Blink Sync Module 1 vs 2 – What’s The Difference?
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If you’re new to Blink Cameras you might find yourself wondering the difference between the Blink Sync Module 1 and the Blink Sync Module 2. Heck, you might wonder what it even does!
In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the key differences between the original Sync Module and the Sync Module 2, ensuring that you make an informed decision in setting up your Blink devices.
Key Differences
Blink Sync Module 1
Blink Sync Module 2
What Is A Blink Sync Module?
A Blink Sync Module is used as a wireless hub to control Blink Cameras. The newer, Sync Module 2 also has the ability to store up to 256 GB of local video clips using an optional USB Flash Drive.
Your Blink Camera connects to your Sync Module, which then connects to your WiFi router giving it internet access. From there you can access your security cameras from virtually anywhere in the world using your mobile device.
Each Blink Sync Module can maintain up to ten devices and operates on a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection.
What’s The Difference Between The Blink Sync Module 1 and 2?
While the functionality is nearly identical, the Blink Sync Module 1 doesn’t allow you to store video clips. The Sync Module 2 is the only Blink hub with the ability to host a Flash Drive Drive for the purposes of storing and accessing video footage via your Blink app.
This means that you don’t have to pay for a Blink Basic or Plus subscription and you’re given complete control of your video storage. On the other hand, you can subscribe to a Blink subscription using either module and have 60 days of unlimited storage.
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Maximum Range of Blink Cameras from the Sync Module
Blink cameras can communicate with your sync module from up to 100 feet away under most conditions. Be mindful that obstructions can play a role in reducing your wireless range signal reliability.
This tends to be plenty for most houses, but you may need to get creative with outdoor cameras on large properties. For instance, possibly adding a WiFi extender coupled with a second Sync Module in an outbuilding.
Which Blink Cameras Are Compatible With Which Sync Module
Both, the Blink Sync Module 1 and the Blink Sync Module 2 are compatible as a hub with any Blink camera. Your only limitation is that older generation Blink cams (XT, XT2 and the 1st Gen Indoor camera) aren’t able to make use of local storage.
The XT, XT2 and 1st Gen Indoor cameras are considered Legacy devices and automatically receive 7,200 seconds (120 minutes) of free cloud storage in lieu of having local storage access. While the Blink Sync Module 1 is compatible with all devices as a hub, it does not offer local storage for any of the cameras.
Can A Blink Camera Work Without A Sync Module?
The Blink Mini, Blink Wired Floodlight and the Blink Video Doorbell can both operate independently without a Sync Module. You will have slightly limited functionality, though – especially without a Blink Subscription Plan.
With any Blink Camera, you will need a subscription in order to save motion clips if you don’t purchase a Sync Module. The Sync Module 2 allows for local storage, via a USB flash drive, without a subscription plan.
The Blink Video Doorbell will be limited in the fact that you won’t be able to have live view and 2-way audio on demand without a Sync Module or hard-wiring. You’ll only be able to access it on your Blink App during an Event Response (motion alert or doorbell press) with a 60-second window.
The Video Doorbell’s battery life can also be extended for up to 2-years with a Sync Module or wired connection (using your existing doorbell wiring).
So, while some Blink devices technically don’t need a Sync Module, it is beneficial to have one. Personally, I have a Blink Mini I use as a stand-alone on a separate Blink System and my other cameras are attached to the Sync Module 2.
The Blink Mini is the only camera I use inside. I don’t want it to record clips and I’m just using it for live view, however, I do want to record my outdoor cameras. Not only can I achieve this by keeping it on a separate “system” in the Blink App, but I can also keep my outdoor cameras on a different schedule.
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Why Do I Need a Blink Sync Module?
If you have any cameras aside from a Blink Video Doorbell, Wired Floodlight Cam or a Blink Mini Cam, then you need a Blink Sync Module to act as a hub between your camera(s) and your router. You’ll also need a Sync Module 2 if you want to utilize local storage.
Even with cameras that don’t require a Sync Module, they are beneficial and they don’t cost much. Reasons you may want one include local video storage (Sync Module 2), faster connection, the ability to assign up to 10 cameras to a single schedule, and a longer battery life for your cameras.
How Many Blink Sync Modules Do I Need?
The Blink App will allow you to add as many Sync Modules as you want, but you probably only need one. Each Sync Module can manage up to ten cameras, which is usually plenty for most users.
You can use multiple Sync Modules, if you like, to keep your cameras grouped and managed under different “systems” in the Blink app. For instance, if you want to have an indoor and an outdoor camera system.
Lastly, if you have a larger-than-average area to cover. Maybe you have a mesh network to cover a vast property and you want to make sure that all the cameras are receiving a good signal. You could place 1 Sync Module on one side of the property and one on the other.
Otherwise, one Sync Module 2 would work perfectly.
Accessing Blink’s Cloud Storage
Regardless of whether you have a Blink Sync Module 1, a Blink Sync Module 2 or no Module at all, you can purchase a subscription for Blink’s Cloud storage. While the USB Drive in your Sync Module 2 will allow for up to 257 GB of storage capacity, a Blink plan will give you 60 Days of unlimited storage.
The cloud storage option will also give you Live View Recording, Extended Live View (for some cameras) photo capture and video sharing.
To Access Blink’s Cloud Storage, select “Clips” at the bottom of your Blink App on your mobile device, then select the cloud icon. To subscribe, visit Blink’s Subscription Page.
FAQs
Do I Need A Blink Subscription If I Have A Sync Module?
If you have a Sync Module 2, you do not need a Blink subscription plan to record motion clips with your Blink devices. However, a Sync Module 1 does not provide you with local storage and would require a subscription.
Do Blink Cams Come With A Sync Module?
Blink Cameras can be purchased with a Sync Module as an option. Blink generally labels their individual cameras as an “Add-On Camera”, while the cameras that come with a Sync Module will be labeled “Camera System”.
Can I Get Local Storage With The Blink Sync Module 1?
The Blink Sync Module 1 does not offer local storage, even though it does have a USB port. Only Sync Module 2’s can accommodate Local Storage.
Can You Use 2 Blink Sync Modules?
Multiple Sync Modules can be used with your Blink System if you’d like to group your cameras separately. Some users prefer 2 Sync Modules, so they can have different system settings for their outdoor cameras.
For more information, try checking out Blink’s Support Pages.
Conclusion
When comparing the Blink Sync Module 1 vs 2, the key difference between the two models is rather simple. Gen 2 Sync Modules allow you to add up to 256 GB of local video storage using a USB flash drive. The original Sync Module 1 is a discontinued model that is compatible with all Blink cameras but does not allow for local storage.
Having a Blink Sync Module is essential for most Blink cameras, serving as a wireless hub that connects your cameras to your WiFi router and provides internet access. While the Sync Module is not required for some cameras, it offers benefits such as faster connection, extended battery life, and the ability to assign multiple cameras to a single schedule.
