A video doorbell shows you who's at your door and records footage of visitors while you're away or unable to answer. At PCMag, we've been reviewing video doorbells since the first models hit the market in 2013. The second-generation Arlo Video Doorbell is our top pick, offering sharp HD or 2K video, the versatility of battery or hardwired power, and compatibility with all the top smart home platforms. If it doesn't suit your needs, our list of the best video doorbells offers options from various brands to suit every budget. Be sure to visit our linked reviews for all the details of each model you're considering, and check out our buying guide at the end of this article for more information about what to look for when choosing a video doorbell.
Overview
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![Arlo Video Doorbell (2nd Generation)]()
Best OverallArlo Video Doorbell (2nd Generation)
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![Lockin Veno Pro Palm Vein Recognition Video Smart Lock]()
Best Video Doorbell and Smart Lock CombinationLockin Veno Pro Palm Vein Recognition Video Smart Lock
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![TP-Link Tapo D225 Video Doorbell Camera]()
Best for Local StorageTP-Link Tapo D225 Video Doorbell Camera
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![Eufy FamiLock S3 Max]()
Best Digital Peephole LockEufy FamiLock S3 Max
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![Eufy Video Doorbell E340]()
Best Package ProtectionEufy Video Doorbell E340
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![Nest Doorbell (Wired, 3rd Gen)]()
Best Gemini IntegrationNest Doorbell (Wired, 3rd Gen)
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![Ring Wired Doorbell Pro]()
Best Ring Doorbell OverallRing Wired Doorbell Pro
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![Ring Battery Doorbell Pro]()
Best Battery-Powered Ring DoorbellRing Battery Doorbell Pro
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![Blink Video Doorbell (2025)]()
Best Budget Doorbell for AlexaBlink Video Doorbell (2025)
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![Nest Doorbell (Battery)]()
Best Wire-Free Google DoorbellNest Doorbell (Battery)
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![Arlo Video Doorbell (2nd Generation)]()
Best OverallArlo Video Doorbell (2nd Generation)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The second-generation Arlo Video Doorbell offers clear HD or 2K video, depending on the model you choose, with a 180-degree diagonal field of view that provides a head-to-toe view of your doorstep, along with a 12x digital zoom. It offers the option of easy wireless installation, providing approximately four months of battery life between charges, or you can hardwire it using a standard 8-24 volt transformer. Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT, and Samsung SmartThings, it works with many third-party devices and supports voice control. Just note that you must subscribe to an Arlo Secure plan to view event-triggered recordings and access features such as smart motion alerts and interactive notifications.
Who It's For
Versatility seekers: Offering HD or 2K video, wireless or wired installation, robust third-party device support, and optional cloud storage for a small monthly fee, the second-gen Arlo Video Doorbell is supremely versatile, earning our top recommendation for most people.
Specs & Configurations
Alarm Connectivity Wi-Fi Field of View 180 Integrations Amazon Alexa Integrations Google Assistant Integrations IFTTT Night Vision Resolution 1,536 by 1,536 Storage Cloud Two-Way Audio Learn More Arlo Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) Review -
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![Lockin Veno Pro Palm Vein Recognition Video Smart Lock]()
Best Video Doorbell and Smart Lock CombinationLockin Veno Pro Palm Vein Recognition Video Smart Lock
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Lockin Veno Pro combines a capable smart lock with a 2K video doorbell and won us over thanks to its versatility. It supports the Matter and Thread protocols and works with Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, and SmartThings. The lock supports palm and fingerprint scanning technology, as well as voice and app control, keypad, and traditional key access. The doorbell offers intelligent alerts and free onboard video storage.
Who It's For
Uncompromising buyers: If you're looking for an all-in-one device that offers broad platform support, high-end build quality, and every key feature you could want from a smart lock and doorbell, the Lockin Veno Pro has you covered. It also features 32GB of internal storage and anti-tamper protection. You can assign single-use, temporary, and time-based passcodes, and the lock includes wrong-try protection (after a certain number of tries, it's disabled for a minute).
Solar-charging enthusiasts: The Veno Pro's lithium-ion battery pack provides up to three months of power before requiring a charge. To further extend your battery life, consider getting it bundled with a solar panel.
Specs & Configurations
App Mobile Connectivity Wi-Fi Guest Access Installation Exterior Escutcheon Installation Interior Escutcheon Integrations Amazon Alexa Integrations Apple HomeKit Integrations Google Assistant Integrations Samsung SmartThings Tamper Alarm Touchpad Voice Activation -
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![TP-Link Tapo D225 Video Doorbell Camera]()
Best for Local StorageTP-Link Tapo D225 Video Doorbell Camera
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The TP-Link Tapo D225 offers sharp 2K picture quality and flexible installation and storage options at a competitive price. Its 180-degree, head-to-toe lens captures clear, colorful footage, day or night. It supports both wired and wireless installation, with the latter providing eight months of battery life on a single charge. You can save footage on a microSD card or pay a small monthly fee for cloud storage. The Tapo D225 is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT, enabling seamless integration with a wide range of smart home setups.
