When looking for a smart video doorbell, it is important to consider if it works with major smart home platforms such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. Privacy and security are also key factors to take into account when selecting a video doorbell. It is crucial to review the brand’s track record with privacy practices, digital storage, and overall security. For example, some doorbell makers have had issues with handing over video to authorities or responding to data vulnerabilities in the past, which can impact their reliability.
Video storage is an essential aspect of the video doorbell experience. Different devices offer varying options for video storage, with some providing free online storage and others requiring monthly subscriptions for cloud storage. Local storage with a microSD card is another option that offers more cost-effective storage but requires manual management. AI recognition and alerts are also becoming increasingly common in video doorbells, allowing for more accurate notifications about packages, pets, or people in your contact lists.
Another consideration when choosing a video doorbell is whether to opt for a wired or wireless model. Wired doorbells have the advantage of constant power and can often be connected to an existing door chime, while wireless models offer more flexibility in placement but require regular recharging and may not connect to a hardware chime. Latency can be an issue if the doorbell camera takes a long time to send push notifications or if motion detection alerts are delayed. Checking the live view quality is important to ensure the camera can handle various lighting conditions and settings, such as direct sunlight or shaded areas.
Audio quality is another critical aspect to assess in a video doorbell. A doorbell’s microphone and speaker need to work effectively for seamless communication with visitors. Ensuring that the audio quality is clear and reliable is essential to avoid any communication issues. By considering these factors, such as smart home platform compatibility, privacy and security features, video storage options, AI recognition and alerts, wired vs. wireless models, latency, live view quality, and audio quality, you can make an informed decision when selecting a video doorbell for your smart home setup.
