The Ring doorbell is a very popular smart home device that offers home security by providing a video feed of the area surrounding the front door. It includes features such as a live video feed, two-way audio communication, and remote access through a smartphone app. However, Ring Doorbell is simply a doorbell with advanced features such as a video feed. So, it cannot be considered as a dedicated home security solution such as a security camera. Here are some benefits that you can get with ring doorbell alternatives that focus more on the security and privacy of the user.
- Motion Detection: Motion detection plays a pivotal role in enhancing the effectiveness of smart home security cameras, contributing significantly to the overall security and surveillance capabilities of the system. By constantly monitoring the surroundings for any movement, the smart camera can promptly detect unusual activities, such as intruders or unexpected visitors. This immediate notification feature empowers homeowners to respond swiftly to potential security threats.
- 2-Way Communication: Two-way communication contributes to the versatility of the smart home security system. Users can remotely communicate with individuals at the door even when they are not physically present, providing a sense of presence and control from anywhere with internet access. This is especially beneficial for those who want to monitor and manage their home security while at work, on vacation, or in any other remote location.
- Storage Options: Storage plays a crucial role in preserving recorded footage, facilitating video playback, and maintaining a comprehensive record of events. One key aspect of storage options is the capacity to retain a sufficient amount of data, allowing users to store footage over extended periods without the need for frequent manual interventions. Also, the ability to choose from various storage options such as cloud-based storage or local storage provides users with flexibility and customization.
While it offers convenience and the ability to monitor your front door remotely, some concerns have been raised regarding its idleness in terms of security. Additionally, the dependence on internet connectivity raises concerns about the reliability of Ring doorbells during network outages or disruptions. In situations where internet access is compromised, the device may fail to function effectively, leaving homeowners without crucial surveillance capabilities during critical moments. Therefore, we are bringing you the best alternatives to the Ring doorbell that you prefer. You can also check out our “Buying Guide” where we will talk more about the specifications and important characteristics of these devices.
Best Ring Doorbell Alternatives List
| Best Ring Doorbell Alternatives | Motion Detection | 2 Way Communication | Video Resolution | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blink Video Doorbell | Yes | Yes | 1080p HD | Check On Amazon |
| eufy Security Video Doorbell | Yes | Yes | 2K | Check On Amazon |
| Arlo Video Doorbell | Yes | Yes | FHD with HDR | Check On Amazon |
| Google Nest Video Doorbell | Yes | Yes | HD with HDR | Check On Amazon |
| Kasa Video Doorbell | Yes | Yes | 2K | Check On Amazon |
| Tuck Video Doorbell | Yes | Yes | 1080p FHD | Check On Amazon |
| EKEN Video Doorbell | Yes | Yes | 1080p HD | Check On Amazon |
Best Ring Doorbell Alternatives Reviews
1. Blink Video Doorbell
Blink is one of the most renowned brands for video doorbells which is right now a major competitor to Ring. So far, Blink has secured hundreds of thousands of houses and offices with extremely positive responses.
In the 1st position, we have the most popular alternative to Ring doorbell which is the Blink video doorbell. First and foremost, the Blink doorbell is very easy to install and it works with or without doorbell wiring. You can choose to connect it to your existing in-home chime or use a Blink Mini camera that you can purchase separately as an indoor plug-in chime. You can also choose to store and share your video clips in the cloud with a free 30-day trial of the Blink Subscription Plan or locally with the Sync Module 2 and USB drive for a local storage system.
The Blink Video Doorbell is a versatile and reliable solution for your home security and convenience. You can customize your alerts, privacy settings, and battery life according to your needs. You will get notifications instantly when motion is detected or when someone presses the Video Doorbell. The device comes with two included AA lithium batteries that last up to two years, eliminating the need for frequent battery changes. However, for optimal performance in battery mode, you will need a Sync Module 2 that enables live view and two-way audio on demand for battery-optimized performance.
Best Features
- The camera lens offers FHD 1080p resolution
- Alerts are customizable
- It has an IP 54 water resistance rating
- The batteries last for up to 2 years
Pros
- The most popular alternative to Ring doorbell
- Both local and cloud storage functions are available
- Long-lasting battery performance
Cons
- Sync Module 2 needs to be purchased separately
2. eufy Security Video Doorbell
If you are looking to completely overhaul your security system and upgrade it with a dedicated surveillance camera-grade doorbell, then the following option from eufy will be the correct option for you. Eufy is one of the few brands that serve the best quality doorbells and cameras without any subscription fees.
