If you screen the numbers on your phone before answering, you should definitely be able to see who’s at the door before you answer it. The trouble is, how in the world are you supposed to know who arrived at your doorstep if no one is at home? A video doorbell is a perfect solution.
Make sure you never miss a visitor ever again with these 5 cool doorbell cameras.
- Ring
The Ring camera is placed right next to your front door and provides you with wide angle HD video of every person who shows up on your doorstep. The camera notifies you if someone is at your door, so you can literally have a video chat with everyone who knocks. You’ll never have to worry about missing a package again!
With motion detection, you can even keep an eye on all the things happening just outside your front door. Cloud recording is also available so you can go back and watch previously recorded videos. You can tie your Ring camera into your smart locks so you can open the door for a visitor, even if you aren’t home!
Choose from four colors to ensure that the Ring camera blends into the exterior of your house. Cameras cost $199 with no need to sign up for a lengthy contract.
- SkyBell
Uniquely designed, SkyBell looks a lot more like an unassuming doorbell than a video camera. If you do not answer the door, the visitor can press the button on this circular-shaped camera in order to be connected to you wherever you are. The design has even won the CES Innovations Design award and was an Engineering Awards Honoree.
Even if the person on your doorstep doesn’t push the button, the camera is equipped with motion sensor technology so you can see who came to visit. This product can function in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit and up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. The camera has night vision, and multiple users and devices can receive alerts.
Accessories are available that make installing the SkyBell a breeze. Cameras start at just $149, and they are compatible with the Nest home automation system.
- Chui
Unlike other video doorbells that only allow you to communicate with people at your door, Chui takes things a step further. It uses facial recognition, which means your face becomes the key that is able to unlock your door. But don’t worry. This camera will also alert you to people who have shown up on your doorstep.
This device provides you with real-time notifications, two-way voice communication, and one-way video communication. Because of its facial recognition software, the camera will also be able to switch on the lights and play your favorite song as you walk through the door.
Chui is only available for preorder right now, but this camera is expected to cost $199. It will also be able to ship integrations to Lockitron and Hue.
- August Doorbell Cam
The August Doorbell Cam provides many of the features you would expect from a doorbell camera, like live smartphone notifications and two-way audio communication. It also records conversations and video that can be reviewed at a later time.
This doorbell camera doesn’t require any new wiring, which definitely isn’t true of some other doorbell cameras on the market. Instead, it uses a Bluetooth connection and WiFi, which means you can unlock smart locks without all those additional wires.
Four colors are available and cameras cost $199.
- Vivint
Not all traditional home security systems offer a doorbell camera with their plans, but if you want the best of both worlds, you might want to consider Vivint.
Vivint offers a doorbell camera with 180 degree sweeping views, night vision, and two-way talk. This camera automatically records video so it can be reviewed later, and you can unlock the door for a friend or family member who doesn’t have a key.
Be aware that because this doorbell camera is offered by a traditional home security system, you’ll have to sign up for a monthly plan that comes with additional home security equipment.
There’s no need to worry about being home for a package or rushing home so you’ll be there by the time a friend or family member shows up. Simply choose one of these doorbell cameras so you can keep an eye on your property while enjoying the convenience a video doorbell has to offer.
