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SimpliSafe’s Video Doorbell took our top spot due to its active deterrence capabilities when paired with their Outdoor Camera.
Updated October 17, 2025
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Best Security System Integration
ADT combines one of the smartest doorbell cameras, the Nest Doorbell, with its top-rated security system to offer a great one-two combo that protects your home starting from the front door. Using automation and with a world-class monitoring service, ADT offers the best security-focused doorbell camera.
Best Intruder Prevention
While it works as a standalone doorbell camera, the SimpliSafe video doorbell works great as a part of a SimpliSafe security system thanks to advanced monitoring features such as Intruder Intervention. Now you won’t have to monitor your front door by yourself.
Best Variety of Options
Ring is the biggest name in video doorbells. With over five devices to choose from, and features ranging from two-way talk to infrared night vision with motion detection, it’s a solid choice for almost anyone.
Best Security System Integration
Best Intruder Prevention
Best Variety of Options
A lot of things happen at your front door. It’s where you and your guests enter your home, and where packages and mail get delivered. It’s also what most burglars try first when breaking in. That’s why we encourage front door security with doorbell cameras, since any old camera won’t do.
That’s why we spent about four months testing 22 doorbell cameras. ADT, SimpliSafe and Ring finished on top for their professional monitoring options. They’re also some of the top home security brands on the market. We’ll discuss some of our other top choices too so you can find the ideal option for your home’s security needs.
| System |
ADT Google Nest Doorbell
|
SimpliSafe Doorbell
|
Ring Doorbell
|
Vivint Doorbell
|
Google Nest Doorbell
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking |
1st
|
2nd
|
3rd
|
4th
|
5th
|
| SecureScore™ | 9.3 | 9.1 | 9.2 | 8.2 | 9.0 |
| Best Accolade | Best Security System Integration | Best Intruder Prevention | Best Variety of Options | Best Smart Home | Best Feature Set |
| Equipment Cost | $179.99 | $169.00 | Starting at $49.99 | $249.99 | $179.99 |
| Monthly Cost | Starting at $39.99 | Starting at $9.99 | Starting at $4.99 | Starting at $39.99 | Starting at $10 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Power | Battery | Wired | Battery, Wired, PoE | Wired | Wired |
| Field of View | 145° | 162° | 160° | 180° | 145° |
| Resolution | 960x1280 | 1080p | Up to 1536p | 1080p | 960x1280 |
| Storage | Cloud | Cloud | Cloud | Cloud | Cloud |
| Two-Way Audio | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Alexa Compatibility | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Google Home Compatibility | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Live View | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Night Vision | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 3 Years | 1 Year | 120 Days | 1 Year |
| Read Review | ADT Video Doorbell Review | SimpliSafe Doorbell Review | Ring Review | Vivint Doorbell Review | Nest Doorbell Review |
While Google Nest Doorbells are available as standalone products, they’re best used as part of an ADT security system. When we tested ADT, we were impressed with the way they put the Google Nest Doorbell’s advanced capabilities to use. Together, they are a potent solution for keeping your home safe from break-ins, intrusions, and other dangers which earned ADT a spot on our list of the best home security systems.
We bought an ADT package worth over $700 called the Front Door Package. It includes the Nest Doorbell (battery). Unfortunately, you can’t buy a single doorbell camera from ADT the way you can from Ring and Nest. That means you’re locked into spending at least $250 even if you build your own package.
We also signed up for an ADT plan that supports video features. That plan included video verification. When we ran our break-in simulations, ADT’s monitoring center checked our Nest footage every time and got back to us quickly.
The Nest Doorbell installed out front to catch everyone coming and going to our house.
On top of that, the video monitoring plan unlocked the Google Nest Doorbell’s facial recognition which powers ADT’s Trusted Neighbor feature. The Nest Doorbell uses facial recognition to identify visitors, while ADT confirms if they have permission to come in. If they do, it unlocks your smart lock and the system disarms. ADT will even lock the door and re-arm the system once they leave.
>> Read More: The Best Smart Locks of 2025
FYI: Just a disclaimer, you’ll need a professional monitoring plan to access those benefits. Prices start at $39.99 per month, but it’s well worth it as ADT offers the industry’s most reliable monitoring in our opinion. It also includes video verification, cloud storage, smart home features, and more.
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi |
|---|---|
| Power | Wired and battery |
| Field of View | Up to 135º |
| Resolution | 1080p |
| Storage | Limited local, cloud included |
| Smart Platform Compatibility | Alexa and Google Home |
Like ADT, SimpliSafe’s video doorbell works best when paired with a full SimpliSafe security system. We particularly like the way SimpliSafe monitoring agents can use its two-way speaker to actively scare off intruders when the outdoor camera’s AI identifies a threat. Just note, that capability requires a minimum $49.99 per month monitoring plan.
>> Learn About: SimpliSafe Security System Review 2025
We bought a comprehensive SimpliSafe security system to go with our Video Doorbell Pro.
