Best Video Doorbells: Updated List in 2021 Reviews & Buying Guide
- Last Updated: January 12, 2021
- Matthew Wilson
Guessing who’s at the door or if the package you ordered is where it’s supposed to be isn’t fun. That’s why video doorbells are a great first line of defense for your home, keeping you aware of would-be thieves. Beyond that, they’re a good way to check in on visitors whether you’re home or not.
To ensure better home surveillance, you need the best video doorbell system for the money. We used our extensive knowledge of home security as well as countless hours of research to find 10 top-rated products for your consideration.
Contents
Best Overall Video Doorbell
Arlo Video Doorbell
- 1536×1536 HD resolution
- 180° field of view
- 2-way audio
- Motion detection activity zones
- Night vision
Budget-Friendly Video Doorbell
Ring Video Doorbell 2
- 1080p HD
- 160° field of view
- Adjustable motion detection
- Compatible with Alexa
- 2-way audio
Best Wireless Video Doorbell
eufy Security Wi-Fi Video Doorbell
- 2560×1920 2K resolution
- 150° field of view
- Wired connection
- 2-way audio
- Activity Zone motion detection
High-Quality Video Doorbell
Ring Video Doorbell Pro
- 1080p HD resolution
- Compatible with Alexa
- 160° field of view
- Wired connection
- Motion detection zones
Best DIY Video Doorbell
Blue by ADT Doorbell Camera
- 1080p HD resolution
- 180° field of view
- Wired connection
- Custom motion detection zones
- Facial Recognition
Factors to Consider When Buying a Video Doorbell
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.
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
- Night Vision
- Ability to Record Videos
- Photo Capture
- Ability to Store Images
- Wide Angle Lens
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.
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.
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.
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.
The 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.
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.
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.
Video Doorbells Comparison:
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1. Arlo Video Doorbell
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2. Ring Video Doorbell 2
|
3. eufy Security Wi-Fi Video Doorbell
|
4. Ring Video Doorbell Pro
|
5. Blue by ADT Doorbell Camera
|
6. Amcrest Video Doorbell Camera Pro
|
7. Honeywell SkyBell Video Doorbell
|
8. SimpliSafe Pro Wi-Fi Video Doorbell
|
9. Remo+ RemoBell S WiFi Video Doorbell
|
10. August Doorbell Cam Pro
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 1536x1536 HD | 1080p HD | 2560x1920 2K | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1536x1536 HD | Full HD |
| Two-way audio | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Field of view | 180° | 160° | 150° | 160° | 180° | 140° | 180° | 162° | 180° | N/A |
| Night Vision | Yes | Yes |
Yes |
Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | N/A |
| Connectivity | Wi-FI | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi |
| Motion Detection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
|
Weather Resistant |
Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Compatibility | Amazon Alexa | Amazon Alexa | Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa | Amazon Alexa & more | Amazon Alexa | Amazon Alexa | Amazon Alexa | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT | Amazon Alexa |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 1 Year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 Year |
10 Best Video Doorbells on the Market:
Best Overall Video Doorbell
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 1536x1536 HD resolution
- 180° field of view
- Wired connection
- 2-way audio
- Motion detection activity zones
- See who’s there, even at night with night vision
- Weather resistant
- Cloud and local storage
Overview
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.
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
- Crisp video quality
- Simple setup
- Reliable construction
Cons
- Connectivity issues
Budget-Friendly Video Doorbell
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 1080p HD
- 160° field of view
- Rechargeable battery or wired
- 2-way audio
- Adjustable motion detection
- Storage saved on Ring Protect
- Compatible with Alexa
Overview
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.
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
- Good motion detection quality
- High-quality video and audio
- Various power operations
Cons
- Bulky design
- Long video loading times
Best Wireless Video Doorbell
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 2560x1920 2K resolution
- 150° field of view
- Wired connection
- 2-way audio
- Activity Zone motion detection
- Free electronic chime included
Overview
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. 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
- Fast notifications
- Sleek design
- Budget-friendly with no subscription plan
Cons
- Low-quality HDR
- Some motion detection issues
High-Quality Video Doorbell
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 1080p HD resolution
- 160° field of view
- Wired connection
- Motion detection zones
- Ring Protect Plan storage
- Connect your Ring doorbell with Alexa
Overview
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.
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
- Good field of view
- Easy step-by-step setup
- Quality motion zone customization
Cons
- May experience lag times
Best DIY Video Doorbell
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 1080p HD resolution
- 180° field of view
- Wired connection
- 2-way audio
- Custom motion detection zones
- Facial Recognition
Overview
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.
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
- Quick installation
- Sharp images day and night
- Various motion detection settings
Cons
- Bulky design
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 1080p HD resolution
- 140°field of view
- Wired connection
- 2-way audio
- PIR Motion Sensor
- Cloud and local storage
Overview
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.
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
- Quality construction
- Minimum false alerts
- Responsive 2-way audio
Cons
- May lose connection frequently
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 1080p HD resolution
- 180° field of view
- Wired connection
- 2-way audio
- PIR Motion Detection
- Cloud storage
Overview
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.
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
- Compact, sleek design
- Good image quality
- Easy to mount and set up
Cons
- Motion detection seems inconsistent
- Have to hold button to use audio
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 1080p HD resolution
- 162° field of view
- Wired connection
- 2-way audio
- Smart motion detection
Overview
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.
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
- Crisp, clear imaging
- Good motion detection adjustments
- Quick notifications
Cons
- Lack of installation instructions
- Low-quality speaker system
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 1536x1536 HD resolution
- No monthly subscription fees
- Wired connection
- 2-way audio
- 180° field of view
Overview
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.
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
- Notifications come in fast
- Easy to view video day and night
- Design blends in well
Cons
- Over-sensitive motion detection
- Audio delay
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- Full HD resolution
- Well designed
- 24-hour to 30-day storage
- 2-way audio
- Motion detection
Overview
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.
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
- Reliable design
- Next to no video distortion
- Easy installation
Cons
- High motion sensor sensitivity
Video Doorbell FAQ
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Making the Decision
Video doorbells provide even better security than the standard surveillance system. It can even prevent casing the house by burglars.
They allow you to see visitors live as they approach your home in addition to being able to interact with them. The best video doorbells even allow you to unlock your door so guests may enter.
Choosing the best WiFi doorbell requires careful consideration of the capabilities of these devices and comparing them to your intentions for use.
Aim for a model that has the features you need without missing out, but don’t waste money on anything you don’t plan to use.
If you want to get the best system for your safety as well as the best value for your money, you’ll make sure to analyze your decision as extensively as possible. Do your research even after you’ve narrowed down your choices.
Thoroughly read and compare video doorbell reviews for your preferred models before making a final decision, and make your home safer today.
