The Ultimate Buying Guide for Smart Doorbells: Features, Prices, and Tips
Overview
Smart doorbells are a popular home security device that allows you to see and communicate with visitors at your doorstep, even when you're not home. With a variety of features and price points, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. In this guide, we'll cover the types, key considerations, features, prices, and tips to help you make an informed decision.
Types
- Wired doorbells: These are traditional doorbells that require wiring to your home's electrical system. They typically have fewer features than wireless doorbells and may require professional installation.
- Wireless doorbells: These are battery-operated doorbells that connect to your home's WiFi network. They offer more features than wired doorbells and are easier to install.
- Hybrid doorbells: These are a combination of wired and wireless doorbells, offering the best of both worlds. They require some wiring but also have WiFi connectivity.
Key Considerations
- Compatibility: Make sure the smart doorbell is compatible with your home's WiFi network and any existing smart home devices.
- Integration: Consider whether the smart doorbell can be integrated with other smart home devices, such as security cameras or smart locks.
- Installation: Determine whether you're comfortable installing the smart doorbell yourself or if you need professional installation.
- Price: Set a budget and compare prices of different smart doorbells to find the best value for your needs.
Features
- Video and audio quality: Look for a smart doorbell with high-quality video and audio to ensure clear communication with visitors.
- Motion detection: This feature alerts you when someone is at your doorstep, even if they don't ring the doorbell.
- Two-way audio: This allows you to speak with visitors through the smart doorbell, even when you're not home.
- Night vision: This feature allows you to see visitors even in low light conditions.
- Smartphone app: Look for a smart doorbell that comes with a smartphone app for easy access to video and audio feeds.
- Cloud storage: Consider whether the smart doorbell offers cloud storage for video recordings.
- Compatibility with virtual assistants: Some smart doorbells can be controlled with virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
Prices
- Wired doorbells: $50-$150
- Wireless doorbells: $100-$300
- Hybrid doorbells: $150-$400
Tips
- Make sure the smart doorbell is installed at the correct height for optimal viewing.
- Test the WiFi signal strength at the installation location before purchasing a wireless doorbell.
- Consider purchasing a smart doorbell with a wide-angle lens for a better view of your doorstep.
FAQs
Q: How does a smart doorbell work?
A: A smart doorbell connects to your home's WiFi network and sends a notification to your smartphone when someone rings the doorbell or when motion is detected.
Q: Do I need a subscription for cloud storage?
A: Some smart doorbells offer free cloud storage, while others require a subscription for access to video recordings.
Q: Can I use a smart doorbell with my existing doorbell wiring?
A: Some smart doorbells can be connected to existing doorbell wiring, while others require a separate power source.
Q: Can I access the smart doorbell from multiple smartphones?
A: Yes, most smart doorbells allow multiple users to access the video and audio feeds from different smartphones.