Xiaomi cameras are no longer just a camera, they are part of the smart home ecosystem that can not only capture video, but also analyze it in real time. However, without cloud storage, most of the features remain unavailable: there is no way to view recordings remotely, receive motion notifications or use artificial intelligence to recognize faces. In this article, we will discuss how to connect Xiaomi camera to the cloud, choose the optimal tariff and avoid the typical errors that lead to loss of access to records.
It is important to understand that the connection process depends on the camera model and firmware version. For example, for Xiaomi Mi Home Security Camera 360° 2K and Xiaomi Smart Camera C400, the algorithm will be slightly different due to different versions of the Mi Home app (now Xiaomi Home). We will look at universal steps that are relevant for most devices, as well as nuances for specific models. If you have already tried to configure the cloud but encountered an error like “failed to connect to the server” or “Pay subscription”, at the end of the article there is a section with solutions.
1.What Xiaomi cameras support cloud storage?
Not all Xiaomi devices can sync to the cloud, here’s a current list of feature-enabled models (as of 2026):
- 📷 Xiaomi Mi Home Security Camera 360° 1080p/2K — base-model.
- 📷 Xiaomi Smart Camera C200/C300/C400 — series with improved night shooting and IR illumination.
- 📷 Xiaomi Mi Home Security Camera 2K Pro – support for facial recognition and sound notifications.
- 📷 Xiaomi Outdoor Camera 1080p — for street use with moisture protection IP65.
- 📷 Xiaomi Mi 360° Home Security Camera 2K (2023 model - with support AI-analyst.
If your model is not listed, check the specifications on the official website or in the Xiaomi Home app. Outdated cameras (such as the Xiaomi Mi Home Camera 720p) may not support the cloud due to hardware limitations. Also note that for some regions (such as China), cloud services may not be available without a VPN.
Preparing for Connection: What to Do Before Configuring the Cloud
Before you start setting up, make sure all the preconditions are met:
Install the latest version of the Xiaomi Home app
Connect the camera to a Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz)
Create/log in to Xiaomi account (must link phone number)
Update the camera firmware to the current version
Check the balance on the account (for paid rates)-->
Pay special attention to Wi-Fi networks. Xiaomi cameras only work with 2.4 GHz networks — if your router broadcasts two networks (2.4 and 5 GHz) with the same name, the camera may connect to the wrong one. In some cases, this leads to a cloud sync error, even if the Internet is stable. To avoid problems, temporarily turn off the 5 GHz network or rename it.
Also check the region of your account in the Xiaomi Home app. If you bought the camera in China but use it in Russia, you may need to change your region to Russia or Europe.
- Open Xiaomi Home → Profile → Settings → Region
- Choose the right region (e.g., Russia).
- Restart the application and repeat the login.
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If the camera is not connected to Wi-Fi, try resetting it to factory settings. To do this, hold the reset button (usually located on the bottom panel) for 10 seconds until the yellow indicator flashes.
3. Step-by-step: how to connect Xiaomi camera to the cloud
Consider the process using the Xiaomi Home app (relevant to versions 6.0 and up), and if you have an older version, upgrade it via Google Play or the App Store.
Step 1: Adding a camera to the app
- Open Xiaomi Home and press + → Add Device.
- Select the category “Cameras” and find your model in the list.
- Follow the instructions on the screen: bring QR-camera code to the scanner or enter it S/N (serial number) by hand.
- Connect your camera to a Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz only!).
Step 2: Set up cloud storage
- After successfully connecting the camera, go to its settings (stamp the device in the main menu).
- Select the Cloud Storage or Cloud Storage section.
- Click “Activate” and select a tariff plan (free or paid).
- Confirm the payment (if you choose a paid tariff) and wait for synchronization.
Step 3: Checking the operation of the cloud
- 🔍 Go to the “Records” or “Playback” section – saved videos should appear there.
- 🔔 Enable motion notifications in the camera settings ("Alerts» → «Sensitivity»).
- 🌐 Check access to the camera from another device (e.g., via the web version of home.mi.com).
If no records appear after the cloud is activated, try:
- Reboot the camera (turn off power for 30 seconds).
- Update the firmware through Settings → Software update.
- Check if the antivirus or firewall is blocking access to Xiaomi servers.
What to do if the Cloud Storage button is inactive?