The SimpliSafe video doorbell’s specs meet industry standards, but it’s not spectacular. It features 1080p HD resolution, infrared night vision, and two-way audio. We will say we like the 162-degree viewing angle that let us capture everything on our front porch. However, the biggest drawback is that its hardwired. That made the installation more difficult than the Google Nest Doorbell we got with our ADT system.
So again, its integration with SimpliSafe security systems is the real asset. If you pair cameras with a SimpliSafe monitoring plan, remote agents can visually verify all alerts to get emergency personnel on site fast. The catch is, you have to sign up for the Core monitoring plan, for $31.99 per month.
SimpliSafe’s Active Guard Outdoor Protection is even more proactive, but it requires their outdoor camera. When the outdoor camera’s AI detects a threat, agents access the outdoor camera and your video doorbell to talk the would-be thieves down. This feature comes with the Pro and Pro Plus plans which cost $49.99 and $79.99 per month, respectively.
>> Installation Guide: How to Install SimpliSafe’s Doorbell Camera
FYI: The Pro plan enables Active Guard overnight, from 8 pm to 6 am local time. The Pro Plus plan activates it 24/7. Both plans require at least one SimpliSafe outdoor camera, and the maximum number of cameras you can add to this feature is three (i.e. two outdoor cameras and one doorbell camera).
Ring is the company that invented the video doorbell and has remained committed to the technology. It continues to be one of the most dominant forces in the field. Unlike SimpliSafe and ADT, Ring offers eight different doorbell models that all work as standalone devices or integrate into a Ring Alarm system.
The Ring Doorbell came with everything we needed for an easy installation.
Whether you want an entry-level doorbell under $100 or a premium model with advanced features, Ring’s got you covered. They even offer more options than Lorex, including a few specialty doorbells like the Video Doorbell Elite we tested and the battery-powered Peephole Cam. Check out our Ring Doorbell Camera pricing guide for more options.
While that choice means Ring has something for everyone, it makes finding the right option for you more difficult. The good news is that all of their models include the core features we look for in a video doorbell including HD resolution, two-way talk, and one of our favorite home security apps.
For all their strengths, though, Ring doorbells do have their downsides. Their lackluster battery life is our biggest complaint. Our Ring doorbell rarely lasted longer than two months between charges, despite Ring advertising a 12 month battery life. Recharging batteries every 60 days isn’t the end of the world, but it’s not ideal either.
Pro Tip: Ring discounts surface pretty frequently. Make sure to bookmark our guide to Ring deals to stay on top of all the latest sales.
Vivint’s video doorbell is one of the best in the industry with its advanced Smart Deter feature that actively prevents crime. However, it doesn’t come cheap. Vivint's pricing starts at $599 with their doorbell camera costing upwards of $250. They also require monitoring and a long-term contract for most systems.
We set up our Vivint Video Doorbell Pro to turn on our porch lights when it detects people for full color night vision.
The Vivint video doorbell’s sleek, minimalist design screams high-tech, and that’s what it delivers. It offers top-of-the-line specs like a full 180-degree view of your front porch, HD resolution, and infrared night vision.
This doorbell camera’s more than just specs and is packed with intelligence, too. It integrates with Alexa, Google Home, and Vivint’s own smart hub. That integration allowed us to unlock our front door when our sister came over in the Vivint app. Still, The Smart Deter feature is our favorite as it watches over packages, sounding a siren and flashing a light if it detects a potential thief.
You can’t buy a better video doorbell than Vivint’s, but everything comes with a price. For Vivint, we mean that literally. At $250, Vivint’s video doorbell is one of the most expensive. They also require professional monitoring and most systems require a long-term contract. Whether or not it’s worth it comes down to your specific situation.
>> Check Out: Best Home Security Systems That Work With Alexa in 2025
Google Nest offers some of the smartest home products on the market. This is a company that’s designing a driverless car after all. Video doorbells are child’s play. HD video is a given. Package detection? Naturally. They even offer facial recognition. The only other company we’ve seen that from is Lorex, and that’s only with a few of their security cameras.
The sleek design of the Google Nest Doorbell could fit any modern home’s style.
While ADT only offers the wireless version of the Nest Doorbell, it’s actually available in both a wired and wireless configuration. They both cost $179.99, so we prefer the wireless option. However, if you’re up for a DIY wiring project, you’ll never need to charge the wired version which is a nice benefit. Buying through Google Nest also gives you two more color choices for a total of four colorways.
Sure colors and power options are nice, but the intelligence of the Google Nest Doorbell is what makes it stand out. That’s on full display with their notifications. Instead of simple motion detection, the Google Nest Doorbell tells you what and who it saw at our front door. When our Kindle arrived, it told us a package was delivered and then it told us when our neighbor walked by so we could ask them to bring our package in.
To access the full capabilities of the Google Nest Doorbell, you’ll need a Nest Aware subscription. This gives you cloud storage for video recordings, and other features like sound-based alerts. Google Nest’s pricing for subscriptions start at $10 per month, which is on-par with industry averages. The big drawback to the Google Nest Doorbell is the lack of a professional monitoring plan.
