Wired Doorbells and Accessories

What Are Wired Doorbells?

Wired doorbells, also known as hardwired doorbells, are a traditional and reliable means of alerting homeowners to visitors at their doorstep. They are a fundamental component of home security systems and have been in use for decades. These smart doorbells are characterized by their physical connection to the home's electrical system, as opposed to wireless doorbells that rely on radio signals for communication.

Benefits of Wired Doorbells

Enhanced Security

One of the primary benefits of wired doorbells is the enhanced security they offer. When someone presses the doorbell button, it triggers a chime or buzzer inside the house, alerting the occupants. This immediate notification helps deter unwanted visitors and provides homeowners with a sense of control over who enters their property.

Reliable Functionality

Wired doorbells are known for their reliability. Since they are directly connected to the electrical system, they don't rely on batteries that can run out or wireless signals that may be subject to interference. This reliability ensures that you won't miss important visitors, deliveries, or emergencies.

Compatibility with Smart Devices

In recent years, wired doorbells have evolved to incorporate smart technology, allowing homeowners to connect them to their smartphones and other smart devices. This integration enables remote monitoring, two-way communication with visitors, and the ability to view live video feeds from the doorbell camera. Such compatibility enhances convenience and security.

Wired vs Wireless Doorbells: Pros & Cons

Wired Doorbells

Pros:

1. Reliability: They are not susceptible to signal interference or battery failure.

2. Enhanced Security: Immediate notification of visitors and potential intruders.

3. Integration with Smart Devices: Can be part of a home automation system for added convenience.

Cons:

1. Installation Complexity: Wiring can be challenging, and professional installation is often required.

2. Lack of Mobility: They are fixed in place, limiting the doorbell's location.

3. Potential for Retrofitting: Installing a wired doorbell in an existing home may involve extra work.

Wireless Doorbells

Let's see how wireless or battery doorbells measure up to their wired counterparts.

Pros:

1. Easy Installation: No wiring required, making it a DIY-friendly option.

2. Portability: Can be easily relocated within the home.

3. Battery-Powered: Operate without reliance on electrical power.

Cons:

1. Signal Interference: Radio signals can be affected by various factors.

2. Battery Dependence: Battery life is limited and it may need regular replacement or recharging.

3. Security Concerns: Some wireless doorbells may be more susceptible to hacking.

What Are the Most Popular Wired Video Doorbells?

Wired video doorbells are one of the most in-demand home security devices alongside smart cameras. However, not all doorbells are created equal, and choosing which one to buy could be a daunting task. Here are some of the most popular models to consider:

Ring Video Doorbell Wired

The Ring Video Doorbell Wired is among the most popular Ring devices in the market, thanks to its compact design and budget-friendly price point. Priced at $64.99 (MSRP), it is the smallest and most affordable among the wired Ring doorbells. This doorbell is compatible with Amazon Alexa for voice control and offers integration with IFTTT (If This Then That) applets. However, it's important to note that to access recorded video and certain additional features, a Ring Protect subscription is necessary.

Here's an overview of the Ring Video Doorbell Wired:

Key Features

1. 1080p HD Video: The Ring doorbell offers high-definition video quality, ensuring you get clear and detailed visuals of your doorstep.

2. Advanced Motion Detection: It features an advanced motion detection system, allowing you to define motion zones and receive alerts when the camera detects motion near your door.

3. Live View: With the Live View feature on the Ring app, you can check your front door in real time using your mobile device, providing instant visual access.

4. 2.4 GHz Internet Connection: The doorbell connects seamlessly to your Wi-Fi network, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.

5. Privacy Zones: You can define specific privacy zones, allowing you to exclude certain areas from video monitoring for added privacy.

6. Advanced Pre-roll: The advanced pre-roll feature captures additional seconds of video before a motion event is detected, providing context for the recorded footage.

7. Night Vision: The doorbell is equipped with night vision capabilities, ensuring visibility even in low-light or nighttime conditions.

Cons

1. Incompatibility with Existing Chime: One of the notable drawbacks is that it does not work with existing mechanical or digital chimes. To receive in-house audio alerts, you will need to pair it with an Amazon Alexa device or purchase a Ring Chime separately.

2. Wiring Requirement: As a wired doorbell, it requires existing doorbell wiring for power. This may limit its installation in homes without pre-existing doorbell wiring.

3. Subscription Requirement: Access to features like viewing, saving, and sharing recorded video, as well as the People Only Mode feature, requires a Ring Protect subscription, which comes at an additional cost.

4. Limited Smart Assistant Support: The doorbell does not support Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant, which may be a limitation for users within those ecosystems.

Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell

The Arlo Doorbell offers top-tier video quality with its 1080p resolution, ensuring clear and detailed visuals. It comes equipped with two-way audio, allowing you to communicate with visitors, and its night vision feature ensures you have a clear view even in low-light conditions. However, what sets it apart is its motion detection feature, which sends you notifications whenever someone approaches your porch, whether it's a potential package thief or a friendly guest.

