With a smart doorbell, your front door’s communication skills go from 1980s landline to 2023 smartphone. Combining a motion-activated camera with a microphone, speaker, and doorbell, a doorbell camera sends alerts to your phone to show you who’s calling without you having to open the door or even be at home. Whether you’re curled up on the couch, hard at work in your office, or sunning on a beach in the Bahamas, a smart doorbell camera keeps you in touch with what’s happening on your doorstep.
Choosing the best smart doorbell for your needs can be overwhelming, as there are many options available on the market. As an expert who has tested over 30 video doorbells, I have identified the best of the best based on certain criteria. Here are some important features to consider when selecting a smart doorbell:
1. Nice design: Since the smart doorbell will be installed on your front door, it should not only have great functionality but also blend in with your home’s aesthetics.
2. Affordable (or free) video recording: Look for a doorbell camera that offers a live feed as well as options for cloud or local storage of video recordings. Some companies provide free storage, while others require a monthly fee.
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3. Good motion detection and alerts: The doorbell camera should have fast and accurate motion detection to notify you when someone is at the door. Customizable motion zones can help reduce unnecessary alerts. Some doorbell cameras even offer package detection, which is a useful feature.
4. Good video quality: Opt for a doorbell camera that provides at least 1080p HD video. HDR (High Dynamic Range) can also be beneficial for clearer visibility if your doorway is backlit. While color night vision is a bonus, it is not necessary if you have a porch light.
5. Head-to-toe aspect ratio: If you want to monitor packages or have a complete view of your doorstep, choose a doorbell camera that offers a head-to-toe aspect ratio. However, keep in mind that other aspect ratios may have their own uses.
6. Useful smart home integrations: Check for compatibility with major smart home platforms, as this allows for additional features such as controlling porch lights based on motion detection or unlocking your front door while viewing a live feed from your doorbell. Also, ensure compatibility with smart displays for a video intercom experience.
7. Indoor chime: It is important to have a way of alerting you to the doorbell ringing inside your house, whether through your existing doorbell chime or via a smart speaker or plug-in chime.
8. Wired power option or removable batteries: If you have existing doorbell wires, it is recommended to use them for a more reliable and hassle-free experience. However, if wiring is not available, choose a doorbell camera with removable or replaceable batteries to avoid the inconvenience of removing the entire device to charge it.
Based on these criteria, I have found two standout doorbell cameras: the Nest Doorbell Wired (2nd-gen) and the flagship Ring doorbell.
The Nest Doorbell Wired (2nd-gen) is an excellent option for most people. It offers 24/7 recording, facial recognition, reliable smart alerts, and some free video recording. With its ability to continuously record and provide a timeline view of activities at your front door, you won’t miss any important moments. The Nest Wired is affordable, has good video quality, and provides free activity zones and three hours of event-based recordings. While a subscription is available for additional features, you can still use the doorbell without it. However, the subscription options for 24/7 recording are a bit expensive compared to competitors.
On the other hand, the flagship Ring doorbell is highly recommended for Alexa and Ring users. It boasts the best video quality, good connectivity, and excellent motion detection. While it may not have as many advanced features as the Nest Doorbell, it excels in its core functionalities.
Ultimately, the best smart doorbell for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider these features and select a doorbell camera that meets your requirements and blends seamlessly into your home’s design. With a smart doorbell, you can enhance the security and convenience of your home while staying connected to your doorstep no matter where you are.
