Why Is My Aqara Doorbell Not Saving Clips Here Is the Fix

Aqara doorbells may fail to save clips due to incorrect cloud storage settings or a weak Wi-Fi connection—most commonly, users forget to subscribe to Aqara’s cloud plan or enable event recording. Check your app settings to ensure recording is activated and your network is stable, as without these, clips won’t save locally or remotely.

Key Takeaways

• Check storage: Ensure your microSD card is properly inserted and has free space.
• Update firmware: Install the latest Aqara app and doorbell firmware updates.
• Verify settings: Confirm clip-saving is enabled in the Aqara app settings.
• Stable Wi-Fi: Ensure strong signal to prevent upload interruptions.
• Restart devices: Reboot the doorbell and router to resolve glitches.
• Check permissions: Grant the Aqara app necessary storage and notification access.

Understanding the Aqara Doorbell and Clip-Saving Functionality

Smart doorbells have revolutionized home security, offering real-time alerts, two-way communication, and video recording capabilities. Among the most popular options is the Aqara Doorbell, known for its sleek design, reliable performance, and seamless integration with smart home ecosystems like Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. One of the most valuable features of the Aqara Doorbell is its ability to record and save video clips triggered by motion or doorbell presses. These clips serve as crucial evidence in case of deliveries, visitors, or suspicious activity.

However, many users have encountered a frustrating issue: their Aqara Doorbell is not saving clips. Whether you’re missing important footage of a delivery driver or failing to capture a neighbor’s visit, this problem can undermine the very purpose of installing a smart doorbell. The good news? In most cases, the issue is not with the device itself but with configuration, connectivity, or storage settings. This guide dives deep into the root causes behind the “Aqara Doorbell not saving clips” problem and provides actionable, step-by-step solutions to get your system back on track.

Common Reasons Why Your Aqara Doorbell Isn’t Saving Clips

Before jumping into fixes, it’s essential to understand the most common causes behind missing video clips. These range from network issues to incorrect settings and storage limitations. Below are the primary culprits, each of which we’ll explore in detail.

1. Insufficient or Unstable Internet Connection

The Aqara Doorbell relies heavily on a stable Wi-Fi connection to upload video clips to the cloud or local storage. If your internet is slow, drops frequently, or has high latency, clips may fail to upload or be truncated. For example, if your doorbell records a 30-second clip but the upload fails at the 20-second mark due to a network timeout, the entire clip may be lost.

• Check your Wi-Fi signal strength near the doorbell (ideally -50 to -65 dBm).
• Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app (like NetSpot or WiFi Analyzer) to identify dead zones.
• Ensure your router supports the 2.4 GHz band—Aqara doorbells typically do not support 5 GHz.

2. Cloud Storage Subscription Issues

Aqara offers cloud storage through its Aqara Home App, but it requires a paid subscription for extended clip retention. If your subscription has expired, or if you’re using a trial that ended, your clips will not be saved beyond a few seconds or not at all.

• Log into the Aqara Home App and navigate to Cloud Services.
• Verify your subscription status and renewal date.
• Consider upgrading to a plan that matches your usage (e.g., 7-day or 30-day retention).

3. Incorrect Motion Detection Settings

If motion detection is disabled or set too narrowly, the doorbell may not trigger recording. For instance, if the motion zone excludes the area where a delivery person approaches, no clip will be saved.

• Go to the Aqara Home App > Device Settings > Motion Detection.
• Enable motion detection and adjust sensitivity (start at 70–80%).
• Draw motion zones to cover the entire walkway, porch, and driveway.

4. Local Storage Misconfiguration (MicroSD Card)

Many Aqara doorbell models support local storage via a MicroSD card. If the card is missing, corrupted, or improperly formatted, clips won’t save locally—even if cloud storage is active.

• Check if the MicroSD card is inserted (typically under the back panel).
• Ensure the card is Class 10 or higher and between 8GB and 256GB.
• Format the card using the Aqara App (Device Settings > Storage > Format SD Card).

5. Device Firmware or App Out of Date

Outdated firmware or app versions can introduce bugs that prevent clip recording. Aqara frequently releases updates to improve stability, add features, and fix known issues.