As the name suggests, a doorbell camera acts as a doorbell and a camera. Doorbell cameras, also called video doorbells, monitor your entryway. They deter porch pirates and other nefarious crimes like break-ins, burglaries, and home invasions as criminals know they’re more likely to get caught if they target a home with a doorbell camera.
Doorbell cams come in both hardwired and wireless options. With a wireless (battery operated) doorbell camera, setup is a cinch and you’ll be up and running in less than 30 minutes. Hardwired cameras take longer to set up, but you’ll never need to charge them once you finish the installation.
Also, most doorbell cameras come with a companion app, so you can control the features and functions via your smartphone, tablet, or even desktop computer. And the capabilities are nothing short of impressive. With many doorbell cameras, you can do anything up to and including:
Pro Tip: Not sure what to look for in a doorbell camera? Head over to our Doorbell Camera Buyer’s Guide to learn about the features and tech and other important info. It’s all there!
Nobody really needs a doorbell camera, but these nifty devices sure make life safer and more convenient. With this in mind, doorbell cams are more important than other tech gadgets like smart watches, TVs, and other smart home features.
Doorbell video cameras are ideal for those who:
It’s a good rule of thumb to expect the unexpected. You simply never know if and when a criminal is going to target your home. And a quality doorbell camera has stopped many-a-criminal in their tracks. So while you don’t necessarily need a doorbell camera, they are more than worth the money and highly recommended.
The law isn’t black-and-white and varies by jurisdiction, so we recommend checking with your apartment manager. They should have the most recent codes and laws on file. Then, ask for their permission in writing as well.
Once you get permission, also check with neighbors who might be impacted. Many apartment units are opposing, where doors face one another. In a way, your fancy new doorbell camera could be considered an infringement on your neighbor’s privacy. And the last thing you want is a disgruntled neighbor. Even if it’s not required by law, it’s best practice to run it by your neighbors before installing a doorbell camera.
Here we are mounting the Eufy Dual Video Doorbell at our front door.
Absolutely. They offer great value whether you’re adding one to an overall home security system or using it as a standalone device. It allows you to keep an eye on your home’s main entrance while deterring would-be intruders before they even step foot on your property.
One of the great parts about doorbell cameras is you don’t need to spend an arm and a leg if you don’t want to. Even the cheapest doorbell cameras can deter criminals. That’s not to say more expensive options aren’t worth it. The Eufy doorbell camera we tested, for instance, offers features that make it worth the premium price. Still, if you want to keep it cheap, Ring offers doorbell cameras for as little as $50.
Pro Tip: If you’re trying to keep your costs down, opt for a video doorbell that doesn’t require a subscription like the SkyBell doorbell camera we tested. Ring also doesn’t require a subscription. See how these two brands stack up in our Ring vs SkyBell comparison.
To find and rank the best doorbell cameras, our home security team tested 18 different video doorbell models. They spent at least three weeks with each model, assessing them based on the following key criteria:
Each member of our home security team that conducted these tests has years of experience in the home security industry. They’ve consulted with hundreds of homeowners to understand their real security needs and preferences. Then, they used that information to create these honest recommendations based on hands-on testing and the most common needs of end users like you.
Video doorbell cameras serve important functions. Of course, they keep you informed about who is coming to your house. They can also give you information on who is coming by your house but not coming to your door. The best video doorbells integrate with other smart home devices so you can connect what happens inside your house to what happens outside of it. Most importantly, though, they serve as a first line of defense, safeguarding you and your family from potential breaches. The truth is, every home needs one.
Luckily, most doorbell cameras are relatively inexpensive. They’re easy to install and use. So whether you choose ADT, SimpliSafe, Ring — or any of the other doorbell cameras that we reviewed — you can’t go wrong. In fact, at this point, we’re confident that you’re equipped with everything needed to make the right choice for you. What are you waiting for?
Video doorbells range in price all the way from $30 up to $350. We recommend a budget of at least $50 and feel we’re overpaying for any video doorbell that costs over $300.
Yes, most video doorbells work without a subscription. However, you’ll typically need to pay for a subscription if you want to record footage with your doorbell camera.
Not only can doorbell cameras integrate with a home security system, but we highly recommend it. A video doorbell bolsters the capabilities of your security system as it allows you to check what’s happening at your home’s main entryway during active alarms.
Whether a wired or wireless video doorbell will be better for you depends on your preferences. Wireless doorbell cameras are easier to install, require less tools, and oftentimes do not require any permanent modifications. Wired doorbell cameras take longer to install, but you’ll never have to worry about charging them.
Modern doorbell cameras are easy to install as long as you choose a reliable brand. They all provide detailed instructions and even wired doorbells only take about an hour to install. If you’re worried about the installation, opt for a wireless video doorbell as they only take about 15 to 30 minutes to install and set up.
