Doorbell cameras combine the simplicity of a conventional doorbell with modern security, making them a popular addition to many homes. These devices, which connect to your smartphone via an app, notify you when someone is at the door and provide a live stream of your doorstep as well as two-way conversation. Some models include smart capabilities like Alexa and Google Assistant voice control and the ability to lock the door remotely.
Spending money on a doorbell camera may seem pointless to some, but with our growing reliance on online shopping and the development of stealing “porch pirates,” it’s quickly becoming a need. Doorbell cameras not only serve as a deterrent, but they also provide evidence that you may provide to the appropriate authorities if necessary.
Doorbell cameras can be basic or loaded with the newest security and tech capabilities, and they come in a variety of costs and extras. Many of the best-rated doorbell cameras also include Wi-Fi, night vision, cloud video storage, and other features, in addition to the convenience of a push-button doorbell.
However, the appearance, functionality, installation process, video storage technique, and subscription requirements can all differ significantly from one model to the next, and there are dozens of options available depending on your specific requirements. With that in mind, here are our recommendations for the best doorbell cameras in 2021.
1. Best Doorbell Camera: Eufy Security 2K
Although Eufy doesn’t have the same brand recognition as Ring, it is a part of Anker, one of our favourite accessory brands. The Eufy Security 2K video doorbell is our pick for the best overall doorbell camera on the market today, as it offers a robust combination of capabilities at an entry-level price. The camera produces a crystal-clear 2K (2560 x 1920) image, free of the graininess and distortion that come with lower-quality cameras.
Many doorbell cameras have too sensitive motion detection, but the Eufy features a smart AI system with facial recognition that only warns you when a human, not a huge bird or stray dog, is literally at your door. Another feature of this doorbell is two-way audio, which allows you to react remotely if you’re around the back of the house or have slipped out for a few minutes.
If you’re at home, you can still check the camera via the app, but Eufy also offers a free wireless chime. You can choose a tune that fits your musical tastes or a festive Christmas-themed tune from the eight customizable rings. The camera has a strong plastic shell that is weatherproof, even in the rainiest of situations, to protect your investment. What’s the icing on the cake? There is no need to subscribe.
Simply make a one-time purchase, and the Eufy Security Wi-Fi Video Doorbell is yours to keep for the rest of your life. The only true drawback (for some) is that this version of the Eufy requires you to connect it to existing doorbell wires, so it’s best if you’re replacing an existing doorbell. If that’s the case, or if you don’t mind a little pre-wiring, this is a high-quality device at a terrific price. You do have another option if you don’t want to deal with wiring. This camera is also available in a battery-powered variant, which we discuss further below.
2. Best Wireless Doorbell Camera: Ring 3
The Ring was passed over by investors on “Shark Tank” in 2013, and they’ve been kicking themselves ever since. Ring became an interchangeable phrase with a high-quality doorbell camera after its introduction on the hit TV show, and for good reason. The Ring Video Doorbell 3 is the third edition of this product, and it combines all of the security must-haves with the extra features that technophiles seek.
The video quality is amazing, even if it isn’t the best on the market, with crystal-clear 1080p footage streamed immediately to your phone or optional Echo Show smart display. The doorbell has dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz or 5.0GHz), giving you more options for your home setup. Installation is very simple: the camera’s removable rechargeable battery eliminates the need for wiring, and all you have to do is install it in place to enjoy its benefits.
If you already have the necessary cabling, you can hardwire power to the Ring. Customizable zones are included in proprietary motion detection technology, which is a blessing if you live on a busy street. Smaller cameras are more likely to send out endless notifications when someone walks by on the street or visits a neighbour. You can focus exclusively on the delivery man, milkman, or anybody you’re expecting by using the Ring’s configurable motion zones.
For homeowners or renters who want greater security, Ring provides the Protect Plan ($3/device, $10/household). Subscribers may view, share, and store films in the cloud for up to 60 days with this subscription, and those who have a Ring Alarm system can benefit from 24/7 camera monitoring.
You can view the live feed and receive warnings without the Protect subscription, but footage is not automatically saved for later review. This diminishes the Ring’s utility, and most users would benefit from a subscription. The Ring Video Doorbell 3 is an outstanding piece of technology and an investment you won’t regret if you can stretch your budget to accommodate a tiny monthly subscription.
