Ring, Arlo, Nest, and Wyze make the best video doorbells of 2023. Whether you’re shopping on a budget, don’t want to deal with wired connections, or need something high-end to guard your front door, it’s easy to find the perfect video doorbell for your needs.
It’s hard to go wrong with any products from the manufacturers listed above, as they’re all churning out high-quality devices that work exactly as advertised. But if you’re hoping to find the perfect fit for your smart home, here’s a closer look at the best video doorbells available today.
If you want to cut right to the chase, consider checking out the Ring Video Doorbell if you’re a newcomer to the world of smart homes, or opting for the Ring Video Doorbell 4 if you want something premium.
Ring
Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen)
Best entry-level video doorbell
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Great app experience
- Privacy Zone censors specific areas
- Simple installation
Cons
- No removable battery
- Glitchy video and audio
The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) is a massive update to the original Ring model. The 2020 version is ready for the modern home in every way, while remaining more affordable than elite models with features you may not need.
The main changes to the smart doorbell include an upgrade to 1080p resolution (up from 720p), two-way audio with noise cancellation, and adjustable motion zones that will monitor specific areas to lessen false alerts. You can also set “Privacy Zones” that allow you to exclude areas of the camera’s field of view from recording. Improve the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) with the $50 Solar Charger, which fits over the doorbell to supply it with power — reducing the need to remove the Ring doorbell and recharge its battery.
While the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd gen) may not offer some high-end qualities found in other cams, like 2K resolution or object recognition, it’s hard to overlook its very affordable price, as well as options like the Solar Charger that other doorbells don’t really offer. However, you will need to sign up for Ring’s security subscription to get any cloud storage, with the Protect plans starting at $3 per month.
Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen)
Best entry-level video doorbell
John Velasco / Digital Trends
Google Nest Doorbell
Best battery video doorbell
Pros
- Gorgeous minimalist design
- Intelligent alerts
- Doesn’t require subscription for video history
- Useful quick responses
Cons
- Fine video details are on the soft side
- Inconsistent capture rates
Google didn’t hold back with this Nest video doorbell, which blends practical features into a modern design that’s easy on the eyes. Even better, Nest offers free video history out of the box, which is notable because this sort of feature typically requires users to pay for a subscription service.
This model is arguably one of the best-designed wireless doorbell options to date, sporting a matte plastic chassis that blends well with any décor. You’ll also be treated to intelligent alerts because the smart doorbell’s 1.3-megapixel security camera features HDR video, night vision, and detection for pets, people, vehicles, and motion. If you’re not able to answer the doorbell, you can select any of the available Quick Responses options through the Google Home app to have the doorbell speak answers to whoever is at the door. A subscription adds more intelligent features, but this model is excellent all on its own thanks to the free hours of video storage, something few models ever offer.
There is also a wired version of this Nest doorbell, a 2022 model with a smaller design that adds always-one power, which enables extra features like continuous video recording, two-second previews, and more. Both are very good choices, but we’re still favoring the battery model as it’s so easy to install, and the battery lasts for a good three months before needing to recharge.
Google Nest Doorbell
Best battery video doorbell
Erika Rawes/Digital Trends
Ring Video Doorbell 4
Best business-friendly video doorbell
Pros
- Easy to install
- Durable build quality
- Excellent night vision
- Accurate motion alerts
- Feature-rich
Cons
- Need subscription for full features
- Only minor changes over previous model
- No Alexa Greetings feature
Ring’s Video Doorbell 4 comes with a number of welcome upgrades, including a better Wi-Fi receiver so you don’t have to worry about the doorbell dropping the signal, and a four-second video preview that allows you to review footage before alerts were even triggered. The design also received an upgrade that makes removing the battery for charging even easier.
The 1080p cam offers the Ring mainstays like motion detection, night vision, and triggered alerts, along with two-way communication. You can also set motion detection zones for greater accuracy, and create Quick Replies or automated responses to save time. There’s also built-in Alexa compatibility for using the doorbell along with your Echo devices.
Keep in mind that like other Ring cams, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 does require a Ring Protect subscription to save video, which means it’s required to make the doorbell useful for anything but live viewing.
Ring Video Doorbell 4
Best business-friendly video doorbell
Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
Best video doorbell for large yards
Pros
- High resolution
- High-quality video day and night
- User-friendly installation
- Radar detection
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is a substantial improvement not just over its predecessor, but to all video doorbells because it adopts a radar sensor to offer 3D motion detection technology. This model has the ability to tell exactly where it has detected people on your property, thus giving users a bird’s-eye view of their movement across the front door.
