Best Video Doorbells: Updated List in 2020 Reviews & Buying Guide

The Arlo Video Doorbell is a smart doorbell camera that uses HD video and detailed HDR to give you clarity during the day and in low light or nighttime hours.

As it’s wired, you hook it up using the existing electrical wiring. Once installed, the setup seems straightforward.

You can view the happenings at your front door through the free app as well as use the 2-way audio to speak with visitors or play your pre-recorded message. There’s even a siren to ward off unwanted guests.

Arlo Smart notifies you on visitors, and the technology detects differences of people, animals, vehicles, and packages. You can also take advantage of the free 3-month subscription to the service as you get cloud storage too. Otherwise, you can use the Arlo base-station or Smarthub for local storage.

What Consumers are Saying

Consumers rate this high as a waterproof video doorbell in addition to the construction allowing it to withstand other harsh punishment from heat and cold.

They appreciate how easy it is to get started as well as the crisp, detailed video and picture images the camera puts out no matter how light or dark it is outside.

One main complaint some users had was the camera went through connectivity issues. There may be a long lag or an issue connecting to your phone.

Pros/Cons

The Ring Video Doorbell 2 is a quality smart doorbell system providing clear audio and video. Working alongside Alexa in addition to your phone, tablet, or PC, you can receive alerts to anyone crossing through the motion detection zone as well as ringing the doorbell.

You can check the live view feed to keep an eye on any current happenings in front of your door, and you can even use the 2-way talk to communicate with visitors.

This comes with a rechargeable battery pack that’s easy to remove without taking off the entire doorbell device. You can even choose from two interchangeable faceplates if desired.

For personalization, you can adjust the sensitivity of the motion detection. Also, if you want to save and view recordings, you must purchase Ring Protect.

What Consumers are Saying

Many consumers praise how well motion detection is as well as enjoying the clear video and audio functions.

Another appreciation is that you can use this as either a battery-backed device or a wired video doorbell, providing you versatility.

The camera does look bulky, however. Many consumers base this doorbell camera comparison to other slimmer smart video doorbells. Also, some felt the installation could be simpler.

Pros/Cons

The eufy Video Doorbell stands among the best wireless video doorbell for many reasons such as its straightforward functionality. It’s easy enough to use the app, and through it, you can speak with visitors, play pre-recorded messages, and set up your Activity Zone.

You receive snapshot notifications so you can know right away who’s at the door, while videos feature a 3-second buffer before the alert.

The doorbell aims to provide clear imaging, the HDR function capable of lighting up the scene in low light and night conditions.

You don’t have to pay for a subscription as everything is recorded locally to the base unit. For fun, you can go through the free eight electronic chimes.

What Consumers are Saying

A popular notion about this device is that you have several high-quality features at an affordable price, making this the best value video doorbell for many users.

Notifications appear fast so you don’t have to worry about missing anything, and the doorbell itself features a sleek design that can install with ease in a nook at your front door.

Some users complained about the scattered motion sensor as well as how the snapshots that are taken aren’t as clear as the videos themselves.

Pros/Cons

The Nest Hello Doorbell is the best doorbell camera on the market for many people as it provides continuous recording and streaming.

With HDR video quality, you’re able to witness crisp and clear images during the day and the night vision function serves you well at night for true 24/7 monitoring. The wide field of view helps you see visitors from head-to-toe too so there’s no surprise waiting for you at the door.

Also, the Nest Hello features innovative technology to detect motion as well as people and sounds. This sends you a notification through the app and records in addition to leaving behind a 3-hour snapshot history.

If you’re unable to reach the door, you can utilize the high-quality microphone or even the prerecorded message for when you’re away.

What Consumers are Saying

Consumers appreciate this WiFi door camera as it’s straightforward to use. The facial recognition software is a high point since you can always recognize when it’s someone you know ringing the doorbell.

They also enjoy the 24/7 aspect thanks to the high-quality night vision. The video quality during the day is just as good.

However, consumers reportedly didn’t enjoy how the only way you can view any recordings is through a paid subscription service.

Pros/Cons

The Ring Video Doorbell Pro is rated high as the most popular doorbell camera with a modernized design. This device is small, sleek, and features four interchangeable faceplates so you can adjust to your home’s style.

With a wired connection, you get nonstop power as long as your home has power. The doorbell captures high-quality video and provides you with 2-way audio so you can chat with visitors whether you’re inside the house or out on an errand run.

