Home security is of the utmost importance. Everyone has a right to feel safe in their own home. Furthermore, when we go out to work, socializing, or on holiday, we want peace of mind. A doorbell camera is a handy device that can provide this extra security.
A doorbell camera is essentially a standard doorbell, equipped with a high-definition video camera. Using a device like this, you can monitor who visits your property and even communicate with them (most doorbell cameras offer two-way audio). Moreover, these brilliant home security devices often have motion detection sensors and can send alerts to remote devices.
If this sounds like the type of product you need, you must first understand what to look for. Camera quality is vital – ideally, you want 1080p or 4K HD. Secondly, check the installation process, as some doorbell cameras require an existing doorbell and power supply.
Thirdly, look at cloud storage options, and payment plans, as some devices require a monthly subscription. Once you have considered the above, check out our picks for the best doorbell cameras below!
1. Ring Video Doorbell Pro (Overall Winner)
This video doorbell looks fantastic offers 1080p HD video quality at a reasonable price. The installation process is easy, but you must have an existing doorbell and wiring that is readily available. Essentially, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro connects to your existing doorbell for power. The unit itself is easy to mount and the instruction manual is well written.
In terms of functionality, the camera has both daytime and nighttime modes. Moreover, if motion is detected, you can configure your smartphone or tablet to receive automatic notifications.
Aside from motion detection, you can quickly switch to a live-view mode at any time using the free Ring App. If you want to keep footage for long periods, there is a cheap subscription plan available which provides data storage – the Ring Protect Plan.
2. Blue by ADT
ADT produces security alarms and a myriad of protective equipment. It stands to reason that they have branched out into doorbell cameras with the successful Blue by ADT doorbell camera. The camera unit is robust and has a stylish design – it records footage at 1080p HD and provides a 180-degree viewing angle.
In addition to this, there are some brilliant features like facial recognition, night vision, and a two-way talk microphone. If you are concerned about installation, fear not! Blue by ADT has a DIY setup that anyone can follow. If you live in an area with adverse weather conditions, this device is also waterproof and works in temperatures of up to -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Finally, this is one of the best doorbell cameras because no subscription is required, and there is a free ADT mobile app to accompany the unit.
3. SimpliSafe Pro Smart
The SimpliSafe Pro Smart doorbell camera is a basic device that has some excellent features. It is one of the most affordable products on this list. The camera features 1080p HD recording and offers HDR imaging for improved contrast. In addition to this, you can converse with people at the door using the two-way audio transmission.
While some doorbell cameras detect any movement and raise it as an alert, the SimpliSafe doorbell has advanced motion detection sensors. It can detect different types of movement and distinguishes between a cat and a human, for example. This means you won’t receive alerts for non-important movement.
Installation of this doorbell camera is straightforward – it should take no more than 30 minutes, and the only tool required is a standard Philips head screwdriver.
4. Owlet Home WiFi Video Doorbell
We have listed the Owlet WiFi video doorbell as one of the best doorbell cameras due to its wire-free installation. This device is battery powered and the batteries have a brilliant life – the camera unit can be placed in a low power consumption mode which further improves battery longevity.
The camera offers 1080p HD recording and an impressive 166-degree viewing angle. Furthermore, there is an infrared night vision mode. The motion detection system appears to be OK – you can change the sensitivity with four different settings depending on your doorbell/door setup.
There is no subscription or monthly fee, and Owlet has a dedicated mobile app that is free to download. For the camera and connection to work, you simply need a WiFi connection.
5. Arlo Video Doorbell
The Arlo Video Doorbell has one of the best viewing angles we have seen at 180-degrees. This provides comprehensive coverage for your door and home security. Building on this, the device also features a security siren – this can be activated manually or triggered based on motion.
Two-way conversations are possible via the built-in microphone. Furthermore, visitors can leave a voice message if you were unable to answer their call – these messages can be accessed remotely at any time.
The basic price of this unit is affordable, and you get three months of the Arlo Smart plan for free. However, after this three-month period, if you want additional features including cloud storage, you must purchase a subscription.
To provide a power source, you must have an existing doorbell and chime, which are powered by a 10Va transformer.
6. Honeywell SkyBell WiFi Video Doorbell
This high definition doorbell camera provides brilliant recording quality with a CMOS sensor that you would find in beginner DSLRs. Honeywell provides a free service app that allows you to connect remotely to the camera, watch live footage, and communicate via the two-way microphone.
The device itself is weather resistant and extremely robust – it can withstand harsh temperatures and is waterproof. In addition to this, the Skybell Video Doorbell is one of the few doorbell cameras that offer free video storage.
Another benefit is that 500MB of the video is stored for free for seven days from the point of recording. You can also download the video for external storage. Concerning installation, the process is extremely easy and you can connect the device quickly to your WiFi network.
Improve Your Safety and Never Miss a Delivery Again
Your safety and peace of mind are precious. No one wants to feel vulnerable in their home, or on edge when on holiday. Neither does anyone want to miss an important delivery.
Purchasing one of the best doorbell cameras listed above can provide that additional safety net. Using a doorbell camera is also great fun, aside from the security it offers!
