Blink cameras offer high-definition video, sophisticated motion detection capabilities, and immediate notifications to your smartphone, tablet, or computer. However, there remains some confusion among users regarding whether Blink cameras operate on a continuous recording basis or if they only activate upon detecting motion. In this article, we will explore this subject in depth and clearly explain how Blink cameras work and if they record continuously.
How Do Blink Cameras Operate? Blink cameras employ motion detection technology to initiate recording. Once the camera is activated, it persistently monitors for any movement within its range of vision.
If it detects movement, it will start recording and send an alert to the user’s smartphone. The camera will continue to record until the motion stops or the maximum recording time is reached (which is usually around 30 seconds).
| Queries | Explanations |
|---|---|
| Are Blink Cameras Always Recording? | Given the various recording modes available on Blink cameras, it’s important to understand that they are not always recording. Whether a Blink camera is recording or not depends on the mode it is set to. For example, if you have the camera set to Motion Detection mode, it will only record when it detects motion. If you have it set to Live View mode, it will not record at all. |
| Pros and Cons of Different Recording Modes | Live View mode is great for keeping an eye on your home in real-time, but it does not provide any recorded footage for later viewing. Motion Detection mode conserves battery life and storage space, but it may miss important events if they occur when the camera is not detecting motion. |
| Privacy Concerns | As with any security camera, it’s important to consider privacy when using a Blink camera. If you are concerned about being recorded, you can choose a recording mode that does not record constantly (such as Motion Detection or Scheduled Recording). You can also disable the camera’s microphone or cover the lens if you do not want it to record audio or video. |
| Does This Mean The Cameras Don’t Record Anything When There Is No Motion? | Not necessarily. Blink cameras have a feature called “Live View” that allows users to manually start a live video stream from the camera at any time. This means that even when the camera is not recording due to a lack of motion, users can still see what is happening in real time through the live video stream. |
Are Blink Cameras Always Recording?
It’s important to understand that Blink cameras do not record continuously due to various available recording modes.
Blink Cameras have an optional always-recording feature that is available on certain models. The Blink XT2, Blink Indoor, and Blink Outdoor cameras all offer the always-recording feature.
It’s important to note that the always-recording feature is optional and can be turned on or off at any time.
Whether a Blink camera is recording or not depends on the mode it is set to. For example, if you have the camera set to Motion Detection mode, it will only record when it detects motion. If you have it set to Live View mode, it will not record at all.
Image Credit: Reddit
It’s also worth noting that even in Continuous Recording mode, Blink cameras are not always recording in the strictest sense of the term.
These cameras have a limited amount of storage space and will eventually stop recording and overwrite the oldest footage once that space is filled.
es and to understand the circumstances under which user data may be shared with third parties. Additionally, users may choose to use end-to-end encryption to protect their data further.
How to Change Recording Modes?
To change the recording mode of your Blink camera, follow these steps:
- Open the Blink app on your device.
- Select the camera you want to change the recording mode for.
- Tap the gear icon to access the camera’s settings.
- Scroll down to the “Recording Mode” section.
- Select the desired recording mode from the options available.
- Tap “Save” to apply the changes.
Some of the key features of popular Blink camera models:
| Model | Blink Mini | Blink Indoor | Blink Outdoor | Blink XT2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Video resolution | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD |
| Field of view | 110 degrees | 110 degrees | 110 degrees | 110 degrees |
| Night vision | IR LEDs up to 20ft | IR LEDs up to 20ft | IR LEDs up to 20ft | IR LEDs up to 20ft |
| Two-way audio | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Motion detection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weather-resistant | No | No | Yes, IP65 rating | Yes, IP65 rating |
| Power source | AC adapter | AC adapter | AA batteries | AA batteries |
| Cloud storage | Free trial, then subscription required | Free trial, then subscription required | Free trial, then subscription required | Free trial, then subscription required |
| Local storage | No | No | No | Yes, up to 64GB |
Types of Recording Modes
Blink cameras offer several different recording modes, each with its own set of features and limitations. These modes include:
- Live View: This mode allows you to view the camera’s feed in real-time, but does not record any footage.
- Motion Detection: In this mode, the camera only records when it detects motion. This helps to conserve battery life and storage space, as the camera is not constantly recording.
- Scheduled Recording: With this mode, you can set specific times for the camera to record, such as when you are away from home.
- Continuous Recording: As the name suggests, this mode records constantly, without any breaks. However, this option is only available on select Blink cameras and requires a continuous power supply (such as being plugged into an outlet).
We show that blinks have a unique temporal signature that can be better captured by event cameras.
Here’s a comparison table of the types of recording modes available for Blink cameras:
| Recording Mode | Continuous | Motion-Activated | Live-View | Scheduled |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Description | Camera records continuously for a set period of time | The camera records only when motion is detected | Live stream video-on-demand from your camera | Camera records based on a set schedule |
| Advantages | Captures all activity, no need to wait for motion detection | Saves battery life and storage space, only records when motion is detected | Provides real-time monitoring of your camera | Allows you to control when your camera is recording |
| Disadvantages | Uses more battery and storage | May miss some activity if motion is not detected | Uses more data and battery | May miss unexpected activity outside of scheduled recording times |
Does This Mean The Cameras Don’t Record Anything When There Is No Motion?
Not necessarily. Blink cameras have a feature called “Live View” that allows users to manually start a live video stream from the camera at any time.
This means that even when the camera is not recording due to a lack of motion, users can still see what is happening in real time through the live video stream.
However, it is important to note that the live video stream is not recorded. It is simply a way for users to check in on their homes or property in real-time.
If users want to record the live video stream, they can do so by manually starting a recording on their smartphone or other devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do Blink cameras have night vision capabilities?
Yes, many Blink camera models are equipped with infrared (IR) night vision, allowing them to capture clear video in low-light and dark conditions.
Does Blink keep every frame?
A limitless amount of clips may be retained in Blink Subscription Plans until their expiration. Each footage is first kept on file for 60 days before being automatically erased. The Clip Roll page allows users to alter the auto-delete setting from 7 days to a maximum of 60 days (30 days in the EU, UK).
Conclusion
- Blink cameras are not always recording. They use motion detection to trigger recording and stop when the motion stops or the maximum recording time is reached.
- However, users can manually start a live video stream from the camera at any time using the “Live View” feature.
- This allows users to check in on their home or property in real time, but it is not recorded unless the user manually starts a recording on their device.
- It’s important to consider your needs and choose the recording mode that best fits your situation, and is mindful of privacy concerns. With the right recording mode and proper usage, Blink cameras can be a reliable and convenient way to protect your home and family.