Our 2nd choice for this list of the best ring doorbell alternatives is coming from eufy, a highly renowned supplier of home surveillance cameras. The eufy Security Wi-Fi Video camera is a smart device that lets you see and talk to your visitors in high definition. With a 2560 x 1920 resolution and HDR technology, the video quality is always crystal-clear and no details are compromised. You can also use two-way audio to communicate with your guests in real time. You can tell them to wait for you or ask them to leave a package at the door.
The eufy Security Wi-Fi Video Doorbell is a one-time purchase that does not require any monthly fees. So, you can easily store your video clips locally and access them anytime you want. You can also enjoy the convenience of security with the eufy Security products and connect multiple eufy devices together without any problem. The camera uses AI technology and an advanced algorithm to detect human faces and bodies in order to avoid false alerts, even at night. The eufy Security Wi-Fi Video camera comes with an electronic chime that supports 8 different ringtones and volume levels.
Best Features
- The camera lens offers 2K QHD resolution
- The field of view is about 170 degrees
- It has an IP 65 water resistance rating
- No batteries are required
Pros
- It has a 2K resolution and HDR technology
- It does not have any hidden costs
- It has a two-way audio feature
Cons
- Wireless options for easier installation
3. Arlo Video Doorbell
Arlo is also a fairly popular brand that deals with a variety of products when it comes to home security such as security systems, security cameras, video doorbells, etc. The following option from Arlo is one of its most capable hardware with a great range of features.
In the 3rd place, we are putting the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell which brings in all the crucial features without much of a hassle when it comes to installation. It is a completely wireless device that connects directly to your local Wi-Fi network. So, you can set it up quickly and easily, without any wiring or professional tools. You can also recharge it conveniently for a long-lasting battery performance. The device is completely weather resistant and can withstand heat, cold, rain, or sun as long as you want. You can also connect it to your existing smart home devices, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings for extended smart services such as voice-activated actions.
The Arlo Essential Video Doorbell is a relatively smart device that gives you alerts and actions only when it is necessary. With Arlo Foresight, the device captures video before any motion is detected, so you never miss a moment. You can also receive dedicated notifications for people, vehicles, and packages, so you can react quickly and appropriately. You also have the option to store your videos securely on your Arlo base station or SmartHub for real-time access from anywhere.
Best Features
- The camera lens offers FHD 1080p resolution with HDR
- The field of view is about 180 degrees
- It has an IP 54 water resistance rating
- Connects directly to local Wi-Fi network
Pros
- It is a lot cheaper than many other alternatives
- Wireless and rechargeable power option
- High-quality 2-way audio
Cons
- SmartHub needs to be purchased separately for local storage
4. Google Nest Video Doorbell
It is safe to assume that Google requires no introduction and a lot of users might already be using one of Google’s smart home solutions or its services. Along with many other solutions, Google Nest also includes a smart doorbell system which is a great alternative choice.
The Google Nest Doorbell added to our list today is the 2nd gen variant of the doorbell that works with the Google Home app and all you need is a free Google account. You can access 3 hours of free event video history, and watch 2-second previews and 5-minute clips of important activities anytime you want. You can also upgrade to a Nest Aware or Nest Aware Plus subscription and get up to 30 days of event video history and familiar face detection, or up to 10 days of continuous video recording which makes the system even more secure and helpful.
You can also use other compatible smart devices that work with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa to stream your live video feed or see and talk to people at your door if you don’t have your smartphone. It is also possible to quickly respond to visitors with pre-recorded messages in case you are not available to answer the door at the moment. Considering the device is coming from Google, you will notice that it’s beautifully designed to complement any home and made with 43% post-consumer recycled materials, so it’s a great choice for you and the environment.
Best Features
- The camera lens offers 720p HD resolution
- The field of view is about 145 degrees
- It has an IP 54 water resistance rating
- It can work with any Google Home or Alexa-compatible streaming device
Pros
- One of the smartest options in terms of accessibility
- No subscription or additional hardware needed
- 3 hours of free event video history is available for review
Cons
- A lot of hardware such as FOV or resolution is not as good as other options
5. Kasa Video Doorbell
Now that you have checked out all of the premium and popular alternatives for the Ring doorbell, let us turn our attention to the budget-focused section. One such option is brought to you by Kasa which develops a wide range of products such as smart plugs, switches, lighting, and even cameras.
The Kasa Smart Video Doorbell Camera works directly with Wi-Fi and is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for smart access and voice commands. You can get instant push notifications when the doorbell button is pressed, that you can further customize based on your schedule. You can also watch the real-time video feed from anywhere, anytime on your phone, or stream your video on a larger display with Amazon Echo Show or Google Chromecast. The Kasa Camera is a completely weatherproof device backed by an IP64 rating that can handle harsh particles and rain.