Who It's For
Budget-conscious buyers: Thanks to its affordability, versatility, and local storage support, the Tapo D225 is the best video doorbell for budget shoppers. Despite its cost, the video doorbell offers 2K video and plenty of features, including support for most smart home platforms, except Apple HomeKit.
Specs & Configurations
Alarm Connectivity Wi-Fi Field of View 180 Integrations Amazon Alexa Integrations Google Assistant Integrations IFTTT Night Vision Resolution 2K Storage Cloud Storage Local Two-Way Audio -
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![Eufy FamiLock S3 Max]()
Best Digital Peephole LockEufy FamiLock S3 Max
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Eufy FamiLock S3 Max is a multifaceted smart lock that also serves as a 2K video doorbell. It's expensive, but it's loaded with features, including a battery backup system, internal video storage, intelligent motion alerts, and a neat interior display that acts like a digital peephole, letting you see what’s going on outside without opening the door.
Who It's For
Early adopters: If you're looking for a cutting-edge smart lock and doorbell in one, the Eufy FamiLock S3 Max is an excellent choice. It allows you to unlock your door using a palm scanner, a touch-screen keypad, a mobile app, voice control, and traditional keys. Its digital peephole feature is rare but extremely useful. Plus, support for Matter makes it fairly futureproof.
Specs & Configurations
App Mobile Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity Wi-Fi Guest Access Installation Exterior Escutcheon Installation Interior Escutcheon Integrations Amazon Alexa Integrations Apple HomeKit Integrations Google Assistant Tamper Alarm Touchpad Voice Activation Learn More Eufy FamiLock S3 Max Review -
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![Eufy Video Doorbell E340]()
Best Package ProtectionEufy Video Doorbell E340
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The wireless Eufy E340 doorbell is unique because of its dual-cam design: The top 2K camera shows you a full view of who is at your door, while the bottom 1080p camera points toward your doorstep to detect packages. Otherwise, the doorbell comes with free video storage and intelligent alerts, features that many competitors charge extra for. And it doesn't require a separate hub for connectivity.
Who It’s For
Online shoppers: If you get a lot of deliveries and want to keep porch pirates at bay, the Eufy E340 Video Doorbell can help. When it detects someone approaching your package, it sends you an alert and plays a message to let the person know they're being watched.
Cost-conscious buyers: Although it's not the cheapest video doorbell, thanks to its dual cameras, the inclusion of local storage and object detection means there's no need for a subscription, which helps justify the up-front cost.
Specs & Configurations
Alarm Connectivity Wi-Fi Field of View 160 Integrations Amazon Alexa Integrations Google Assistant Night Vision Resolution 2,048 by 1,536 Storage Local Two-Way Audio Learn More Eufy Video Doorbell E340 Review -
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![Nest Doorbell (Wired, 3rd Gen)]()
Best Gemini IntegrationNest Doorbell (Wired, 3rd Gen)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The newest wired Nest Doorbell offers sharp 2K resolution and a wide 166-degree field of view with AI features powered by Google's Gemini for Home. It can give you an AI-generated recap of all the activity at your door, and you can ask it to find any clips of specific people with a simple command. Just be aware that those advanced features require a $20 monthly subscription through Google Home Premium Advanced or Google AI Pro.
Who It's For
Gemini fans: If you already live and breathe Google's AI assistant, especially if you have Google AI Pro, the wired Nest Doorbell can easily integrate into your life.
Specs & Configurations
Alarm Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity Wi-Fi Field of View 166 Integrations Amazon Alexa Integrations Google Assistant Night Vision Resolution 2K Storage Cloud Two-Way Audio Learn More Nest Doorbell (Wired, 3rd Gen) Review -
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Credit: John R. Delaney
![Ring Wired Doorbell Pro]()
Best Ring Doorbell OverallRing Wired Doorbell Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro features the company's Retinal 4K video technology, delivering highly detailed video, offering up to 10x zoom, and recording better-than-average low-light color video. It also uses Ring IQ technology to provide AI-generated event descriptions, and works with Alexa voice commands and IFTTT applets. The main downside is that you have to pay for a subscription to access video recordings, an additional expense for an already expensive device.
Who It’s For
Ring users: This Ring doorbell is pricey at $249.99, and a subscription is required to unlock key features. However, it's still worth considering if you already use other devices from the company, especially if you want the sharpest resolution and the latest AI features.
