Buyers guide to find best doorbell camera, one of essential device to enhance security and convenience for peace of mind.
In This Article
Why Doorbell Camera
Installing a video doorbell camera in your home can provide a number of benefits, including enhanced security and convenience. You can select the one that includes paid subscription plan or just do the one without subscription plan. This article discusses buyers guide to pick the best video doorbell without subscription. See also best wireless door lock and buyers guide.
Video Doorbell Advantages
Here are some reasons why you might want to consider installing a video doorbell camera; this can give you better insights of selecting the best doorbell camera that meets your business need.
Increased security:
A video doorbell camera can help deter potential burglars or intruders by providing a visible and active surveillance system at your front door. It can also help you monitor who is coming and going from your property, and capture footage of any suspicious activity.
Convenience:
A video doorbell camera can also provide added convenience by allowing you to remotely answer your doorbell, even when you’re not home. You can also receive alerts on your phone or other devices when someone is at your door, allowing you to monitor visitors or deliveries.
Peace of mind:
Knowing that you have an extra layer of security and protection can help provide peace of mind for you and your family with the implementation of doorbell camera, and or security camera.
A Security Camera or Doorbell Camera
When it comes to decide which one is more important between a security camera or doorbell camera, or both of them?
As for which is more important, it depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you are primarily concerned with monitoring who is coming and going from your property, a security camera may be more important. However, if you want the added convenience and security of being able to remotely answer your doorbell, a video doorbell camera may be a better choice.
In terms of when it is necessary to install a video doorbell camera or security camera, it depends on your individual needs and concerns. If you live in an area with high crime rates or have experienced suspicious activity in the past, you may want to consider installing both a video doorbell camera and security camera as soon as possible.
Alternatively, if you are simply looking for added security and convenience, you may choose to install a video doorbell camera or security camera at any time. Ultimately, the decision to install a video doorbell camera or security camera is a personal one, based on your individual needs and concerns.
See also popular Nest floodlight camera vs Arlo Pro 3 floodlight camera.
Selecting the best doorbell camera
Let’s examine the importance of installing a doorbell camera to improve home security and explore key factors to consider when selecting the best video doorbell without a subscription.
It’s important to note that some models of doorbell cameras require a paid subscription to access advanced features, while others can be purchased without subscription. For some, opting for a video doorbell without a subscription is a preferred choice as it requires a one-time payment and eliminates the need for annual fees.
Here are some guidance on how to choose the best video doorbell camera, some important factors you need to consider in selecting the best to meet your need:
Video Quality:
Look for a doorbell camera with high-resolution video (1080p or higher) and a wide field of view. This will ensure that you get clear and detailed footage of anyone who approaches your door. You can find few models that come with 2k resolution such as Eufy doorbell camera, and few products that are not from well-known brand.
Two-Way Audio:
A good video doorbell camera should also have two-way audio, which allows you to communicate with visitors through your Smartphone or other device. Find the one that comes with built-in microphone and speaker for duplex communication.
Motion Detection:
Make sure the camera has motion detection, so it can alert you when someone is at your door. Look for customizable motion detection settings, so you can adjust the sensitivity to your liking. Today you can find smart motion detection (AI-based motion detection) that can distinct human and pet.
Night Vision:
A camera with good night vision will ensure that you can see visitors even in low light conditions, and selecting the one with color night vision would be better so you can recognize the skin and dress color of the person in front of the door when it comes to use it as evident.
A security camera with good night vision is important in order to see visitors in low light conditions. Additionally, having color night vision can be beneficial as it allows for easier identification of the person’s skin and dress color. This could potentially be useful as evidence if needed. However, it’s worth noting that the effectiveness of the camera’s night vision and color recognition will vary depending on the specific camera model and lighting conditions.
Smart Home Integration:
If you want to streamline your smart home setup, it’s wise to select a camera that is compatible with your current system. By choosing a doorbell and security camera from the same manufacturer, you can enjoy seamless integration and effortless control. Simply access your smart home app to manage the camera and view footage from one centralized location.
Power Source:
Consider whether you want a camera that is hardwired or battery-powered. Hardwired cameras tend to be more reliable, but battery-powered cameras are easier to install. If you already have existing doorbell wiring, make sure that the doorbell you purchase can use it.
Storage:
Look for a camera with cloud storage or local storage options, so you can save and review footage as needed. However, a doorbell camera with cloud storage typically requires subscription plan.
Brand Reputation:
When selecting a video doorbell camera, it’s important to take into account the reputation of the brand. Opt for well-known brands with a proven track record of excellent customer service and support. With so many doorbell cameras available online from various vendors, it’s easy to be tempted by unfamiliar brands. However, popular products from lesser-known brands may not remain available in the market over time. To ensure you make a wise choice, it’s best to select a product from a reputable, established brand.
By considering these factors, you can find the best video doorbell camera for your needs.
Best Doorbell Camera Products
Taking into account the previous discussion on the necessity of doorbell cameras and the guidelines for buyers, we have identified the top 5 doorbell cameras that are worth your consideration.
