Secure Your Doors With The Best Video Doorbell
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Google Nest Hello Wi-Fi Video Doorbell -
Ring enhanced wifi Video Doorbell -
eufy Security, Wi-Fi Video Doorbell -
TMEZON (Wired) 7-Inch Video Doorbell -
Buyer's Guide
Video doorbells have become increasingly popular over the last few years thanks to a then-obscure company that went on a show with some "sharks". Jamie Siminoff's Ring device failed to secure an investment on the show, but it did spark a trend where people began to take notice. Ring is now essentially synonymous with "video doorbell" like Kleenex is to tissue paper.
For anyone who takes home security seriously, a good video doorbell should be a top priority. Having the capability to see and interact with someone at your front door without physically being home enables a sense of security. Today, there are many companies on the market that offer video doorbells besides Ring. Check out our top picks for Best Video Doorbells in 2022.
What are the best video doorbell of 2022?
Google Nest Hello Wi-Fi Video Doorbell - Best Video Doorbell Overall
If you want the sleekest looking video doorbell, the Nest is it. With its rounded corners and all black silhouette, it looks the most modern out of our picks. Nest is owned by Google, which puts it at a major advantage in terms of utilizing Google’s AI know-how. This allows the Nest Hello Doorbell to benefit from nifty AI-based features such as differentiating between a person and a package at your front door and sending a push notification to your phone. If a package is grabbed, Nest will notify you whether it was picked up by someone it recognizes or not. Another differentiator from other video doorbells is its 24-hour streaming and continuous video recording versus small video clips that start recording only after sound or motion is detected. If you are unable to answer when someone rings, the Nest allows you to reply with prerecorded responses. Like the Eufy on this list, the Nest incorporates HDR to help brighten images even in direct sunlight. Unlike the Ring’s rechargeable battery, the Nest needs to use existing doorbell wiring.
The Nest Video Doorbell is sold only through Google's approved retailer network, including Best Buy.
Ring enhanced wifi Video Doorbell - Runner Up
The Ring Doorbell put the video doorbell category on the map, and the company has seen fit to make regular revisions to the device. The second-generation Ring Doorbell 2 sports a 1080p HD camera, compared to the 720p unit installed in the original. The field of view is still impressive: 180 degrees horizontal and 110 degrees vertical. Two-way talk allows you the ability to communicate with anyone at your front door. Another major upgrade found on the Ring Doorbell 2 is the inclusion of a removable quick-release battery pack. The battery pack is rechargeable; it can be plugged in, or it can accept power through the existing wiring from the old doorbell. The doorbell easily connects to your home Wi-Fi and requires very little setup once it's physically installed. The app offers Live View and can be set up to provide push notifications when motion is detected; additionally, users can adjust the sensitivity of motion detection in various zones. It is also fully compatible with Amazon's own Alexa; once connected, any Alexa-enabled device can provide notifications and 2-way communication with the Ring Doorbell 2. While Google Assistant compatibility is claimed, we've seen numerous reports of the two not playing nice with each other. Of course, your mileage may vary. For an added fee, Ring Protect can record, review, and save your videos for up to 60 days. Once signed up, Ring also offers a community forum called Neighbors where other Ring owners in your neighborhood can discuss any events and happenings. It's not the most affordable video doorbell on the market, but the vast support network of the Ring doorbell can add an extra level of security to your residence while giving you added peace of mind.
eufy Security, Wi-Fi Video Doorbell - Honorable Mention
Eufy (stylized as "eufy") may not be a household name like Ring or Nest, but you may have heard of Anker, their sister company. As is typical with Anker's products, the Eufy Video Doorbell makes a strong argument for your hard-earned dollars thanks to its outstanding quality and excellent customer service. Eufy's video doorbell sports a 2560 x 1920 pixel HD camera, which compares favorably to the 1080p units offered in competing models. The 4:3 aspect ratio captures more vertical area than the 16:9 views found on other cameras, and the added resolution results in a noticeably sharper image. The camera also features HDR and Distortion Correction, so you'll be able to easily make out who’s at your front door regardless of ambient lighting or weather conditions. The camera is embedded with AI-based technology that can distinguish between a human and an animal; this way, push notifications are sent only if a person approaches the camera. Unlike many of the big names in the video doorbell market, there are no additional costs beyond the initial purchase of the doorbell, including monthly fees of any kind. An electronic chime is also included - it plugs into a standard household outlet and offers a choice of ringtones and volume adjustment. As with many other video doorbells, the Eufy doorbell comes with two-way audio so you can communicate directly with the person at your door. The app also supports live view, giving users the freedom to monitor the front door area at any time. Installation mirrors that of many other video doorbells - the camera itself taps into existing wiring from the old doorbell, and requires no further attention once it's mounted, powered up, and paired with your home Wi-Fi. If you can get past the lack of immediate brand recognition, this doorbell stands toe-to-toe with the competition and offers more for your money.
TMEZON (Wired) 7-Inch Video Doorbell - Consider
Designed for indoor and outdoor use, this TomTop video/doorbell model works particularly well at entry ways, and as property scanners. While it can be used for any application, these are the ones that are used most often with this model. Reviews tell how this unit arrives in only three days, and how it was ready to plug in and start using right away. Installation might be a little tricky though since a hole needs to be drilled and wires fished from the outside, through the house to the monitor, but if you are fairly handy you should be able to accomplish this task. The wires that come with this model are only 20-linear feet, so if you need more between the doorbell and the monitor, you will have to find a way to extend this yourself. If you need to just speak with your visitor, you will be able to with the hands-free intercom that allows you to communicate without leaving your seat. The doorbell feature comes with twelve various settings, so you can have seasonal sounds with each passing year.