You can set up your motion detection zones to see only what you want, and through the app, you can catch up with the live feed or pay for the subscription plan to view previous recordings.

If you don’t want to use your Smartphone or tablet, you can readily use features for the doorbell via your Alexa device.

What Consumers are Saying

Users feel like the device was simple to setup, thanks to the clear steps, and they also rank it among the best Ring video doorbells as it’s easy enough to create motion sensor zones.

The video resolution is ideal as well, and with the wide-angle, there’s little you should miss.

One big issue concerns the live feed and other notifications, however. Consumers mentioned that there may be some lag involved. In some cases, this depends on the strength of your WiFi.

We also compared the two models of Ring Video Doorbell Pro vs Elite.

Pros/Cons

The Blue by ADT Doorbell Camera is the best DIY video doorbell that you can readily attach to an overall system if you have it. However, it does work independently so you won’t need to use any security system base if you don’t want to.

As for how it functions, this doorbell camera boasts common features of other smart video doorbells. It has HD quality video with a wide field of view and facial recognition software built into it. This way, you can easily save images of friends and family so you’re alerted fast when they arrive.

Through the free app, you can talk to visitors and understand them no matter what’s going on around thanks to the noise cancellation feature.

When it comes to storage, you can use the free 24-hour cloud storage. You can also upgrade to a paid service if you wish to view recordings longer than that.

What Consumers are Saying

From various security doorbell reviews, consumers appreciate how quickly you can set this up concerning the device installation and the software setup.

Users further enjoyed how crisp images are during 24/7 thanks to the night vision setting. It’s also easy to customize this with the various motion detection zones you can play around with.

There aren’t many complaints about this device, but some users did say they don’t appreciate the bulky and nondiscript design of the doorbell.

Pros/Cons

The Remo+ RemoBell S is a battery-powered camera doorbell that offers 24/7 surveillance of the front door of your home. With the app, you can monitor your home remotely whether a visitor rings the doorbell or triggers the motion sensors.

On the topic of motion detection, the RemoBell S allows you to customize the areas it will trigger at. Notifications seem to come in at a fast, steady pace. Otherwise, you can simply use the app for live viewing instead.

The doorbell camera provides high-quality images, and thanks to the infrared layout, you can capture sharp footage at night. This also has a wide viewing angle so you miss out on as little as possible.

You can always go back and watch recordings on a 3-day rolling cloud storage system. There’s also a means for purchasing plaid plans for more space if you wish.

What Consumers are Saying

There are many consumers praising this as the best video doorbell without a subscription needed since you can still view some recordings.

Users also spoke highly of how quickly notifications came in, the high video quality, and that you can easily share the app with up to five users for family use.

Some people do feel the motion sensor is too sensitive despite that you can adjust the sensitivity. Also, some have reported issues with lag concerning the 2-way talk function.

Pros/Cons

The Amcrest Video Doorbell Camera Pro is a home doorbell camera system that works with your previously existing doorbell wiring. This is compatible with both mechanical and electronic chimes.

With a built-in speaker and microphone, you can easily use the 2-way talk to communicate while you’re sitting in the house or you’re away from home. You have a good wide viewing angle along with the sharp HD footage.

At nighttime, you may still see up to 16ft. away. To ensure you only receive notifications you need, you can create a customized motion sensor zone.

This is also a good video doorbell that provides multiple storage options. If you don’t want to use the Smart Home cloud app for premium choices, you can always slip in a microSD card instead and get your storage from there.

What Consumers are Saying

Consumers appreciate how well responsive the 2-way audio function is. There is minimal lag noticed so that you can get through the conversation easier.

Users also believe the device is constructed out of reliable material that should up through the various season cycles.

There’s one thing many users lamented about is that it may lose connection more often than not. This is because it’s highly reliant on your WiFi, and the fact that it only works on 2.4GHz.

Pros/Cons

The August Home Doorbell Cam Pro is an ideal video doorbell for apartment use. It’s small and unobtrusive so it won’t stand out too much. However, this battery-powered doorbell camera still has to replace your existing mechanical chimes in your doorbell system.

Through the app, you get real-time notifications and the ability to have a conversation with visitors with the 2-way talk function. If you have other August Smart Locks, you can easily pair this with that setup.

Images seem HD, and rather than use infrared for true night vision, this doorbell features a built-in floodlight. It illuminates the area instead so you have full-color HD sights even at night.

