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5 practical things you can do with video doorbells

Video doorbells are excellent devices for those looking to add security and convenience to their daily routine. Still, many overlook the numerous practical applications they have. If you're on the fence about buying a video doorbell, it's a good idea to learn more about their capabilities.

In this article: Ring Video Doorbell EliteEufy Security Wi-Fi Video Doorbell and Remo+ RemoBell S Wi-Fi Video Doorbell Camera.

Sync it with a smart lock

Most video doorbells can be used in tandem with other smart devices. For example, you can sync your doorbell with your smart lock, letting you unlock the door for your guests regardless of your location.

Using your video doorbell with a smart lock is handy if you're expecting guests while you're away from home. Additionally, this can be an excellent way to let delivery people leave packages inside your door, as you can watch them enter and exit and lock the door when they leave.

View the video feed from your TV

In most cases, you'll use your phone to see who's at your door. Still, there will likely be cases where viewing the feed on your television is more convenient. To use your smart doorbell with your TV, you'll need a smart TV that's compatible with the same voice assistant as your doorbell. For example, if your doorbell and TV both utilize Amazon Alexa, you should be able to ask Alexa to show your doorbell's feed on your television. This feature is convenient when you're in the middle of your favorite show or your phone isn't within reach.

View your video feed in the dark

Hearing a knock on your door at night can be frightening if you aren't expecting guests. Luckily, most video doorbells have night-vision features that let you see who's at your door in the dark. If you don't know the person who is knocking, you can choose to ignore it without them knowing. Additionally, you can monitor your front door until they leave.

Some video doorbells have color-night-vision features that let you distinguish colors in the dark. 

Use it as a motion detector to turn on lights

Most video doorbells are compatible with interior and exterior lights. You can set your lights to turn on when the doorbell detects motion. This feature is ideal for deterring burglars, as it illuminates them when they're seen. Using your doorbell with interior lights can make it seem like someone is home when you're away.

You'll need smart light bulbs or flood lights to use your doorbell as a motion detector.

Communicate with guests

Many video doorbells have built-in microphones and speakers that let you talk to your guests. This feature makes it easy to find out who's at your door and what they need. Some doorbells have a quick-reply feature that lets you use a prerecorded response when you can't talk. Quick replies are perfect if you're on the phone, in a meeting or otherwise unavailable.

Best video doorbells

Ring Video Doorbell Elite

This camera features 1080p video and a two-way speaker that makes it easy to communicate with your guests. It can be used as a motion detector, and the night vision is top-notch. You can record and share videos if you pay for the optional subscription service. It's compatible with Amazon Alexa devices.

Sold by Amazon

Eufy Security Wi-Fi Video Doorbell

This has a human-detecting algorithm that lets you ignore alerts involving stray animals. It has two-way audio and numerous holiday-themed alert tones. It is affordable and has an impressive 2K video resolution.

Sold by Amazon

Remo+ RemoBell S Wi-Fi Video Doorbell Camera

This budget option features two-way audio and night vision. It has a wide viewing angle and high-definition video resolution. It includes three-day rolling cloud storage at no additional cost. It's compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

Sold by Amazon

Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell

This model is weather-resistant and features a wide viewing angle. It has an emergency alarm feature and built-in two-way audio. The video quality is crisp. It features a slim, compact design. It's compatible with Amazon Alexa.

Sold by Amazon

Blink Video Doorbell

This can be purchased as a one-, two- or three-camera system. It has two-way audio and night vision. It's available in black or white. It can be installed with a preexisting wired doorbell system or as a wireless doorbell. It's compatible with Amazon Alexa.

Sold by Amazon

Kasa Smart Video Doorbell Camera

This option is affordable compared to other doorbells. It features a wide viewing angle and a 2K video resolution. It's compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Voice Assistant. The separate chime device can be placed anywhere in your home to alert you when a guest arrives.

Sold by Amazon

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Cody Stewart writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.

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