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.
Blink Home Security Video Doorbell
Best Overall
Long-Lasting Battery Life
You’ll be able to set up your own custom alerts and privacy settings. You can also choose to save and share clips in the cloud with a Blink subscription plan (sold separately, free trial included).
Sold in two different colors and five different load configurations
Pros:
- Films 1080p HD video and offers two-way audio
- Can be connected to an existing doorbell wiring, or paired with a Sync Module (sold separately) to allow live view and two-way audio on demand
Cons:
- Requires two AA batteries (first set included)
This doorbell pairs great with Alexa. You’ll quickly receive alerts, and you’ll be able to answer your door with two-way audio, You can also ask Alexa to answer the front door for you
Ring Video Doorbell
Best Motion Detection
Know Immediately When Somebody is At Your Door
This doorbell is equipped with night vision and sharp contrast to ensure that you never miss an important detail anytime during the day or night.
Sold in five different load configurations
Pros:
- Included toolkit makes installation easy when paired with your existing doorbell wiring
- Offers 1080p HD video and two-way talk capabilities
Cons:
- Does not ring existing door chime
You can purchase a Ring protect plan to enable your doorbell to record all videos and review anything that has been missed for up to sixty days afterwards.
Wyze Video Doorbell
Best Weather Resistance
IP6S Weather-Resistant
This doorbell is made to withstand the elements. Whether rain, snow, or sunshine, you won’t have to worry about any malfunctions or decreased performance.
Pros:
- Provides instant notifications, along with a live stream that can be pulled up before deciding whether or not to respond
- 3:4 aspect ratio, 3:4 head to toe view, and 1080p full HD video helps you see your entire front porch
Cons:
- SD microsim recording is not possible
The doorbell lights up brightly when motion is detected, alerting visitors that you are recording. You can also turn on phone notifications to be alerted every time somebody approaches your door.
Eufy Security Video Doorbell
Best Resolution
Crystal-Clear 2K Image in 2560×1920 Resolution
Want to be able to respond in real time? This video doorbell allows you to speak directly with anyone who approaches your door with two-way audio.
Pros:
- AI technology and a sophisticated algorithm detects body shape and face pattern, so that you aren’t alerted every time a stray cat comes to your door
- Offers support for eight fun and holiday-themed ringtones along with adjustable volume levels
Cons:
- Installation requires existing doorbell wires at 16-24 VAC, 30 VA, or above
- Not compatible with Apple HomeKit or existing chimes
All Eufy security products are designed to protect both your home and your wallet. For this reason, this video doorbell is a one-time purchase that combines home security with convenience.
