Best Video Doorbells
When I use a video doorbell I feel like I’m caught in an episode of the Jetson’s. Each time I press the button of buddy’s video doorbell I half expect Jane Jetson to answer it. The video doorbell is an exciting next step in home security and not just because I think Jane Jetson is hot! The ability to answer your doorbell, see who is at your doorstep and monitor your property all from your phone is pretty cool stuff.
BUT! There are gaps or problems with each of the video doorbells that we have reviewed. Don’t get me wrong, they all have good qualities and are superior products. If you can live with the shortcomings then by all means go for it!
Ring Video Doorbell
Rating:
Price at Time of Rating: $200
- Very easy to install! The Ring comes with everything you need to install. Down to different options of the drill bit.
- The accompanying APP is powerful and intuitive.
- Allows you to talk to the person at your door step from virtually anywhere in the world.
- Motion detector contacts you if there is activity on your property. Ring has the ability to customize monitoring zones and adjust sensitivity of activation.
- Video and audio is crisp and clear even at night!
- You can add “Stick-up Cams” to monitor areas other than the front of the house.
- There have been reports of a delay from the doorbell or motion detector to your cell phone. The delays have been anywhere from 5 seconds to 30 seconds.
- Doesn’t currently have on-demand video function. They are promising it for the future.
Rating by Jim on July 19, 2016
SkyBell HD Wi-Fi Video Doorbell
Rating:
Price at Time of Rating: $200
- Has on-demand video recording.
- The video resolution is not as sharp as the competition.
- The motion detector is good but it can not be adjusted.
- The SkyBell Video Doorbell has to be hardwired into existing doorbell there is not a wireless option.
Rating by Jim on July 19, 2016
August Doorbell Cam
Rating:
Price at Time of Rating: $199
- Integrates with August Smart Lock which gives you the ability to answer the door and unlock it via your smartphone.
- The August Doorbell Cam must be hardwired.
- Does not include motion detector. This is a big hole compared to the competition.
- If motion detection is not an important feature to you then the August Doorbell Cam and August Smart Lock combo is an excellent option.
Rating by Jim on July 19, 2016
DoorBird WiFi Door Station
Rating:
Price at Time of Rating: $350
- Very clear audio to those at the door.
- The DoorBird can only be hard wired, no wireless option.
- The unit is rather bulky and hard to install.
- The motion detector is very sensitive and cannot be adjusted.
- Has an alarm feature to scare potential burglars.
- The DoorBird is almost twice as expensive as competitors.
Rating by Jim on July 19, 2016