Smart Doorbells: Are They Worth It?

BY Jenica September 9, 2020

As it turns out, motion detectors and security alarm signs aren’t enough to keep your home and valuables safe these days. Luckily in today’s tech, there are many affordable smart doorbells to alert you when someone new is standing on your doorstep. 

Installing a smart doorbell is an easy way to secure your home, but there are still dozens of options to consider before taking the plunge in buying one. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Video Quality

If you’re looking for some crystal-clear video and not a picture that looks like it’s been filmed on a potato, it’s probably a smart idea to research the video and night vision quality some brands may offer. Many brands offer 1080p resolution which could help you decipher which neighborhood hooligan is shopping for packages from your front porch.

Storage Fees

Your doorbell needs to store data somewhere, and each smart doorbell feature will cost a different amount. These fees will range from $30/year to $30/month. That’s quite a large price jump! Research the storage fee amounts before you commit to any brand. Most devices will also have the capabilities of holding a micro SD card slot to store content locally as well.

Field of View

Do you have a wide front yard that is an ideal victim for teenage toilet paper crimes? Or maybe you keep noticing a speeding car down your street causing a safety concern for young children. Some doorbells have a wide field of view to help you see up to a 180-degree radius for more surveillance. 

Wired or Wireless Installation

Some doorbells come with wireless installation for easy-setup, and some need to be hardwired into your home. If you’re handy with this kind of stuff, either will probably suffice, but a hardwired install may be daunting for some.

App Integration

Last but not least, app integration is going to be how you react with your new doorbell device. Some work with Alexa and Google seamlessly while others have their own system created. Do you want a little ping on your phone every time someone approaches you at the door? Do you want to be able to share video with other neighbors in your area? Some smart doorbell apps can do that! 

Regardless of your budget, there’s something for everyone to help make your home more secure. Your ease of mind, however, is priceless.