Buyer's Guide
Video doorbells (also called doorbell cameras) provide an extra layer of security for homeowners and renters by enabling them to see who’s at their door anytime, whether they’re home or not. They are also great if you are conscious of the famous gunshot-through-the-peephole cliche.
The device allows you to safely view who’s at your door without having to put yourself at risk. Sometimes, we don't want to open the door if we see that we don't know the person who is approaching. Video doorbells are a very useful and safer way to respond to visitors.
If you’re interested in improving the security of your home, you need to choose a video doorbell that will easily integrate with your existing home security systems. The best video doorbells will offer features that will be easily adaptable and within a reasonable price range. Here’s a guide to assist you to make the best of your video doorbell decision.
What Video doorbell Features should I consider before I buy?
Here are the most common features customers look for in a smart doorbell camera.
Wired vs. wireless
Video doorbells are available as either wired or wireless. Choosing the right one depends on your current doorbell system, the type of climate you live in, and whether you want to install the system yourself or have a professional install your video doorbell. If you had an existing wired doorbell system, then replacing that with a wired video doorbell system isn’t badly complicated. If you don’t and do not want to go through the trouble of drilling holes and messing with your home’s wiring, then a wireless doorbell camera system may be a better fit for you.
Power
It takes up to 16 volts or more to power a video doorbell. In newer more modern homes, this may not create any issue but in older homes, there may be a need to ensure that an adequate amount of voltage is being routed to the doorbell system.
Video doorbells can also run on battery power. This is most appropriate and perfect for situations where your existing wiring isn't getting the job done and you don't want to upgrade the transformer. All you need to do is charge them regularly.
Doorbell placement
Another thing that should influence your choice of doorbells is whether you're replacing an existing doorbell or installing a doorbell where one doesn’t exist already.
Field of View
The field of view refers to how much you can see from the camera. You get options from getting a narrow view of just the person at the door to seeing everything around your entryway. The most efficient field of view for a Video doorbell is 180 degrees. This means that your device's camera captures everything that’s in front of it and to the sides of it. A 90-degree field of view only shows what’s in front of the camera and a little bit to each side.
Resolution and night vision
The more resolution you have, the sharper the image. This makes it easier to identify people at your door. Picture resolution determines how clearly you can see images and videos that stream from your video doorbell to your connected device. You get a choice of between 480p to 1080p, which is the maximum resolution for video doorbells.
Some smart video doorbells come with a night vision feature. This is handy if you want to keep an eye on what’s happening on your front porch when it’s dark out.
Motion detection
All the video doorbells have motion detection. What this means is that someone doesn’t have to ring the doorbell for you to know they are there. However, some video doorbells offer a different amount of control compared to others when it comes to detecting that motion. Some models allow you to select where you want motion detected. Other video doorbells have a motion sensitivity slider so you can adjust the level of activity that will trigger a recording and notification. You want your doorbell to be sensitive enough to capture the mailman but not so oversensitive that it gets triggered by flying birds.
Design
Since the doorbell is going to be in the front of your house, you may want to consider how it looks before you buy one. Video doorbells come in various shapes and forms that you can choose from. You get the option to select one that matches your house's trim or paint and that fits a shade or color you like.
What to look for in a video doorbell?
Typically, a video doorbell notifies you on your phone when someone rings the bell or walks within the camera’s field of view. You can then reply to the ‘door’ from wherever you are. The video doorbell provides you with a live view of the person on your screen and enables you to speak with whoever is on the other side of the door whether you’re at home or not. The person at the door speaks into the doorbell’s microphone, and you can respond through your doorbell app.
Smart video doorbells also usually include cloud storage up to a certain point for free. They will store videos for up to 30 days, but you need to check with each product before you decide whether you are going for it.
Security cameras vs Video doorbells
When it comes to the safety of your home, video doorbells do not necessarily make the best home security cameras. While the doorbell apps give you motion alerts as well as doorbell alerts, these events often result in videos of a person or car just exiting the frame.
You may be better served in getting a dedicated security camera because you can position such a camera in more places. Also, when you get a motion alert, you can follow through to check what happed before the alert.
Video Doorbell FAQs
What are the benefits of wireless doorbell cameras?
Wireless doorbell cameras are a lot easier to install than wired systems. All you need to do is set it up and download the relevant applications on your smartphones, and you’ll be able to see who’s at your door at all times.
How much should I spend on my video doorbell?
Like most gadgets, pricier doorbell cameras tend to be of higher quality and have a lot more features than cheaper video doorbells, although that’s not always the case. The amount you would spend on a smart video doorbell depends on why you’re buying one. If your need for a doorbell camera is to prevent theft or porch piracy then spending a little more may be worth it to make sure you’re getting the highest resolution images possible.
How to install a doorbell camera?
Generally, video doorbells aren’t that difficult or time-consuming to install. It should take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour to get it all installed and functioning properly. The exact amount of time would depend on your expertise handling electrical installations and whether you have a wired or wireless video doorbell. If it’s a wired smart video doorbell, you may need to hire a professional to come in to install it, which usually takes longer.
