What is a Smart Doorbell?
A smart doorbell is a modern upgrade to the traditional doorbell, combining a bell button with a high-resolution video camera. These devices connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network, allowing you to see, hear, and speak to visitors from anywhere using your smartphone. Many also feature motion detection, recording, and smart alerts.
Why Consider a Smart Doorbell?
- Enhanced Security: Smart doorbells act as a “doorway defender,” monitoring your home’s surroundings and notifying you of suspicious activities. They can deter potential intruders, monitor package deliveries, and help ensure the safety of your property.
- Remote Monitoring: You can monitor your home from anywhere using a smartphone or tablet. This lets you check live video feeds, receive instant alerts, and communicate with visitors, whether you’re at work or on vacation.
- Package Protection: With the rise of online shopping, porch piracy has become a concern. Smart doorbells can notify you of deliveries and allow you to instruct delivery personnel to place packages in a secure location or deter thieves.
- Screen Visitors: You can see who’s at the door before answering, which can help you avoid unwanted interactions or feel safer when home alone. The two-way audio feature lets you speak to visitors without opening the door.
- Evidence Collection: In case of a security issue, recorded footage can be valuable evidence for law enforcement or insurance claims.
- Potential Insurance Discounts: Some insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who install smart doorbells, due to their ability to deter break-ins and provide useful information after a crime.
Potential Downsides of Smart Doorbells
While they offer numerous advantages, smart doorbells also have some drawbacks:
- Cost: The initial purchase of a smart doorbell can range from relatively inexpensive to quite pricey. Additionally, some features require a subscription, such as cloud storage for recordings.
- Subscription Fees: Many smart doorbells, especially those from Ring and Nest, store recordings in the cloud and require a monthly subscription to access or view those recordings.
- Privacy Concerns: Smart doorbells can record activity beyond your property line. This can be an issue for neighbors if the camera captures their property. You may need to adjust the camera’s view, or use privacy zones which block out portions of the camera’s view.
- Battery Life: Battery-powered doorbells need to be recharged regularly, and this can be challenging for some people.
- Obsessiveness: Some users become overly focused on monitoring their doorbell, watching real-time footage frequently.
- Security Risks: Like any internet-connected device, smart doorbells are vulnerable to hacking. Make sure you change the default password, and keep software up to date to maintain the security of the device.
Key features to consider
When choosing a smart doorbell, think about these features:
- Video Quality: Look for models with high-definition video (HD, 2K, or 4K) and a wide field of view. Color night vision is also a useful feature for seeing clearly in low light.
- Motion Detection: A good motion detection system can alert you to activity around your door. AI-driven features can differentiate between people, animals, and vehicles.
- Two-Way Audio: Allows you to speak with visitors remotely.
- Storage Options: Consider whether you want cloud storage, local storage via microSD card, or both. Local storage may be better if you want to avoid monthly fees.
- Connectivity: Smart doorbells need a stable internet connection. Check the Wi-Fi signal where you plan to install the doorbell or consider a model with a hub. Some also feature dual-band Wi-Fi.
- Power Source: Choose between wired and battery-powered models, depending on your needs. Wired models provide constant power, while battery-powered ones are easier to install. Some models can work in either configuration.
- Smart Home Integration: Some doorbells can connect to other smart devices in your home, letting you create automated actions.
- Weather Resistance: Ensure the doorbell has some weather sealing.
our Recommendations for Smart Doorbell Models
• Wyze Wireless Video Doorbell Pro (Chime Included). 1440p resolution and 150° field of view, with real-time person detection alerts and cloud storage for up to 14 days (with optional subscription)
Conclusion
Smart doorbells offer significant benefits in terms of security and convenience. While there are some drawbacks, careful consideration and research will help you select the best model for your needs, whether it’s a Ring, Blink, or other model. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to upgrade your doorbell.
Before you buy:
Check the Legalities: Familiarize yourself with local laws regarding surveillance equipment, as well as privacy concerns.
Inform your neighbors: If your camera faces toward a neighbor’s property, let them know and be open to working out a solution that is comfortable for them.
