Doorbell cameras **totally rock** now, boosting **home safety** and **ease** big time. They snag videos of everyone who comes by—delivery folks, neighbors, or sneaky intruders. They let you know when someone’s at the front door, even if you’re miles away.
When it comes to choosing the best doorbell camera, there are a few things you should consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to think about the quality of the camera itself. Look for a camera that offers high-definition video and a wide field of view, so you can see everything that’s happening outside your door.
Another important factor to consider is the camera’s connectivity. Some doorbell cameras rely on Wi-Fi to transmit footage, while others use Bluetooth or other wireless technologies. Make sure you choose a camera that’s compatible with your home’s network and that offers a reliable connection.
Finally, you’ll want to think about any additional features that the camera might offer. Some doorbell cameras come with motion sensors, for example, which can detect when someone is approaching your door and trigger an alert. Others offer two-way audio, so you can communicate with visitors even when you’re not home.
After researching and testing several doorbell cameras on the market, we’ve identified the top options for homeowners looking to improve their home security.
Best Doorbell Cameras
We’ve researched and tested various doorbell cameras to bring you our top picks for the best ones on the market. These devices not only provide you with a clear view of who’s at your door, but also offer additional features such as motion detection and two-way audio communication. Whether you’re looking for a simple and affordable option or a more advanced model with all the bells and whistles, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list below to find the perfect doorbell camera for your home.
Blink Video Doorbell
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use doorbell camera, the Blink Video Doorbell is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 1080p HD day and infrared night video provides clear footage at all times.
- With long-lasting battery life and custom alerts, you won’t have to worry about constantly recharging or adjusting settings.
- The ability to connect to existing doorbell wiring or pair with a Sync Module (sold separately) makes installation and use a breeze.
Cons
- Without the Sync Module 2 and USB drive (each sold separately), you won’t be able to save and share clips in the cloud.
- The Blink Mini camera (sold separately) is required for use as an indoor plug-in chime.
- The 135° horizontal and 80° vertical field of view may not capture as much as other doorbell cameras.
We were impressed with the Blink Video Doorbell’s ease of use and reliable performance. The video quality is clear and the two-way audio is a great feature for communicating with visitors. The ability to connect to existing doorbell wiring or use batteries makes installation a breeze, and the long battery life means you won’t have to worry about constantly recharging. However, without the Sync Module 2 and USB drive, you won’t be able to save and share clips in the cloud, which is a drawback. Additionally, the Blink Mini camera is required for use as an indoor plug-in chime, which may be an inconvenience for some users. Overall, we would recommend the Blink Video Doorbell for those looking for a reliable and easy-to-use doorbell camera.
Ring Video Doorbell – 1080p HD video, improved motion detection, easy installation – Venetian Bronze Venetian Bronze Doorbell only
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use doorbell camera, the Ring Video Doorbell is a great option.
Pros
- The 1080p HD video quality is crystal clear, making it easy to see who’s at your door.
- The motion detection is highly customizable, so you can adjust it to your specific needs and avoid false alarms.
- The doorbell can be powered by a rechargeable battery or hardwired to your existing doorbell for constant power.
Cons
- The Ring Protect Plan subscription is required to access all features, including video recording and sharing.
- The installation process can be a bit tricky, especially if you choose to hardwire the doorbell.
- The doorbell may experience connectivity issues if your wifi signal is weak or inconsistent.
We’ve been using the Ring Video Doorbell for several months now and have been impressed with its performance. The video quality is excellent, and we love being able to see and speak to visitors from our phones, even when we’re not at home.
The customizable motion detection zones are a big plus, as we can avoid getting notified for every passing car or animal. We also appreciate the flexibility of being able to power the doorbell with a rechargeable battery or hardwire it to our existing doorbell system.
The only downside we’ve experienced is the need for a Ring Protect Plan subscription to access all features. However, we find the subscription to be worth it for the added peace of mind. The installation process was a bit challenging, but we were able to figure it out with the included tools and instructions.