With a built-in IR sensor, you can see what’s there even in the dark with a range of up to 30 ft. away. You can also store your footage securely on a microSD card or subscribe to Kasa Care, which can save up to 30 days of footage and provide additional benefits. It comes with a chime, a 15-degree mounting wedge, a mounting bracket, a positioning card, extension wires, and all other accessories that you will need at any point during installation. The device is completely hardwired but uses wireless signals to transfer the video feed.
Best Features
- The camera lens offers 2K QHD resolution
- The field of view is about 160 degrees
- It has an IP 64 water resistance rating
- All necessary accessories are included
Pros
- Alexa and Google Home-compatible video doorbell
- You can use Google Chromecast to relay the video feed
- High-resolution video capture with a 3 MP lens
Cons
- It supports a micro SD card, but it is not included in the package
6. Tuck Video Doorbell
Tuck has also been developing smart home security solutions for a very long time now and thousands of users trust products developed by Tuck for their home and office safety. As Tuck is one of the advocates of renewable energy resources, you will also find solar-powered options from this brand.
The Tuck SHARKPOP Camera is one of the cheapest alternatives that we could use against the Ring doorbell cameras that offer a similar specification set. First of all, it is a completely wireless device that works Wi-Fi for data transmission and is very easy to install with adhesive tape or screws. It comes with a free indoor chime that rings along with the outdoor doorbell camera to alert you. The device also has a night vision and wide-angle view feature that provides clear images at night and comprehensive front door coverage.
The Tuck SHARKPOP Doorbell Camera Wireless is a secure and reliable device that offers encrypted cloud storage through an optional subscription plan that you can buy separately if needed. You can also enjoy a 30-day free trial to explore the convenience of the subscription plan, which enables you to record, review, and share your videos securely. Plus, it also works as a testing phase for the product so that you can check its performance thoroughly and see if the device is suitable for your needs or not.
Best Features
- The camera lens offers FHD 1080p resolution
- It supports night vision as well as wide-angle FOV
- It has an IP 65 weather resistance rating
- Compatible with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network
Pros
- AES-128 encrypted cloud storage for privacy and safety
- Built-in motion detection and night vision settings
- 2-way audio for better communication and control
Cons
- Smart access via Alexa or Google Assistant is missing
7. EKEN Video Doorbell
In the last position, we have yet another highly affordable video doorbell camera from EKEN. This is one of the few versions developed by EKEN that is preferred by thousands of buyers. You can also find a lot of other accessories and alternative choices from EKEN for home security.
Wrapping up our picks is the EKEN Video Camera which is an affordable yet smart alternative to Ring doorbell cameras. With a night vision and motion sensor feature, the device can alert you of any movement at your doorstep, and send you instant notifications on your mobile device right away. You can also use two-way audio to communicate with your guests from anywhere and enjoy seamless real-time interaction. While there are a lot of additional features available with the device, it practically satisfies the requirement of a video doorbell with 2.4 GHz WiFi connectivity so that you can use your own local network without any subscription.
You can also connect a single EKEN smart doorbell with multiple chimes so that you will be notified at multiple places simultaneously when there’s someone on your door. The EKEN Video Doorbell is also a secure and reliable device that offers encrypted cloud storage with an optional subscription plan if you want to use its cloud services. You can try and test the device as well as the subscription service with a 30-day free trial period and access the seamless recording, reviewing, and sharing of your videos. The device is suitable for both indoor and outdoor security considering its decent build quality and weather resistance.
Best Features
- The camera lens offers HD 720p resolution
- AI human detection feature
- Works over 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network
- Ultrawide angle lens
Pros
- Easy to install and set up
- A night vision feature is provided
- Multiple chimes can be synced with an angle doorbell
Cons
- Cloud storage feature requires a subscription
Buying Guide For The Best Ring Doorbell Alternatives
Ring doorbells have been offering convenience and certain security for a very long time now. However, there are some underlying concerns related to privacy, vulnerabilities, and dependency on internet connectivity that make them less-than-ideal for those seeking a robust and secure home security solution. And since these factors are pretty much deal breakers for a lot of buyers, a lot of users prefer alternative options that may better align with their privacy and security preferences, such as a security camera set. Thus, we are here with the best alternatives available on the market right now for a Ring Doorbell and also the important factors with which you can choose one for your requirements.
