A video doorbell is one of the smartest security upgrades you can make. See who's at your door from anywhere, talk to visitors without getting up, catch package thieves in the act, and never miss a delivery again. Modern video doorbells offer crisp HD video, intelligent motion detection, and seamless smart home integration—all from a device that replaces your existing doorbell.
After testing the top video doorbells of 2025 across different homes, weather conditions, and smart home ecosystems, we've identified the best options for every need and budget. Here's what you need to know before you buy.
Quick Picks: Best Video Doorbells at a Glance
| Category | Product | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Ring Battery Doorbell Pro | $229 | Best all-around performance and features |
| Best Premium | Google Nest Doorbell (Wired, 2nd Gen) | $179 | 24/7 recording, Google ecosystem |
| Best Budget | Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) | $99 | Affordable entry into smart doorbells |
| Best Battery Life | Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) | $149 | Wire-free with excellent battery |
| Best for Apple HomeKit | Logitech Circle View Doorbell | $199 | Native HomeKit Secure Video |
| Best Local Storage | Eufy Video Doorbell E340 | $179 | No subscription required |
| Best for Apartments | Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) | $99 | Easy install, works on rental doors |
| Best Package Detection | Google Nest Doorbell (Battery) | $179 | Smart AI package alerts |
Best Video Doorbells: Detailed Reviews
Best Overall: Ring Battery Doorbell Pro – $229
Why it wins: The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro delivers the best combination of video quality, smart features, and flexibility. Its Head-to-Toe HD+ video captures more of your porch than competitors, while 3D Motion Detection with Bird's Eye View shows exactly where visitors walked on an aerial map of your property.
Key Features:
- 1536p HD+ video with HDR for clear footage in any lighting
- Head-to-Toe view captures packages at your feet
- 3D Motion Detection with Bird's Eye View mapping
- Dual-band WiFi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) for reliable connection
- Quick-release rechargeable battery or hardwired option
- Two-way talk with noise cancellation
- Works with Alexa for announcements and live view on Echo devices
- Color night vision
Subscription: Ring Protect Basic ($3.99/month) required for video history. Without subscription, you only get live view and real-time notifications.
Best for: Homeowners who want the most complete feature set in a battery-powered doorbell with Alexa integration.
Minor drawback: Requires Ring Protect subscription for most useful features.
Best Premium (Wired): Google Nest Doorbell (Wired, 2nd Gen) – $179
Why it wins: If you have existing doorbell wiring and want the smartest video doorbell available, the wired Nest Doorbell is unmatched. It offers continuous 24/7 recording (not just motion clips), industry-leading AI detection, and deep Google Home integration.
Key Features:
- 24/7 continuous video recording (with Nest Aware Plus)
- HDR video with 960×1280 resolution (tall 3:4 aspect ratio)
- Intelligent alerts: Person, Package, Animal, Vehicle detection
- Familiar face recognition announces who's at the door
- On-device AI processing for faster, more private detection
- Works with Google Home speakers and displays
- 3-hour event history free (no subscription)
- Up to 10 days video history with Nest Aware Plus ($12/month)
Subscription: Nest Aware ($8/month) for 30-day event history or Nest Aware Plus ($12/month) for 24/7 recording and 60-day history.
Best for: Google Home users who want the most intelligent doorbell with continuous recording capability.
Minor drawback: Requires existing doorbell wiring; more expensive subscription for full features.
Best Budget: Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) – $99
Why it wins: At just $99, the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) proves you don't need to spend a fortune for reliable front door security. It delivers solid 1080p HD video, motion detection, and full Alexa integration at a price that makes sense for first-time smart home buyers.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD video with night vision
- Motion-activated notifications
- Two-way talk
- Works on battery or existing doorbell wiring
- Quick-release battery for easy charging
- Adjustable motion zones
- Alexa integration for announcements and live view
- Slim design fits most door frames
Subscription: Ring Protect Basic ($3.99/month) adds video recording and sharing. Works for live view without subscription.
