The Best Doorbell Cameras
Doorbells aren't what they used to be. Today, anyone can turn their doorbell into a sophisticated audio-visual monitoring system. Doorbell cameras allow you to see who's at your door—even when you're not at home. Doorbell cameras can monitor any activity near your door and send it to your mobile device. If you want to keep your home secured, you need a doorbell camera.
What to Look For
With home security on the line, we decided to seek out the best of the best. While doing our research, we looked for models with the qualities that make a doorbell camera effective: namely, ease installation, simple operation, and software features that help enhance security. Our favorite model, the Ring Video doorbell camera, includes all of those features and more, making it the best option for most people. If you need a more affordable way to secure your home, we also love Samzuy’s doorbell camera, which boasts similar capabilities but comes in at a fraction of the price. Read on to discover more of our favorite models and find one that’s right for your home.
Ring Video Doorbell
Put a ring on it
The Ring video doorbell lets you see, hear and speak to anyone from your PC, smartphone, or tablet. This update from the original Ring video doorbell lets you enjoy improved motion detection, crisper night vision, privacy zones, and audio privacy. You can also receive mobile notifications when anyone presses your doorbell or triggers your built-in motion sensors. The Ring is easily set up by connecting to your WiFi through the Ring app and mounts quickly to the wall using the included tools. With a Ring Protect Plan (sold separately), you can also record all your videos, review what you missed for up to sixty days, and share videos and photos.
Pros:
- This device can be powered by a built-in rechargeable battery or through your existing doorbell wires, making it super versatile.
- It also pairs seamlessly with select Alexa-enabled devices, so you can control it through voice.
- There are some great security features, including the ability to add and remove authorized devices with Control Center.
Cons:
- You really need good WiFi to enjoy all of the device’s features.
Eufy Video Doorbell
The human touch
Every Eufy video doorbell is designed with your security and privacy in mind. The camera combines high-def resolution with advanced WDR to ensure all video is recorded in crystal clarity. With a battery life that lasts over six months, this device is dependable and secure. And, with military-grade data encryption, you can be confident your footage is kept private during transmission and storage. In fact, all recordings are stored directly onto the proprietary HomeBase, located inside your home. This means that even if someone forcibly removes the doorbell, all your data remains secure. It can even connect to the Echo Dot to help ensure you never miss a visitor.
Pros:
- The device is both waterproof and resistant to extreme temperatures, making it pretty durable.
- The installation takes literally minutes, with no wiring required.
- This updated model is far more energy-efficient than other bells, cutting standby power consumption by over half.
Cons:
- This won’t connect to your existing wired doorbell.
Arlo Essential Video Doorbell
Ready, set, go
If you’re replacing your existing doorbell with a doorbell camera, the Arlo Essential is one of the fastest ways to get up and running. And one of the first things you’ll notice is the full-body image that Arlo transmits, thanks to its one-to-one aspect ratio. You’ll get HD video, which allows you to see details even in low light or bright conditions, and with Arlo Foresight, the doorbell captures video before every motion-triggered recording, so you don’t miss out. Arlo connects directly to your WiFi to give you faster notifications for visitors, vehicles, and packages. You can then speak to visitors at your door with clear, two-way audio or respond with pre-recorded, quick-reply messages when you are busy.
Pros:
- We love how compact and discrete the size of this doorbell is.
- The fisheye-like lens offers an expansive, head-to-toe view of your front door.
- There is a built-in siren for extra security.
Cons:
- You’re going to need a paid subscription to record videos.
Samzuy Video Doorbell Camera
Night moves
If accurate night vision is your concern, the Samzuy doorbell camera provides IR night vision along with a smart motion sensor. This sensor can intelligently detect a human shape’s movements, then push accurate notifications instantly via the CloudEdge app. This built-in AI algorithm minimizes false alarms with sophisticated pattern recognition. A built-in microphone and speaker allow you to talk with visitors clearly and in real-time. Or, you can record a ten-second voice message, and set it for a quick reply when you are unable to respond. Samzuy also supports a micro SD card and encrypted cloud service to record and store footage or video clips.
Pros:
- Most doorbells have shoddy video quality, but this one offers clear and crisp 2K resolution.
- All stored video files are encrypted, helping to safeguard your privacy.
- The included SD card and other tools add to the overall value of this device.
Cons:
- This doorbell requires a wired connection, which involves some assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a smartphone to use a doorbell camera?
Yes, you’ll likely need a compatible smartphone or tablet to use most doorbell cameras, although some can connect to your PC. That said, if you don’t own a cellphone, or your cellphones are out of the house, the doorbell will still ring.
Do I need a WiFi connection for my doorbell camera work?
This can vary from product to product. WiFi is the preferred method of connectivity for doorbell cameras, but it doesn’t mean your doorbell camera won’t work without it. Some doorbell cameras can also use standard cellular data.
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