Ding Dong! The 3 Best Doorbell Cameras Reviews
The new smart doorbell security cameras are taking the market by storm. Â This best doorbell camera creates the ability to view people coming up to your door, triggering notifications to any ios and Android smart device. Â They bring peace of mind to those who are nervous about answering the door without knowing who is there. Â These live video doorbells also serve as a great ‘peephole’ and now those at home don’t have to lift up the blinds to peek at who the visitors are.
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Make burglars think twice before stealing packages off the doorstep.
Image:Â Burglar being caught by doorbell cam
Pros and cons of having a Security Doorbell viewer at the front door:
Pros
- Crime deterrent
- CBS reports that they drop crime rates by 55% in neighborhoods where installed
- Easy to connect and stream on a mobile device
- Ring video doorbell captures and records live footage
- Add users in an app so any family member can access
- Able to set up ‘smart zones’ 10 to 40-foot perimeters of the doorbell camera
- Talk with people (or the mailman) at the doorstep directly from a smartphone app
- Free app control on each for iOS or Android
Cons
- The ones you buy outright (aside from a security company) still up-sell you a monthly fee for them to store video footage on their cloud storage.
- Depending on your technical skills; can be difficult to install
- Dependent upon steady WiFi connection
- App software can be buggy at times and sometimes miss users at your doorstep
For those looking to buy a new doorbell security camera here are the top 3 reviews:
#1 – FrontPoint Security HD Smart Doorbell
In July of 2017, Frontpoint updated their doorbell camera to the new ‘Slimline’ model shown above.Â
FrontPoint recently added a doorbell camera to their lineup in late 2016. Â They use a third party product, Skybell, and integrate it with their app so you get a full security system with your doorbell hd camera. Â This is a great all around wireless doorbell camera although slightly bulkier than other top picks. Â It looks less like a typical doorbell you would ring and more like a camera/tech product. It works when the motion detection is triggered or when someone presses the doorbell. Â We rate the appeal a 5 of 5 (previously 3.5 of 5 and ranked 2nd until new version hit) and functionality 4.5 of 5.
To add this to a Frontpoint security system users need to ask for it as they are not adding it to any promotions right now. Â They do give you a discount so it is $160 over the $180+ users would pay for it on the internet.
Specifics include:
- 1080p HD video camera
- Frontpoint security app integration
- Night vision
- Text alerts to answer or view history
- Add & manage users
- Made in the USA
The monthly cost is going to be around $50 which will include 24/7 monitoring of the security system and doorbell video camera. Â Frontpoint has done a great job at adding this to their lineup. Users who use the Skybell cam through Frontpoint gives them one app to control all home automation and security features. Â Better than logging in and out of several apps to see what is going on in the home.
Call Frontpoint at 855-861-8730
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#2 – Vivint HD Video doorbell + Home automation system
Vivint is the only security company (as of 2016) to create their own doorbell camera and not use a third party partner. Â It integrates with their app flawlessly. Â As soon as someone rings the doorbell, app users are notified and can swipe to answer and then talk to the person on the other end. Â When talking to the user, try to have wifi connection with a good wifi network or cell phone data will be burned quickly. It works similar to other models; Video recording starts when the motion sensor is triggered or someone rings the bell.
Part of a full automation security system.
You can get Vivint doorbell smart cam in their automation package.  Monitoring is going to be $59-79 a month but this is a full security system.  The sky panel is touch screen and also connected to the doorbell cam. The system lets you view in real-time high-definition video through the Vivint in-home control panel or the mobile app. To review the videos and images, you can check the company’s Space Monkey local Cloud service device.
This is the costliest option of all, but that comes with great quality. Â Vivint has close to 1 million home security users already with a 20-year history so glitches in their app have already been worked out. Â This company thrives on innovation so for users that want more than just a doorbell camera then this is your best long-term option.
For a Free Quote call 855-298-7671
#3 – Ring doorbell viewer
A ring is the most well-known, popular and considered one of the best doorbell cameras in the market today. They are the original inventors of this product and re-branded from their original name, ‘Doorbot’. Â It is not as slim as Vivint’s but much better looking than Frontpoints above.