Best for: First-time video doorbell buyers, renters, and anyone on a budget who still wants reliable performance.
Trade-offs: No package detection, standard field of view (not Head-to-Toe), basic motion detection.
Best Battery Life: Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) – $149
Why it wins: The Arlo Essential Doorbell (2nd Gen) offers the most flexible wire-free experience with battery life lasting 4-6 months on a single charge. Its wide 180-degree diagonal field of view captures more of your porch than most competitors.
Key Features:
- 2K HDR video (2560×1920 resolution)
- 180-degree diagonal viewing angle
- 4-6 month battery life (usage dependent)
- Direct WiFi connection—no hub required
- AI detection for people, packages, vehicles, animals
- Works with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit
- Built-in siren for deterrence
- Color night vision
Subscription: Arlo Secure ($4.99/month) for 30-day video history and smart alerts. Basic motion detection works free.
Best for: Homes without doorbell wiring, multi-ecosystem households, anyone who prioritizes battery life.
Minor drawback: Slightly slower notification speed compared to wired models.
Best for Apple HomeKit: Logitech Circle View Doorbell – $199
Why it wins: The Logitech Circle View is the best video doorbell for Apple households. It's one of the few doorbells with native HomeKit Secure Video support, meaning all your footage is encrypted end-to-end and stored in iCloud—not on company servers.
Key Features:
- Native Apple HomeKit Secure Video integration
- End-to-end encrypted video storage in iCloud
- 1080p HDR video with 180-degree field of view
- Face recognition using Apple's on-device processing
- TrueView wide-angle lens captures head-to-toe view
- Color night vision
- Two-way audio with noise cancellation
- Works with Siri, Apple Watch, and Apple TV
Storage: Uses your iCloud storage—no separate subscription. Requires iCloud+ (starting at $0.99/month for 50GB) for HomeKit Secure Video.
Best for: iPhone users who prioritize privacy and want seamless Apple ecosystem integration.
Important: Requires existing doorbell wiring (16-24V AC). HomeKit-only—no Alexa or Google support.
Best Local Storage (No Subscription): Eufy Video Doorbell E340 – $179
Why it wins: Tired of monthly subscription fees? The Eufy E340 stores all your video locally on a HomeBase or the doorbell's internal storage—no cloud subscription required, ever. It's the best choice for privacy-conscious users who want to own their data.
Key Features:
- Dual cameras: Front-facing + downward package camera
- 2K resolution (2560×1920) with HDR
- 8GB local storage (expandable with HomeBase)
- No monthly fees—ever
- AI-powered human, pet, and package detection
- Color night vision with 2 LED spotlights
- Customizable motion zones and sensitivity
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
Subscription: None required. Local storage included free.
Best for: Privacy-focused users, subscription-averse buyers, anyone who wants to own their security footage.
Trade-off: No remote cloud backup (if doorbell is stolen, footage is lost). HomeBase 3 recommended for expanded storage.
Best for Apartments: Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) – $99
Why it wins: Renters need a video doorbell that's easy to install without modifications and easy to take when you move. The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) mounts with a simple wedge kit or peephole mount—no drilling or wiring required.
Apartment-Friendly Features:
- Runs entirely on battery—no wiring needed
- Optional Peephole Cam mount for apartment doors
- Wedge mount works on flat or angled surfaces
- Takes 5-10 minutes to install
- Easily removable when you move out
- No damage to door or frame
- Works in hallways with adjustable motion sensitivity
Best for: Apartment renters, condo owners with HOA restrictions, anyone who can't modify their entryway.
Pro tip: Adjust motion sensitivity to “People Only” to avoid constant hallway traffic alerts.
Best Package Detection: Google Nest Doorbell (Battery) – $179
Why it wins: Google's on-device AI sets the standard for smart package detection. The Nest Doorbell (Battery) can distinguish between a person, package, animal, or vehicle—and even recognizes familiar faces to tell you exactly who's at your door.
