Best video doorbell 2024: Jump Menu
1. The list in brief ↴
2. Best overall: eufy Smart Wi-Fi Dual Cam
3. Best Google: Nest Doorbell Battery
4. Best Ring: Ring Video Doorbell 4
5. Best on a budget (wireless): Toucan Wireless Doorbell
6. Best for 2K: Arlo Essential Video Doorbell
7. Best on a budget (wired): Ring Video Doorbell Wired
8. Buying advice
9. How we test
The best video doorbells can turn our front doors into just the first aspect of our smart homes, either working alone to make fielding couriers and visitors easier or integrating with smart speakers, security cameras, and more to form part of a completely automated home.
Whatever side you fall on, video doorbells are an excellent investment for those who often find themselves too busy or out of the house when important callers arrive on the doorstep. Ever been enjoying a relaxing bath when the doorbell rings, only to find that it was that important delivery you had been waiting two weeks for? With a smart doorbell, you can speak with whoever it is over your smartphone without abandoning whatever you happen to be doing at the moment.
Many also work seamlessly with Alexa, Google Home, and more, so you can bring up the live feed on your smart display or make your speaker double as a chime. Below we have ranked our favorite video doorbells available right now and, if you're a renter or just not very handy, take a look at our guide to the best wireless doorbells.
The quick list
The eufy Video Doorbell Dual has two cameras, 2-way communication, and works with Google Assistant and Alexa. It has no hidden costs, captures a large area, and can differentiate between people, packages, and animals.
The Google Nest Doorbell Battery has a modern design, works seamlessly with smart home devices, and includes quick responses and package detection. Its 3:4 aspect ratio provides a longer view, and it has privacy features in the app.
The Ring Video Doorbell 4 has a $20 color pre-roll feature, a consistent design, and a hassle-free setup. Its app allows for two-way communication with quick responses.
The Toucan Video Doorbell has a built-in siren and emergency calling, works with Alexa and Google Assistant, and has a 180-degree view. The wireless chime alerts you with six sounds, and the app offers remote access with two-way audio and Pro Plan options.
The Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free requires a monthly subscription fee but has a built-in siren, customizable motion detection, and 1080p HD video. It has a modern design and clear video with refined talkback features.
The Ring Video Doorbell Wired offers affordability, ease of use, and attractive design. However, limitations in set-up and lack of a chime may not suit everyone.
The best video doorbells we recommend in 2024
Livingetc knows design. We spend hours testing and comparing the latest products, bringing only our edit of the very best to you. Find out more about how we review.
The best video doorbell overall
Buy it if
✅ You don't like hidden features: it doesn't require a subscription to access footage, unlike other smart doorbells.
✅ Viewing angles are important: two cameras provide an extensive view of the area, making monitoring activity around the front door easier.
✅ You're thinking about wider security: with the Homebase, you can easily expand your system with additional eufy cameras and devices.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want a removable battery: The battery on the eufy Dual isn't removable, which can be inconvenient if you need to replace it.
❌ You want color options: if you're looking for a specific color, this might not be the right option for you.
❌ You need facial recognition: it can differentiate between people, packages, and animals, but it doesn't have facial recognition technology.
The bottom line
🔎 Eufy Video Doorbell Dual is easy to use and has no hidden features behind a paywall. The viewing angles are amazing, and you'll never miss anything happening outside your door. The footage is accessible without a subscription, and we were impressed with how much more it can show compared to other smart doorbells. ★★★★★
The eufy Video Doorbell Dual surpassed our expectations - it's easy to use and has no hidden features behind a paywall, which is a relief. The viewing angles are amazing, and we never miss anything happening outside my door. The footage is also accessible without a subscription, and we were impressed with how much more it can show compared to other smart doorbells. The dual cameras work well with the app's smart user interface, making it easy to see everything. With the Homebase, you can easily expand your system with additional eufy cameras and devices.
Set-up: The doorbell comes with a comprehensive package that includes everything you need for installation. The box includes two mounting brackets, US and UK plugs, wiring extensions, screws, security stickers, an ethernet cable, and the Homebase. The mount makes removing the device for recharging easier, which is helpful since the battery is not removable.
Design: The eufy Dual is a sleek, stylish device with two cameras and a long-lasting battery. Its black body is similar to other eufy models, but the rose gold rings around the camera lenses improve its appearance significantly. When motion is detected, the doorbell's button illuminates blue, notifying visitors that they are being watched and recorded. The eufy Homebase is simple, with a white body and a small blue light on the front to signal that it's working.