4. Xiaomi Cloud Storage Rates: Which One to Choose?
Xiaomi offers several data plans for cloud storage, which differ in expiration date, memory capacity and additional features, below is the current tariff table for Russia and Europe (2026):
| Tariff. | Cost (₽/month) | Period of retention of records | Additional functions | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free. | 0 | 7 days | Basic notifications, traffic record | Testing, temporary use |
| Basic | 99 | 30 days | Face recognition, audible alerts | Home surveillance |
| Premium | 299 | 60 days | AI-Analytics, activity areas, unlimited notifications | Business, street surveillance |
| Family (up to 5 cameras) | 499 | 30 days | Sharing, Advanced Settings | Multiple cameras in one house |
Please note: prices may vary by region, for example in Europe, the basic fare is around 1.99.€, and — ¥15.Also, Xiaomi periodically holds promotions when the first month of premium subscriptions are available for free.To avoid missing discounts, follow the notifications in the Xiaomi Home app.
If you plan to use a camera for street surveillance (for example, Xiaomi Outdoor Camera), we recommend that you choose a tariff at least lower than Premium. AI-The storage will quickly fill up with unnecessary rollers, while the basic rate will be enough for a home camera in the corridor.
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If you paid for the rate but there are no records in the cloud, check the recording settings by motion. Some firmwares have "Notification Only" mode enabled by default without saving the video.
5. Typical errors and their solutions
Even with the right setup, users often encounter problems, and here are the most common errors and ways to fix them:
- ❌ Error “I could not connect to the server” Reason: Internet problems, blocking VPN Solution: check the network connection, turn it off. VPN, Change your account region to Russia.
- ❌ The cloud doesn't save records, although the tariff is paid for the reason: incorrect motion sensor sensitivity settings or overcrowded storage. Solution: Go to Settings → Alerts → Sensitivity and increase the value to High.
- ❌ The camera shuts off from the cloud after a few days Cause: unstable power supply or overheating of the device.Solution: use the original power supply, make sure the camera is not in direct sunlight.
- ❌ No traffic notifications are coming Reason: notifications are disabled in phone or app settings Solution: Check permissions for Xiaomi Home in settings Android/iOS.
⚠️ Note: If you use a Xiaomi camera in China or with a Chinese account, you may need to access the cloud. VPN But it violates Xiaomi's rules, and you can block the account.
If none of these methods worked, try removing the camera from the app and adding it again.
- Go to Camera Settings → Remove the device.
- Reset the camera to factory settings (hold the reset button for 10 seconds).
- Add the camera to the app as a new device.
6.Alternatives to Xiaomi Cloud Storage
If you don’t like Xiaomi’s tariffs or prefer to store records locally, there are a few alternatives:
- 💾 Most Xiaomi cameras support memory cards up to 64 GB (for example, for microSD cards). C400 — Records are stored in a loop (when you fill in new files replace the old ones). Pros: no subscription fee, data is always at hand. Cons: when you steal the camera, the recordings will be lost.
- 🖥️ NAS Or a home server You can configure a record to a network storage (e.g., Synology or WD My Cloud through RTSP-Pros: large amount of memory, access from anywhere in the world. Cons: requires technical skills to configure.
- ☁️ Third-party cloud services Some cameras (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Home Camera) 2K Pro supports integration with Google Drive or Dropbox IFTTT. Pros: flexible settings, you can choose any tariff. Cons: recording is delayed, not all models are supported.
If you choose a MicroSD, look at the card class. To record video in 2K resolution, you need a class at least below UHS-I (U3), otherwise you may have lags.
- The SanDisk Ultra A1 64GB is the best option for most cameras.
- Samsung EVO Plus 128GB – for long-term storage (up to 30 days of records).
⚠️ Note: When using MicroSD format it directly in the camera settings (Settings) → Warehouse → Formatting on a PC can lead to write errors.
7.Security: How to Protect Records from Hacking
Xiaomi’s cloud storage is secure, but additional security measures are helpful.
- 🔐 Enable two-factor authentication in your Xiaomi account (Profile) → Security → 2FA).
- 📱 Use a complex password (at least 12 characters with numbers and special signs).
- 🌍 Restrict access by geolocation: in camera settings, viewing can only be allowed from your country.
- 🔄 Regularly update the firmware – new versions close vulnerabilities.
If you suspect that someone has accessed your camera, immediately:
- Change the password from your Xiaomi account.
- Remove all related devices in Xiaomi Home and add them again.
- Check the list of active sessions in Profile → Security → Devices.
Also pay attention to the physical security of the camera. If it is installed outside, use a protective casing (for example, Xiaomi Outdoor Camera Housing) so that attackers can not easily remove or damage it.