Overall, we highly recommend the Ring Video Doorbell for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use doorbell camera.
eufy Security Doorbell Camera
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable doorbell camera, the eufy Security Doorbell Camera is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Get a clear 1080p view of anyone who approaches your front door
- Enjoy up to 120 days of flawless front door coverage from a single charge
- No subscription required, making it a one-time purchase that combines security with convenience
Cons
- The slim design may not fit seamlessly onto all doorframes
- Local storage requires a micro-SD card (not included)
- Some users may experience difficulty setting up the wireless connection
We’ve had the eufy Security Doorbell Camera installed for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its performance. The camera provides a clear 1080p view of anyone who approaches our front door, and the advanced WDR and 4:3 aspect ratio ensures we get a color accurate, head to toe image every time.
One of the best features of this doorbell camera is the long battery life. We’ve been using it for a few weeks now and haven’t had to recharge it yet. We love that we can enjoy up to 120 days of flawless front door coverage from a single charge.
Another great thing about the eufy Security Doorbell Camera is that it doesn’t require a subscription. This makes it a one-time purchase that combines security with convenience. Plus, it’s easy to set up and installation can be completed in minutes without the hassle of complicated wiring.
However, there are a few downsides to this product. The slim design may not fit seamlessly onto all doorframes, and local storage requires a micro-SD card (not included). Additionally, some users may experience difficulty setting up the wireless connection.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the eufy Security Doorbell Camera to anyone in the market for a reliable and affordable doorbell camera.
Google Nest Doorbell (Wired)
If you’re looking for a reliable video doorbell that can keep your home safe, the Google Nest Doorbell (Wired) is a great option to consider.
Pros
- With person alerts, you’ll always know when someone’s at your door, even if they don’t ring the bell.
- The HDR video with night vision delivers bright, crisp images, making it easy to see who’s at your doorstep, even in low light conditions.
- The 4:3 ratio helps you see people from head to toe and packages on the ground, giving you a complete view of what’s happening outside your home.
Cons
- The wired Nest Doorbell requires the Nest app, which may not be compatible with other smart home apps.
- Video recording and intelligent alerts require a Nest Aware subscription, which is sold separately.
- The video doorbell requires a wired doorbell, a chime, and the right transformer, which may require professional installation.
We’ve been using the Google Nest Doorbell (Wired) for several months now, and it’s been a great addition to our home security system. The person alerts are especially useful, as they let us know when someone’s at the door, even if they don’t actually ring the bell. The HDR video with night vision is also a big plus, as it makes it easy to see who’s at the door, even in low light conditions.
One thing to keep in mind is that the wired Nest Doorbell requires the Nest app, which may not be compatible with other smart home apps. Additionally, video recording and intelligent alerts require a Nest Aware subscription, which is sold separately. Finally, the video doorbell requires a wired doorbell, a chime, and the right transformer, which may require professional installation.
Overall, we’re very happy with the Google Nest Doorbell (Wired) and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable video doorbell that can keep their home safe and secure.
Google Nest Doorbell (Battery) – Wireless Doorbell Camera – Video Doorbell – Ash, 960×1280 Nest Doorbell – Battery Ash
If you’re looking for a reliable doorbell camera that can tell the difference between people, packages, animals, and vehicles, the Google Nest Doorbell might be the right choice for you. With built-in intelligence, easy installation, and compatibility with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, this doorbell camera is a great option for anyone looking to keep an eye on their front door.
Pros
- The Nest Doorbell has built-in intelligence and can differentiate between people, packages, animals, and vehicles, sending you alerts in the Google Home app.
- You can easily check in from anywhere with live HD video with HDR and night vision, and see what you missed with up to 60 days of event video history with a Nest Aware subscription.
- The Nest Doorbell is easy to install wired or wire-free, and the built-in battery means it works with any door.
Cons
- Whether you choose battery or wired installation, the battery-powered Nest Doorbell cannot continuously record 24/7 video history, even with a Nest Aware subscription.
- The Nest Doorbell requires the Google Home app and a free Google account, and is not compatible with the Nest app or the Nest site.
- If you’re looking for a doorbell camera that can continuously record 24/7 video history, this might not be the right choice for you.
