As smart home technology continues to evolve, smart video doorbell cameras have become an increasingly popular addition to many households. These cameras provide an added layer of security by allowing homeowners to see and communicate with visitors at their doorstep from their smartphone or tablet, whether they are home or away. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here are five of the best smart video doorbell cameras currently available.
1. Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is the latest version of the popular Ring Video Doorbell Pro. It features advanced 3D motion detection and customizable motion zones, allowing users to receive alerts only when motion is detected in specific areas. The camera also has a 1536p HD resolution and infrared night vision for clear video footage at any time of day.
One of the standout features of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is its integration with other Ring devices, such as security cameras and smart lights, allowing homeowners to create a complete security system for their homes. Additionally, the two-way audio communication feature allows homeowners to speak to visitors from anywhere using the Ring app.
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is priced between $249 to $299, making it one of the more expensive options on the market. It also requires a Ring Protect plan for video recording and storage, which can add to the cost.
Pros
- Advanced 3D motion detection: The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 has advanced 3D motion detection, which uses radar technology to detect motion and alert users to potential intruders.
- Customizable motion zones: Users can customize the motion detection zones to focus on specific areas and avoid false alarms.
- Integration with other Ring devices: The camera can be integrated with other Ring devices, such as security cameras or smart lights, for a more comprehensive home security system.
- Two-way audio communication: Homeowners can communicate with visitors through the Ring app using the camera’s two-way audio feature.
Cons
- Requires Ring Protect plan for video recording and storage: To access video recording and storage features, users must subscribe to the Ring Protect plan, which starts at $3 per month.
- Higher price point: Priced at $249, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is a more expensive option compared to some other smart video doorbell cameras.
- Requires a wired connection: The camera requires a wired connection to work, which could be a drawback for users who prefer a wireless option.
2. Google Nest Doorbell (Battery) – Wireless Doorbell Camera
The Google Nest Doorbell is a popular option for its advanced facial recognition technology, which can distinguish between family members and strangers. This feature allows users to receive custom alerts based on who is at the door, making it easier to keep track of who is coming and going.
The camera has a 160-degree field of view and 1080p HD video quality, making it easy to see visitors from head to toe. The two-way audio feature allows homeowners to communicate with visitors through the Nest app, even if they are not home.
The Google Nest Doorbell is priced between $156 to $229, depending on promotions and sales. It does require a Nest Aware subscription for advanced features like facial recognition and video recording, which can add to the cost.
Pros
- Advanced facial recognition technology: The Google Nest Doorbell has advanced facial recognition technology, which can recognize familiar faces and send personalized alerts to the homeowner.
- Integration with other Nest devices: The camera can be integrated with other Nest devices, such as smart thermostats or security cameras, for a more comprehensive home security system.
- High-quality video and audio: The camera has a high-quality video resolution of 1600 x 1200 pixels and a clear two-way audio communication system.
- Wireless option available: The Google Nest Doorbell is available in a wired or wireless option, giving users flexibility in how they set up the camera.
Cons
- Requires Nest Aware subscription for video recording and storage: To access video recording and storage features, users must subscribe to the Nest Aware plan, which starts at $6 per month.
- Expensive price point: Priced at $229, the Google Nest Doorbell is a more expensive option compared to some other smart video doorbell cameras.
- Limited field of view: The camera has a limited field of view compared to some higher-end models, which could make it more difficult to see visitors or potential intruders.
3. Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell
The Arlo Video Doorbell is a great option for its advanced motion detection technology, which can distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals. This feature allows users to receive alerts only when a person is at the door, making it less likely to receive false alarms.
The camera has a 180-degree viewing angle and 1080p HD video quality, allowing homeowners to see visitors from head to toe. The two-way audio communication feature allows homeowners to speak to visitors through the Arlo app.
The Arlo Video Doorbell is priced between $149 to $199, depending on promotions and sales. It also has a built-in siren for added security.
Pros
- 180-degree viewing angles and 1080p HD video quality
- Advanced motion detection that can distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals
- Can send alerts to your smartphone or tablet when someone is at your door
- Built-in siren for added security
Cons
- Limited integration with other smart home devices
- No facial recognition technology
4. Eufy Security Video Doorbell
The Eufy Security Video Doorbell is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice features. The camera has a 160-degree field of view and 1080p HD video quality, allowing homeowners to see visitors clearly. It also has advanced motion detection that can distinguish between people and objects, reducing false alarms.
The two-way audio feature allows homeowners to communicate with visitors through the Eufy Security app. The camera is easy to install and use, making it a great option for those new to smart home technology.
The Eufy Security Video Doorbell is priced between $99.99 to $149, making it one of the most affordable options on the market. It also offers free local video storage, saving users from having to pay for a subscription service.
Pros
- Budget-friendly option without sacrificing features
- 160-degree field of view and 1080p HD video quality
- Advanced motion detection that can distinguish between people and objects
- Easy to install and use
Cons
- No facial recognition technology
- Limited integration with other smart home devices
5. SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro
The SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro is a great option for its advanced heat detection technology, which can detect heat signatures to alert users of potential intruders. It also has a 162-degree field of view and 1080p HD video quality, allowing homeowners to see visitors clearly.
The two-way audio feature allows homeowners to communicate with visitors through the SimpliSafe app. The camera also has a built-in microSD card slot for local video storage, allowing users to save video footage without having to pay for a subscription service.
The SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro is priced at $169, making it a mid-range option in terms of pricing.
Pros
- Advanced heat detection technology
- Built-in microSD card slot for local video storage.
Cons
- Limited field of view
- Fewer features compared to higher-end models.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What is a smart video doorbell camera?
Ans: A smart video doorbell camera is a type of security camera that is installed at a home’s front door. It has a camera and a two-way audio system that allows homeowners to see and communicate with visitors remotely, using a smartphone app. Smart video doorbell cameras can also alert homeowners of motion detection or when someone rings the doorbell.
Q. Do I need a subscription to use a smart video doorbell camera?
Ans: It depends on the specific camera you choose. Some smart video doorbell cameras offer local video storage and do not require a subscription service. Others require a subscription plan to access video recording and storage features.
Q. Can smart video doorbell cameras work at night?
Ans: Yes, most smart video doorbell cameras come with night vision capabilities, allowing the camera to capture clear images in low-light conditions.
Q. How do I install a smart video doorbell camera?
Ans: The installation process for a smart video doorbell camera varies depending on the specific camera and whether it is a wired or wireless option. You may need to hire professionals to install some cameras, while you can easily install others yourself using the step-by-step instructions provided with the camera.
Q. Can I integrate my smart video doorbell camera with other smart home devices?
Ans: Many smart video doorbell cameras can integrate with other smart home devices like smart lights or security cameras, creating a more comprehensive home security system.
Conclusion
When it comes to smart video doorbell cameras, there are many options available at varying price points. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, Nest Hello, Arlo Video Doorbell, Eufy Security Video Doorbell, and SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro are five of the best options on the market.
Each camera has its own unique features and pros and cons, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget before making a purchase. Whether you’re looking for advanced motion detection, facial recognition technology, or an affordable option with basic features, there is a smart video doorbell camera out there for you.
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