You’ll never have to guess who’s at the door when you have a video doorbell to serve as your second pair of eyes. However, finding the right one for your home may not be as easy as looking through a peephole. So, we did the hard work of narrowing down the list of the best video doorbells and determined that the Ring Video Doorbell 2020 tops them all because of its excellent detection.
We know that one brand of video doorbell will not suit all homes, so we also included other choices with different prices, resolutions, angle views, and compatibility to provide you with a variety of options. But before you check one out, make sure you get a video doorbell that has excellent connectivity and high-definition recording to ensure reliable home security at your doorstep.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prevent my video doorbell from getting stolen?
The best way to ensure that your video doorbell will not get stolen is by mounting it securely to your door frame or the wall on your porch. You can also install an anti-theft grid box for added security.
Do video doorbells record all the time?
Video doorbells do not record continuously unless stated by the manufacturer. These devices usually start recording when their motion sensors are triggered by movement.
Buying Guide
Each video doorbell will be powered differently. In some cases, you’ll need to have batteries ready to install with your doorbell. It’s possible that your first set will be included when you purchase the doorbell, and this is a nice bonus. However, they will probably only last between three and four months, so you’ll need to be ready to replace them when the time comes.
Another important question to ask is what sort of recording capabilities your video doorbell offers. This question has a few different layers. Not only will you want to know the quality of video produced by your doorbell, but you’ll also want to know if it records continuously or only when motion is detected. Some doorbells can record clips and save them to the cloud, which will allow you to access them later. However, this is often a premium feature only available to users with a subscription.
One reason many people love video doorbells is that they feature two-way audio communication that allows you to speak to somebody at the door from your phone. This opens up limitless possibilities. You can let your friends know they are free to come around to the backyard, or you can instruct a delivery worker to leave your item at the door. This is a great way to communicate if you are busy, away from home, or simply don’t want to come to the door for whatever reason. However, it is not a standard feature in all video doorbells – it is included in many, but not in every single one. So if this is a feature that’s important to you, you’ll want to ensure that it is offered by the doorbell that you pick out.
Lastly, you’ll want to have a good idea of how you’re going to install your doorbell. Many doorbells can function wirelessly, and this might be enough for you if you’re primarily wanting a way to see who’s at the door. However, many people want their video doorbell to ring to their existing doorbell system, and this may require hooking up the doorbell to your current wiring system or installing it yourself. Different doorbells offer different capabilities in this realm (commonly referred to as “load configurations” when you’re shopping), and you’ll want to be aware of what sort of setup will be required before you choose which doorbell to purchase.
Vyze Video Doorbell
Best Overall
Instant Notifications Alert You of Each Visitor
When your phone notifies you of a visitor at your door, you can pull up a live stream before deciding whether or not you would like to respond
Pros:
- Offers 3:4 aspect ratio to show a better head-to-toe view along with 1080p Full HD video
- Lights up brightly anytime motion is detected, ensuring that visitors and would-be thieves are aware of the presence of your doorbell
Cons:
- Recording can sometimes be spotty
This doorbell is IP65 weather resistant and built to withstand all of the elements. No need to worry about what may happen to your doorbell in the event of rain, snow, or wind.
Ring Video Doorbell
Best Motion Detection
Improved Motion Detection and Easy Installation
Your picture will remain at a high quality even when images are captured at night, and you’ll love how easy it is to speak to anybody at the door through the app.
Sold in two different colors (satin nickel or venetian bronze) and six different load configurations
Pros:
- Can be powered by rechargeable battery or connected to your existing doorbell wiring
- Sends notifications when your doorbell is pressed, or when motion sensor is activated
Cons:
- Screws need to be loosened in order to remove the doorbell from the bracket for charging
This doorbell is easy to set up through the Ring app and with the included mounting hardware
Blink Video Doorbell
Best Recordings
Films 1080p HD Video
This doorbell allows you to set up your own custom alerts and privacy settings based on your preferences. You can even save and share recorded clips when you purchase a Blink subscription plan.
Sold in two different colors (black and white) and five different load configurations
Pros:
- Two-way audio allows for quick and easy communication with anyone at the door
- Can be paired with Alexa to receive alerts and speak through your doorbell
Cons:
- Requires two AA batteries (first set included)
This doorbell can be connected to your existing doorbell wiring, or paired with a Sync module to allow you to view your doorbell camera recordings in real time.
XTU Video Doorbell
Best Picture
2K Ultra HD Video and Two-Way Audio
This video doorbell comes pre-equipped with a 32gb SD card to store your recordings. Your purchase also includes a horizontal wedge to help with the process of installing your new video doorbell, plus an adapter kit.
Pros:
- Provides 2560×1920 resolution with infrared night vision and a 166 degree view angle
- Can be powered with included DC 12V power adapter or connected to your existing doorbell wiring
Cons:
- Does not support 5GHz WiFi – you’ll need to have a 2.4GHz network
The built-in microphone and speaker allows you to communicate with anybody at the door, even when you’re away from home.
Arlo Video Doorbell
Best Wireless Doorbell
No Hub Needed
The battery offers six months of power from just one charge, allowing you to easily use this doorbell without needing to worry about installing any additional wires or providing a power source.
Pros:
- Offers 180-degree view to get the complete picture of every package, delivery, and visitor
- Detailed HD video and HDR ensures you see every detail, even in low-light or especially bright conditions
Cons:
- Can sometimes be a delay between when motion is detected and when the recording starts
You can pre-record messages to reply at the touch of a button, or you can speak to your guests in real time with two-way audio communication.
KAMEP Video Doorbell
Easiest Installation
Rechargeable Battery Lasts Four to Six Months
The camera features a 166-degree wide-angle lens and a 120-degree human detection range to provide you the best possible viewing angles and range of vision.
Pros:
- 166-degree lens and 120-degree human detection range help you see as much as possible through your camera
- Rechargeable battery is equipped to last 4-6 months on a single charge
Cons:
- App is a little difficult to use
Setup only takes five minutes, and can be done with the included mount, screws, and wall anchors.