They have a The Ring PRO version for $250 (free shipping) with a home security system add-on bundle.  There is also a $195 version which is hard to find the difference between the ‘PRO’ version.  Users download the Ring app and then sync to their wireless doorbell with a camera, add security passwords and users and then it is up and running.  Once the flat fee to purchase has been paid, Ring gives users a free 30 day trial of storing footage to the cloud.  Because it’s not connected to a DVR or any other kind of backup storage it is hard not to feel obligated to do this.  It is $5/mo, so affordable but users essentially can’t use the product for security unless that is paid.
How they work: Â
You can set up ‘zones’ on how far out the camera sees and records motions. Â For instance, you can set 5-25′ away. Try to get a wifi extender to connect to your wi-fi network to ensure that the signal is strong and all videos will be streamed in real-time without any issues. The farther away, the more pictures and recordings you will have. Â Every home is different, try to set it up so that your doorbell cam is not taking pictures of every passing car.
When the user rings the doorbell, your smartphone is notified and you can then view a live stream of who is there. The doorbell can be powered by rechargeable power battery or Hardwire Power Supply(8-24 VAC).
You can also ‘answer’ it and talk through your phone to them at the doorstep. Â This is a great feature if you are at work and need to take a package or talk to whoever is at the door.
Recordings and pictures are saved so if needed you can look up the history of who has been at the front of the home. Â We recently used this at Halloween (2016) to see the punk teenagers who walked up to the doorstep and smashed our pumpkins on the sidewalk!
(Image: Footage used by LAPD caught from a Security doorbell cam)
Final Thoughts on the Best Doorbell Camera Reviews
Smart door viewers are a great home automation product and if you plan on living at the location for 2+ years should be bought.  These do replace traditional doorbells and are not practical to move with you to the next home, although can be done.  Your ‘ding dong’ noise will stay the same when the doorbell button is pushed (as long as the doorbell wires are installed correctly. Our second choice Vivint will install it for you, with the other 2 products users are on their own.
As long as you don’t buy one that has negative reviews or no support then you are purchasing one that is a ‘best of’ contender. Â With the top 2 choices, users can integrate their doorbell camera system with their home security system. With option 3, it acts as a stand-alone device and users can pay for cloud backup storage through the Ring app.
Other things users should consider to keep crime away from the front of their homes are: Â keep it clean, have a security sign, use outdoor cameras around the home and put neighborhood watch stickers. Â Stay safe and let us know your thoughts and any experience with the new tech security gadgets.
- Experience 1080 HD day and infrared night video, motion detection, and two-way audio with Video Doorbell and Mini.
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- Set up yourself in minutes by following the in-app instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do people steal doorbells and their cameras?
Usually no. Most thieves give up if you have the camera installed properly, as it is screwed tightly to your wall, door, or whatever. However, in the rare instances where thieves to manage to steal such a camera, you’re in luck because you’ll have a clear recording of the thief in action. This way, you can call the police and make their jobs all that much easier.
Are doorbell cameras worth it?
Yes, they are. Some people might think that they’re worth it only if you live in a bad neighborhood. Far from it. Burglars and thieves have gotten new tactics up their sleeve and they now travel to richer areas as well because they know they have better chances of finding something worthy to steal instead of just getting regular cheap items.
Can burglars disable the Ring doorbell in theory?
If you have no other security device at home, and your Ring camera works via Wi-Fi only, then there are chances that a smart enough burglar might disable it. We recommend you take all the necessary precautions and speak to the manufacturer about backup security measures that you can take in this type of scenario. Though rare, it doesn’t mean that it can’t happen to you, so it’s better to be prepared than to be caught off-guard.
How do I block my neighbors security cameras?
If your neighbor has their camera pointed way too much at your house, then the simplest solution would be to ask them to redirect their camera’s angle. Otherwise, you can try placing object in front of the camera’s view towards your building. Or you can install a special film on your windows if you’re extra paranoid about neighbors spying on you. If all else fails, try installing a powerful light towards their camera.