Performance: The doorbell features two cameras providing a broad view of the area, making monitoring activity around the front door easier. The doorbell can differentiate between people, packages, and animals, sending you a custom alert each time, and the footage is recorded and stored on the eufy Homebase, which means there are no charges for cloud storage.
You can use 2-way communication to speak with the person outside or set off a quick response such as 'Just leave it there' or 'We'll be right with you.' The doorbell also includes customization options for alerts in home and away modes and automation if you have other eufy devices around the home. The eufy Video Doorbell Dual is compatible with both Alexa and Google Assistant speakers or displays, and Chromecast can be used to get a live feed of your front porch.
Read our full eufy Video Doorbell Dual review
| Attribute | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Set-up | Tools included; no removeable battery | ★★★★½ |
| Design | Sleek and stylish; additional Homebase | ★★★★½ |
| Features | Two cameras; local storage, works with Google and Alexa | ★★★★★ |
The best video doorbell for Google smart homes
Buy it if
✅ You need easy setup: setting up the doorbell is a breeze, and if you already have a Google Home account, it's even quicker.
✅ You care about appearance: unlike other bulky doorbell brands, the Nest Doorbell Battery boasts a luxurious plastic sheen and comes in Ash, Ivy, Linen, or Snow colors.
✅ You want smart features: you get intelligent detection features, including package detection, animal and vehicle recognition, and familiar face recognition, with a Nest Aware subscription.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want an expansive aspect ratio: footage is 3:4, which is ideal for fielding couriers and receiving packages, but it might not be suitable for everyone.
❌ You don't want to pay for extras: familiar face recognition feature is only available with a Nest Aware subscription.
❌ You don't use Google Assistant: it can't be denied that those with other Google smart devices at home will benefit the most from a Nest doorbell.
The bottom line
🔎 Nest Video Doorbell Battery is a great addition to any smart home with its wireless design and seamless integration with other smart devices. Setting it up is easy, and the design with four color options is a plus. The 3:4 aspect ratio of the footage fills our phone screen, and the integration with Google Assistant works flawlessly. The intelligent detection features and long battery life are also impressive. ★★★★½
With its wireless design and plethora of features, the Nest Video Doorbell is a great addition to any smart home setup. The setup process was a breeze, and we could integrate it seamlessly with our other smart devices, including security cameras and smart speakers. Overall, we highly recommend the Google Nest Doorbell Battery as a worthy update to the original Nest Hello.
Set-up: Setting up the doorbell is easy and takes only a few minutes, and if you already have a Google Home account, it's even quicker. You just need to power the doorbell with the cable provided, download the app, and scan the QR code on the guide. The package includes everything you need, from wall screws and anchors to wire connectors and a release tool. The 20-degree wedge is optional but handy for odd-shaped door areas.
Design: Unlike other bulky doorbell brands, the model boasts a luxurious plastic sheen and comes in Ash, Ivy, Linen, or Snow colors. The 3:4 aspect ratio of the footage is unconventional, but we appreciate how the live view fills our entire phone screen in portrait. This lets us see the full picture and check on our eagerly-awaited package.
Performance: The integration with Google Assistant is seamless, and you can set up your assistant to announce visitors, which is particularly useful if you're not always close to the front door or don't always have your phone with you. You can also pre-set messages to tell your caller you're on your way. The Nest Doorbell Battery has intelligent detection features, including package detection, animal and vehicle recognition, and familiar face recognition with a Nest Aware subscription.
The aspect ratio of the footage is 3:4, which is ideal for fielding couriers and receiving packages, and there's a 6x zoom to get a closer look at anything interesting. The battery life is impressive, and you can turn on the Automatic Battery Saver function to reduce recordings if the battery has less than seven days of juice.
Read our full Nest Doorbell Battery review
| Attribute | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Set-up | Works well with Google Home; tools included | ★★★★½ |
| Design | Great design; color options, portrait view on app | ★★★★½ |
| Features | Intelligent detection; face recognition; zoom | ★★★★½ |
The best Ring video doorbell
Buy it if
✅ You want pre-roll: pre-roll video captures what happened before an event, providing a more comprehensive view of any incidents.
✅ You want Alexa integration: integration with Alexa is also useful for those who own an Amazon Echo smart display or speaker.
✅ You want an easy setup: the package includes everything you need for a hassle-free installation, including an angular mounting bracket, screwdriver, and wiring.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You already have a Ring doorbell: if you already own the Ring Video Doorbell 3, upgrading to the Ring Video Doorbell 4 may not be worth the extra cost.
