You typically don't need a subscription to view a live feed. However, if you can't reach the company's video servers, you can't access the recordings. On the other hand, cloud storage is easier to use than local and is more likely to record everything the camera sees. The Y cam Indoor HDS is the only camera in our review with free cloud storage. Field of ViewIf you choose a camera with a very wide field of view, at least 160 degrees, you can expect to see every part of the room in front of the camera. The widest field of view in our review is the D Link DCS 2630L at 180 degrees. A wide field of view, which the majority of the cameras we reviewed have, is anything larger than 80 degrees, and it works best if you mount the camera high in a corner that overlooks the room. Digital ZoomDigital zoom allows you to select part of the video and enlarge it. While this helps you get a closer look at something, the quality of a digitally enlarged video won't match that of the original. The Samsung SmartCam HD Pro has the highest digital zoom in the review at 10x. Smart Home PlatformBefore you buy, check if any home automation or DIY home security systems work with the camera.