How Do Doorbell Cameras Work?

Doorbell cameras have become an essential part of every home, not only for security reasons but also for convenience. It’s a must-have for every home to keep an eye on the visitors and communicate with them remotely.
In this article, we will explain how doorbell cameras work. We will go through the working process and explain why you should install them in your home. We will also share some excellent doorbell camera recommendations along with their features.
What Is A Doorbell Camera?
A doorbell camera is a device that works like a doorbell and a security camera at the same time. It is placed at the front door just like a doorbell. It has a built-in lens for recording videos. It can also record the voice of the person in front of the camera and facilitate two-way communication with the house owner.
A doorbell camera is a smart device that alerts the homeowner if someone is at the door. It can sense the motion and send real-time alerts to the connected devices. At the same time, it rings the chime connected to the doorbell. Thus, it is a combo of a doorbell and a security camera.
How Do Doorbell Cameras Work?
A doorbell camera is connected to the internet via Wi-Fi or a wired Ethernet connection. Through this network, it can offer remote access to users and display a live feed of the camera, send notifications, and more. It gets power through a built-in battery, a DC adapter, or an Ethernet cable.
When someone rings the bell or motion is detected, the camera starts recording the video. The chime inside the house rings and alerts the user. A real-time alert is sent to the connected devices via the internet. The user can use the compatible application to answer the door. He can see the live video of the camera and talk to the person through the built-in speaker and microphone. The recorded video is stored in the local or cloud storage, and the user can access it anytime.
How Long Do Doorbell Cameras Record?
Most doorbell cameras work in motion detection mode. When they detect any motion, they start the recording. People usually interact with the doorbell for a short period. Therefore, users can set the recording duration from 15 seconds to 2 minutes for an event. They can also set the recording to as long as the person is in front of the doorbell.
Some doorbell cameras, usually the wired ones, can record continuously. They get continuous power and can record 24/7, no matter if the motion is detected or not.
Why to Use a Video Doorbell?
Doorbell cameras are essential for security. Not only do they alert the user if someone is at the door but they also record every moment. Users can talk to the person before unlocking the door. The recording also helps in keeping an eye on the visitors, delivery guys, etc.
These cameras keep intruders away. And criminals do not dare to commit any unlawful acts when they see the camera. It acts as a deterrent and a security device. Most importantly, users can answer the door remotely using the doorbell camera. They can talk to the person from any location and convey their message.
Best Video Doorbell Recommendation
Reolink Video Doorbell Wi-Fi
Reolink Video Doorbell Wi-Fi is a compact smart doorbell that gets continuous power through an adapter. It works on dual-band Wi-Fi to offer fast and reliable connectivity. It captures videos in 2K+ (5MP) resolution, which ensures exceptional clarity and detail. It also features brilliant night vision, allowing for clear video recording at night.
It can detect objects and smartly distinguish between people and vehicles. It can also detect parcels to safeguard them against intruders and thieves. It is quite easy to install and also comes with a chime. It’s an IP65-rated doorbell that works in all weather conditions.
Smart 5MP Video Doorbell with Chime
5MP Super HD Day & Night, Person Detection, 2.4/5 GHz Dual-Band WiFi, 180° Diagonal Viewing Angle, Two-Way Audio, Rich Notification.
Reolink Video Doorbell PoE
Reolink Video Doorbell PoE is an extremely reliable doorbell camera. It is connected to your router or PoE switch via an Ethernet cable for power and networking. It smartly detects objects in its field of view and sends real-time alerts to connected devices. The best part is that it offers continuous recording without any subscription or monthly fee.
The camera records videos in 2K+ resolution and is also equipped with night vision. Thus, it captures clear and detailed videos all day. It supports real-time alerts and conversations with the person at the door. Users can also set quick replies to answer the door faster.
Smart 5MP Video Doorbell with Chime
5MP Super HD, Person Detection, Power over Ethernet, 180° Diagonal Viewing Angle, Two-Way Audio, High-Quality Night Vision.
Reolink Video Doorbell Battery
Reolink Video Doorbell Battery is a completely wireless doorbell. It has a 7,000mAh battery that can last up to 5 months. And it uses your home Wi-Fi for networking. The dual-band Wi-Fi support ensures a lag-free experience.
It captures videos in 2K (4MP) resolution. It is also equipped with HDR technology to offer vivid colors in all lighting conditions. It can smartly detect persons, vehicles, and parcels and send quick alerts to the devices. It is compatible with Reolink NVR/Home Hub. You can also connect with your smart home system and operate it hands-free.
Smart 2K Dual-Band Wi-Fi Battery Doorbell
2K 4MP Head-to-Toe View; Person/Vehicle/Package Detection; Works with Reolink Home Hub & Wi-Fi NVR; 5/2.4GHz Dual-Band Wi-Fi.
FAQs
Do doorbell cameras have a monthly fee?
It depends on the doorbell camera you are using. Some require a monthly subscription, while others do not charge any fee. The Reolink doorbell cameras we have shared do not have any monthly fees or subscriptions.
What are the disadvantages of doorbell cameras?
Doorbell cameras require an internet connection to offer remote live feed and access. If there is an issue with the internet, they won’t work properly. Secondly, people have privacy concerns about the stored recordings and recording public/neighbor’s properties.
What activates a doorbell camera?
Doorbell cameras have a PIR sensor that detects the motion of objects. When motion is detected, the camera activates and begins recording.
Does a doorbell camera record all the time?
Doorbell cameras offer various recording modes to suit different needs. Continuous recording captures footage 24/7, allowing you to monitor all activity at any time. Motion-triggered recording activates only when movement is detected near the doorbell, helping conserve storage by focusing on key events. Scheduled recording lets you set specific times for the camera to operate. However, not all models support every mode.
Conclusion
Doorbell cameras are a kind of smart doorbell. They not only ring the chime but also record the video of the person and facilitate two-way communication. They have a built-in camera, microphone, and speaker. They also have storage to store videos. Users can view the live feed of their front door from anywhere and communicate with the person at the door through the app.
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