Eufy
Eufy is a well-known brand that offers a range of security cameras, including doorbell cameras. Their doorbell cameras have generally received positive reviews from customers and technology review websites.
In particular, the Eufy Video Doorbell and the Eufy Video Doorbell 2K have been popular choices among consumers. These doorbell cameras offer features such as high-definition video quality, customizable motion detection, two-way audio, and compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
The Eufy doorbell cameras also come with local storage options, allowing you to store video footage on an SD card or Eufy’s home base station instead of relying solely on cloud storage, so you don’t need to subscribe cloud storage. The 2k version comes with embedded 4GB memory, while the 1080p version comes with 16GB. Eufy doorbell becomes one of best video doorbell without subscription products you may consider to buy.
Highlights
- Comes with high quality SONY image sensor for better performance in low light condition, color night vision with ambient light
- 2K Resolution (2560×1920) with HDR distortion correction and provides 4:3 aspect ratio
- For the battery power model, it comes with built-in battery (180-day battery life) or
Existing Doorbell Wiring (8-24V) - Smart human body and face detection instead of standard motion detection to reduce false positive alerts
- For the Eufy wired doorbell, it features 3 seconds pre-buffer video before alert is triggered
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons
- The memory is embedded in to the board, so you cannot expand the capacity, however for motion detection video clip is appropriate and the overwrite feature will help
Eufy has introduced a new model with a dual-lens system. The front-facing camera boasts a 2K resolution and functions as a doorbell camera. The second camera, which has a 1080p resolution, is a package camera that is positioned to face the ground, allowing it to detect incoming packages. The best part with this dual lens version is the Smart AI feature that detects the package, facial detection and human detection.
Overall, the Eufy doorbell camera is one of best video doorbell without subscription options which is a reliable and user-friendly product to enhance the security of your home. Click the product’s link below to learn more products’ detail and see current price and best deal on Amazon (#ads).
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Reolink Doorbell
Reolink is a well-known brand in the security camera industry. They offer a range of security camera products, including wireless cameras, PoE cameras, and NVR systems. And today you can find couple of brand new doorbell camera products.
In terms of the quality of their products, Reolink is generally well-regarded. Their cameras offer high-quality video and audio, and many of their products include features such as motion detection, night vision, and two-way audio, and few products are featured AI-based motion detection including these new doorbell camera products.
Budget friendly
In terms of price, Reolink’s products are generally priced competitively compared to other brands in the market. They offer a range of products at different price points to cater to different budgets. When you compare with business grade security camera products offered by well-known global brand Hikvision and Dahua, reolink offers competitive prices with similar spec and features. See also comparison between Reolink and Hikvision security camera products.
Two versions
Let’s explore Reolink’s doorbell camera series, which offers two connectivity options: PoE and wifi. The PoE version delivers both data and power through a single UTP cable, reducing the need for additional cables. Meanwhile, the wifi model is easier to connect to your network, but requires a separate power source.
To further compare the two options, refer to Table 1 for detailed specs. Notably, the main differences lie in their network connectivity, rich notification, and cloud storage capabilities. The PoE and wifi options offer distinct advantages in these areas, with the latter providing richer notifications and cloud storage exclusively. However, all other technical specifications remain the same between the two versions, including the same app for both versions.
Even without an internet connection, the doorbell camera can still detect motion or a person and record videos onto an SD card (purchased separately). However, it won’t be able to send alerts to your mobile devices or enable live viewing.
If the chime is connected to the doorbell, it will still chime whenever the doorbell is pressed, regardless of internet connectivity; the chime is included in purchase and the price is the same. These two series of reolink doorbell are worth considering, best video doorbell without subscription products with budget friendly.
Table 1 Reolink Doorbell Cameras Series
| Reolink Doorbell Series | Reolink Wifi Doorbell | Reolink PoE Dorrbell |
| 1/2.7″ CMOS Image Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Lens: f=2.26mm F=2.0, with IR cut | Yes | Yes |
| Video resolution: 5MP (2560 x 1920) @20 fps | Yes | Yes |
| Field of View Angle: Horizontal: 134° Vertical: 97° Diagonal: 180° | Yes | Yes |
| 2x 850nm IR LEDs Night Vision range up to | Yes | Yes |
| Up to 256GB micro SD card Storage | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in mic and speaker for two way audio | Yes | Yes |
| Rich Notification | Yes | No |
| Works with Google Assistant | Yes | Yes |
| Cloud Storage | Yes | No |
| Network Connection | Ethernet 1x 10/100Mbps RJ45 IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n dual band | PoE 1x10M/100Mbps RJ45 802.3af, 48V Active |
| Pre-Motion Recording | Yes | Yes |
| Smart alerts: Motion detection/person detection; visit notification | Yes | Yes |
| Connect to Reolink NVR system | Yes | Yes |
You can compare with eufy doorbell as discussed previously, see that eufy storage is embedded on the board up to 8GB or 16GB (the battery power version), but reolink doorbell uses separate micro SD card you can install up to 256GB capacity.
