I've tested the latest video doorbell cameras like Ring, Arlo, Nest and more. Here are the top models I recommend.
Does the video doorbell work with popular smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Home/Siri? Does it integrate with any current home security system hubs, apps or panels? video intercom for home wifi
How well does a doorbell brand encrypt and protect videos uploaded to the cloud? Would you prefer a video doorbell that relies on local storage instead? Has the company had any recent data breaches?
Does the doorbell offer free video storage? What are the fees and subscriptions to get video storage? Can you add local video storage with a microSD card or security hub? If so, how much are you willing to spend the purchase?
Can the doorbell detect common objects like vehicles, pets, humans and packages? Does it charge extra for this capability?
Do you want a doorbell connected to wiring and even the chime at your old doorbell location? Or do you prefer to place the doorbell wherever you want with a battery that needs occasional recharging?
How long does it take the doorbell to alert you about approaching people or packages? Is there a delay?
How is the live view resolution? Does the camera include night vision? Is the image and contrast clear?
Is the two-way audio clear? Are there any problems with fuzzy audio or hard-to-understand speech?
Google's Nest Doorbells are effective, easy to install and don't nickel-and-dime you like some doorbells do.
Video doorbells aren't just a convenient eye on your front door, they are quickly becoming an essential product for any home or apartment. When I first installed a permanent video doorbell at my home, it was primarily to stop porch pirates.
But the more I tested newer video doorbells, the more I realized how much they can do. From holding conversations to recognizing family members or sending package alerts, these all-in-one security devices can be used in all kinds of everyday ways.
But I also understand with all the video doorbells out there, it's hard to pick just one. After testing with brands including Arlo, Nest, Ring, Blink, Eufy, Lorex and more, I'm ready to make a few top recommendations based on what you're looking for.
My final pick for the best doorbell camera is the Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd gen) . In addition to a higher resolution than most doorbells, Arlo has equipped its model with a broad field of view, excellent two-way audio and great compatibility options (plus it works well with the company's DIY security system).
But Arlo is far from My only favorite. Google’s Nest model (which I'm currently using) has excellent object detection and great free features, and Blink has an especially affordable doorbell. My list includes options for everyone, plus useful tips on how to install video doorbells, why certain features are more important than others and answers to other frequently asked questions.
As mentioned above, I like the Arlo Video Doorbell for its reliable array of features including the wide view, night vision and built-in siren. It's also easy to install, performs well and I found the Arlo app to be both comprehensive and user-friendly.
Arlo's doorbell also includes handy extras like a built-in siren, two-way audio and customizable motion detection zones. That 2K resolution is higher than you can find on many video doorbells (although it's becoming more common). Oh, and if you have an Arlo security system, you can use the newest Arlo fob at the doorbell to automatically disarm it, a neat bit of unique functionality.
The Arlo doorbell does require cloud storage fees for important video storage and viewing. Fortunately, they start at $3 per month for a single camera and $10 for up to five cameras, lower than many security subscriptions. However, if you aren't interested in monthly fees you may want to check out my other picks below.
The second-gen Google Nest Doorbell (battery) and its wired counterpart are breeze to set up, whether you've got doorbell wiring or not. Along with live video feeds, two-way audio and alert notifications, the Nest Doorbell 2nd gen includes event recording for up to 3 hours without a subscription, making it a great choice if you want a lot of smarts without extra fees.
Nest's package, person and vehicle recognition capabilities are especially accurate. That, along with the Google Home functionality, is why I keep this doorbell by my door no matter what other models I'm currently testing. But the doorbell works with Alexa too, as well as ADT's Trusted Neighbor permissions which use Nest's familiar face technology (available with subscription only).
A note about Matter: Since Google is one of the foremost proponents of the smart home Matter protocol, you may be wondering if its video doorbell has this all-purpose standard. The answer is complicated. Matter is available for many Nest products, but video support is slow to roll out, and devices aren't taking advantage of it yet. That means there’s not a lot for Matter to do on video doorbells.
A view through Nest Doorbell via the Google Home app (blurred for privacy).
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro, with its $253 price tag, isn't the best value on the market but I found its unique features promising if you don't mind paying more -- especially if you have a large front yard to watch.
The Pro has a super wide field of view, a 1:1 aspect ratio, 1536p resolution and all the basics you'd want your smart buzzer to have. The doorbell also includes more unique Ring technology like radar sensing and the Bird's Eye View mode -- which lets you track the movement of an interloper around your yard, to give a clear sense of their route and general activity. The doorbell also includes Alexa Greetings and prerecorded messages you can use to answer people via the voice assistant.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro offers end-to-end video encryption, but to use the video recording feature in the cloud, you'll need a Ring Protect plan, which starts at $5 per month and lets you keep video for up to 180 days, plus enabling personal alerts, alarm notifications, away modes and other features. With no easy local storage options, I consider a Protect plan more or less necessary to get full use of this doorbell.
digital peephole camera wifi door viewer Finally, note that Ring has recently updated its security policies to limit the ability for police to request footage, fixing a privacy loophole that had previously made some users nervous.