Homes with doorbell wiring: The doorbell requires hardwiring, but it's a snap to install if your current doorbell is wired.
AI adopters: This doorbell's AI-powered alerts provide you with rich information about what's happening exactly on your doorstep. Moreover, its AI search can save you a lot of hassle if you're looking for specific recorded footage. For example, you can search for “mailman” or “cats” to quickly pull up recorded videos.
Specs & Configurations
Alarm Connectivity Wi-Fi Field of View 140 Integrations Amazon Alexa Integrations IFTTT Night Vision Resolution 4K Storage Cloud Two-Way Audio Learn More Ring Wired Doorbell Pro Review -
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Credit: Ring
![Ring Battery Doorbell Pro]()
Best Battery-Powered Ring DoorbellRing Battery Doorbell Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro offers the same 1536p resolution, 150-degree (horizontal and vertical) field of view, and advanced Bird's Eye View and 3D motion detection radar technologies as its wired counterpart, but in a slightly larger enclosure to accommodate its rechargeable battery. The Battery Doorbell Pro was fast and easy to install during our testing, and it worked flawlessly, offering sharp video with rich colors, fast and accurate alerts, and seamless integration with third-party devices.
Who It's For
Homes without doorbell wiring: Opt for this model if you want advanced Ring features, such as 3D motion detection and aerial view tracking, and you prefer not to deal with wiring.
Ring users: You'll need a subscription to get the most out of this doorbell, making it ideal for those who already own other Ring devices.
Specs & Configurations
Alarm Connectivity Wi-Fi Field of View 150 Integrations Amazon Alexa Integrations IFTTT Night Vision Resolution 1,536 by 1,536 Storage Cloud Two-Way Audio Learn More Ring Battery Doorbell Pro Review -
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![Blink Video Doorbell (2025)]()
Best Budget Doorbell for AlexaBlink Video Doorbell (2025)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Blink Video Doorbell (2025) replaces the Blink Video Doorbell + Sync Module 2 and is one of the more affordable models we’ve tested. For just under $30, you get quality 1,440-by-1,440-resolution video at 30 frames per second. It offers a 150-degree (horizontal and vertical) field of view with a 1:1 aspect ratio, as well as support for Alexa voice commands and routines.
Who It’s For
Alexa users looking to save money: Budget-conscious homeowners already in the Alexa ecosystem will struggle to find a more feature-packed video doorbell for the money, and because it's wireless, installation couldn't be easier. You need a subscription to access recorded video, but Blink has some of the lowest cloud storage fees around. If you use Apple HomeKit or Google Home, this isn't the doorbell for you.
Specs & Configurations
Connectivity Wi-Fi Field of View 150 Integrations Amazon Alexa Integrations IFTTT Night Vision Resolution 1440 by 1440 Storage Cloud Two-Way Audio Learn More Blink Video Doorbell (2025) Review -
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![Nest Doorbell (Battery)]()
Best Wire-Free Google DoorbellNest Doorbell (Battery)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Nest Doorbell delivered sharp HD video and accurate motion alerts in testing. It offers dual-band Wi-Fi, can distinguish between people, animals, and moving cars, and even alerts you to package deliveries. While the hardware is aging, it's gotten some new AI tricks recently through Google Gemini for Home, including daily summaries and the ability to search for any clips with specific people or actions. You have to subscribe to either Google Home Premium Advanced or Google AI Pro for $20 per month to get those extras, though.
Who It’s For
Flexibility seekers: If you can't decide between a wired and a wireless setup, the Nest Doorbell doesn't lock you into either.
Gemini users: The Nest Doorbell integrates seamlessly into homes that already rely on Gemini for automation and control.
Specs & Configurations
Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity Wi-Fi Field of View 145 Integrations Google Assistant Night Vision Resolution 960p Storage Cloud Two-Way Audio Learn More Nest Doorbell (Battery) Review -
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Best For | Best Overall | Best Video Doorbell and Smart Lock Combination | Best for Local Storage | Best Digital Peephole Lock | Best Package Protection | Best Gemini Integration | Best Ring Doorbell Overall | Best Battery-Powered Ring Doorbell | Best Budget Doorbell for Alexa | Best Wire-Free Google Doorbell | Best Overall | Best Video Doorbell and Smart Lock Combination | Best for Local Storage |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi |
Integrations | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT | Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, IFTTT | Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa, IFTTT | Amazon Alexa, IFTTT | Amazon Alexa, IFTTT | Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT | Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, IFTTT |
Field of View | 180 | 180 | 160 | 166 | 140 | 150 | 150 | 145 | 180 | 180 | |||
Resolution | 1,536 by 1,536 | 2K | 2,048 by 1,536 | 2K | 4K | 1,536 by 1,536 | 1440 by 1440 | 960p | 1,536 by 1,536 | 2K | |||
Storage | Cloud | Cloud, Local | Local | Cloud | Cloud | Cloud | Cloud | Cloud | Cloud | Cloud, Local | |||
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Buying Guide: The Best Video Doorbells for 2026
Wired vs. Wireless Video Doorbells
First, you need to decide if you want a wireless doorbell that runs on batteries or one that gets power from low-voltage wiring. Naturally, a wireless doorbell is the easiest type to install because it doesn't require turning off your home's power or messing with any wiring. The downside to wireless doorbells is that their batteries tend to deplete quickly, lasting anywhere from two to eight months. If you live in an area with cold weather, expect to recharge or replace your batteries every few months. With battery-powered models, you also risk your doorbell shutting down at an inopportune time.
