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the video doorbell is a whole new category of smart home. Video doorbells overlap with traditional home security cameras as they are built-in doorbells security cameras.
A video doorbell works by sending you a real-time notification on your phone with a live video watch on who’s ringing at your door; you will also hear a classic chime sound. A microphone and speaker built into the doorbell allow you to chat with your guest and in some cases the device will also work with smart locks you can therefore let the person in without opening the door yourself.
Most of today’s best video doorbell camera contenders are Wi-Fi enabled and offer features like a rechargeable battery, two-way communication, power and video recording, as well as the traditional doorbell button. . But each doorbell camera’s design, video quality, video storage subscriptions, and installation process may vary.
We’ve highlighted our favorite models below and explained exactly how we test video doorbells. So if you are looking for the best video doorbell, chances are it’s among the ones we’ve tested.
The best video doorbells we’ve tested
Tyler Lizenby / CNET
Arlo’s $ 150 Video Doorbell Camera is easy to set up, performs well, and offers competitive features and cloud storage fees, starting at $ 3 per month. With a cloud storage subscription, you have access to advanced features such as personalized person, animal, vehicle and parcel alerts.
The Arlo Video Doorbell, our pick for the best overall video doorbell, also includes a built-in siren, two-way audio system, motion detection zones, and arm / disarm modes. Learn more about the Arlo Video Doorbell.
Tyler Lizenby / CNET
Arlo’s video doorbell doesn’t come cheap, but this device offers great overall value. For $ 3 per month, you get access to advanced doorbell camera features like person, animal, vehicle, and motion alerts. The camera also features arm-disarm modes, two-way audio, motion zones, and a built-in siren, just like the Arlo Pro 3 Outdoor Security Camera. Learn more about the Arlo Video Doorbell.
In addition to the basics like live streaming 1080p HD video footage, motion detection, and alerts, the Hello camera also offers free person detection. Person detection won’t tell you who’s at the door (that’s not facial recognition – more on that below), but it will tell you that they’ve seen a person. For a monthly or annual fee, you can also upgrade to the Nest Aware cloud storage subscription service. Besides access to recorded HD video recordings (hello excellent video quality), this service adds facial recognition. Read the Nest Hello review.
Ideal for apartments
Judas Cam Ring
Chris Monroe / CNET
The $ 199 peephole is Ring’s answer to apartment doors – or any door with a peephole. If you don’t want to – or can’t – drill into a door frame to install a wired or battery-powered doorbell, the peephole is a solid alternative.
Fully battery powered, the Peephole Cam replaces your standard peephole in a few simple steps. You’ll still be able to see through like a regular peephole, but you’ll also be able to view a live video feed from your front door on demand and talk to all visitors. If you subscribe to the Ring’s Protect cloud service, you will also be able to view recorded clips.
With its streamlined installation and smart workaround for apartment dwellers, the Ring Peephole Cam is definitely worth considering. Read CNET review.
More video doorbell options
How we test video doorbells
The test for determining the best video doorbell is similar to the test for any other home security camera. I first download the corresponding app and create an account (if I don’t already have one). While many products include tutorial booklets in the box with your purchase, I prefer to start with the app. A good app includes detailed steps on the setup process, as well as how to connect to your Wi-Fi network and operate the device. It’s your one-stop-shop to take care of setting up your doorbell from start to finish.
Make sure the doorbell is installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications – either hardwired, battery powered, or solar powered. As soon as it’s connected and I can see the live video stream, I check the settings. I make sure features like motion detection or activity zones are turned on (they aren’t always turned on by default) to get a full idea of how the product is used – and to see how well the product is used. The device actually works as a replacement for an ordinary non-intelligent doorbell.
Check this out:
Nest Hello video doorbell: smarter than most …
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What to look for
Does it work with smart home platforms? If so, do they work well together? Smart home devices these days are expected to work with at least one major smart home platform – Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit are the main ones you need to look for.
How is the latency? If your smart doorbell camera takes a long time to receive a push alert after someone rings your doorbell, you might miss your visitor completely. The same can even be true when the doorbell is simply sensing motion – you can set the motion sensor on most video doorbells to alert you to activity happening near your door, even if no one is ringing.
If you’re having latency issues, start with your Wi-Fi connection. If it’s not strong where the doorbell is installed, you may consider moving it (or, more easily, getting a range extender Wireless). But it could also be the way the software works.
How is the live view? Doorbells are often exposed to direct sunlight, but many others are set up under porches, near shady trees, and in all kinds of other environments. It’s important that the camera has night vision and can handle any of these scenarios so that you don’t get stuck with a non-functional product that can’t see faces on a porch.
How is the two-way audio? If the microphone and speaker on the doorbell are not working well, you will have difficulty communicating with those present. I test this a few times to see how the doorbell sounds on my phone.
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