Wi-Fi be non Wi-Fi hook up

[Walximus]

I am looking to purchase security cameras. One has direct Wi-Fi connection and the other does not. What is the difference between the two set ups and why would one be more advantageous versus the other?

[Dannybear]

If you connect a camera that has direct wifi capability to your local router then your recordings are limited to the arlo cloud library.

If the camera is not capable then you need a Base station unit that connects to the camera. Recordings are still sent to the arlo cloud library but a USB device can be used to backup only triggered recordings.(Note: Not all base models can support USB storage and not all of those that do can support viewing access.)

[StephenB]

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@Walximus wrote:

I am looking to purchase security cameras. One has direct Wi-Fi connection and the other does not. What is the difference between the two set ups and why would one be more advantageous versus the other?

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Base stations:

1. as @Dannybear says provide local storage
2. are needed for homekit
3. cameras connected through a base can have somewhat longer battery life.

Direct Connection to WiFi:

1. can give broader coverage if you have a mesh wifi system
2. reduces the amount of equipment you need.