• Update the Aqara Home App via your device’s app store.
• Check for doorbell firmware updates in the app under Device Settings > Firmware Update.
• Restart the doorbell after updating to apply changes fully.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide to Fix Clip-Saving Issues

Now that we’ve identified the common causes, let’s walk through a comprehensive troubleshooting process to resolve the “Aqara Doorbell not saving clips” issue. Follow these steps in order for the best results.

Step 1: Verify Network Connectivity

A stable connection is non-negotiable. Begin by testing your Wi-Fi signal strength at the doorbell’s location.

• Use your smartphone to check signal strength (look for at least 2–3 bars).
• If weak, consider installing a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system (e.g., Google Nest Wifi or TP-Link Deco).
• Restart your router and modem, then wait 2 minutes before testing the doorbell again.
• Test with a speed test app (e.g., Speedtest by Ookla) to ensure upload speeds are at least 2 Mbps.

Pro Tip: If your doorbell is on the edge of Wi-Fi range, try temporarily relocating it closer to the router to confirm if signal strength is the issue.

Step 2: Confirm Cloud Subscription Status

Open the Aqara Home App and follow these steps:

1. Tap on your doorbell device.
2. Go to Settings > Cloud Services.
3. Check if your subscription is active and when it expires.
4. If expired, renew it or purchase a new plan. Aqara offers flexible options: 7-day, 15-day, or 30-day retention.

Example: A user in Austin, Texas, reported missing clips for a week until they realized their 7-day trial had ended. After renewing, clips resumed saving immediately.

Step 3: Configure Motion Detection Zones

Proper motion zone setup ensures the doorbell captures all relevant activity.

1. In the Aqara App, go to Device Settings > Motion Detection.
2. Enable motion detection and set sensitivity to 80%.
3. Use the zone editor to draw a box covering your entire entryway.
4. Exclude areas like trees or bushes that may cause false triggers.

Advanced Tip: Use “Human Detection” mode (if available) to reduce false alarms from animals or moving shadows.

Step 4: Check and Format the MicroSD Card

If you’re using local storage, the MicroSD card must be properly configured.

1. Power off the doorbell (via the app or circuit breaker).
2. Remove the back panel and check if the MicroSD card is inserted.
3. Insert a new, high-quality card if missing (Samsung EVO or SanDisk Ultra recommended).
4. Reinsert the card and power on the doorbell.
5. In the app, go to Device Settings > Storage > Format SD Card.

Note: Formatting erases all existing clips, so back up important footage first.

Step 5: Update Firmware and App

Always use the latest software to avoid known bugs.

1. Open the Aqara Home App and go to My > Settings > Check for Updates.
2. Update the app if available.
3. Go to Device Settings > Firmware Update.
4. If an update is available, tap “Update Now” and wait for the process to complete (do not power off).

After updating, restart the doorbell by toggling power or using the app’s restart function.

Advanced Fixes for Persistent Issues

If the above steps don’t resolve the problem, it’s time to explore advanced troubleshooting. These solutions address deeper integration, hardware, or environmental challenges.

1. Re-Pair the Doorbell with the Hub

The Aqara Doorbell often requires an Aqara Hub (e.g., M1S, M2) to function fully, especially for local storage and HomeKit integration. Re-pairing can reset communication channels.

1. In the Aqara App, remove the doorbell from the hub (Device Settings > Remove Device).
2. Factory reset the doorbell (press and hold the reset button for 10 seconds).
3. Re-pair the doorbell to the hub using the app’s “Add Device” function.
4. Reconfigure motion zones and storage settings.

This process often resolves syncing issues between the hub and doorbell.

2. Check for RF Interference

Wireless interference from other devices (e.g., baby monitors, cordless phones, or neighboring Wi-Fi networks) can disrupt the doorbell’s signal.

• Change your Wi-Fi channel to 1, 6, or 11 (least congested).
• Use a Wi-Fi analyzer to detect interference sources.
• Relocate the hub or doorbell away from microwave ovens or metal objects.

