How Much Data Do Security Cameras Use?
Security cameras can consume significant internet data—especially with cloud storage. Here’s how to calculate usage
and reduce bandwidth.
For local storage cameras (minimal data use), see our guide to Best
No-Subscription Security Cameras.
Data Usage by Resolution
| Resolution | Per Hour | Per Day (24hr) | Per Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| 720p | 0.5-1 GB | 12-24 GB | 360-720 GB |
| 1080p | 1-2 GB | 24-48 GB | 720-1,440 GB |
| 2K | 2-4 GB | 48-96 GB | 1,440-2,880 GB |
| 4K | 4-8 GB | 96-192 GB | 2,880-5,760 GB |
Note: These are for continuous 24/7 streaming or recording. Motion-only recording uses 70-90% less
data.
Cloud vs Local Storage Data Use
| Storage Type | Upload Data Use |
|---|---|
| Local Storage (SD card, NVR) | Minimal (remote viewing only) |
| Cloud Storage (Ring, Arlo, Nest) | High (all footage uploaded) |
Local storage cameras (Eufy, Reolink) only use data when you actively view footage. Cloud cameras
upload everything, consuming upload bandwidth 24/7.
Real-World Camera Data Usage
| Camera | Monthly Data (Motion-Only) |
|---|---|
| Ring Doorbell (1080p) | 30-100 GB upload |
| Nest Cam (1080p) | 50-150 GB upload |
| Arlo Pro 4 (2K) | 100-200 GB upload |
| Eufy (local storage) | 1-5 GB (viewing only) |
| Reolink (local storage) | 1-5 GB (viewing only) |
How to Reduce Camera Data Usage
1. Use Local Storage Cameras
Cameras with SD card or NVR storage (Eufy, Reolink) don’t upload footage. Data is only used when you view remotely.
2. Enable Motion-Only Recording
Continuous recording uses 5-10x more data than motion-only. Most cameras default to motion-only.
3. Lower Resolution
Dropping from 1080p to 720p cuts data in half. For most security purposes, 720p is sufficient.
4. Reduce Frame Rate
Some cameras let you lower frame rate from 30fps to 15fps—halving data without major quality loss.
5. Adjust Motion Sensitivity
Fewer motion events = less recording = less data. Tune sensitivity to avoid triggering on trees, shadows, etc.
Internet Speed Requirements
| Cameras | Minimum Upload Speed |
|---|---|
| 1-2 cameras (1080p) | 2-3 Mbps |
| 3-5 cameras (1080p) | 5-10 Mbps |
| 6+ cameras or 4K | 15-25 Mbps |
Warning: Many ISPs offer asymmetric connections (fast download, slow upload). A “100 Mbps” plan
might only have 5-10 Mbps upload—enough for 3-5 cloud cameras.
Data Caps and Security Cameras
If your ISP has a data cap (typically 1TB/month), cloud cameras can push you over:
- 3 Ring cameras: ~300 GB/month upload
- 5 Arlo cameras: ~500 GB/month upload
- Plus normal household use: 300-500 GB/month
Total: 800-1,000 GB—right at the cap.
Solution: Use local storage cameras (Eufy, Reolink) to avoid upload data entirely.
WiFi vs Wired Cameras
WiFi cameras may slow down your network. Multiple cameras competing for bandwidth can cause lag, buffering, and
dropped connections.
Solution: Use PoE (Power over Ethernet) wired cameras for multi-camera installs. They don’t use WiFi
bandwidth.
Verdict
Cloud cameras (Ring, Arlo, Nest): Expect 30-200 GB/month upload per camera. Multiple cameras can
strain slow upload speeds and hit data caps.
Local storage cameras (Eufy, Reolink): Minimal data use (1-5 GB/month for remote viewing). Best for
users with slow internet or data caps.
For local storage recommendations, see: Best No-Subscription
Security Cameras.