❌ You don't like the Ring design: the Ring Video Doorbell 4 looks similar to its predecessors, with the same boxy shape
❌ You don't use Alexa: much like Google with Nest products, those with Alexa at home will benefit the most from a Ring 4.
The bottom line
🔎 Ring Video Doorbell 4 is a worthwhile investment, especially with the pre-roll feature. The app is user-friendly, and Alexa integration is convenient. The setup is straightforward, with all necessary components included. The design is consistent with past models, and performance is satisfactory, with clear footage and adjustable motion detection. ★★★★½
The Ring Video Doorbell 4 is an impressive device, with the new pre-roll feature adding valuable security and convenience. The app is smooth and pleasant to use, and integration with Alexa is useful for those who own an Amazon Echo smart display or speaker. However, though it doesn't offer many fresh features compared to the Ring Video Doorbell 3, the pre-roll feature may be worth the extra cost for security-conscious individuals.
Set-up: With everything you need included in the package, all you have to do is charge the battery pack with the orange cable provided, download the app, and create an account. Once the battery is fully charged, insert it back into the main doorbell and scan the QR code under the faceplate with your phone to pair it with your Ring account. With the angular mounting bracket, screwdriver, and wiring provided, you'll have everything you need for a hassle-free installation.
Design: The Ring Video Doorbell 4 looks similar to its predecessors, with the same boxy shape that has become somewhat iconic. This consistency in design makes sense, as those who want a thinner doorbell can look towards the Pro models or the Ring Video Doorbell Wired. The camera is at the top, and the button in the middle will glow blue to signal when it's in use so that you won't miss any visitors.
Performance: It's easy to use, even if you're new to Ring devices. The doorbell camera provided a clear view of my patio area, and I could easily adjust the motion detection zones. The pre-roll video feature is also handy for seeing what happened before an event, which could be useful for security purposes. The Ring app is fantastic, with fast loading times and easy navigation. Two-way audio works well, and you can even leave a quick message for visitors.
Read our full Ring Video Doorbell 4 review
| Attribute | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Set-up | Tools included; removeable battery | ★★★★★ |
| Design | Familiar look; boxy shape | ★★★★ |
| Features | Clear view; pre-roll footage; not that different from 3rd Gen | ★★★★½ |
The best wireless doorbell on a budget
Buy it if
✅ You want extra security: it offers more security features than expected, including a built-in siren and emergency contact feature.
✅ You're on a budget: this is a great budget option that doesn't compromise on security features.
✅ You want an easy setup: the package includes all the necessary components for charging and mounting, and everything is easily identified right out of the box.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want an expansive view: the doorbell opts for a 4:4 square image with a 180-degree field of view, which allows you to see more of your space but doesn't quite reach the ground.
❌ You don't like the design: if you're looking for a doorbell with a more unique design, this may not be the right option for you.
❌ You want easy recharging: you can't recharge the battery without removing the entire doorbell.
The bottom line
🔎 TOUCAN Wireless Video Doorbell is an affordable option with impressive security features. The setup is straightforward, and the package includes all necessary components. The design is basic, but the compact wireless chime is a bonus. The performance is satisfactory, with a 180-degree field of view and an in-built siren. The app could be improved, but the quick response and emergency contact features are appreciated. ★★★★½
Despite being a budget option, the TOUCAN Wireless Video Doorbell offers more security features than expected. While the design may not be anything to shout about, the performance makes up for it. The Toucan is a great smart device to add to your home, and it also doubles as a security add-on with a built-in siren and emergency contact feature. We appreciate that some of the features aren't hidden behind a paywall, but a subscription model is still available if you want to access past video footage.
Set-up: The package includes all the necessary components for charging and mounting, and everything is easily identified right out of the box. You'll find two AA batteries for the chime, a charging cable, two cut-to-size sticky strips, a small screwdriver, screws and rawlplugs, a mounting bracket, and security stickers. You can use the screws and mounting bracket for a more permanent solution or the sticky strip if you want something easily removable.
Design: The model looks a little basic with its all-plastic black-and-white design, but it doesn't look too dissimilar to other brands' offerings. It is also smaller than some of the leading competitors like Ring. One problem is the inability to recharge the battery without removing the entire doorbell, but this is also not uncommon. The chime is lovely and compact and gets extra points for being completely wireless. The app lets the side down somewhat, but it doesn't impact useability.
Performance: The Toucan opts for a 4:4 square image with a 180-degree field of view, which allows you to see more of your space but doesn't quite reach the ground. For the price, you also get a surprising array of features, including quick responses and an in-built siren. We loved how easy it is to activate this manually, and you can also use the app to call an emergency number if something untoward is happening.
