Frigate review
A focused, self-hosted option for local camera detection and alerts.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Frigate is an open-source network video recorder for Home Assistant and IP cameras. It processes video locally on user-controlled hardware, using AI object detection to identify people, cars, animals, and other configured objects. The free core includes live viewing, recording, snapshots, media review, camera zones, masks, alerts, browser push notifications, object-based recording retention, MQTT messaging, an HTTP API, and face and license plate recognition. That makes it a suitable choice for individuals and teams that want local video analysis with control over deployment and data processing rather than a hosted video analytics service.
Its feature depth is concentrated around detection and review workflows. Camera zones and masks help refine detections and alerts, while review items are categorized as alerts, detections, and motion. Object-based retention connects recording management to detected activity, and the live view, recording, snapshot, and media review tools keep core surveillance tasks in one system. Integrations include Home Assistant, MQTT, HomeKit, and the HTTP API. The platform is available through web and self-hosted deployments, with the broader fit strongest for IP-camera environments connected to a home automation setup.
Frigate+ is an optional annual subscription priced at $50 per year. According to the published plan, it adds access to Frigate+ models, up to 12 fine tuned models, AI-suggested labels for uploads, and support for open-source Frigate. The free plan remains the main value proposition for local detection, alerts, recording, and integrations, while the subscription is aimed at users who need custom model capabilities. Pick Frigate when self-hosting, local processing, and an open-source deployment matter most. Choose another category option if you need a broader enterprise platform or a hosted deployment instead of user-managed infrastructure.
Frigate pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free open-source plan with local real-time object detection
- Zones, masks, alerts, recording, review, and configurable notifications
- MQTT, HTTP API, Home Assistant, HomeKit, and recognition features
- Where it doesn't
- Self-hosted deployment requires user-controlled hardware
- Platform focus centers on IP cameras and the Home Assistant ecosystem
- Paid subscription mainly adds custom and fine-tuned model access
Frigate fact sheet, pricing and score →
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