Upgrade your front door’s communication capabilities with a smart video doorbell, transforming it from a 1980s landline to a modern smartphone. With features like a motion-activated camera, microphone, speaker, and doorbell, a doorbell camera sends alerts to your phone so you can see who’s at your door whether you’re at home or not. Whether you’re relaxing on the couch, working in your office, or vacationing in the Bahamas, a smart doorbell camera keeps you connected to what’s happening at your doorstep.
After testing over 30 video doorbells, I have recommendations on the best options based on specific criteria. When looking for a video doorbell, consider factors like design, affordability of video recording, motion detection capabilities, video quality, aspect ratio, smart home integrations, and power options.
For the best overall doorbell camera, the Nest Doorbell Wired (2nd-gen) stands out with features like 24/7 recording, facial recognition, smart alerts, and some free video recording. It offers good video quality, proactive package monitoring, and compatibility with Google Home. While the Nest Aware subscription can be pricey, it provides added features like 30 days of event-recorded video storage and Familiar Faces recognition.
If you prefer a battery-powered option, the newest Ring doorbell offers improved video quality and smart alerts. Consider additional batteries or a charging plan to ensure uninterrupted use. For the best experience, utilize existing doorbell wires for a more reliable and convenient setup.