Key Features:
- Intelligent alerts: Person, Package, Animal, Vehicle
- Familiar face recognition
- 3:4 tall aspect ratio captures packages at your feet
- 3 hours free event history (no subscription required)
- Wire-free or wired installation options
- Up to 2.5 months battery life
- On-device AI processing
- Works with Google Home ecosystem
Subscription: Nest Aware ($8/month) extends history to 30 days with more intelligent alerts.
Best for: Anyone who receives frequent deliveries, Google Home users, those who want smart AI without premium pricing.
Bonus: 3-hour event history is free—no subscription required for basic use.
Video Doorbell Buying Guide: What to Look For
Wired vs. Battery-Powered
This is your first and most important decision:
Wired Video Doorbells
- Continuous power—never worry about battery life
- Faster response times and more reliable performance
- Some models offer 24/7 continuous recording
- Powers your existing chime
- Requires 16-24V AC doorbell wiring (most homes have this)
- Installation takes 15-30 minutes
Battery-Powered Video Doorbells
- Install anywhere—no wiring needed
- Perfect for renters and apartments
- Easy to move when relocating
- Battery lasts 1-6 months depending on activity
- May have slightly slower response times
- Many can be hardwired for continuous power if preferred
Video Quality: Resolution Matters
Higher resolution helps identify faces and read license plates:
- 1080p HD: Standard quality, sufficient for most uses
- 1536p (2K): Noticeably sharper, better for identification
- 2K (2560×1920): Excellent detail, reads small text clearly
- 4K: Overkill for doorbells, uses more storage/bandwidth
Also consider: HDR improves visibility in mixed lighting (bright sky, shaded porch). Night vision quality varies—color night vision is clearer than infrared black-and-white.
Field of View: See More of Your Porch
A wider field of view captures more area:
- 140-150 degrees: Standard, may miss packages at your feet
- 160-180 degrees: Wide angle, captures most of porch area
- Head-to-Toe view: Taller aspect ratio (3:4) sees packages on ground
- Dual cameras: Some models add a downward camera specifically for packages
Smart Detection: Beyond Basic Motion
AI-powered detection reduces false alerts and provides useful information:
- Person detection: Only alerts for people, not cars or animals
- Package detection: Knows when a delivery arrives
- Familiar face recognition: Identifies family members by name
- Vehicle detection: Alerts when cars enter driveway
- Animal detection: Distinguishes pets from people
- Motion zones: Customize which areas trigger alerts
Subscription Costs: The Hidden Expense
Most video doorbells require a subscription for full functionality. Here's what to expect:
| Service | Monthly Cost | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Ring Protect Basic | $3.99 | 60-day video history, sharing |
| Ring Protect Plus | $10 | All cameras, extended warranty, 10% discount |
| Nest Aware | $8 | 30-day history, smart alerts |
| Nest Aware Plus | $12 | 24/7 recording, 60-day history |
| Arlo Secure | $4.99 | 30-day history, smart notifications |
| Eufy | Free | Local storage, no subscription |
| HomeKit Secure Video | $0.99+ (iCloud) | Uses existing iCloud storage |
Pro tip: Calculate the 2-year total cost (device + subscription) when comparing options. A $100 doorbell with a $4/month subscription costs $196 over two years—the same as a $180 subscription-free doorbell.
Ecosystem Compatibility
Choose a doorbell that works with your existing smart home:
| Doorbell | Alexa | HomeKit | SmartThings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ring (all models) | Full | Limited | No | Yes |
| Google Nest | Limited | Full | No | Limited |
| Arlo | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Logitech Circle View | No | No | Full | No |
| Eufy | Yes | Yes | Limited | No |
Installation Tips: Get It Right the First Time
Before You Install
- Check your WiFi signal at the front door. Most doorbells need at least 2 bars. Consider a WiFi extender if signal is weak.
- Test existing doorbell wiring with a multimeter if installing wired. You need 16-24V AC.
- Measure your door frame to ensure the doorbell fits without blocking the door swing.
- Check the sun position—direct afternoon sun can wash out video. Consider a wedge mount to angle away from glare.
