Shelly announced its first security camera, priced at $49.99 and requiring no subscription, on September 1, 2026. The camera, which will soon be available in black and white through the company’s online store and other retailers, offers 1080P resolution, night vision, and a field of view of 110 degrees horizontally and 70 degrees vertically. While rival Wyze is reportedly releasing 2K cameras for $40, Shelly’s model does not have a battery; a USB-C cable must be used to provide power during setup. Without a subscription, the camera can stream live video to different devices over Wi-Fi, record events to a microSD card, and trigger smart home automations with Shelly devices when motion is detected, such as turning on a floodlight. A paid subscription adds cloud recording and smart object detection that can distinguish between people, pets, or vehicles. With these features, alerts and automations can be customized according to specific scenarios.
Why it matters
The camera’s ability to operate without a subscription changes the cost structure for users who prefer local storage and live viewing options without sending security footage to the cloud. On the other hand, linking more advanced detection features, such as distinguishing between people, pets, and vehicles, to the paid plan requires users to choose between basic security functions and additional services. The requirement for a continuous power connection via USB-C also makes access to a power outlet a determining factor in positioning the device and limits expectations for portable use. The pricing leaves open the question of how this 1080P model will be evaluated against higher-resolution rivals based on its combination of subscription-free operation, local recording, and automation integration with Shelly devices.