3. Best Doorbell Camera Without a Subscription: MECO
You’ve already paid for the camera, so why pay for a monthly subscription? You won’t have to, thanks to the MECO wireless doorbell camera. Many of the functions seen in more expensive devices, including those with subscriptions, are included in this doorbell camera. A sophisticated passive infrared sensor (PIR) detects a person at the entrance, and the video resolution is 1080p for better picture quality.
Two-way conversation is possible thanks to a built-in microphone and speaker. If you’re not at home, you can also record a voice message, which is a function present in few other cameras. Simply record three messages on the MECO app, choose one, and guests will always be aware of what is going on. If you don’t want to pay for cloud storage, you can save video to an SD card (a 32GB one is provided in the deal) to save even more money.
The disadvantage is that if someone gets to remove the doorbell and walk away with it, they will also have the stored video. MECO has included rechargeable batteries in the camera, and you’ll receive an alert on your phone when it’s time to charge it.
It may wake and sleep 1,000 times in total, or endure two to three months without recharging.
Simply unscrew the doorbell and connect it to a USB charger when the need comes; it’ll be ready to use in a few hours. While our top selection, the Eufy Security 2K, does not require a subscription, the initial purchase price is usually more. You’ll save money if you’re satisfied with the MECO’s specifications instead.
4. Best Affordable Doorbell Camera: Toucan Video Doorbell Camera
The Toucan video doorbell camera isn’t like other home security cameras in that it doesn’t come with a hefty price tag. This doorbell camera gives top-notch security choices at a super-low price, making it ideal for budget-conscious homeowners or tenants who don’t want to sacrifice on the frills. Whether you’re just being careful or live in an area where property crimes are common, the Toucan has a number of features to help you relax.
To help keep your family and valuables safe, instant notifications and live streams, a siren alarm, and emergency dialling are all included. Although the camera does not support a 5GHz Wi-Fi connection, you can utilise a 2.4GHz network to automatically transfer video to your phone via the Toucan app if you have one.
The rechargeable battery easily outlasts many of Toucan’s competitors, lasting up to six months. The basic service is free, and it allows a single user to utilise a single doorbell while also storing footage in the cloud for 24 hours. Pro plans start at $2.99 per month and include additional uses, devices, features, and cloud storage space.
5. Best Battery-Powered Doorbell Camera: Eufy Security 2K (Battery Model)
Don’t worry if you don’t have the technical know-how to set up a doorbell camera. The Eufy Security 2K Video Doorbell, a battery-powered variant of our top selection, has you covered. Recharging is done using a typical USB charger, and the battery life is up to 120 days. It’s not an issue if you move house or decide later that you’d rather have your camera hardwired: this model can also be connected to conventional doorbell wiring instead of using the internal battery.
Aside from that, it’s the same camera as our top selection, with all of the same good features. The same crystal-clear 2K (2560 x 1920) image, advanced AI system with facial recognition, two-way audio system, and free wireless chime are included. Similarly, the most tempting feature of the hardwired Eufy Security 2k model can be found here: the camera only requires a one-time payment, with no subsequent monthly membership payments.
The one drawback, which isn’t surprising, is that the battery-powered device is usually more expensive than the cable-only variant. Go for the cheaper model if you’re handy with a soldering iron, but otherwise, this is the greatest battery-powered doorbell camera you’ll find right now.
Instead of a wireless chime, there’s a version that comes with the company’s HomeBase gadget. This is a private “cloud” server that sits within your home and securely stores up to 16GB of saved video that you can view via the app. Of course, it also functions as a chime, so you can hear the doorbell ring!
6. Best Doorbell Camera for Apartments: Ring Peephole Cam
Ring’s impressive product lineup continues with the Ring Peephole Cam, a solution for city dwellers who don’t have access to a permanently fixed doorbell camera. This camera, in classic Ring fashion, comes with a slew of capabilities, including high-quality 1080p resolution and the ability to install it straight to your apartment door peephole.
The Peephole cam’s finest feature is how simple it is to set up. The camera may be installed in about five minutes without the use of any specialised equipment, wiring, or drilling. That’s faster than downloading the app and filling out the warranty information! You can, however, hard-wire it if you prefer.
This camera is battery-powered and comes with extra capabilities like knock/impact detection, as well as the option to pair it with voice-activated programmes like Alexa or Google Assistant. To get the most out of it, you’ll need a subscription, just like with other Ring devices. This is especially true if you want to store footage to the cloud to review later. Prices start at $3 per gadget once again.
