Introduction
Doorbell cameras are one of the most popular smart home devices today. They are easy to install, convenient to use, and offer a range of benefits for your home security and convenience. Whether you want to check who is at your door from your smartphone, greet guests with a friendly message, or catch porch pirates in the act, a doorbell camera can help you do that and more. But with so many options available on the market, how do you find the best doorbell camera for your needs? To help you out, we have compiled a list of the top five best doorbell cameras of 2023 based on their features, video quality, compatibility, and customer reviews. Here are our top picks:
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Arlo Video Doorbell. The Arlo Video Doorbell is our favorite doorbell camera for its sleek design, wide-angle view, and smart features. It delivers crisp 2K video with HDR and night vision, and can detect people, animals, vehicles, and packages. It also has a built-in siren, two-way audio, and customizable motion zones. You can integrate it with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKit for voice control and smart home automation. The Arlo Video Doorbell requires a wired connection and a subscription for cloud storage and advanced features.
- Best Budget: Blink Video Doorbell. The Blink Video Doorbell is a great option for those looking for an affordable and reliable doorbell camera. It offers 1080p HD video with infrared night vision, two-way audio, and motion detection. It also has a long-lasting battery that can last up to two years on a single charge. You can access your video clips for free on the Blink app or store them on a local USB drive. The Blink Video Doorbell works with Alexa for voice control and smart alerts.
- Best for Packages: Eufy Video Doorbell Dual. The Eufy Video Doorbell Dual is a unique doorbell camera that has two cameras: one facing the front and one facing down. This way, you can see both your visitors and your packages on your doorstep. The Eufy Video Doorbell Dual records 2K video with HDR and night vision, and has AI-powered facial recognition and human detection. It also has two-way audio, local storage, and no monthly fees. You can connect it to Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control and smart home integration.
- Best High-End: Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is the most advanced doorbell camera from Ring. It boasts a 3D motion detection system that can map the movement and distance of objects in front of your door. It also has a bird’s eye view feature that gives you an aerial perspective of your property. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 records 1536p HD video with HDR and color night vision, and has two-way audio with noise cancellation. You can use it with Alexa for voice control and smart home compatibility. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 requires a wired connection and a subscription for cloud storage and extra features.
- Best Value: Wyze Video Doorbell Pro. The Wyze Video Doorbell Pro is a new addition to the Wyze family of smart home devices. It offers a lot of value for its low price tag. It records 1080p HD video with night vision, and has two-way audio, motion detection zones, and person detection. It also supports dual-band Wi-Fi for faster and more stable connectivity. You can use it with Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control and smart home integration. The Wyze Video Doorbell Pro comes with a free trial of Wyze Cam Plus that gives you cloud storage and advanced features.
Buying Guide
If you want to keep an eye on your front door, you might be interested in the best doorbell cameras available on the market. These devices are easy to install and use, and they offer a range of features and benefits that can enhance your home security and convenience. Here are some things to consider when choosing a doorbell camera for your needs.
- One of the most important factors to consider is the video quality of the doorbell camera. You want a clear and sharp image that can capture the details of the visitors and potential intruders. The best doorbell cameras have at least 1080p resolution and a wide-angle lens that can cover a large area. Some models also have night vision, HDR, and zoom capabilities that can improve the visibility in different lighting conditions.
- Another factor to consider is the power source of the doorbell camera. Some models are battery-powered, which means you don’t have to worry about wiring or drilling holes in your wall. However, you will have to recharge or replace the batteries periodically, which can be inconvenient and costly. Other models are hardwired, which means they use the existing wiring of your doorbell. This ensures a continuous power supply, but it may require professional installation and compatibility with your existing doorbell system.
- A third factor to consider is the connectivity and compatibility of the doorbell camera. You want a device that can connect to your Wi-Fi network and your smartphone or tablet, so you can view the live video feed and receive alerts whenever someone rings your doorbell. You also want a device that can integrate with other smart home devices, such as voice assistants, smart locks, and smart lights. This way, you can create routines and scenarios that can automate your home security and convenience.
FAQs
Q: How do I install a doorbell camera?
A: The installation process depends on the type and model of the doorbell camera you choose. Some models are designed to be easy to install by yourself, while others may require professional help. Generally, you will need to mount the device on your door frame or wall, connect it to your Wi-Fi network, and download the app on your smartphone or tablet. You may also need to pair it with other smart home devices if you want to use them together.
Q: How do I access the video footage from my doorbell camera?
A: Most doorbell cameras allow you to access the live video feed and recorded clips from your smartphone or tablet via the app. Some models also offer web access or cloud storage options that let you view and download the footage from anywhere. However, you may need to pay a monthly or annual fee for these services, depending on the provider and plan you choose.
Q: How do I protect my doorbell camera from theft or vandalism?
A: Unfortunately, some people may try to steal or damage your doorbell camera if they notice it on your front door. To prevent this, you should choose a model that has a sturdy and tamper-proof design that can resist physical attacks. You should also look for a model that has a theft protection guarantee that covers replacement costs if your device is stolen. Additionally, you should enable notifications and alerts on your app so you can be aware of any suspicious activity around your door.
Conclusion
The best doorbell cameras are smart devices that can help you monitor your front door and communicate with your visitors remotely. They offer high-quality video, reliable power sources, and seamless connectivity with other smart home devices. When choosing a doorbell camera for your home, you should consider factors such as video quality, power source, connectivity, compatibility, installation, access, and security. By doing so, you can find the best doorbell camera that suits your needs and budget.