Wired doorbells are not as easy to install as their wireless counterparts (the process still isn't difficult), but you don't have to worry about them losing power unless your whole house does. Because most homes already have doorbell wiring, installing a video doorbell is as easy as removing your old doorbell, disconnecting the two wires, connecting your new doorbell to the wires, and attaching it to the outside of your house. In most cases, you can also connect the doorbell to an existing chime box.
Wired doorbells draw power from two wires that connect to a transformer that steps down your household power to between 16 and 24 volts. If your home doesn't have doorbell wiring, you can still wire it yourself using a plug-in transformer or hire an electrician to perform the setup. Either way, the process requires some drilling to run wires from the inside of your home to an exterior location.
What Features Do the Best Video Doorbells Offer?
Video doorbells come in all shapes and sizes. The least expensive models tend to be bulky and available in only a few color choices. In contrast, many of the more expensive models are inconspicuous and available in a variety of finishes. Battery-powered models are typically larger than their wired counterparts.
Most smart doorbells are equipped with a video camera that sends an alert to your phone, along with a live video stream, when someone presses the doorbell button. You access those recordings via the same mobile app you use to install the device, configure wireless settings, and set up alerts. Doorbells with features such as 1080p video (or higher resolution), motion detection, two-way audio that allows you to speak with whoever is at the door, and on-demand video streaming tend to be the most expensive. To avoid false alerts from passing cars, high winds, and any critters that may roam your property, look for a doorbell cam with customizable motion zones.
Other capabilities to look for include face recognition technology that identifies visitors by name; motion-sensing technology that knows the difference between people, cars, and animals; color night vision video (most doorbell cameras use infrared LEDs to provide up to 30 feet of black-and-white video); and a choice of chimes that help you differentiate between a doorbell press and a motion trigger. Some of the latest doorbell cameras even feature a pre-buffering capability that records several seconds of activity before the triggering event or doorbell press.
Most video doorbells don't provide local storage for recordings, so you'll need to seek out one that does (we recommend a couple above) or be prepared to subscribe to a cloud service to view your motion- and doorbell-triggered video clips. Expect to pay $3 or more monthly for a plan that provides access to 30 or more days' worth of downloadable and shareable video content. If you want to view older footage, ensure you download those clips, as the cloud storage overwrites old files after a certain period.
Do Video Doorbells Work With Other Smart Home Devices?
Many home security systems provide video doorbells as add-on components, but these devices typically don't work independently and require a system hub. However, they usually interact with other system components such as door locks, sirens, and lighting. If you want a standalone smart doorbell that works with other smart devices in your home, look for one that supports IFTTT. This service enables you to easily create applets, allowing various third-party devices and platforms to interact.
Support for Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands is also handy. With these integrations, you can, for example, simply say, "Alexa, show the front door," to launch a live stream on your Echo Show.
For more, see our story on how to build your own home security system.
Are 2-in-1 Smart Lock/Video Doorbells Worth It?
Some high-end smart locks include video doorbells, but they tend to be more expensive than buying each device separately. Nonetheless, they offer convenience and mean one less smart device to install.
(Credit: Lockin)Because they're expensive, most combination devices include 2K cameras, so you're not compromising on video quality. However, you may prefer a standalone smart doorbell because it gives you more flexibility in terms of placement, which can make it easier to see visitors and provide a better view of your doorstep.
Video Doorbells vs. Smart Home Security Cameras
Video doorbells and home security cameras provide many of the same benefits. Both show you what is happening outside of your home, have motion detection and motion-triggered recordings, and, in most cases, let you speak to whoever is out there. That said, security cameras lack the doorbell component. If you're downstairs doing the laundry and your phone is upstairs, a security camera won't tell you that someone is at the door, but the doorbell will (when someone presses it).
Moreover, unless they are battery-operated, outdoor security cameras require a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet for power, which may limit potential mounting locations. Wired smart doorbells use existing low-voltage wiring and are relatively easy to install (they don't require a ladder, for instance).