Read our full Toucan TVD200WUC Wireless Video Doorbell review
| Attribute | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Set-up | Tools included; sticky strips | ★★★★★ |
| Design | Wireless chime; non-removeable battery | ★★★★ |
| Features | View doesn't reach ground; built-in siren | ★★★★½ |
The best video doorbell for 2K resolution
Buy it if
✅ You want solid, fuss-free features: it's one of the only wire-free video doorbells on the market that will call your phone or smart speaker when somebody is at the door.
✅ You're value customization: you can customize what the doorbell alerts you to and choose from four different ways to be alerted.
✅ You want an easy setup: you can choose between flat or angled mounting plates to get the best view of your front yard, and it's easy to install on wooden cladding.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You don't want a subscription: the Arlo app has a monthly subscription fee, though the features you get for your money could be worth it.
❌ You want something smaller: the doorbell unit itself is larger than other options on the market, which might not be ideal for those looking for a more discreet design.
❌ You want easy charging: you'll need to take the front of the camera and the battery indoors while charging since the camera isn't waterproof with the battery removed.
The bottom line
🔎 Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free is a great investment with its easy installation, brilliant HD video, and clear talkback. The app does have a subscription fee, but the features are worth it, including the 180-degree view and phone/smart speaker alerts. The design is modern, and the battery lasts up to six months. ★★★★
The Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free is super easy to install and provides brilliant HD video and crystal-clear talkback. It's one of the only wire-free video doorbells on the market that will call your phone or smart speaker when somebody is at the door, and the 180-degree view is impressive, too. Sure, the Arlo app has a monthly subscription fee, but the features you get for your money are worth it. The only downside is that the doorbell unit itself is larger than we'd like, but other than that, it's a sound investment.
Set-up: You'll be pleased to know that inside the box, you'll find everything you need, including the doorbell unit, rechargeable battery, charging cable, wall mounting screw kit, battery release pin, and quick-start guide. You'll also have a choice of flat or angled mounting plates to ensure you get the best view of your front yard. Although drilling the doorbell into a wooden door can feel like a big commitment, we found it easy to install on wooden cladding to the right of the door.
Design: The doorbell has a simple, modern design that complemented our reviewer's 1960s property. Although it's a little deep, removing the battery for charging using the included tool or a pin is relatively easy. Just keep in mind that you'll need to take the front of the camera and the battery indoors while charging since the camera isn't waterproof with the battery removed. Subsequent charges take around five hours.
Performance: The Arlo Wire-Free connects to your home's WiFi and is battery-powered, with Arlo claiming it will last up to six months on one charge. The video footage and talkback quality are excellent, with 1080p HD video that can be viewed live from your phone, tablet, or smart display. You can customize what the doorbell alerts you to and choose from four different ways to be alerted when somebody presses the button.
Read our full Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free review
| Attribute | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Set-up | Tools included; mounting plates | ★★★★½ |
| Design | Simple, modern; no removeable battery | ★★★★ |
| Features | Long battery life; 1080p video | ★★★★ |
The best wired doorbell on a budget
Buy it if
✅ You're on a budget: this is an affordable option for those looking for a smart doorbell that won't break the bank.
✅ You want something minimal: this is sleek and attractive, with a more diminutive size closer to a traditional doorbell or the Pro range.
✅ You have existing doorbell wiring: the Ring Video Doorbell Wired is easy to set up if you have existing wiring.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You don't have existing wiring: it can only be installed using existing wiring, which may make it a difficult choice for some renters or those who prefer wireless.
❌ You don't want to pay extra for the chime: the doorbell doesn't include a chime, which could be a problem for those who don't want to rely on their phone.
❌ You don't want to pay for a subscription: it requires a Ring Protect Plan for additional features, which comes with a monthly subscription fee.
The bottom line
🔎 Ring Video Doorbell Wired has a sleek design closer to a traditional doorbell and still offers 1080p HD video, two-way audio, and customizable alerts. However, it does require existing wiring and doesn't include a chime. Ring Protect Plan offers additional features for a fee. ★★★★
The Ring Video Doorbell Wired might be a great option for those looking for an affordable smart doorbell that is easy to set up and use. It may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but it still offers a great feature set and an attractive design. The app is reliable and easily integrates with other security devices or Alexa-enabled gadgets around the home.
Set-up: It's important to note that the Ring Video Doorbell Wired does have a few limitations that may not make it the best option for everyone. For instance, the fact that it can only be installed using existing wiring may make it a difficult choice for some renters or those who prefer wireless options. Additionally, it doesn't include a chime, which could be a problem for those who don't want to rely on their phone to know when someone is at the door.