You could say it’s a game-changer, and beyond this new piece of tech, the Ring Video Doorbell 2 Pro also features a 1536p HD live video camera complete with color night vision, wide 150-degree views both on the horizontal and vertical, built-in Alexa greetings, two-way communication, and more. It’s one thing to know who’s at the front door, but it’s also another to know their movements before and after.
Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
Best video doorbell for large yards
Wyze Video Doorbell Pro
Best video doorbell for free video storage
Pros
- Separate chime accessory
- Great battery life
- 14-day cloud storage without a subscription
Cons
- A little bulky compared to other options
This wireless Wyze video doorbell includes all the important features, including a 1440p cam, up to six months of battery life, and extra easy installation options. But it’s also one of the few cams to come with a separate chime speaker that you can install wherever you want. Since wireless doorbells can sometimes be lacking when it comes to real chimes, this is a welcome addition that allows you to customize the chime you hear from a variety of noises and loudness levels.
Two-way audio, night vision, and motion detection are all included here. The lens uses a 150-degree by 150-degree viewing angle to capture absolutely everything, too. A Cam Plus subscription is required to use extra features, but there is free 14-day cloud storage, making this one of the best options for avoiding fees.
Wyze Video Doorbell Pro
Best video doorbell for free video storage
Roku Video Doorbell and Chime SE
Best budget video doorbell
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to stream footage to your TV
- Alexa, Google, and Roku voice assistant compatibility
Roku makes a video doorbell? They certainly do as of 2022, and it’s an interesting alternative at a particularly affordable price if you’re looking for a model under $100. The video doorbell offers many of the important basics, including 1080p video and color night vision along with both motion and sound detection. Of course, there’s the requisite two-way audio for communication. The cam’s aspect ratio is also excellent for your porch with a 120-degree vertical view.
However, there are also some welcome extras on this model, especially at such a low price. You can stream footage directly to your Roku TV or player, allowing you to see what triggered the cam while you’re watching TV, or get an immediate live view with a simple Roku voice command. The doorbell also supports Google Assistant and Alexa, so you have your choice of control options. You also get a new compatible chime with it, too. There’s no battery option, so you’ll have to do a little wiring work, but that’s what helps keep the price so reasonable.
Roku Video Doorbell and Chime SE
Best budget video doorbell
Arlo Video Doorbell
Best video aspect ratio
Pros
- No fish-eye look to video
- Sleek design
- Intelligent A.I.
- Works with Alexa
Cons
- Requires wiring for a doorbell
- Its button doesn’t look like a button
One of the biggest problems with most video doorbells is that they can’t give you a full view of your porch. Depending on how they’re installed, you’ll either be unable to see the ground right in front of your door or you’ll be cropping out your visitors’ faces. That’s not the case with the Arlo Video Doorbell, which opts for a 1:1 aspect ratio — giving you enough viewing space to see packages left on your stoop and the smiling faces of anyone ringing your doorbell. Couple that with an affordable price and sleek design, and the Arlo Video Doorbell is a great alternative to others on this list.
Arlo Video Doorbell
Best video aspect ratio
Lorex 2K Battery Video Doorbell
Pros
- 2K video capture
- Easy installation process
- Long-lasting battery
The latest Lorex video doorbell has a lot going for it. For a reasonable price, you’re getting a sleek gadget that can record 2K footage, track up to 600 motion events on a single charge, and is easy to install thanks to its battery-powered design. When the unit eventually runs out of charge, you can quickly juice it back up with a standard USB cable. It’s even equipped with color night vision and infrared night vision – allowing you to choose whichever format you prefer.
Toss in two-way audio, a built-in nightlight, and the availability of black and white designs, the Lorex 2K Battery Video Doorbell is definitely worth a closer look. The company might not be as well-known as Ring or Arlo, but there’s no denying you’re getting some impressive features with this premium video doorbell.
Lorex 2K Battery Video Doorbell
Ring Battery Doorbell Plus
Pros
- 1536p resolution
- Easy installation
- Long battery life
Cons
- Most features require a Ring subscription
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus is one of the newest additions to the Ring catalog, and it gets just about every right. Aside from the usual, eye-catching design of Ring products, this video doorbell offers a head-to-toe resolution of 1536p, a battery that’ll last around eight months on a single charge, and the ability to customize its performance with the Ring smartphone app. It even works well with Alexa, letting you check out a live video feed on your Echo Show, Fire TV, or Fire Tablet. And despite all these premium features, it clocks in at less than $200 – making it a great option for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with rewiring their existing doorbell.