You can save these videos in different ways depending on what you wish. There’s a 24-hour free system that shows you footage from the past day. There’s also a 30-day storage option if you upgrade your subscription.

What Consumers are Saying

Out of the many positive traits consumers enjoy, they appreciate the reliable layout of the device. It feels built to last for a little while.

The quality of the video is another high point as users pointed out there’s minimal distortion.

In the face of that, there are some users who believe the motion sensor sensitivity is too high and may catch random cars or animals rather than just people.

Pros/Cons

The Honeywell SkyBell Video Doorbell is a smart camera doorbell intended for small-space installation. It features a compact design that helps fit the doorbell into smaller or awkward places.

As for how the doorbell works, there’s the usual HD video resolution along with a wide field of view. The camera is equipped with night vision as well so we can do most of the adventuring after dark.

This video doorbell camera also features 2-way audio and PIR motion detection. The app launches fast once motion is detected so you can hurry and find out who’s standing outside of your home.

As for looking at any recordings, the doorbell system does offer a cloud area for you to save recordings.

What Consumers are Saying

Consumers appreciate this wireless front door security camera puts out great image quality day and night. It’s easy enough to install and mount so you can set it up as you see fit.

Many users also pointed out that they love the overall design of it. It fits well into small places, and it isn’t obtrusive.

Other users feel the motion detection sensor is inconsistent as it can work fine one minute and ruin in the next. Also, some don’t like how they must hold the button to speak, but the other person can’t respond unless you release them.

Pros/Cons

The SimpliSafe Pro is a popular doorbell camera similar to Ring. It has HD resolution and an adequate field of view. This is an intelligent being with HDR imaging and infrared lighting to keep images sharp and clear at night.

With pan and zoom functions, you can check out packages or people close without ever opening the door. It also features a smart motion sensor, and you should receive notifications on any triggers to that motion sensor near immediately.

What Consumers are Saying

Out of the other top doorbell camera brands, the SimpliSafe Pro impressed consumers with just how crisp the video footage is even during the night.

They also enjoyed how well the motion detection system was to adjust as needed.

Some do raise complaints about the speaker system. They believe it is low in quality and tough to speak to the other person sometimes. They also feel frustrated about the lack of good installation instructions.

Pros/Cons

The Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro is an interesting one on the review list. It features both a wide and tall field of view so that you can see both the faces of people as well as anything they may leave on the ground underneath the doorbell.

You can zoom in and still notice crisp, clear images, and live streaming sessions. Once someone trips the motion sensor or rings the doorbell, it notifies you right away.

It’s simple enough to use the 2-way audio to converse with your visitor. This may also be a good way to deter would-be thieves.

Another good feature is the Smart Sentry. This AI automatically turns the camera’s LED light on once they catch porch thieves as a warning.

What Consumers are Saying

Some consumers enjoy the wide and tall field of view as it helps them capture far more. This also has some remarkable video and picture quality whether it’s bright daylight outside or the sun is going down.

Something that consumers didn’t enjoy was that this video doorbell requires a professional to set it up. Also, compared to other video doorbells on the market, it can get rather expensive.

Pros/Cons

Performance

The performance of your video doorbell is the most important factor in your purchasing decision. Your unit should perform well from the moment you install it. Make sure to do research on any units you have in mind so you can compare and contrast their abilities to find the best video doorbell among them.

Range

The range of your video doorbell will determine how far you can separate yourself from the main unit while still being able to communicate with it. If you use the system within a smaller building, you don’t need to opt for the longest range. If you need to use it in a large house or other space, this factor will be more important.

Visual Cues

Along with the sound of the bell, visual cues are important to let both you and your visitor know the doorbell has been engaged. If you receive alerts through your mobile device, you may not need this feature. Such alerts help provide an additional signal in loud settings or for the hearing impaired.

Installation

A device that is easy to install should also be a priority. You shouldn’t buy the most souped-up video doorbell you can find if it isn’t easy to install. A good model will come with detailed installation instructions and maybe even a few tools to get started.

Price

A quality product should have a decent cost, so you don’t want to end up losing features you need just to save money. On the other hand, not all expensive products are worth the cost. Check the doorbell reviews to learn the most useful features. Find a balance between the features you need and the amount you’re willing to pay.