Both eufy and Reolink doorbell models include a pre-motion recording feature that captures footage just before an alert is triggered and sends it to your mobile device. This capability is similar to the one offered by Ring Doorbell 4, which has been promoted as the first doorbell to offer this feature.
These two series are new to the markets, but with good track records and popularity, and with a significant presence on popular e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Best Buy, and they have also received positive reviews from various technology and gadget review websites, reolink doorbell will be one of the best video doorbell products you may consider.
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Lorex Doorbell
The two best video doorbell products previously discussed are the ones that don’t require subscription to unlock the full features. Another one that you may consider is the one offered by Lorex, a well known brand in security cameras.
Lorex is a well-known brand that offers a variety of security cameras and systems, including doorbells. The Lorex doorbell is a wireless video doorbell that allows you to see and speak with visitors at your front door from your smartphone or tablet. The body design of the Lorex doorbell is sleek and modern, with a slim profile that can easily blend in with most home exteriors. It is also weatherproof, so you don’t have to worry about it getting damaged in the rain or snow.
Two series
Currently there are two models of lorex doorbell, the 1080p (Lorex B241AJD) and the 2K (Lorex B451AJD) series. They offer a variety of features, including person detection to reduce false alerts, two-way audio, color night vision in ambient light with its Lorex CNV technology, 160 degree wide-angle lens and quick response replies.
No subscription
It comes with local memory storage micro SD Card you can install up to 256 GB, the same feature as the above reolink and eufy doorbells, but it also allows you to store recorded footage in the cloud, but to use this feature, you will need to subscribe to a cloud storage plan.
In terms of performance, the Lorex doorbell has received generally positive reviews from customers. However, some users have reported issues with connectivity and occasional false alarms triggered by motion detection.
Highlights
- HD 1080p / 2k video resolution with wide 164 degree diagonal view angle and 4:3 aspect ratio and 8x digital zoom
- Challenging light condition with HDR feature for exposure correction
- Human motion detection alerts with 5 seconds recording before event starts and send alerts to mobile device with installed app
- Two way communications with built-in speaker and microphone and works with Alexa
- Comes with local memory storage you can install up to 256GB, no need for cloud storage service
- Built-in siren you can trigger manually remotely to deter unwanted guest and two way communication with built-in mic and speaker
- Dual band wifi 5 (wireless ac) connectivity
- Weatherproof with IP65 rated
Cons
- Doesn’t include chime
The Lorex doorbell is not as well-known as some other brands, but it has a decent following among those who are looking for a reliable and affordable video doorbell. Overall, the Lorex doorbell offers a good combination of features, performance, and affordability. This product becomes one of best video doorbell, best video doorbell without subscription products you may consider to purchase.
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AOSU Doorbell Camera Wireless
Another best doorbell camera you may consider is the latest model of Aosu doorbell camera. You might not heard this brand as popular as those big brands like Arlo, Ring or Google, however this brand is getting more popular with its AI-based products including this latest aosu doorbell camera.
What makes this product different?
When comparing the Aosu doorbell to other similar products such as Eufy, Reolink, and Lorex doorbell cameras which offer 2k video resolution, the Aosu stands out with its impressive 5MP resolution – 40% higher than its competitors. As a result, the Aosu camera delivers sharper and more vivid images. Notably, the Aosu doorbell boasts the highest resolution among popular vendors including Arlo, Ring, Google, Eufy, Lorex, and Reolink.
Triple motion detection
While most doorbell camera products rely on standard motion detection, this can often lead to false alarms. That’s why Aosu has introduced an innovative approach with its triple motion detection technology. This includes a standard PIR motion sensor, radar detection, and advanced AI-based human and pet detection capabilities. By utilizing this cutting-edge technology, the Aosu doorbell camera can accurately identify and alert you to any potential threats without producing unnecessary false alarms.
Home base with storage
The Aosu doorbell model comes equipped with a WiFi home base that includes built-in 8GB memory storage. This means you won’t have to rely on cloud storage subscriptions to store your footage for later playback or to unlock additional features as required by other brands. By utilizing AI-based technology and local memory storage, the Aosu doorbell camera stands out as one of the best video doorbells on the market that doesn’t require a subscription.
If you’re looking for a high-quality video doorbell that provides reliable performance without additional fees, the Aosu doorbell camera is certainly worth considering.
Highlights
- UHD 5MP video resolution doorbell camera, with high quality 7 pieces of optical glass lens,
- 166 degree wide view angle and 3:4 aspect ratio, supports IR night vision with 8x IR LEDs
- Triple motion detection consists of PIR motion sensor, advanced radar, and AI-based human and animal detection to reduce false alerts
- Comes with wifi home base with built-in 8GB memory storage, no paid subscription
- Up to 180-day battery powered one charge, or connect to existing doorbell wiring
- Dual band wifi connectivity, wireless ac
Cons
- B/W night vision, doesn’t support color night vision
- Cannot expand memory capacity more than 8GB
Aosu doorbell with 5MP is much better than standard 1080p or 2k resolution like most doorbell camera in general, it’s a plus spec. while with the inclusion of home base with 8GB storage and triple motion detection features makes this product one of best video doorbell without subscription products in the market today.
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