1. Motion Detection
Motion detection is a pivotal feature for outdoor security cameras as it serves as a proactive surveillance feature. A camera equipped with powerful motion detection capabilities can sense any movement within its field of view, triggering alerts or recordings. This functionality is especially crucial in outdoor settings where the camera might capture a wide range of activities. Effective motion detection helps filter out irrelevant footage, saving storage space and facilitating quicker review of events. It enables users to receive timely notifications about potential security threats, allowing for swift response or intervention. On top of that, adjustable sensitivity settings are also beneficial, allowing users to fine-tune the camera’s responsiveness to motion, avoiding false alarms triggered by inconsequential activities like tree branches swaying in the wind.
2. 2-way Audio
The inclusion of 2-way audio capabilities in outdoor security cameras enhances their utility by enabling real-time communication between the camera’s location and a remote monitoring station or mobile device. This feature is particularly valuable for interactive monitoring and is highly beneficial when paired with a visible camera. In practical terms, it allows users to communicate with visitors, delivery personnel, or potential trespassers. This not only serves as a convenient tool for remote interaction but can also be a powerful deterrent, as individuals near the camera are aware that they can be observed and communicated with. The clarity and reliability of the 2-way audio system are critical factors to ensure effective communication and response to situations as they unfold.
3. Storage
Storage options play a vital role in determining the effectiveness of an outdoor security camera system. Whether you are choosing local storage or cloud storage affects your future prospects with accessibility and capacity.
- Local Storage: Local storage, typically in the form of onboard SD cards or external hard drives, offers the advantage of keeping footage within the user’s control. It ensures continuous recording even if there is a loss of internet connectivity, and it may alleviate concerns about privacy as the footage stays on-premises.
- Cloud Storage: Cloud storage provides off-site backup and remote accessibility, allowing users to retrieve footage from anywhere with an internet connection. The choice between local and cloud storage often depends on user preferences, privacy concerns, and the need for remote access. Some cameras also offer a combination of both, providing redundancy and flexibility in storage options.
4. Power Type
The power source for an outdoor security camera is a critical consideration as it directly impacts its reliability and functionality. Cameras can be powered by wired connections, such as Power over Ethernet (PoE) or traditional electrical outlets, or through wireless options like battery power or solar panels. Wired connections offer a constant and reliable power source but may require professional installation and could be vulnerable if power outages are frequent in your region. Battery-powered cameras on the other hand, can provide flexibility in terms of installation, but require regular maintenance to ensure continuous operation. Solar-powered cameras offer an eco-friendly and self-sustaining solution, but their effectiveness can be influenced by the availability of sunlight. The choice of power type depends on factors like the camera’s location, accessibility to power sources, and your preference for a wired or wireless setup.
5. Video Resolution
Video resolution is a critical aspect of door security cameras, or any security camera as it directly impacts the clarity and detail of captured footage. Higher resolutions, such as 1080p, 2K or 4K provide sharper and more discernible images, aiding in the identification of individuals and objects captured in the surveillance. Clear video resolution is especially crucial for door cameras, as it enhances the ability to recognize faces and discern relevant details, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the surveillance system. As you can imagine, there would be no point in having a premium range security camera guarding your door if you can’t get a recognizable face or a number plate from the captured footage. Also, keep in mind that higher resolution also means that you will need more storage capacity to store the footage. So, also check out the available storage options, especially with the cameras that capture footage at a higher resolution.
6. Field of View
The field of view determines the coverage area of the footage that a door security camera can capture in a single frame. Naturally, a wider field of view is beneficial for door cameras as it allows for comprehensive coverage and does not leave any blind spots in front of your door. A well-optimized FoV also ensures that the camera can capture not only the immediate vicinity of the door but also peripheral areas, reducing blind spots in the surroundings and enhancing the overall security coverage. However, balancing the FoV is essential to capture sufficient detail while avoiding distortion at the edges of the frame. If the FOV is too high, you may also notice an overall reduction in quality which is not an ideal trade-off for an increased courage area.
7. Weather Resistance
Weather resistance is very important for outdoor security cameras, considering their exposure to environmental elements, all of which can damage the camera slowly, but steadily. Cameras are generally designed to withstand various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, ensuring consistent performance and longevity. Therefore, a robust and weather-resistant design protects the camera’s internal components completely, preventing damage from environmental factors and ensuring continuous operation regardless of the weather conditions.
8. Night Vision
Night vision capabilities are also crucial for a door security camera as it maintains surveillance effectiveness in low-light conditions such as night or dawn. There are a few different types of night vision accessories that enable this feature such as Infrared LEDs or other low-light imaging technologies. This feature is particularly vital for door cameras, as it ensures that the entrance is monitored around the clock, providing homeowners with a comprehensive security solution regardless of the time of day. If you are planning to keep the camera up and running 24×7, this is one of the most important features in your case.