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Growing up with Law and Order and CSI shows taught Isabelle Landau one thing: if people back then had high-quality home security systems, those series would have been way shorter. In our modern world, technology helps us keep burglars away easily, and this is what Izzy studies and writes about: alarm systems, home security, protection systems, and more.
Last update on 2023-05-14 at 03:33 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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Tashia Systron says
It’s really cool to learn about how crime as a nation is going down with all these added security cameras in place! This is a heated niche with newer versions coming out as quickly as we see with most other tech products. I’m not sure users will need to continually update their doorbell cameras but it’s smart to have one on top of a home security system. Protect your packages and your home, it’s a 2:1 deal. It’s also nice you don’t have to pay a hefty monitoring fee, everything is uploaded to cloud storage to locate quickly if needed.
Bency says
We recently installed a doorbell camera in our new property and it’s been a nice touch and provides us a sense of security. We do not use it as much since we live in a safe neighborhod…but we wanted to add value to our property so there is always that.
DT says
Please be aware, Ring doorbell picks up motion from street. Every time a car goes by, the motion is aoctivated….really annoying. I’ve been in touch with 3 different techs at Ring with no resolve. The range is reduced as low as it can be but still picks up heat from cars. The latest one is sending me a ‘wedge’ to point the doorbell down instead of at street. Hopefully this helps .as I’m on the verge of ripping it out and installing a camera in a different location
Bency says
Have you tried messing with sensitivity indicators? I know that my security system alerts me everytime there’s movement and with a dog around that is quote often. So what I have done is added the option to be notified less and this has helped drown out the daily notifications while I’m at work.
Alfie Chess says
The fact that Vivint is the first security company to make their own doorbell camera is enough to prove to you that they are the best around. Their features are amazing and connection to the app is always seamless. I’ve been using Vivint HD Video doorbell + Home automation system for 5years now and I have never had any regrets. I always recommend to friends and they’ve appreciated it.
Alarm Reviews says
There were other doorbell cameras before Vivint but yes they were the first formal home security company to make their own and connect it with the rest of their services. Hopefully they continue to update the Sky Panel as some people have reported issues with connecting 4+ cameras with it (doorbell included) but the good news is that they spend a fortune on innovating.
monica says
We like the ring product, but it is not friendly to the blind as you need to see the buttons on your phone to speak to someone. It would be nice if they would have an alternate user page for visually impaired with a single button for intercom usage.
Jules H. says
I have it and I love it… really useful when I’m doing laundry or something and I hear the doorbell. I always have my phone with me so I can quickly see who it is. With the kids friends, or a solicitor always knockin’, it’s a luxury to see if I need to high tail it to the door or if I can finish the task at hand.
Cameron Gates says
Seems like frontpoint has one of the best systems in terms of compatibility through all the devices. From the app to the doorbell camera unit itself. I am still on the market for one but I am leaning towards number 1 on this list. My main concern is that the company continues to update the app and functionality years to come, and just doesn’t do away updating the software…
Billy Newton says
I’m a fan of this new technology and I am in the process of flipping real estate. I bought a really torn up place in the bad part of DC. I imaging installing this would alieve some to be buyers of the home. I just need to figure out which model looks best, at first glace I do like the look of the Front Point doorbell camera. +1
Charlie Z. says
This would have been great during X-Mas! I had a bunch of packages delivered to my door and while I was work I was kind of worried they would be fine or still there once I got home. I will have to look into getting this soon, doorbell cameras may be the norm in the next few years as smart houses progress.
Larissa Knowles says
This camera helped my neice during Christmas time. They had a streak of robberies in the neighborhood and this picked up on somebody stealing their Amazon package. I think they sent it to the authorities but Amazon reimbursed her for the theft. You never know when you need an extra eye around. 😉
Claude Swim says
These things are awesome. I find myself checking it for fun not just security. Installation is pretty hassle free but like the author mentioned remember to turn off the breaker before messing with the doorbell wires! Brand wise I don’t have a recommendation because I feel like they are all so similar now (newer 2018 models).
James says
Hopefully over the years they work on the cam quality with these. Great product and I noticed that RING is now worth over $1 Billion which all stemmed from offering these products.