Additional Features

Having extra features is always a bonus when choosing between similar models. Some of the additional features you should look out for include:

• Included Tools
• Motion Sensor Technology
• Ability to Record Videos
• Night Vision
• Photo Capture
• Ability to Store Images
• Wide Angle Lens

Ease of Use

Just like easy installation, you want to find a product that is easy to use. Video doorbells require more knowledge to use all of their functions compared to standard wireless doorbells, so be sure you understand how to handle its extra capabilities.

Resolution

For video doorbells, the resolution is an important factor to determine how well the unit performs. There’s no use in having a video camera if you can barely make out the image. HD cameras are best to use when you can, but anything less than HD must offer a picture clear enough to identify visitors.

Stream Quality

Just like your images and recorded videos, you’ll want the live stream of your camera to produce a quality stream. The image should be as clear as possible and the feed should transmit well without lagging. At worst, you should expect a slight delay in the feed.

Rings

The best video doorbell will be versatile enough to offer a large number of ring sounds from which you may choose. This may not be that important to you, but you may find yourself tired of hearing the same sound after using it for a long period. Some bells even allow you to use common holiday themes.

Sound Quality

The sound your bell produces is one of its most important features. You need a digital wireless doorbell that can produce sound in a similar way to the real thing. The sound should be clear and loud in order to be heard in all spaces of your home.

Volume

The best volume control will be an adjustable volume. This gives you more options to change your sound based on the situation. You can also change the sound to fit the preferences or comfort level of those around you.

Weather Resistance

A quick scan of detailed video doorbell reviews will tell you how important this feature is. Because of the cost and advanced capabilities of a video doorbell, it needs to be kept as safe as possible. The most durable video doorbells will be able to resist weather or corrosion by being crafted from the proper materials.

Style

Because a doorbell with a video camera is a highly-technological device, you should aim for a system that looks as good as it performs. While appearance is not paramount, it’s best to choose a gadget that looks sleek and defined along with the other home tech systems you’re likely to acquire.

Compatibility

Video doorbells are often used with many other devices including digital locks and mobile devices. Before purchasing, make sure the doorbell you pick will work with your smartphone or tablet or any other tech accessories you’d like to install.

Check the Resolution

Having a video doorbell isn’t just about having an image available for the sake of bragging. You need not just video but a good video with a resolution high enough to make out the face of anyone who presses the bell. Even if you don’t buy a unit with an HD camera, make sure the resolution is still adequate.

Look for Compatibility

Many video doorbells provide additional high-tech features such as compatibility with other wireless security accessories. If your budget allows, try to find a video doorbell that also syncs with a wireless lock to give you full control over who enters your home.

On-Demand Access

You may want to check on someone at your door before they walk up, or they may not activate the doorbell. You should have the ability to access your doorbell camera as you wish, so on-demand access is a significant feature to keep in mind when shopping.

Reliable Motion Sensor

Like the ability to capture video, having motion sensor technology means very little if it doesn’t operate properly. A good motion sensor won’t activate with false positives when no one is actually there. A doorbell with quality motion detection will be able to discern between the movements of visitors and those of the wind or animals.

Ability to Save

You may want to come back to an event that has taken place through your video doorbell for future viewing. The best wireless video doorbell will keep a record of footage or even audio conversations you’ve had so you can pull them up as you need them.

Why Would I Spend More for a Video Doorbell?

A video doorbell offers enhanced security by default by allowing you to see and interact with anyone who visits your home. In addition, many models of video doorbells are available for similar or even less cost than standard wireless doorbell models.

What Video Resolution do I Need?

The best resolution would be HD 1080p, but you may not need this for your doorbell. Depending on the model, the environment in which it’s installed and the mobile device you use to view it, you may be fine with 360p or 480p resolution.

What is the Cloud?

If your video doorbell comes with recording and storage ability, it may keep this information on the cloud. This is an Internet-based system that stores and shares data to computers and mobile devices on demand. You’ll be able to access your own information from any device that has Internet access.

Do I Need to Purchase Additional Security Accessories?

Many video doorbells allow remote control to the unit or to other devices. The most common pairing is between the wireless doorbell and an electronic locking system. This is not a requirement to get the full benefit of the doorbell camera, but it makes your home security much more convenient.

Must the Video Doorbell be Used for Home Security?

You can use a video doorbell anywhere you expect to have visitors and can’t or won’t immediately be available to greet them. Though it adds to your personal security, you can simply use it as an answering system even in your business when customers arrive.