Video Doorbells

A Video Doorbell is like a traditional doorbell with an additional Video Camera, Microphone, Speaker and Wi-Fi connectivity built in that allows it to function like a video intercom. The inclusion of Wi-Fi connectivity allows a Video Doorbell to function as a smart device connecting to other smart devices at home via a home Wi-Fi network.

When the doorbell button is pressed or movement is detected near the door, a Video Doorbell then sends a notification to a Smart Phone or other paired devices to show live video from the front door or porch.

In addition to showing who or what is at or what is happening near the door, a built-in microphone and speaker allows a two way conversation with anyone at the door, even if not at home. The video feed can be accessed remotely from anywhere providing the login details and a stable internet connection. Smart Doorbells can give voice alerts using a Smart Speaker.

Most Video Doorbells do not record continuously, only short clips when the doorbell is activated by a press or detected movement. This helps extend battery life on rechargeable models and saves on storage space which can fill up very quickly if video is being 24/7 recorded. These features ensure the capture of the most important events through the day.

There are some more expensive Video Doorbells that are capable of constant recording continuously. This can be great for never missing anything as video recording triggered by motion sensors is not perfect. These models require cloud storage to store lots of large video files produced as part of a 24-hour continuous feed, and this cloud storage will come at a additional monthly subscription cost.

Some Video Doorbells can automatically record continuous footage for a certain period in case of a power outage or the Wi-Fi network cutting out.
 

Most Video Doorbells record short videos when their button is pressed or movement is detected nearby. These events trigger an alert sent to a phone or other device, prompting to view the feed. When this happens a short clip is saved and stored for later viewing.

Most Video Doorbells store video remotely using online cloud storage. This allows lot of larger files to be stored and viewed anytime although ongoing access usually requires a monthly subscription service. Some models offer a certain amount of free storage with larger capacities coming at a premium price.

Some Video Doorbells can save video locally without the need for a subscription service. Video can be stored locally on the device or a microSD card for example. To make sure alerts and Computer Storage are used efficiently some models utilize artificial intelligence to differentiate between animals, people, packages and wind blowing.
 

When shopping for a new Video Doorbell consider the angle of view for the camera lens to determine how wide a view it will have from the door. These can vary from 100 to 180 degrees which is enough to see people at the front door who stand off to the side.

Because Smart Doorbells are designed for communication, also consider clear audio and video quality. Alerts should be instant to respond quickly and consider the privacy of neighbours, as parts of their property may come into view on the video feed.

Unlike Security Cameras, Video Doorbells are typically not designed to record at all times and instead only record short clips when the doorbell is rung or unexpected movement is detected. Make sure to set up a Video Doorbell so as not to detect movement in any neighbour’s property. Some Smart Doorbells allow setting up activity zones to focus on when detecting certain movement or velocity like top picks from brands like Ring, eufy and Arlo.