These are the new neighborhood watch program. And now you can see who takes your halloween candy bucket you leave out each year ha!
Cameron Jones says
The Vivint system is highly efficient because the company has invested so much money into research and development. I haven’t owned any other doorbell camera systems, but the Vivint one is easy enough to setup and get started. Really neat system they have.
Manny Guerrero says
I own the FrontPoint Security Doorbell system because my parents gifted it to me. I bought a house in NE DC, which is notorious for being a really shady or crime riddled area. People walk by my house and it sticks out, it’s kind of like a “HEY DON’T MESS WITH ME” sign. I feel safer because of it, but it still kind of stick out because nobody else on my street owns one. I feel safer though, and that’s all that matters.
Jaice Marshall says
Honestly I think every body in each neighborhood should have one of these just to crack down on crime. They are much easier to install then a security camera system and less costly.
The problem with that ‘idea’ is the ones who need it the most probably can’t afford it. (Highest crime is typically in rural areas). It would be great if the government could do some kind of subsidy to get these on more front door steps to prevent incidents.
Mac says
The biggest selling point for my family and I is the safety. I like the idea of getting to see everyone to steps on my door steps. Like another commenter mentioned, I also get a lot of packages shipped here and I’d be more at ease if I had a camera monitoring the front door while I’m at work or away from my house.
Gary E. says
I would buy one just because I have had a few packages gone missing over the few years when they were delivered and left on the front steps of my home. I generally buy online and they usually just send me another package, no problem, but I wanted to see what was going on. I feel safe in my home, just a little off due to the concern now whenever I buy something and it’s shipped to my home.
Joanna R. says
The only thing stopping me is how am I going to get this thing installed? I would have to hire someone or get one my friends to come over and install it. I wish it were not as complicated as it looks to get it up and running. Do you know the easiest one to get installed? Maybe I can try that one.
Alarm Reviews says
Vivint installs theirs for you. If doing it yourself it is pretty simple.
1 – Turn off the electricity to porch/padio on circuit board is.
2 – Remove screws and remove wires off back of current doorbell.
3 – Tighten wires around new video doorbell. (Pamphlets provided with pictures).
4 – Mount back on and done!
5 – Turn back on electricity. Download app and sync with product from smart device.
DT says
I installed both of my ring doorbells myself. Super easy
Joel Olsteen says
My in-laws have one installed in their property and they told me it’s great to get a notification when they aren’t home to see who is at their door. I am looking into getting one but for a good price. I have been scoping some out, but will probably settle for the vivint doorbell camera because it’s aesthetically pleasing! 🙂
Brian H. says
The Doorbell Camera is probably going to be installed in most homes in the next decade or two as technology advances and smart homes become the norm. Most of my neighbors find it quirky that I have one. I think it makes life easier, what’s not to love?
Kelly says
I found that statistic rather interesting. CBS reported that crime dropped 55% when installed in neighborhoods. That by itself, is a good reason why most HOA’s should recommend installing door bell cameras to neighborhood homes to deter any crime. Thanks for sharing!
Jessie Stills says
Remarkable. More people should go out and get this just for that statistic alone! Imagine if everyone owned one, then robbers would be less willing to consider breaking and entering into other people’s homes. Any method that is proven to deter any crime should be explored.
James D says
It’s pretty cool what these can do and I like that they are getting slimmer and better looking. The first few years of models look nothing like a standard doorbell and now they are getting hard to tell the difference.
I hope that night vision gets progressively better as I have noticed that is the worst part regardless of brand you choose. You’ll get pictures of them but it will be blurry and anyone could out fool these smart doorbells by wearing a mask, covering their face etc. Still a great deterrent and I think builders should start building them with the home rather then them being a add-on piece.
Michael Littlejohn says
Whatever you do, DO NOT buy one from a sales rep at Best Buy. Either do it yourself or go to the company directly as I wish I would have done above. Gross misinformation/deception from the point of sale at Best Buy relative to product and expressed customer needs. Less than desirable installation of your product, and disagreement between sales staff and technicians relative to needs/solutions for at least, appreciable performance from your camera system.