Design: The Ring Video Doorbell Wired is a sleek and attractive option for those put off by the bulkier designs of other Ring doorbells. Its more diminutive size is closer to that of a traditional doorbell or the Pro range, making it less likely that visitors will miss it. Plus, it doesn't look cheap despite being more affordable than the next model. The doorbell comes in black, which should complement most doors nicely, and the button lights up blue when in use.
Performance: The model may be smaller but still packs a punch regarding features. You won't miss a beat with 1080p HD video that can be viewed live from your phone, tablet, or Alexa smart display, two-way audio, and advanced motion detection. Customizable alerts ensure you're only notified of what you want to know, and the Ring Protect Plan offers even more features for a monthly fee.
Read our full Ring Video Doorbell Wired review
| Attribute | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Set-up | No chime; not the best for renters | ★★★★ |
| Design | Minimalist; doesn't look cheap | ★★★★½ |
| Features | Good features; subscription required for some advanced | ★★★★ |
How to choose the best video doorbell for your home
How do video doorbells work?
Video doorbells work much like traditional audio-only doorbells with a chime, but they use wireless technology to communicate with your phone or smart speaker, allowing you to see a live video feed direct from your front door. Because of this camera function, the best video doorbells also often double as security cameras, able to capture footage (frequently with a subscription) of any suspicious goings-on in the vicinity of your home.
Video doorbells also mean you can speak with a person at the door via a device with a microphone (such as your smartphone), whether you're in the bath, in the middle of making dinner, or even at work across town.
Are video doorbells wireless?
Many video doorbells are indeed wireless, and so rely on battery power. This battery often needs to be recharged regularly, taking the doorbell out of commission for a time, so those looking for peace of mind may want to opt for a wired model. This guide covers both wireless and wired doorbells, and which type you opt for will depend largely on what you consider to be a priority.
How we test the best video doorbells
Because we care about not just giving Livingetc readers our opinion, but making sure that opinion is as informed as possible, we endeavor to test every product featured in our buying guides. This is not always possible but, where we have not had hands-on experience, it will be clearly marked.
To determine the best video doorbells currently available, we test them based on affordability, performance, and design. We trial the devices in real homes on real front doors, testing their effectiveness against the many (many) deliveries we receive on a monthly basis. We also look at battery life and how easy they are to set up.
-
I'm an Interior Stylist Who Knows How to Make Your Christmas Lights Work a Million Times HarderThere’s no one better than Livingetc’s long time contributor, the stylist Hannah Franklin, to advise on how best to use Christmas lights to make spaces feel like magic
-
"I'm a Professional Christmas Tree Designer — These Are My 7 Secrets for a Better-Dressed Tree This Year"When it comes to the designing the best-looking Christmas tree, you can take it from designer David Lawson on how to make an impression
-
Reviewers Say These Hummingbird Camera Feeders Are the Best Ones Right Now — And They're All on SaleI've spent ages reading all the reviews for smart hummingbird feeders so you don't have to... Here are the top-rated options
-
This Interior Stylist Has Picked the Most Aesthetic Home Tech Products of the Moment — 'No More Tech Eyesores!'If you think making your home smarter means filling it with ugly gadgets, think again. There's a growing number of pleasingly aesthetic choices out there, says this stylist
-
These Viral $40 Lights Make Your Home Easier to Live In — And They're Pretty Chic, TooThese Scandi-inspired wall sconces are the lighting solution you didn't know you needed. I'm so taken by them!
-
Super cute - and easy for you to control - the best smart speakers for kids make parenting a little simplerEnjoy music and stories with our edit of the best smart speakers for kids plus advice on what to look for when choosing an age-appropriate design
-
Ring Alarm System (2nd Gen) review: the brand's made-over kit is still a winnerWe tested the Ring Alarm System 5-Piece Kit to see if it could make home security simpler for the average user, and how it may have improved on the first gen system.
-
eufy Home Alarm Kit review: a simple but effective way to keep your home safeThe eufy Home Alarm Kit has all of the basics on paper, but we wanted to test it out on our own home to see how easy it is to set up and use.
-
HomePod mini vs Sonos One: two high-end smart home hubs, but which is the better speaker?We take a look at the HomePod mini and Sonos One, both of which sit at the higher end of the smart speaker market.
-
AirTags vs Tile: which Bluetooth tracker is best to help a case of constantly misplaced keys?If you're tired of losing your items, either around the house or outside, then Bluetooth trackers are a lifesaver - but which is best?
