Is a Video Doorbell Worth It?
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Video doorbells have become a popular home security tool, often serving as the only security device in a home. The devices can help verify package delivery and provide evidence in an emergency, and their sole presence on a door may even deter theft.
However, video doorbells can be vulnerable to hacks and security breaches, battery and internet failures, and even theft of the doorbells themselves.
Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
Better monitoring for package delivery and visitors. | May be vulnerable to hacks or security breaches. |
Monitoring at night with night vision. | Not effective if the Wi-Fi is down or the battery dies. |
Presence may deter theft. | Can produce false alerts. |
Video doorbells can make a big difference in convenience and peace of mind, especially if you want to identify visitors remotely and keep an eye on your front door day and night.
How much does a video doorbell cost?
The top video doorbells range in price from around $60 to about $230. Wired and battery models are priced similarly from providers like Nest and Ring.
Several video doorbell providers offer discounted bundles with a doorbell and additional items, such as an indoor or outdoor camera. For example, an indoor camera and a video doorbell from Ring cost $20 less when combined as a bundle.
Factors to consider
1. Advanced door monitoring
Video doorbells enable you to keep a closer eye on your front door, with the ability to speak to visitors and check on packages from your phone. Smart doorbells also have night vision, which can help you keep an eye on your entryway at all times.
Depending on your monthly plan, you can access advanced features such as video recordings and familiar face detection. Some doorbells even provide answering-machine-like responses to greet visitors when you’re not available.
2. Theft deterrent
Having home security equipment visible outside your home may deter intruders from attempting a break-in. A video doorbell is a clear way to display that you have smart-home protection.
However, keep in mind that video doorbells can be stolen and have reportedly been targeted for theft. Some security providers offer anti-theft mounts; screwing in your doorbell instead of mounting it with adhesive can also make it harder to remove.
2. Privacy concerns
Video doorbells can be vulnerable to hackers, especially those from nonreputable brands. Several budget-priced video doorbells sold on Amazon were discovered to lack the encryption needed to protect a home’s IP address and data from strangers, according to ConsumerReports.org. Make sure the doorbell you choose is well-reviewed and has information about its security measures available.
Also, some video doorbells may expose your data to law enforcement. In 2022, Amazon admitted to providing police with Ring doorbell footage in “emergencies” without consent from the user. In January 2024, Ring removed that feature, no longer allowing police to request footage.
3. Wi-Fi and battery requirements
Video doorbells require a Wi-Fi connection to store video and send alerts. If your Wi-Fi goes down, the doorbell won’t be functional — and if you replaced a traditional doorbell with one, you won’t have a working doorbell at all.
Battery-powered doorbells only work while the battery does. According to Ring, their doorbells last about six to twelve months before needing to be recharged, or “1,000 activations” (the number of times the device is turned on). The battery can drain more quickly if you have a poor Wi-Fi connection or are recording lots of motion events.
Hard-wired doorbells avoid this issue, but they can require professional installation.
4. False alerts
False alerts are a common complaint with video doorbells. Because they’re typically facing the street, they can pick up on a lot of motion, including cars, pets, insects and even tree movement.
Most video doorbells allow you to adjust the sensitivity settings to alert for people or packages only, though that feature may require a monthly fee.
You can also adjust the frequency of alerts, having the doorbell scan for motion less often, which also can extend the device’s battery life.