Expressed desire to monitor on my own with no contract and no outside monitoring. I was informed that monitoring was required for the first month to set up the system and thereafter, through the app, I’d be able to self monitor. After not being able to make cameras more responsive as there were significant delays in image capture, if the cameras captured anything at all, I had them removed…despite a non-refundable installation fee, and after being shown the carelessness of the installation with bare camera wires un-estically cascading my rear door.
Subsequently, I noticed I’d been billed for monitoring that I did not want, that was agreed prior, due to noted problems, that Vivint would provide two months free monitoring.
It MAY now be resolved, However, I surprisingly and regrettably learned that without paying the $40 per month monitoring fee, I’ll not be able to use the app from my phone or any mobile devise to a self monitored alarm I already owned a functioning ADT wall panel, a perfectly operating thermostat and a reliable doorbell.. Through the sales rep at Best Buy,, I was deceived resulting to UN- necessary replacement of these devices, replete with costs at NO added value.
Bill G. says
Michael, I used to work at Best Buy and your experience with gross misinformation/deception is anecdotal evidence. The customer service experience and knowledge the customer service representative would have really just depends on the person, store location, and staff training. I agree that buying online and doing your own research is best.
Beverly Jane says
This is the post I’ve been waiting for! I think it’s really beneficial, for me, to own a doorbell camera! I get A LOT of packages from shopping online shipped to our residence so having this would help get the would be robber’s face on camera if anything like that ever happened.
Mandy says
Thanks for all this information. I have been looking into the options of having better locks on my front and back doors. This sounds perfect. I will have to go with an option that does install as I have no knowledge on electronics or wires! Bookmarked and shared!
June Leo says
They work great over all. I would give them a go. I have been using one on my home for a little over 3 months and they are fantastic. They allow me to know what is going on in front of my house and behind my house at all times. We have a lot of kids in the area which is the main reason I got mine.
David Gerard Ralson says
I would love to have one on two doors on my home right now, not sure about the monthly fee but would be super nice to see what is going on right from my phone each time a stranger comes to the door.
Mark says
I hate to admit this but I found out about doorbell cameras from my neighbor when we went over to their place over dinner. Since then, I wanted to install a similar device in my home. I’ve been shopping around and found Vivint to have the specs I’m looking for, but it seems more people are recommending Ring door viewer. I’m not to keen on the monthly backup storage fee, but it’s really worth checking out.
Scot Z. says
just make sure your WiFi is up to the task. we have Ring and can NOT get video to play for crap. It says we have “ok” reception but never have videos when we need them. kinda pointless to watch nothing going on when it alerts us. very aggravating. we have Frontpoint for other parts of security and now, we are looking at getting their doorbell too….. IF we get it, hope it works better.
Eloise says
I’ve felt so much safer at home ever since getting one of these. The quality is very good when streaming the doorbell camera from my phone. I have no complaints, I didn’t realize there was companies that could connect it with my security system! I don’t believe ADT has this feature yet but those top two would be a good idea to switch too. It’s nice to have the footage available for access up to 60 days. Now I can see whether the person who door bell ditched was a punk teenager or something more.
Harry says
I thought the same thing! We have a lot of kids in the area and I have had everything from eggs to smashed pumpkins. I got mine installed last week and I love it. I have also been able to bust one of the local UPS driver throwing my package at the door! I reported him and have the proof of it. No more pulling one over on me!
Anna says
Well I have number 3 and I love it. It’s really worth every penny when it’s dark out, I’m by myself and someone knocks. Normally I would hide and not answer the door and be worried all night wondering who was there. Now I don’t have to worry about who’s there, because I can see them. I’m more comfortable now!
Greg says
I’m of one such persons that gets nervous when someone is at the door. I would never want to answer till I get to know whom the person is. I so much like the door viewer. It helps me a lot, I could easy view who is my door before I proceed to open or not. The Doorbell Camera is really great!
Mary says
Wow! I thought I’m alone on this. I hardly get to open my door not until I get to know whom the person is. I feel more secured. Doorbell cameras are really cool.