Key Features

1. 1080p Resolution with HDR: This ensures high-quality, sharp video with enhanced contrast and clarity.

2. 180-Degree Viewing Angle: The wide field of view covers a broad area, giving you a head-to-toe view of your front door.

3. Integrated Siren: Deter unwanted guests or alert your neighborhood with the built-in siren, enhancing your security.

4. 2-Way Full-Duplex Audio: Engage in seamless, real-time conversations with visitors at your door, promoting interactive communication.

5. Motion Detection and Alerts: Get notified instantly when motion is detected near your door, providing you with added security and awareness.

6. Direct-to-Mobile Video Calls: Receive video calls directly to your mobile device when the doorbell is pressed, ensuring you never miss a visitor.

7. Quick Reply Messages: Leave pre-recorded messages or instructions for visitors, adding a layer of convenience to your communication.

Cons

1. Somewhat Bulky: The doorbell's design may be considered somewhat bulky, impacting the aesthetics of your front entrance.

2. Lack of IFTTT or Google Assistant Support: It does not support IFTTT or Google Assistant, limiting its integration with other smart devices and platforms.

3. Subscription Required for Recorded Video and Smart Notifications: To access recorded video and receive smart notifications, you'll need to subscribe to a service, incurring additional costs.

eufy Video Doorbell

The Eufy Video Doorbell is a smart doorbell that boasts a high-resolution HDR (high dynamic range) camera. It's equipped with intelligent motion detection and offers ample internal storage for up to 30 days of motion-triggered recorded video at no extra cost. Additionally, it seamlessly integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands. However, it lacks compatibility with other smart home devices.

Key Features

1. Crystal-Clear 2K Image: With a high-definition 2560 x 1920 resolution and advanced HDR technology, this doorbell ensures that all recorded video is of top-notch quality, offering clarity and detail.

2. No Hidden Costs: Eufy security products are designed to be one-time purchases, eliminating the need for ongoing expenses. They provide security and convenience without burdening your wallet.

3. Real-Time Communication: Enjoy two-way audio communication, allowing you to speak directly to anyone at your front door. Whether it's directing friends to the back entrance or letting them know you've stepped out for a moment, you're in control.

4. Intelligent Alerts: Thanks to AI technology and a sophisticated algorithm, the camera can intelligently discern body shapes and facial patterns. This ensures that you only receive alerts when a human presence is detected, preventing unnecessary notifications for events like a passing stray cat.

5. Electronic Chime Included: The doorbell comes with support for 8 entertaining and holiday-themed ringtones, along with adjustable volume levels.

Cons

1. Subscription for Cloud Video Storage: To access cloud video storage, a subscription is required. This may result in additional costs for users who prefer not to pay for cloud storage.

2. Lack of IFTTT Support: Unlike some other smart doorbells, the Eufy Video Doorbell does not offer support for IFTTT (If This Then That), limiting its integration with other smart devices and automation.

3. Limited Support for Multiple Users: The doorbell's functionality is restricted when it comes to multiple users. This limitation may impact households or settings where multiple individuals need access to the doorbell's features and alerts.

Google Nest Doorbell

The Nest Doorbell Wired (second-gen) is the successor of the popular Nest Hello. The Nest Doorbell Wired is still one of the most intelligent doorbells available. It introduces Nest's Familiar Faces feature, allowing not just the identification of someone at your door but also the recognition of specific individuals. It can also detect package arrivals and removals, making it a versatile device suitable for security and even wildlife observation with the option for continuous 24/7 recording. It operates directly from existing doorbell wiring, enabling continuous 24/7 recording.

Key Features

1. 3-Hour Event History: With a 3-hour event history, you can review recent activities at your door, allowing you to stay informed about who has been visiting or what deliveries have arrived.

2. Video Clips with 2-Second Previews and Extended Clips: The 2-second previews give you a snapshot of what's happening at your door without the need to watch the entire clip. If you need more context, extended clips are available, ensuring you don't miss a moment.

3. Up to 10 Days of Continuous Video Recording: With up to 10 days of continuous video recording, you can keep a detailed record of all activities at your doorstep, providing a sense of security and peace of mind.

4. Included Intelligent Alerts: The Nest Doorbell Wired can detect motion, people, packages, animals, and vehicles. This ensures that you're informed about the specific events that matter to you, whether it's a visitor, a delivery, or simply a passing car.

Cons

1. Must Have Existing Chime Box: To ensure reliable operation, the Nest Doorbell Wired connects to your existing wiring, requiring 16-24VAC with a minimum of 10VA. This power source is crucial for the device to function efficiently, providing you with continuous video coverage.

2. Need Nest Aware Subscription for Many Features: While the doorbell offers various features, some of them, such as extended video history and more advanced alerts, require a Nest Aware subscription. This subscription comes at an additional cost and is necessary for accessing the full range of functionalities, which may not be ideal for users looking for a completely free solution.

