This article was previously published on Dec 1, 2020 and updated for comprehensiveness and accuracy.  

Key Points: 

• Smart doorbells give you real-time visibility, control, and insights into key entrances for your home.
• Not all smart doorbells work the same; power source, video quality, motion accuracy, and app reliability can significantly impact performance and reliability.
• Choosing the right specs (like wide-angle video, night vision, and secure connectivity) is critical to getting meaningful protection.
• Smart doorbells are valuable whether you’re home or away, helping you stay aware without disrupting your day.
• Proper placement, lighting, and network security play a major role in how effective your doorbell camera will be.
• Partnering with a security professional helps turn a doorbell camera into part of a complete, well-designed home security strategy. 

Smart doorbells are quickly becoming a cornerstone of modern home security. They help you see, speak with, and monitor visitors in real time, day or night, from anywhere. Whether you want peace of mind, enhanced safety, or better control over your home’s entrance, understanding smart doorbells can empower you to choose the best one for your needs. 

Key Features of a Smart Doorbell Camera 

While there are a range of smart doorbells on the market, a lot of them have similar features that include: 

• Live video streaming and recording — Watch who’s at your door in real time.
• Motion alerts — Get notified on your phone when motion is detected near your entryway.
• Night vision — See clearly even in the dark.
• Two-way audio — Speak with visitors through your doorbell’s speaker and mic.
• App control — Manage alerts, view live footage, and review recordings from anywhere. 
• Integration with other smart devices — Such as lights, so you can set up rules like automatically turning on porch lights when motion is detected. 

The most important feature of a smart doorbell is its connection to a mobile app, which enables you to see and speak to whoever is on the other side of your door from anywhere. 

Types of Smart Doorbell Cameras 

Smart doorbell cameras can be battery powered, hardwired, or both. When choosing the right type for your home, consider your existing doorbell wiring, how much flexibility you need for placement, and whether you want continuous power without worrying about recharging batteries. 

Battery-Powered:

• Easy to install almost anywhere.
• No need for existing wiring.
• Typically wireless.

Hardwired: 

• Uses your home’s existing doorbell wiring.
• Often preferred for continuous power
• Professional installation is often recommended 

Hybrid (Battery + Wired): 

• Combines flexibility with constant power backup
• Great for homes with inconsistent wiring
• Better equipped to handle power outages and other disturbances.  

No matter the type of video doorbell camera you choose, it will need to be connected to a secure Internet network and a mobile app. Additionally, you can protect your smart doorbell from theft and harsh elements and severe weather by utilizing a protective case.  

Specs to Look for with a Smart Video Doorbell 

When you’re ready to start shopping for your smart doorbell, we listed all the recommended specs you should compare when you’re determining which version of doorbell camera to purchase. 

Smart Doorbell FAQs 

Do smart doorbells record all the time? 

Most smart doorbells do not record continuously by default. Instead, they activate when motion is detected or when someone presses the doorbell. This approach helps preserve battery life, manage storage space, and respect privacy.  

Can smart doorbells actually help prevent crime? 

Smart doorbells can play a role in crime prevention by making your home’s entryway visibly monitored. The presence of a camera may discourage suspicious behavior, while real-time motion alerts allow homeowners to respond quickly if something doesn’t look right. If an incident does occur, recorded footage can provide helpful evidence for authorities. 

Do all smart doorbells provide the same level of protection? 

Not all smart doorbells are created equal. Video quality, motion detection accuracy, night vision capabilities, app reliability, and system integration can vary significantly between models. Choosing a doorbell that aligns with your home’s layout and security goals, and integrates with other security devices, can make a noticeable difference. 

Do smart doorbells replace the need for a home security system? 

While smart doorbells add an important layer of protection, they work best as part of a broader home security ecosystem. Pairing a doorbell camera with sensors, smart locks, indoor cameras, and professional monitoring provides more comprehensive coverage than a single device alone. 

Can smart doorbells work during power outages or Internet disruptions? 

Battery-powered smart doorbells may continue operating during short power outages, while hardwired models may rely on backup power. However, Internet connectivity is typically required for live streaming, alerts, and cloud storage. Integrating your doorbell with a professionally monitored system can help maintain visibility and response options during disruptions. 

Are smart doorbells safe from hacking? 

Smart doorbells are designed with security in mind, but like any connected device, they rely on proper setup. Using a secure Wi-Fi network, strong passwords, and trusted apps help protect your footage and data. Working with a reputable security provider can further reduce risk through encrypted connections and secure cloud storage. 

Is professional installation necessary for a smart doorbell? 

Professional installation can be beneficial for hardwired devices or when integrating a doorbell into a larger home security system. Proper placement and setup help ensure reliable performance and optimal coverage.  

Best Practices for Smart Doorbell Placement, Setup & Maximum Protection 

While smart doorbells are easy to install, reliable performance is best achieved with professional help. An expert ensures correct placement, secure installation, and integration into your overall security system. 

Mounting Height and Angle

Professionals usually mount doorbells 48–60 inches high, optimizing for your entryway’s features to capture faces and reduce missed spots or false alerts. 

Optimize the Field of View

A professional makes sure the camera: 

• Clearly sees main entrances,
• Captures visitors before they reach the door,
• Avoids obstructions like frames or decor. 

Proper placement improves live viewing and recorded evidence. 

Lighting and Environmental Conditions 

Experts position doorbells to minimize glare, suggest lighting for dark areas, and protect devices from harsh weather, ensuring clear footage year-round. 

Connectivity and Network Security 

A pro checks Wi-Fi strength, configures secure networks, and helps prevent dropped connections so you receive timely alerts. 

Integration With a Security System 

Integrating your doorbell with sensors, smart lights, cameras, and monitoring services strengthens home protection. 

Maintenance and Adjustments 

Security professionals provide ongoing adjustments, updates, and expansion advice, keeping your system effective as needs change. 

Take the Next Step Toward Smarter Front Door Security 

Smart doorbells provide more than just video monitoring. For a closer look at their benefits, see our article, "Top 5 Benefits of Doorbell Security Cameras." 

If you want to add a smart doorbell or need help choosing one, Vector Security offers tailored solutions and professional installation for reliable front door protection. 

Join thousands who trust Vector Security to keep their homes safe.