Introduction
If you’re using Blink cameras or planning to buy one, there’s a good chance you’ve heard about the optional Blink subscription plans. But here’s the big question: Are they actually worth paying for?
Blink already gives you a simple, affordable, and reliable home-security system — but subscribing to one of its plans unlocks extra features that can dramatically improve how your cameras work. From cloud storage to extended warranties and smarter alerts, the right plan can turn your basic home monitoring setup into a complete security system.
In this review, we break down Blink’s subscription offerings, compare Basic vs Plus, and help you decide which plan gives you the most value based on your home’s setup.
What Blink Subscription Plans Include
Blink offers two optional subscription tiers designed to enhance your camera’s capabilities. While Blink devices work without a subscription, paid plans unlock advanced features such as:
- Longer video clip storage
- Automatic cloud backups
- Smarter motion detection
- Extended warranty (Plus plan)
- Discounts on future devices
- Easier video review
- Longer live view sessions
- Ability to store videos without relying on local storage
These features can make daily monitoring smoother and provide more reliable, long-term security coverage.
Free vs Subscription: What You Actually Get
Before choosing a plan, here’s what Blink offers without paying anything:
Free (No Subscription):
- Live view (limited session time)
- Motion alerts
- Video storage only through local storage (requires Sync Module + USB drive)
- Access to cameras through Blink app
- Basic functionality
What You Gain With Subscription:
- Cloud storage for motion events
- Ability to record directly to cloud from Live View
- Person detection to reduce false alerts
- Photo capture (periodic snapshots)
- Clip highlights grouped for easier review
- Extended live view sessions
- Extra warranty protection (Plus)
- Multiple-device coverage (Plus)
If you want to make the most out of your Blink cameras without manually managing local storage, a subscription is the way to go.
Blink Subscription Plans Breakdown
1. Blink Basic Plan
Price: Approx. $3/month or $30/year
Device Coverage: One Blink camera or doorbell
Features:
- 60-day cloud video storage
- Live view recording
- Motion detection video recording
- Photo capture
- Person detection
- Clip highlights (Blink Moments)
- Local backup option
- Works great for single-camera setups
Best For:
People who only have one Blink camera and need essential cloud storage + smart features.
2. Blink Plus Plan
Price: Approx. $10/month or $100/year
Device Coverage: Unlimited Blink devices in your account
Features:
Everything in Basic, plus:
- Covers every Blink camera you own
- Extended warranty coverage
- 10% discount on future Blink purchases
- Ideal for multi-camera setups
- Best long-term value
Best For:
Anyone with two or more cameras, or users looking for a fully scalable home security system.
Blink Basic vs Blink Plus: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Basic Plan | Plus Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $3/mo | $10/mo |
| Devices Covered | 1 | Unlimited |
| Cloud Storage | 60 days | 60 days |
| Person Detection | Yes | Yes |
| Photo Capture | Yes | Yes |
| Live View Recording | Yes | Yes |
| Extended Warranty | No | Yes |
| Product Discounts | No | Yes |
| Best For | Single camera | Multiple cameras |
Pros & Cons of Blink Subscription Plans
Pros
- Affordable cloud storage
- Great value for multi-camera homes
- Smarter alerts with person detection
- Simple, easy-to-use app interface
- Reliable security with remote access
- Plus plan adds long-term protection and discounts
Cons
- Free tier is limited
- Basic plan becomes expensive if you own multiple cameras
- Cloud storage retention is temporary (you must save important clips manually)
- Some features may depend on camera model
Who Should Choose Which Plan?
Choose Blink Basic if:
- You only own one Blink camera
- You want cloud backup but don’t need device coverage
- You prefer a low monthly cost
Choose Blink Plus if:
- You own two or more Blink cameras
- You want extended warranty and discounts
- You want a fully scalable, long-term security setup
- You want to avoid paying for multiple Basic plans
Do You Even Need a Subscription?
You may not need a subscription if:
- You only use a single camera occasionally
- You’re okay relying purely on local storage
- You don’t need cloud backup or extended recordings
- You want basic monitoring without spending more
However, most homeowners find that the added convenience, longer recordings, and smarter alerts make the subscription well worth it.
Final Verdict
Blink’s subscription plans dramatically enhance the functionality of your cameras. If you need dependable video storage, smarter alerts, and easier monitoring, a subscription is essential.
For single-camera users, the Basic Plan is affordable and covers everything you need.
But for households with multiple Blink devices — indoor, outdoor, doorbell, floodlight — the Blink Plus Plan is hands-down the best value. With unlimited device coverage and extended warranty benefits, it provides the most peace of mind for long-term home safety.
Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.