9. Camera Frame Rate
The camera frame rate refers to the number of individual frames captured per second. A higher frame rate contributes to smoother and more fluid video playback. For door security cameras, an optimal frame rate is crucial for capturing rapid movements, ensuring that no critical detail is missed during the events. A higher frame rate is especially valuable when reviewing footage to investigate incidents or identify individuals, as it reduces the possibility of motion blur and enhances the overall clarity of the video. Also, you get the ability to convert the footage into slow motion without losing data as there are more frames captured per second compared to a lower FPS camera.
10. Notification Alert Type
Door security cameras should also offer customizable notification settings, allowing users to receive alerts through various means such as mobile app notifications, emails, or even push notifications based on their needs and demands. Customization options also enable users to tailor the alert system to their preferences, ensuring that they are promptly notified of any suspicious activity or visitors at the door. On top of that, the ability to differentiate between routine movements and potential security threats enhances the camera’s utility and minimizes unnecessary alerts, providing a more seamless and user-friendly experience.
Best Ring Doorbell Alternatives – FAQs
Ans: The choice between security cameras and video doorbells depends on specific security needs and the desired functionalities. Security cameras generally offer a broader scope of surveillance, making them suitable for monitoring larger areas such as yards or driveways. They often come with advanced features like pan-and-tilt capabilities, zoom options, and wider fields of view. But, video doorbells are specifically designed for focused monitoring of the entrance area, allowing users to see and interact with visitors.
Ans: The optimal placement for a video doorbell is near the front door or entrance of a home. Installing it at eye level provides the best angle for facial recognition and capturing clear images of visitors. Positioning the video doorbell to cover the entire entrance area ensures comprehensive monitoring at all times. And, it’s also essential to avoid obstructions that might hinder the camera’s field of view
Ans: A lot of security cameras offer advanced analytics options such as object detection or facial recognition, providing more detailed information about the surroundings. While video doorbells excel at monitoring entrances and facilitating communication with visitors, security cameras offer a more versatile range of features suitable for comprehensive surveillance in various locations. You will also find a lot of security camera sets that do not require any subscription and can be synchronized using an included hub, eliminating the need for any external cloud service.
Ans: Video doorbells can function without a subscription, providing basic features such as live video streaming, motion detection, and two-way communication. However, many video doorbell manufacturers, including popular ones like Ring and Nest, offer subscription plans that provide additional benefits. These may include cloud storage for recorded videos, allowing users to review and share footage later.
Conclusion
All of the products that we have collected for this selection offer the services and benefits that you get with a Ring doorbell, along with added security and privacy-related features. You can also learn more about security cameras in general in our buying guide. Lastly, we will leave you with some of our handpicked recommendations for the best Ring doorbell alternative that you should check out before you make your choice.
- If you are looking for the most feature-rich and trusted alternative to the Ring doorbell, check out the Blink Video Doorbell which is also a simpler doorbell instead of a complicated security camera and is trusted by hundreds of thousands of buyers. This doorbell brings a lot of benefits such as FHD video capture resolution, 2-way communication, long lasting battery life, and much more. The Blink Video Doorbell can be connected using your house’s existing doorbell wiring, or a sync module that you can purchase separately for an even easier installation. You can also test the system for a month without any cost to check if it is the right option for you before buying its subscription service.
- On the other hand, a lot of buyers prefer a completely local home surveillance system without any subscription fees. For that, the ideal option would be the eufy Security Video Doorbell. This is one of the most advanced options on the market that offers 2K QHD resolution output along with local storage and a built-in human detection system for accurate alerts. It also captures the video feed in HDR so that you rewatch the footage on your smart TV or desktop with utmost clarity and accurate color production. Unlike most other doorbells, there are no hidden charges or subscription fees needed for operating the eufy Security system as it has an onboard AES 256-bit encrypted local storage.
- Lastly, we recommend checking out the EKEN Video Doorbell Camera since it is the cheapest option available on our picks for the best alternatives to the Ring Doorbell. The EKEN Video Doorbell manages to deliver a lot of great features and services within an affordable price range such as wireless connectivity, 2-way communication, WiFi support for real-time monitoring, and much more. And, you will also get AES-128 encrypted cloud storage if you are opt-in for the subscription plan and avoid the hassle of storing the footage locally. The cameras also feature smart motion sensors that can instantly generate alerts when there is an activity around your doorstep.