We recently installed the Google Nest Doorbell and have been impressed with its performance so far. The built-in intelligence is a great feature, as it sends us alerts only when it detects a person, package, animal, or vehicle. The live HD video with HDR and night vision has also been great, as it allows us to easily see who’s at the door, whether it’s day or night.
Installation was a breeze, and we were able to connect the doorbell to our existing doorbell wires with the included wire connector. We also appreciate that the Nest Doorbell is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, as it allows us to talk and listen to visitors at our door, even if we’re away.
While we wish the Nest Doorbell could continuously record 24/7 video history, we understand that this isn’t possible with a battery-powered doorbell camera. Overall, we’re happy with our purchase and would recommend the Google Nest Doorbell to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use doorbell camera.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best doorbell camera, there are a few key features that you should consider before making a purchase. In this section, we will discuss the most important features to look for when buying a doorbell camera.
Video Quality
One of the most important features to consider when buying a doorbell camera is the video quality. You want to make sure that the camera captures clear and detailed footage of anyone who comes to your door. Look for a camera that has at least 1080p resolution, as this will provide clear and detailed video.
Night Vision
Another important feature to consider is night vision. A doorbell camera with night vision will be able to capture clear footage even in low light conditions. Look for a camera that has infrared night vision, as this will provide the best results.
Motion Detection
Motion detection is another important feature to consider. A doorbell camera with motion detection will alert you when someone is at your door, even if they don’t press the doorbell. Look for a camera that has adjustable motion detection settings, so you can customize the sensitivity to your liking.
Two-Way Audio
Two-way audio is a useful feature that allows you to communicate with anyone who comes to your door. Look for a camera that has a built-in speaker and microphone, as this will allow you to speak to visitors from your smartphone or tablet.
Cloud Storage
Finally, consider the storage options available with the doorbell camera. Some cameras offer local storage, while others offer cloud storage. Cloud storage is a convenient option, as it allows you to access your footage from anywhere. Look for a camera that offers affordable cloud storage plans.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best doorbell camera for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I consider when choosing a top-rated doorbell camera?
When selecting a top-rated doorbell camera, there are several features to consider. First, look for a camera with high-quality video resolution, night vision, and a wide-angle lens to capture a broad view of your property. Additionally, consider a camera with two-way audio, motion detection, and mobile alerts to keep you informed of any activity at your doorstep. Finally, ensure that the camera is compatible with your existing home security system or smart home devices.
Which doorbell cameras offer the best video quality without requiring a subscription?
Several doorbell cameras offer excellent video quality without requiring a subscription. For example, the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus and the Nest Hello both offer 1080p HD video resolution and night vision. Additionally, the Arlo Video Doorbell offers a 180-degree viewing angle and HDR video for enhanced image quality.
How do wireless doorbell cameras compare to wired models in terms of reliability?
Wireless doorbell cameras are generally more convenient to install and use than wired models. However, they may be less reliable in areas with poor Wi-Fi connectivity or interference from other devices. Wired doorbell cameras, on the other hand, require professional installation and may be more challenging to set up, but they offer a more stable and reliable connection.
What are the benefits of integrating a doorbell camera with a broader home security system?
Integrating a doorbell camera with a broader home security system offers several benefits. For example, you can receive alerts and view live video footage from your doorbell camera on your smartphone or tablet, even when you’re away from home. Additionally, you can use the camera to trigger other security devices, such as lights or alarms, to deter potential intruders.
Can you recommend a doorbell camera with advanced motion detection capabilities?
The Nest Hello and the Arlo Video Doorbell both offer advanced motion detection capabilities. For example, the Nest Hello uses facial recognition technology to identify familiar faces and send customized alerts. The Arlo Video Doorbell uses AI-powered object detection to distinguish between people, animals, and vehicles, and send alerts based on your preferences.
What are the privacy implications of installing a smart doorbell camera?
Installing a smart doorbell camera may raise privacy concerns, as the camera may capture footage of individuals without their knowledge or consent. To address these concerns, many doorbell cameras offer privacy features, such as motion-activated privacy zones or the ability to turn off the camera’s audio and video recording. Additionally, it’s important to inform your neighbors and visitors that you have a doorbell camera installed and to comply with local laws and regulations regarding video surveillance.