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Best Video Doorbells

Updated February 2024
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Ring Ring Video Doorbell Elite
Ring
Stick Up Cam Battery
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Stable Connection
Bottom Line

By using an alternative power source, this model adds a layer of convenience.

Pros

Gets power over Ethernet. Excellent video quality. When software is up-to-date, it functions well through the Ring app. This product is highly rated and features night vision, two-way talking, privacy features, and senses motion outside.

Cons

Installation can be difficult because of the placement of the Ethernet connection.

Best Bang for the Buck
Blink Video Doorbell
Blink
Video Doorbell
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Budget-friendly
Bottom Line

Despite the low price, this video doorbell is simple to set up and comes with useful features for monitoring your entryway.

Pros

Affordable wireless doorbell that's easy to install. HD video is crisp and clear. Features convenient two-way audio and motion detection. Can send app alerts for remote monitoring and be paired with Alexa-enabled devices for voice control.

Cons

WiFi connectivity issues have been reported. Performance is slow if internet connection is weak.

Ring Peephole Cam
Ring
Peephole Cam
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More stores

Best for Renters
Bottom Line

We found that the ease of setup, security features, and affordability of this model make it a standout pick.

Pros

Has multiple updates that it can send to your phone including motion detection, crime alerts, and if the doorbell is rung. We really loved how the 1080p field of view captured the entirety of the front of the house during trials. Took our team five minutes to set up.

Cons

Only holds a charge for 5-6 weeks, so expect to recharge often.

eufy Wi-Fi Video Doorbell, 2K Resolution with Wireless Chime
eufy
Wi-Fi Video Doorbell, 2K Resolution with Wireless Chime
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Best Video Quality
Bottom Line

Eufy’s wireless video doorbell is the best model for anyone who needs pixel-perfect video recordings of anyone who stops by.

Pros

Features impressive 2K video resolution. Up to 180 days of battery life. Huge field of view. Optimized for detecting humans and ignoring false alarms. Weatherproof and easy to install.

Cons

Its night vision could be sharper.

Arlo Video Doorbell
Arlo
Essential Wired Video Doorbell, HD
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Customer Favorite
Bottom Line

The broad 180-degree angle of this model captures more detail than you may expect, making it an excellent home security device.

Pros

Wide-angle viewing lens. Weather-resistant. A call is initiated when the button is pressed. Sharp two-way audio and visuals. Loud emergency alarm. Compatible with Alexa. Night vision. Affordable.

Cons

Must be hard-wired by a professional electrician.

Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

59
Models
Considered
88
Consumers
Consulted
20
Hours
Researched
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Buying guide for Best video doorbells

Whether you’re concerned about home security or you just don’t want to get off the couch to answer the door for someone you’re not expecting, a video doorbell can save you time and worry. It will reduce your need to open your door to someone you don’t know, and you can even keep track of who’s ringing your bell when you’re not home.

A video doorbell can be a somewhat pricey investment, so you want to be sure to choose the best model for your home security needs. That means knowing what power type, resolution, field of view, app support, and other features would work best for your house.

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Most video doorbells have a sleek, minimalist design that won’t detract from your home’s exterior. Some offer faceplates that can be changed easily.

What is a video doorbell?

A video doorbell is a doorbell connected to a camera. A WiFi connection enables it to transmit information to a specially designed app that allows you to use your smartphone, tablet, or other connected devices to see who’s at your door.

A video doorbell usually comes equipped with speakers and microphones, too, so you can communicate with the person at your door. You get an alert on your device whenever the doorbell rings, enabling you to see who’s at your door even if you’re away from home. Video doorbells often have additional features, such as motion detection, for added home security.

Video doorbell benefits

  • Convenience: Because a video doorbell is connected to an app, you can answer your door from the sofa or the office.

  • Versatility: Most video doorbells are equipped with night vision, which means you’ll be able to clearly see who’s at your door both day and night.

  • Increased Security: Through the video doorbell app, you can speak to the visitor no matter where you are, so no one will know that you aren’t at home. You’ll also be able to record any suspicious activity at your door in case you need to report it.

  • Delivery Alerts: If you’re worried about a delivery person leaving a package on your doorstep where it might be vulnerable to thieves, your video doorbell can alert you when it arrives. You can then direct the deliverer to leave it in a secure location, or you can hurry home to bring the package inside.

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Did you know?
Because you can answer your doorbell from anywhere with the connected app, potential thieves won’t know that your home is empty when you’re away.
STAFF
BestReviews

Video doorbell features to consider

Field of view

A video doorbell’s field of view (FOV) is the size of the area the camera can capture.

Ideally, you want a camera with as large a field of view as possible.

  • A 90° FOV will only show the area in front of the doorbell and just a bit on the sides.

  • A 180° FOV will show the area directly in front of the doorbell, as well as to the sides.

  • Some models offer a 120° FOV, which can be a little bit less expensive than a 180° video doorbell but provides nearly as wide a view.

