The Best Video Doorbell Cameras for Your Home
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The New Generation of Video Doorbell Cameras
As we all know, technology evolves FAST. It seems that every year there is a bigger and better cellphone, computer, tablet, or other digital device on the market. Rarely do we acknowledge how far doorbells have come in terms of technological advancements, though.
Discussing and shopping for doorbells may not seem as fun or interesting as, say, smartphone shopping. The truth is that some serious benefits come with upgrading your doorbell such as added home security, convenience, and even a little bit of laughter depending on what footage you happen to catch on your doorbell video recordings.
We should mention that despite these advancements, they still vary greatly when it comes to costs, installation, video quality, and video storage subscriptions. Read on to find out more about which brands will give you the best bang for your buck!
Ring Video Doorbell (Wired)
Known to be one of the best deals on the market, The Ring fully functional video doorbell offers 1080p resolution, as well as standard notifications such as motion and person-only alerts. Not only is it easy to use, but it also offers quick push notifications when people are at the door. Additionally, it offers two-way talk, reliable night vision, 60-day video recordings, and smart responses with Alexa if you opt for a $3/month subscription.
Price: $99.99
Amazon Rating: 4.7/5 stars
SimpliSafe (Wired)
People love the flexibility of SimpliSafe because you have a variety of options with it. You can choose to have your home professionally monitored, or you can keep a close eye on it yourself. The SimpiSafe video doorbell offers a clear picture, motion detection, a pan and zoom function, night-vision, an old-fashioned sounding door chime, and two-way audio. It is easy to set up and does not require a purchased subscription. If you want access to video recordings, it costs $4.99/month.
Price: $169
Amazon Rating: Not on Amazon
Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro (Wired)
This doorbell is equipped with a powerful HDR (High Dynamic Range) camera that proved to have excellent image quality during testing. The view enables you to see your entire doorstep. Additionally, it utilizes Vivint’s Smart Sentry analytics technology to detect packages, as well as sound an alarm to people spotted on your doorstep. It works well with other Vivint devices that have been installed, too.
Price: $249
Amazon Rating: Not on Amazon
Arlo Video Doorbell (Battery)
Arlo's wired Video Doorbell is affordable, easy to install, and does its job well. It offers a variety of competitive features like a built-in siren, two-way audio, motion detection, and arm/disarm modes. Their cloud storage fees start at just $3/month. The cloud storage subscription offers customized person, animal, vehicle and package alerts.
Price: $103.99
Amazon Rating: 4.3/5 stars
Nest Doorbell (Battery)
This is Google's newest video doorbell offering. It is easy to set up, regardless of whether you have wiring or not. It does not require a subscription and boasts many free benefits, such as package, person, vehicle and animal alerts, as well as three hours of event storage. If that is not impressive enough, the nest doorbell (battery) is compatible with Google Assistant-powered devices like the Nest Hub.
Price: $179.99
Amazon Rating: Not on Amazon
Ring Peephole Cam (Battery)
This option is perfect if you live in an apartment, have a door with a peephole, or if you simply cannot – or will not - drill your door frame to make way for installing a doorbell.
This alternative camera is battery powered and replaces your usual peephole. Fortunately, you will still be able to see through it, but you will also be able to pull up a live video feed of what is going on at your front door on- demand, as well as speak with your visitors. If you want to subscribe to Ring's Protect cloud service, you can view saved clips.
Price: $149.99
Amazon Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Arlo Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell (Battery)
Arlo's wireless doorbell is nearly identical to its wired version, the only difference being that this one relies on a battery. Typically, wireless doorbells are more expensive since they're more convenient for those who don't have doorbell wiring.
This doorbell offers an exceptional quality image, smart notifications, and a sleek design. Even more impressive is its ability to capture 180-degree views. If you want access to 30 days' worth of event storage and other perks, you can opt for their $3/month subscription.
Price: $180
Amazon Rating: Not on Amazon
SimpliSafe (Battery)
Like their wired version, Simplisafe offers flexibility to monitor your home yourself or to have it professionally monitored. Set up is simple since it is battery-powered and does not require a wired connection. It includes a motion detector for up to 30 feet, 90-degree field of vision, as well as the ability for smart home integration. It works well with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. If you want to access video recordings and/or receive pop-up notifications on your smart phone, you will need to pay the $4.99/month subscription.
Price: $299.99
Amazon Rating: 4.3/5
We hope this article helped you narrow down which doorbell might be right for you! Whether you opt for a wired video doorbell camera or a battery-powered one, you really can't go wrong with any of these options. Be sure to check out our article about neighborhood watch apps where we mention Ring, and several other apps, that can help keep you and your family safe!
Happy Shopping!
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