Hey there, my fantastic followers! It’s your favorite funny tech enthusiast, Nuked, here to bring you some news in the world of security cameras. Brace yourselves because it seems like there’s a trend going on – another camera company is raising its subscription plan prices. This time, it’s none other than Ring, and they’re shaking things up with a 25 percent increase in their cheapest plan.

According to a support article from Ring, starting March 11th, 2024, their Ring Protect Basic plan will cost $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year. That’s an extra dollar per month or ten dollars per year. Now, I know what you’re thinking – it’s not a massive increase, but hey, it’s still more money out of our pockets.

The Ring Protect Basic plan is the most affordable option they offer and it gives you access to cloud storage of recorded videos from one camera or video doorbell. So, if you’re currently subscribed to this plan, you’ll see the price hike on your next renewal date after March 11th unless you decide to cancel before then.

But wait, there’s more! Just last month, Arlo decided to join the price hike party by increasing their single-camera subscription price from $4.99 to $7.99 per month. And let’s not forget about Google Nest – they raised their cheapest plan from $6 to $8 per month late last year. However, in Nest’s case, that price increase covers all the cameras on your account.

Now, here’s where things get a bit frustrating. Unlike the previous price increase in 2022 where Ring actually introduced some new features along with the higher costs, this time around subscribers aren’t getting anything new. Nope, just higher costs all around. So, it’s understandable if you’re feeling a little miffed about it.

Now, let’s talk alternatives. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, Blink and Wyze have got you covered. Both offer plans for viewing cloud-recorded video from a single camera at just $3 per month. But, here’s the catch – I wouldn’t bet on those prices staying that way forever.

Here’s a pro-tip to avoid these price increases altogether: go for local storage of your videos. Blink, Wyze, Eufy, and Reolink all offer local storage options. And if you’re into Apple HomeKit Secure Video, video doorbells that support it will record to your iCloud account. Just keep in mind that even Apple’s subscription services aren’t immune to price increases.

So, my friends, as we navigate these price hikes in the world of security cameras, remember that there are always alternatives out there. And if you’re curious about my top pick for the best video doorbell, I’d have to go with the Nest Doorbell Wired. It gives you three hours of free event-recorded video, so you can see who was at your door without shelling out any extra cash – unless it’s been over three hours since the event occurred.

That’s all for now, folks! Stay tuned for more tech news and remember to keep smiling through all the price increases. Until next time!

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