"Many video doorbells have a live-streaming function through the app, so you can check on your property at any time."
STAFF
BestReviews

Power source

Video doorbells are powered in one of two ways: they can be wired into your home’s electrical system or run on a battery.

Wired video doorbells are the most difficult to install. These typically work best if you have an existing doorbell already wired into your home’s electrical system. Most video doorbells are compatible with the types of connectors in existing wired doorbells. If you don’t currently have a wired doorbell, you’ll need to hire a licensed electrician to install the video doorbell.

Battery-operated video doorbells are extremely easy to install. These contain an internal battery that you charge to operate the device. Most video doorbells can be charged using a USB cable and take about five to eight hours to charge. You won’t need to recharge your video doorbell very often: a charge can last anywhere from six months to a year. Most video doorbell apps alert you when the battery is low, so your doorbell won’t just suddenly stop working.

"Battery-operated video doorbells are extremely easy to install. You simply screw the mounting plate in place outside your door and set the doorbell inside."
STAFF
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Resolution

For a video doorbell to be useful, its camera must provide a sharp, clear image. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to the resolution. The higher a video doorbell’s resolution, the better its images will be. Some models offer a resolution as low as 480p, while others are as high as 1080p. Choose the highest resolution you can afford.

Motion detection

Some video doorbells are equipped with motion sensors that alert you when someone is moving around near your front door. If home security is a priority, this feature is particularly helpful.

You may want to look for a model with advanced motion-detection capabilities. These video doorbells allow you to monitor a specific area while ignoring others. If you live on a heavily trafficked street, this feature can help prevent the video doorbell from alerting you every time a car passes in front of your home.

"Some video doorbells have a “do not disturb” setting, so if someone in the house is sleeping, you don’t have to worry about the bell ringing."
STAFF
BestReviews

Night vision

Since security is often a greater priority after dark, it’s important to choose a video doorbell that provides clear images even in low light. Choose a model that offers night vision capabilities, so you can tell who’s at your door no matter how dark it might be outside.

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Expert Tip
For the best performance, your video doorbell should be placed as close to your home’s WiFi router as possible.
STAFF
BestReviews

Audio

For many homeowners, what makes a video doorbell so helpful is the ability to communicate with visitors without opening the door – or even being home. If you choose a model that offers two-way audio, you can speak to people at your door and hear what they have to say in response.

If you live on a busy street, it’s also a good idea to look for a video doorbell audio system with a noise-cancellation feature. That way, you’ll be able to hear what visitors are saying even if there is traffic noise or a lawnmower in the background.

"Most video doorbells have a recording feature. This is a nice security feature to have."
STAFF
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App

Video doorbells are connected to an app that allows you to view the images from the camera, speak to visitors, and receive alerts about the system even if you’re away from home. Choose a model with an app that offers a user-friendly interface, is easy to connect to, and provides reliable customer support in case you experience any issues.

Cloud storage

Some video doorbells provide cloud storage that allows you to save footage from the camera for a certain period of time. This feature is handy for home security because you’ll have video evidence in the event of a burglary or some type of vandalism.

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Expert Tip
If you opt for cloud storage with your video doorbell, you’ll likely need to pay a monthly fee.
STAFF
BestReviews

Video doorbell prices

Prices for video doorbells vary depending on the resolution, whether they’re wired or battery operated, and what other features they provide. In most cases, video doorbells range from $50 to $500.

Inexpensive

A low-resolution, battery-operated video doorbell with a smaller FOV usually costs between $50 and $100.

Mid-range

A medium-resolution, battery-operated video doorbell with just under a full FOV costs between $100 and $200.

Expensive

A high-resolution, battery-operated or hardwired video doorbell with a full FOV costs between $200 and $500.

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Some video doorbells can be connected to a smart door lock, allowing you to unlock the door for trusted friends and family even when you’re not home.
"If your video doorbell will be hardwired into your home’s electrical system, you may also be able to connect it to your home’s security system."
STAFF
BestReviews

FAQ

Q. What devices can I use with a video doorbell?

A. The devices or operating systems compatible with a video doorbell depend on the model. Most doorbells and apps work with Apple and Android devices, but it’s important to check the product specifications to verify that the model you choose will work with your smartphone, tablet, or another device.

Q. Can my video doorbell be used in place of a security system?

A. While a video doorbell can alert you to strangers at your door, it doesn’t replace a security system. If someone attempts to break into your home, a security system will alert your local police department automatically. A video doorbell is unable to notify authorities. A security system also monitors other possible dangers in your home, such as smoke or other evidence of a fire, which a video doorbell can’t do. However, a video doorbell can be a great addition to an existing security system if you want to make your home as secure as possible.

Q. Does a video doorbell require a Bluetooth connection to operate?

A. No, most video doorbells are WiFi connected. That means the WiFi connection in your home must be strong enough to reach the area where you plan to install the doorbell, so it can send the necessary notifications to your device through its app.

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