Wyze Video Doorbell

The Wyze Video Doorbell provides clear 1080p Full HD video with a 4:3 aspect ratio, ensuring you see visitors from head to toe. With two-way audio, instant notifications, and compatibility with Amazon Echo and Google devices, you can easily communicate with and monitor visitors. When combined with Cam Plus, it offers advanced features like cloud video storage and AI detection, enhancing its capabilities. The doorbell is built to withstand various weather conditions and offers easy DIY installation. While it has a few minor limitations, it provides excellent value for those seeking an affordable security camera.

Key Features

1. 1080p Full HD Video: The Wyze Video Doorbell delivers clear and detailed video with a 1080p resolution. You can enjoy high-quality live streaming and recordings.

2. 4:3 Aspect Ratio: This aspect ratio ensures that you can see visitors from head to toe, providing a complete view of anyone at your doorstep.

3. Two-way Audio: With two-way audio, you can have real-time conversations with anyone who approaches your door. It's a convenient way to communicate with visitors or delivery personnel.

4. Cam Plus Integration: When combined with Cam Plus, you gain access to cloud video storage and advanced AI detections, including person detection, full-length motion recording, and identification of vehicles, pets, and packages. This extends your doorbell's capabilities and ensures you capture everything happening at your doorstep.

5. Instant Notifications: The Wyze Video Doorbell sends you instant push notifications when someone presses the doorbell. You can view a live stream of your visitor before deciding whether to answer or ignore.

6. Compatibility with Alexa and Google: The doorbell seamlessly integrates with Amazon Echo smart speakers, allowing you to use them as additional doorbell chimes throughout your home. You can also command live video feeds to appear on your Echo Show and Google Home devices. Plus, receive alerts from Alexa when a person is detected at your door, especially when using Cam Plus.

7. Wyze Chime: To ensure you never miss a visitor, you can pair multiple wireless Wyze Chimes with one doorbell. Choose from a variety of chime sounds, including traditional bells and birds chirping.

8. Smart Alerts & Video Recording: The doorbell lights up brightly when motion is detected nearby. You can also activate push notifications for any movement or presence near your door, even if the doorbell isn't pressed.

How to Choose a Wired Doorbell

When selecting a wired doorbell, consider the following factors:

1. Compatibility: Ensure that the doorbell is compatible with your existing wiring and transformer. Some smart doorbells may have specific requirements.

2. Video Quality: If you want a video doorbell, assess the resolution and field of view to ensure clear images of your doorstep.

3. Smart Integration: If you have a smart home ecosystem, opt for a doorbell that can seamlessly connect with your existing devices and platforms.

4. Power Source: Check if the doorbell operates on low-voltage power or if you need a power adapter.

5. Installation: Evaluate whether you can install the doorbell yourself or if professional installation is necessary.

6. Budget: Determine your budget and look for a doorbell that offers the features you need within that range.

How to Install a Wired Video Doorbell

Installing a wired video doorbell can be a complex process, and it's often advisable to hire a professional. However, if you're comfortable with electrical work, follow these steps:

1. Turn Off Power: Switch off the power to your doorbell at the circuit breaker to ensure safety during installation.

2. Remove Old Doorbell: Unscrew and remove your old doorbell button, chime, and transformer.

3. Wire Connection: Connect the new doorbell to the existing wires, ensuring proper connections to the transformer and chime.

4. Mount the Doorbell: Attach the doorbell to your door frame or wall, following the manufacturer's instructions.

5. Set Up the App: Download the doorbell's app, create an account, and follow the setup instructions to connect it to your Wi-Fi network.

6. Test and Adjust: Test the doorbell to ensure it's functioning correctly. Adjust settings for motion detection and alerts as needed.

7. Restore Power: Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker to activate the doorbell.

The Best Accessories for Wired Doorbells

Manufacturers keep releasing smarter and more powerful video doorbells, making it tempting to keep upgrading to the latest model with all the advanced features. However, the truth is, your existing doorbell might only require a simple accessory to perform even better.

Adjustable Vertical or Horizontal Mount

Adjustable mounts are handy accessories for fine-tuning the angle and position of your wired doorbell camera. A vertical or a horizontal mount allows you to capture the best view of your doorstep, ensuring no visitor goes unnoticed. While smart video doorbells come with wide viewing angles, adjustable mounts can further enhance your surveillance capabilities.

Whether you want to focus on a particular area, such as your porch, driveway, or walkway, these mounts help you achieve the perfect perspective. In addition, they cater to various installation scenarios, whether you're mounting the doorbell at eye level or higher up to deter potential intruders.

With adjustable mounts, you have the flexibility to adapt your wired doorbell camera to your specific security requirements, providing you with peace of mind and a clear view of your home's surroundings.

Power Supply Adapter

If your home lacks the required low-voltage transformer for a wired doorbell, a power supply adapter lets you directly plug in your doorbell to a continuous power supply. It simplifies installation in homes without existing wiring and ensures your doorbell is powered 24/7.

Wired Doorbell Chimes

Wired doorbell chimes come in various styles and tones, allowing you to customize the sound that alerts you to visitors. They can be placed throughout your home to ensure you hear the doorbell from any room.

Frequently Asked Questions