When caring for an elderly parent, security and ease of access are key considerations. A smart video doorbell can provide peace of mind, allowing you to monitor visitors remotely while offering a simple and accessible way for your loved one to answer the door. But with so many options available, which one is the best fit?
We’ve looked at several popular video doorbells and weighed up their pros and cons to help you make an informed choice.
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1. Ring Doorbell Plus
The Ring Doorbell Plus is a high-end option, offering crisp 1536p HD video and a wide field of view, making it one of the most advanced models available. It’s perfect for those who want a premium security solution that integrates seamlessly with Alexa and other smart home systems. If you’re looking for a reliable, feature-packed doorbell, this is one of the best choices.
Pros:
✔️ High-quality video – 1536p HD resolution for clear images.
✔️ Wide field of view – See more of your visitor and doorstep.
✔️ Two-way talk – Communicate remotely via the app.
✔️ Advanced motion detection – Customisable alerts to reduce false alarms.
✔️ Works with Alexa – Seamless integration for voice commands.
Cons:
❌ Requires a subscription – Full access to video history requires a Ring Protect plan.
❌ Installation may require wiring – While battery-powered, it can be wired for consistent power.
❌ Pricey – One of the more expensive options.
🏆 Best for: Those looking for a premium smart doorbell with high video quality and reliability.
2. Ring Doorbell Battery
If you love the Ring ecosystem but don’t want the hassle of wiring, the Ring Doorbell Battery is a great alternative. It offers wireless installation, two-way talk, and motion alerts, making it an excellent choice for renters or those who want an easy-to-use, fully rechargeable smart doorbell.
Pros:
✔️ Fully wireless – Easy to install anywhere.
✔️ Two-way talk – Speak to visitors remotely.
✔️ Motion alerts – Get notified when someone approaches.
✔️ Rechargeable battery – No need for a constant power source.
✔️ Works with Alexa – Hands-free control.
Cons:
❌ Lower video resolution than Ring Plus – 1080p instead of 1536p.
❌ Battery life depends on usage – Frequent motion detection may mean more recharging.
❌ Limited features without a subscription – No recorded history unless subscribed to Ring Protect.
🏆 Best for: Those wanting a trusted Ring product but needing a fully wireless, budget-friendly option.
3. Tapo Doorbell
The Tapo Doorbell is a cost-effective alternative to Ring, offering 2K video resolution and local storage options, so you’re not tied into a subscription. It’s a solid choice for those who want high-quality video without ongoing costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Pros:
✔️ Affordable alternative to Ring – Competitive features at a lower price.
✔️ Local storage option – No mandatory subscription for video storage.
✔️ High-resolution video – 2K clarity.
✔️ Weatherproof – Suitable for all weather conditions.
✔️ Works with Google Assistant & Alexa – Smart home compatibility.
Cons:
❌ Battery model not as powerful as wired options – May require frequent recharging.
❌ Limited ecosystem compared to Ring – Fewer integrations with other security products.
❌ Motion detection not as advanced – Can result in false alarms.
🏆 Best for: Those seeking a good balance between affordability and quality, with no long-term subscription commitments.
4. Aqara Doorbell
For Apple users, the Aqara Doorbell is one of the few models that fully supports HomeKit, making it a seamless addition to an Apple-based smart home setup. It also offers facial recognition and local storage options, so you’re not locked into a monthly plan.
Pros:
✔️ Apple HomeKit compatible – Great for Apple users.
✔️ Facial recognition – AI-powered alerts for known visitors.
✔️ No subscription required – Free storage options available.
✔️ Two-way talk and motion detection – Essential features included.
✔️ Wide field of view – Captures more of the doorstep.
Cons:
❌ Not as widely supported as Ring or Google – Best suited for Apple users.
❌ Limited third-party integrations – Fewer smart home compatibility options.
❌ Complex setup – Requires additional Aqara hub for full functionality.
🏆 Best for: Apple HomeKit users who want a subscription-free doorbell with advanced AI features.
5. Moes Doorbell
The Moes Doorbell is a budget-friendly option that offers the essentials—two-way talk, motion alerts, and cloud storage—at a fraction of the price of premium brands. It’s ideal for those who need basic security without breaking the bank.
Pros:
✔️ Budget-friendly – Lower price than premium brands.
✔️ Wireless design – No complex installation.
✔️ Two-way talk & motion alerts – Communicate with visitors from your phone.
✔️ Cloud and local storage options – No mandatory subscription.
✔️ Smart assistant compatibility – Works with Alexa & Google Assistant.
Cons:
❌ Lower video quality – Not as crisp as higher-end models.
❌ Fewer advanced security features – Lacks AI detection or facial recognition.
❌ App usability varies – Some users report connectivity issues.
🏆 Best for: Budget-conscious buyers looking for a simple, no-frills smart doorbell.
Which Smart Doorbell is Best for You?
Choosing the right video doorbell depends on what matters most to you:
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🏅 Best Overall: Ring Doorbell Plus – A premium option with top-tier features.
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💰 Best Budget-Friendly: Moes Doorbell – A cost-effective, no-subscription choice.
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🎥 Best Video Quality: Tapo Doorbell – 2K clarity without a hefty price tag.
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🍏 Best for Apple Users: Aqara Doorbell – Seamless HomeKit integration.
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🔋 Best for Fully Wireless Use: Ring Doorbell Battery – Reliable, rechargeable, and user-friendly.
A video doorbell can make life easier and safer for your loved one, reducing the stress of unexpected visitors while ensuring you're always connected, no matter where you are.
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This article may contain affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase via these links, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also receive compensation from partners for featuring their products, which supports the continued running of Carents.co.uk and our services at no cost to users. We only suggest products we genuinely believe may help. Carents accepts no responsibility for the quality, safety, or suitability of any third-party products. If you choose to make a purchase you do so at your own risk.Got a product to recommend? Email us at hello@carents.co.uk.