Doorbell cameras are one the most sought-after security devices for people who want to build a smart home security system. It makes it easier for you to protect your family while enjoying the comfort of your home. Doorbell cameras help you to monitor your front door for strange movements or unwanted visitors.
This is one device you want to have in your home. Some models are linked to a smart lock that helps you unlock your door for a guest while sitting on your couch. You can use the video footage from your doorbell camera to report a robbery or breaking to the authorities.
Ordering and setting up your doorbell camera may not be a piece of cake, but we bet you’ll find your way around it. The real chore is in deciding which model will be ideal for your home. Security companies produce a variety of doorbell cameras that come with different features and specifications. You’d be spoilt for choice.
In this post, we will be reviewing some of the best doorbell cameras to help you make a good buying decision.
Our Top Picks for the Best Doorbell Cameras
1. Google Nest Hello
Nest Hello prides itself on being the best doorbell camera on the market. It is very portable and has an attractive design. With the Nest Hello doorbell camera, you can get a full view of the visitor at the door due to its wide aspect ratio. It also gives clear face recognition and HD-resolution images. Nest Hello runs 24-hour surveillance that gives you access to continue remote monitoring and video recording around the clock. You can always playback to watch what you missed when you were away from home.
It has an excellent speaker which you can use to communicate with the delivery man in case you receive a package when you’re not at home. Like all other doorbell cameras, you will need a strong internet connection to activate these smart features and access video footage. Subscription for the Nest Aware service starts at $5 per month. You will also need to subscribe for a storage space which starts at $30 for 60 days.
Price: Varies, depending on the seller, but it’s typically around $200.
Video Resolution: 1080p
Field of View: 160 degrees, 4.3 aspect ratio
Size: 5.05 × 2.50 × 1.08 inches
Wired/Battery: Optional
Compatible Devices: Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT
Shop from: Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, eBay
2. Arlo Video Doorbell
The Arlo doorbell camera is a bit on the big side. Although Arlo is hardwired, it is easy to install and has an inbuilt siren that scares away intruders. You will also love the internal battery that supports the It gives a sharp HD image with a wide viewing angle. The motion sensor detects both people and packages. So if there is a delivery for you, you will get the notification. However, Alor is not compatible with Google Home and IFTTT. It can only be paired with an Alexa viewing device.
Price: $99 – $150
Video Resolution: 1536 × 1536 resolution
Field of View: 180 degrees, 1:1 aspect ratio
Size: 5. 1 × 1.8 × 1 inches
Compatible Devices: Amazon Alexa
Shop from: Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart
3. August Doorbell Camera
The August doorbell camera has an interesting feature that provides a 10-second hindsight recording before the motion sensor is triggered. It also has a night mode which uses a floodlight feature that lights up the night feed. This way you can see people’s faces at night.
This type of doorbell camera may not have the best image resolution, but the video footage is clear enough to see the face of the person standing at your door. It has amazing two-way audio. The August doorbell camera works well with other devices from its parent company. It is also compatible with Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, and other smart home devices.
Price: $171.98 – $179.00
Video Resolution: 1280 × 960
Field of View: 120 degrees
Compatible Devices: Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant
Shop from: Amazon, eBay, Walmart
4. Ring Video Doorbell
It is a less expensive model for people buying on a budget. It also has a cheaper video storage subscription plan. Ring video doorbells can run on a hardwired or battery power. With this doorbell camera, you can create custom motion alerts. You can also use it to view aerial surveillance of your neighborhood.
The new model of the Ring video doorbell can be fully powered by a battery. It has a versatile design and also allows a hardwired connection. It has an incredible video resolution of 1080p. It also has an improved motion detector and night vision features.
Price: $200 -$300
Video Resolution: 720p, 1080p
Field of View: 160 degrees
Size: 5.05 × 2.50 × 1.08 inches
Compatible Devices: Alexa, Google Assistant, Nest, and IFTTT
Shop from: Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart
5. Ring Peephole Camera
If you live in an apartment, this will be great for you. The Ring Peephole Camera functions as a traditional doorbell while maintaining the features of a video doorbell. This wireless doorbell camera has two-way audio. It has a motion sensor and three infrared lenses for night vision. It has an inbuilt peephole which allows you to peep and see who is at the door. The Peephole Cam runs on a battery. Thus, you will have to recharge it once every month depending on the extent of use. It is only compatible with Alexa devices, but you can also watch your video footage directly from the camera on an Echo Show.
Price: $129.99- $199
Video Resolution: 1920 × 1080
Field of View: 155 degrees horizontal, 90 degrees vertical
Size: 4.4 × 2.3 × 1.2 inches
Compatible Device: Alexa
Shop from: Amazon, Ring, Best Buy
These are our top five favourite smart doorbells. However, there are so many more on the market. This is just a guide to help you make a good choice. So, feel free to explore other options.