Best video doorbells: 5 options for keeping an eye on the porch

A video doorbell can make you feel safe when you’re away from home. Keep an eye on when the kids get home, when packages are delivered or whether any of your neighbors are porch pirates.

But not all video doorbells are made equal. Some are better at night vision, while others provide higher-quality daytime recordings. Tap or click for secret uses for your home security system.

We found five fantastic video doorbell options for the best recording features, simple installation, audio options and more.

1. Connect your network

SimpliSafe Doorbell Pro

Our sponsor, SimpliSafe, is known for its advanced home security options. The Video Doorbell Pro can connect to every SimpliSafe sensor in your home. When it detects any activity by your door, all your cameras start to record for different angles around your home. This video doorbell records in 1080p HD, offers HDR imaging, 2-way audio, infrared night vision, motion alerts, control to pan and zoom, a 162-degree wide-angle field of view and a door chime. All you need for it to work is a good Wi-Fi connection and an existing doorbell setup.

Promising review: "Easy set up. Picture quality is good. The motion is sensitive but I’d rather it over sensitive than not picking stuff up. Mic is good both in and out. Great product. Easy to pair with internet and app."

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$169.99 on Amazon.com

2. Advanced motion detection

Ring Video Doorbell Wired

This Ring Video Doorbell Wired records in 1080p HD video and offers advanced motion detection, two-way audio, 2.4 GHz connectivity and customizable privacy settings. All recorded video is saved for up to 60 days, and if you sign up for the Ring Protection Plan, you can share videos and photos. Connect to Alexa for verbal alerts on compatible Echo devices or watch a live stream on any Echo devices with screens. The advanced motion detector notifies you when someone has arrived before reaching your front door.

Promising review: "Even though my existing doorbell location is not in an ideal location, the cost of the device and the relative ease of installation made this purchase an easy decision. I am very happy with the results. We have lost the [original] doorbell chime but an announcement is made on our Alexa devices..."

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$38.99 on Amazon.com

3. Connect to Alexa

Ring Video Doorbell 3

Ring video doorbells connect to your other Alexa devices around the house, which gives you potential access to your video doorbell from every room in your home. The Ring Video Doorbell 3 is a wireless option powered by rechargeable batteries, though it can connect to pre-existing doorbell wires for constant power. Use the Ring app for easy setup, receive mobile notifications when the built-in motion sensors detect anyone near your door and enjoy audio privacy and dual-band connectivity when someone rings the doorbell.

Promising review: "I installed the device yesterday. It works GREAT and it is simple to set up. Soon we'll look into getting more devices for better home security.

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$149.99 on Amazon.com

4. 1:1 aspect ratio

Arlo Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell

Many video doorbells skew the aspect ratio to reveal a broader or taller view, but the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell boasts a 180-degree view with a 1:1 aspect ratio. This allows you to get a clear picture of the people who come to your door. You can also enjoy HD video with HDR images, quick responses to your smartphone so you can speak and listen to whoever is at your door, or use a pre-recorded quick reply message when you're busy at work or away.

Promising review: "This video doorbell was super easy to install and very easy to use. We love the way it ties to Alexa and we can view it from our Echo Show and Fire TV 4K cube on our main TV. The viewing angle is also fantastic, it covers our entire front porch and most of our front yard. Great device, completely recommend."

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On Amazon.com

5. Listen for the chime

Wyze Video Doorbell with Chime

The Wyze Video Doorbell with Chime delivers instant notifications, so you never accidentally miss a visitor, delivery driver or potential burglar. When receiving a notification, use your smartphone to pull up a live stream of the person at your door in 1080p HD video with a 3:4 aspect ratio. This doorbell lights up brightly at night, so you know who or what is skulking around outside, and you can set up the chime to go off with each notification.

Promising review: "Easy to install. I’ve been happy with pretty much all Wyze has to offer. The big plus for me is having everything in one app. Doorbell, cameras thermostat, smart plugs, etc. Also, the number one thing for me is price and Wyze makes a good product that is affordable."

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$39.98 on Amazon.com