 seconds or up to an hour depending on the camera and which frequency you selected in the app.
How Do Ring Cameras Work?
Before we discuss if Ring Cameras records continuously, let’s examine how these devices operate. Ring Cameras are surveillance cameras that monitor the activity in and around a home.
They are usually placed at strategic points, such as doorways, garages, and entryways, and linked to the homeowner’s Wi-Fi network.
Ring Cameras provide several features that allow users to remotely monitor their homes. For instance, many models are equipped with motion detection sensors that identify movement and activate the camera to record.
Also, they usually have live video streaming capabilities that enable users to view real-time footage.
Do Ring Cameras Record All the Time?
Unfortunately, despite the rumors, Ring cameras do not record all the time,
instead, they only start recording when certain events occur, such as when motion is detected or when the user manually activates the camera.
But this is actually a good thing for homeowners who are concerned about privacy.
By only recording when necessary, Ring Cameras help to minimize the amount of footage that is recorded and stored, which can help to prevent potential privacy violations.
What Happens When Ring Cameras Record?
When Ring Cameras begin recording, they typically store the footage on a cloud-based server, enabling users to access it from anywhere with an internet connection.
Nonetheless, some individuals may have concerns about cloud-based servers from a privacy or security standpoint, such as hacking or jamming attacks.
Ring Cameras have customizable settings that users can modify to adjust camera behavior. For example, users can establish alerts to notify them of detected motion, or they can designate specific areas within the camera’s field of view that should trigger recording.
How Long Can a Ring Camera Record?
If you have a battery-powered device, Ring allows you to adjust the video recording length. You can choose between 15 seconds and up to 120 seconds in the Ring app.
To adjust the video recording length,
Go to App > Tap on “Menu” (three lines on the top left) > Tap “Devices” > Tap on the battery-powered device you want to adjust > Tap “Device Settings” > Tap “Video Settings” > Tap “Video Recording Length” > Tap “Max Recording Length”
Can I Delete Video Recordings?
Yes, it’s a very simple process to delete any recent videos and activities in your Ring app.
You can delete individual or multiple events all at once.
Delete Individual events:
Go to the App > Tap “History” > Tap the three dots on the right of the event > Tap “Delete” > Trash icon will appear, Tap “Delete”
Delete multiple events
Go to the App > Tap “History” > Tap “Edit” on the top right > Tap “Delete All” at the bottom right. You can also tap the circle to select the events you would like to delete.
Once you delete any event, it cannot be recovered.
Can You Save Video Recordings Without a Ring Protect Plan?
No, without any subscription, you will not have access to video recordings. Video recordings are saved on the AWS cloud server.
To have the ability to save your video recordings on a mobile device or computer you will need the Ring Protect Plan.
| Basic | Plus | Pro | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $3.99/mo | $10/mo | $20/mo |
| Video History for up to 180 Days | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Video Saving and Sharing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Snapshot Capture | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Person Alerts | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rich Notifications | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 10% off Select Products at Ring.com and Amazon.com | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Download up to 50 Videos At Once | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Extended Warranties for All Devices | Yes | Yes | |
| 24/7 Professional Monitoring | Yes | ||
| Alarm Cellular Backup | Yes | ||
| Alexa Guard Plus | Yes | ||
| 24/7 Backup Internet with Optional Extra Data | Yes | ||
| Digital Security by eero Secure | Yes | ||
| Ring Edge with Local Video Storage | Yes | ||
| Save up to $100 per Year or More on Your Home Insurance |
Does Ring share my Video Recordings?
No, you’re in total control of who you grant video access to. Ring also has a public app called Neighbors which you can make your videos publicly available to the community by posting them on the app.
Neighbors is an online community of Ring product owners that helps protect each other by posting real-time incident and safety alerts to reduce local crime. The services are completely free for anyone to view.
You can find more information about privacy on the Ring Privacy page.
Does Ring share my data?
Yes, Ring does share data with companies such as Facebook, Google, and other third-party companies. You can find this information on their Privacy Notice page.
Ring sells your information which can include your name, email address, the cell phone you use, how often you use your cell phone, what triggers you’re using, specs of your phone, IP addresses, and routers. All your information is getting sold to third-party companies.
The good news is that you can opt out of sharing your information. If you are a current Ring user, I will show you how.
Go to the App > Tap the Menu on the top Left > Tap “Control Center” > Scroll to the bottom and Tap “Third Party Service Providers” > Scroll down to “Personalized Advertising” and opt-out.
Go to the App > Tap the Menu on the top Left
Tap “Control Center” > Scroll to the bottom and Tap “Third Party Service Providers”
Scroll down to “Personalized Advertising” and opt out.
“Personalized Advertising” comes enabled, so you have to go to the app and opt out.
Amazon will try to discourage you from disabling Personalized Advertising but I recommend you do if you don’t what your information sold to third-party companies.
Can Ring Cameras be Turned Off?
Yes, it is possible to turn off Ring Cameras. However, it’s worth noting that doing so will deactivate all camera features, including motion detection and live video streaming.
As a result, the camera will be unable to detect or record any activity until it is turned back on.
What Are Some Other Features of Ring Cameras?
Aside from motion detection and live video streaming, Ring Cameras offer numerous other features to assist homeowners in securing their properties.
For instance, many models include two-way audio capabilities that enable users to communicate with individuals near the camera.
Some models also have remotely activated sirens that can deter potential intruders. Additionally, Ring Cameras can be connected to other smart home devices, such as Amazon Echo, enabling users to control their cameras using voice commands.
What Are Some Pros and Cons of Ring Cameras?
Let’s review the advantages and disadvantages of using Ring Cameras:
Pros:
- Simple to install and operate
- Accessible from any location with an internet connection
- Offer various security features to enhance safety
- Can be linked with other smart home devices
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those concerned about privacy
- Can be costly depending on the model selected
- Some features may require a subscription to access.
Smart Cameras that Offer 24/7 Footage Recording
If you’re searching for smart cameras that provide 24/7 recording, several options are available on Amazon. Some models that support continuous recording include:
- Arlo Pro 4: This camera is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, offering constant recording through its CVR plan.
- Nest Cam IQ: This camera provides 24/7 live streaming, and optional continuous video recording is possible with a Nest Aware subscription.
- Reolink Argus 3 Pro: This camera records video 24/7 with an SD card or cloud storage service.
- Wyze Cam v3: This camera enables continuous recording with a microSD card or cloud storage.
It’s vital to recognize that continuous recording requires significant storage space, and certain cameras may require payment to access this feature.
Moreover, it’s important to verify local laws before enabling 24/7 footage recording, as it may not be legal in all areas
Final Note
While Ring Cameras do not record continuously, their convenience can make them challenging to do without.
Although they may not significantly enhance home security unless used in conjunction with an alarm system or Ring Protect Plan, they can help reduce some of the risks associated with criminal activity.
All things considered, Ring Cameras are an excellent addition to any smart home, provided you can afford the investment.
If you have concerns about suspicious activity in your area, security cameras may be more essential than you realize!
Please, don’t forget to check out our recommended gadgets for the best tech for your buck.
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It's great to see that you have come across my website. I hope you explore it thoroughly. The website caters to regular consumers who have an interest in home automation. I am based in the Tri-state area and enjoy the latest smart tech along with my wonderful wife and three energetic boys.
