A smart doorbell camera lets you see who’s on the other side of the door even when you’re not home, eliminating guests who don’t show up with Girl Scout cookies.
We recommend the Google Nest Doorbell (wired). That’s because it has fewer false alarms than any video doorbell we’ve tested, accurately distinguishes between people, animals, cars, and packages, and includes the option to record 24/7.
If you don’t have existing doorbell wiring, the Eufy Security Video Doorbell S220 (battery powered) is an easy-to-use option with great images and a battery that lasts about 4 months on a full charge.
wired smart doorbell camera
our picks
This doorbell sends quick alerts, captures clear audio and video, and offers free and paid subscription levels that include the option of 24/7 recording.
Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Google Home
The 2nd generation Google Nest Doorbell (wired) was the best performing video doorbell in our latest tests. This was most accurate when identifying types of movement (people, animals, vehicles, cargo) and when using activity zones to limit alerts to monitor specific areas. You’ll need to learn more about your audience, but you can also identify specific people by name (if you have a Nest Aware subscription). We also found it to be very quick with notifications to your smartphone and the ability to view the progress of your activity live without any delay. Nest is also the only option that offers free cloud storage (but with a 3-hour limit). If you want to record and store motion clips from an unlimited number of devices for up to 30 days and take advantage of the facial recognition features mentioned above, the Nest Aware plan costs $8 per month or $80 per year. For a price increase of $15 per month (or $150 per year), you get up to 60 days of motion event storage, or 10 days of 24/7 recording.
runner-up
Square aspect ratio provides a wide 180 degree field of view and reduces blind spots on your balcony. It can also identify people, animals, luggage, and cars.
Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit (with compatible base stations such as Arlo SmartHub), Google Home, IFTTT, Samsung SmartThings
The Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell can distinguish between people, animals, vehicles, and packages, but it wasn’t as accurate or quick to respond as the Nest. Advanced sensing and the ability to capture video clips up to 5 minutes long require an $8/month Arlo Secure subscription. However, we think these features are essential and the price is fair (otherwise you are limited to motion/bell alerts and live video streaming). The Arlo doorbell camera also captures clear video with 1536×1536 resolution in square format and a wide 180-degree viewing angle. This gives you a comprehensive vertical and horizontal view of what’s happening on your doorstep, including deliveries and raccoon visits.
budget selection
This compact model offers consistent performance, is cheap and easy to install, but lacks some of the more advanced features of our top picks.
Compatible with: Amazon Alexa works with Ring
The Ring Video Doorbell Wired is the solid sub-$75 smart doorbell camera we’ve been waiting for. It’s smaller (and cheaper) than most Ring doorbells, captures clear 1080p video, and accurately alerts you to movement and people. However, it doesn’t offer as detailed alerts as the top two choices, and the only smart home platform it supports is Amazon Alexa. And while it’s inexpensive, you’ll need the Ring Protect Basic plan, which starts at $4 per month or $40 per year, to record motion events.
battery powered smart doorbell camera
our picks
This battery-powered model lasts up to four months with normal use, produces crisp 2K images, and has cloud and local storage options.
Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Google Home
Eufy Security Video Doorbell S220 (Battery Powered) combines solid performance with a powerful battery that lasts about 4 months. Choose Eufy’s cloud service for free storage of up to 6 months of footage on an indoor base station or 30 days of video history for $3 per month per camera (or $30 per year per camera) You can also. Like many battery-powered models, recording time is limited (in this case he is a 60-second clip) and there may be short gaps between recordings if movement continues. However, the S220’s crisp 2K images and strong battery life make it the best smart doorbell for those who want wireless.