Ring Battery Doorbell Plus
Blink Video Doorbell
Pros
- Affordably priced
- Connects with Alexa
- Offers local and cloud storage
- Works with Ring Neighbors app
Cons
- Not many features
- Only 1080p
With several popular security cameras in its catalog, it should come as no surprise that Blink also makes a great video doorbell. The aptly named Blink Video Doorbell is a budget-friendly gadget that captures 1080p footage, supports both wired and wireless connections, works with Alexa, and is easy to monitor thanks to the accompanying Blink smartphone app. Unfortunately, much of the Blink Video Doorbell’s functionality is tied to the Sync Module – which isn’t included with your purchase. Without it, you can only access live-view and two-way audio in response to a motion alert or doorbell press. Beyond that drawback, this affordable video doorbell is a great option for any smart home that’s already powered by Alexa products.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you compare different video doorbells?
Video doorbells have many features in common, including video, alerts, motion detectors, night vision, two-way audio, and more. However, there are a few important specs to compare between models:
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Size: Will the video doorbell fit in the space you have in mind?
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Power: Do you need a doorbell with a battery? How easy is the battery to recharge?
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Resolution: Usually, 1080p/HD is fine for video doorbells, but if you want more, you’ll need to look for a 2K resolution or higher model.
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Storage: Does the video doorbell offer onboard storage? Any room for SD cards? Does it offer cloud storage? Do you have to pay for cloud storage, or do you get it free?
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Detection: Some video doorbells are smarter than others. Newer models may have options to detect faces, cars, pets, and packages. Sometimes these features are free, but often you have to pay for a subscription to enable them.
How do you install a video doorbell?
Video doorbells can be relatively easy to install, especially if it’s battery-powered. All video doorbells are typically installed by fastening a mounting plate to an area near your door, whether that’s around the outside frame or somewhere else nearby. Once you screw the mounting plate into place, most video doorbells are then positioned on them — requiring a special release key to remove the doorbell to recharge it.
However, things can get a bit more complicated if you choose to install a video doorbell to an existing wired connection. Instructions on how to connect the appropriate wires to your doorbell vary, but you may want to hire a professional to ensure that it’s installed properly. The benefit of choosing to go with a wired connection versus a battery-operated model is that you never need to worry about recharging it. If you’re installing a Ring video doorbell, we break down the instructions on how to do it with our guide.
Where can you get video doorbells?
Video doorbells are extremely popular. If you’ve done your research, you can choose to purchase one online through retailers such as Best Buy, Amazon, and Newegg. Some popular consumer electronics stores like Best Buy have some on display to check out in person. You shouldn’t forget about home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowes. Those stores can be great places to ask questions about installation specifics.
Or, if you’d like to save a little time and money, we keep an updated list of the best current video doorbell deals you should check out.
Do video doorbells need a subscription?
No, video doorbells don’t need a subscription to work, but a subscription may be particularly important for some models. Subscriptions usually add a few features to doorbells, including:
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Cloud storage: This allows you to save video to the cloud for a certain period of time, where you can view and download it at will. Some plans, like Ring Protect, only add cloud storage if you pay for it. Others expand cloud storage capabilities or make them more useful.
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Better detection options: Subscriptions usually allow for more in-depth AI detection of faces, cars, packages, and so on. This comes with rich alerts that specify what looks like happened, such as, “It appears a package was just dropped off at your door.”
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More customization: Subscriptions may also add customization options for your alerts, as well as the motion zones that trigger the doorbell.
Is my door large enough for a video doorbell?
First, there are narrow video doorbells, like the Nest Doorbell and similar models, that are designed to fit in narrow spaces. If your doorway has a reasonable amount of trim, that’s often sufficient. Doorbells may come with methods to angle them during installation so they face away from walls.
Second, you don’t have to put a video doorbell right by the door. It can go on a nearby wall or away from the entryway on an exterior wall. You will want to make sure they have some protection from the elements, though. Also, note that some siding is a lot harder to drill into than others (fiber cement. for example), and you’ll want to avoid any potential water damage.
Are video doorbells legal?
Privacy laws vary by state, but you don’t need to worry about using a video doorbell. By their nature, video doorbells are designed to view public entryway places and street sides where there’s no real expectation of privacy. They can’t really be repositioned to spy on neighbors or anything else illegal.
While many video doorbells do allow for two-way communication, they don’t actually record the audio, which is what can trigger privacy laws, so there’s no concern there, either.
Does my video doorbell record all the time?
No. That would be impractical for storage and would quickly wear out battery models. Video doorbells only record when their motion sensors are triggered, and many models have motion zones and other settings you can change so that only certain types of motion will trigger the video. Some models also have a background recording function that allows them to preview the first couple of seconds before the motion sensor is triggered.
How long does a battery on a video doorbell last?
That can depend on how often the doorbell is triggered by motion. In the best-case scenarios, we’ve found doorbells last around three to six months. But a doorbell on a busy street that gets triggered by cars or dog walkers will last far less, and a doorbell watching a long driveway that’s only occasionally used can last much longer.
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