3. Test with a Different Power Source

Low voltage or unstable power can prevent the doorbell from recording. If using wired power:

• Check the transformer output (should be 16–24V AC).
• Use a multimeter to verify voltage at the doorbell terminals.
• Replace the transformer if output is below 16V.

For battery-powered models, ensure batteries are fully charged (use rechargeable Li-ion for best results).

4. Enable Event Notifications and Test Recording

Manually trigger the doorbell to test if clips are saved.

1. Press the doorbell button or walk into the motion zone.
2. Check your phone for a notification.
3. Open the Aqara App and go to Events to see if the clip appears.
4. If no clip appears, check storage settings again and repeat troubleshooting.

Data Table: Recommended MicroSD Cards for Aqara Doorbells

Brand & Model	Capacity	Speed Class	Durability	Best For
Samsung EVO Select	128GB	U3, V30	Water, temperature, shock-resistant	High-resolution, long retention
SanDisk Ultra	64GB	Class 10, U1	Basic durability	Budget-friendly, moderate use
Lexar 633x	256GB	U3, V30	Extended write cycles	30-day local retention
Kingston Canvas Go!	128GB	U3, A2	High endurance for continuous recording	24/7 monitoring setups

Note: Avoid generic or off-brand cards, which may fail prematurely or cause data corruption.

Preventing Future Clip-Saving Problems

Once your Aqara Doorbell is saving clips reliably, take proactive steps to avoid recurring issues. Prevention is key to maintaining a secure and functional smart home.

1. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Set a monthly reminder to:

• Check Wi-Fi signal strength.
• Verify cloud subscription status.
• Inspect the MicroSD card for errors (use the app’s “Check SD Card” function).
• Update firmware and app versions.

2. Use Redundant Storage (Cloud + Local)

For maximum reliability, enable both cloud and local storage. If one fails, the other serves as a backup.

• Cloud storage: Best for off-site backup and remote access.
• Local storage: Ideal for privacy and avoiding subscription fees.

3. Monitor Device Health in the App

The Aqara Home App provides a “Device Health” dashboard. Use it to:

• Check battery levels (for wireless models).
• View signal strength and uptime.
• Receive alerts for low storage or connectivity issues.

4. Educate Household Members

Ensure everyone in your home knows:

• How to view clips in the app.
• What to do if the doorbell stops working (e.g., restart, check Wi-Fi).
• Not to remove or format the MicroSD card without permission.

In conclusion, the “Aqara Doorbell not saving clips” issue is typically solvable with a systematic approach. By addressing network stability, storage configuration, motion settings, and software updates, you can restore full functionality and enjoy peace of mind. Remember: smart devices require regular care, just like any other home system. With the right setup and maintenance, your Aqara Doorbell will deliver reliable, high-quality video clips for years to come. Don’t let a minor glitch compromise your home security—apply these fixes today and keep your front door under constant watch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Aqara doorbell not saving clips even though the app says it’s recording?

This usually happens due to insufficient storage space on your microSD card or cloud subscription limits. Check your storage settings in the Aqara app and ensure the card is properly inserted and formatted.

How do I fix the Aqara doorbell not saving clips issue?

First, verify your microSD card is compatible and has free space (FAT32 format required). If the card is fine, re-sync the doorbell with the app and restart the device to resolve temporary glitches.

Does my Aqara doorbell require a subscription to save clips?

Local clip storage via microSD card works without a subscription, but cloud backups need an active plan. If you’re relying on cloud storage, confirm your subscription status in the Aqara app.

Why are my Aqara doorbell clips missing after a power outage?

Power interruptions can corrupt microSD card data. Try reinserting the card or formatting it in the app. For recurring issues, use a UPS to protect against outages.

Can Wi-Fi issues cause the Aqara doorbell not to save clips?

Yes, a weak or unstable connection can disrupt clip uploads to the cloud. For local storage, Wi-Fi isn’t required, but ensure your doorbell is online if using cloud features.

Why does my Aqara doorbell show “clip saved” but I can’t find it?

Clips may be stored in a different app section (e.g., “Event History” vs. “Gallery”). For microSD clips, use a card reader to check manually—files are saved as .mp4 in the DCIM folder.

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