Installation Best Practices
- Height: Install at 48 inches (4 feet) from ground for optimal face capture
- Angle: Use wedge mounts to angle toward the approach path
- Turn off power at the breaker before connecting wires
- Use the included tools—most kits include everything needed
- Download the app first and create your account before mounting
- Test before final mounting—verify video quality and WiFi connection
Apartment Installation Options
- Peephole mount: Replaces your door's peephole—no drilling
- Wedge mount: Adhesive or screw-free mounting
- Door frame mount: Attaches to frame, not wall
- Indoor placement: Some work through windows (with reduced functionality)
Video Doorbell Security Tips
Your video doorbell is only as secure as your account. Follow these essential security practices:
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your doorbell account—this is non-negotiable
- Use a unique, strong password for your doorbell app (not the same as other accounts)
- Keep firmware updated—enable automatic updates when available
- Review shared access regularly—remove users who no longer need access
- Use guest access codes for temporary visitors instead of sharing your main account
- Secure your WiFi network with WPA3 encryption and a strong password
- Consider a separate IoT network for smart home devices
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a subscription for a video doorbell to work?
Most video doorbells work without a subscription for basic features: live view, two-way talk, and real-time motion notifications. However, you'll typically need a subscription to save and review video clips. The exception is Eufy, which stores video locally at no extra cost.
Can I install a video doorbell myself?
Yes. Battery-powered doorbells require no tools—just mount the bracket and attach the doorbell. Wired doorbells require basic electrical work (connecting two low-voltage wires) and take 15-30 minutes. If you're uncomfortable with electrical work, hire an electrician—it's typically a $50-100 service call.
Will a video doorbell work with my existing chime?
Wired video doorbells work with most existing mechanical and digital chimes. Some require a compatibility adapter (usually included). Battery-powered doorbells typically don't ring your existing chime—they use app notifications and optional plug-in chimes instead.
How long do video doorbell batteries last?
Battery life varies by model and activity level. Expect 1-6 months between charges depending on how many motion events occur. High-traffic areas drain batteries faster. Most batteries recharge via USB in 4-6 hours, and you can add a solar panel to extend battery life indefinitely.
Do video doorbells work in cold weather?
Most video doorbells operate between -4°F to 120°F (-20°C to 48°C). Extreme cold reduces battery performance significantly—you may need to charge more frequently in winter. Wired doorbells are less affected since they don't rely on battery power.
Can video doorbell footage be used as evidence?
Yes. Video doorbell footage is regularly used in criminal investigations and court cases. To maximize evidentiary value: use the highest resolution available, ensure accurate date/time stamps, save clips immediately after incidents, and don't edit or modify the original footage.
What happens if someone steals my video doorbell?
Cloud-connected doorbells (Ring, Nest, Arlo) save footage to the cloud, so theft of the device doesn't lose your recordings. Ring and Arlo offer theft replacement programs for subscribers. Local-storage doorbells (Eufy) lose footage if the device is stolen—consider pairing with a separate security camera for backup.
Final Verdict: Which Video Doorbell Should You Buy?
For most people: The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro offers the best balance of features, video quality, and flexibility. Its wire-free installation works anywhere, while the Head-to-Toe view and 3D motion detection set it apart from competitors.
For Google Home users: The Google Nest Doorbell (Wired) delivers the smartest AI detection and optional 24/7 recording—features that justify its ecosystem lock-in.
On a budget: The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) at $99 proves you don't need to overspend for solid front-door security.
Hate subscriptions? The Eufy Video Doorbell E340 offers local storage and zero monthly fees without sacrificing features.
Apple household: The Logitech Circle View Doorbell is your only real choice for native HomeKit Secure Video integration.
A video doorbell transforms your front door from a vulnerability into a feature. You'll never miss a delivery, always know who's knocking, and have footage if something goes wrong. In today's world, that peace of mind is priceless.
Ready to secure your front door? Start with any of our recommended doorbells and take the first step toward a smarter, safer home.
