If you're thinking about upgrading your doorbell, one of the best wireless doorbells could be the ideal choice. Not only are they incredibly convenient, but they can also add a touch of personality to your front porch. If security is a concern, many wireless doorbells come with a built-in camera that allows you to monitor your property even when you're away.
Installing a wireless doorbell is typically an easy DIY project. They usually integrate seamlessly with other smart devices in your home, making them a great addition to any tech-savvy household.
If you're still unsure whether a wireless doorbell is right for you, take a look at our list of the best video doorbells, which offers a variety of options for both homeowners and renters. I'm a professional reviewer, and I have personally reviewed these doorbells (and plenty more that didn't make the list), so you can trust my suggestions pitch different brands and models against each other.
Whether you prioritize convenience and security or simply want to add a personal touch to your home, there's a wireless doorbell out there that's perfect for you. From battery-powered to dual-powered, there's a wide range of options available to suit your needs.
The quick list
The eufy Video Doorbell Dual has two cameras and 2-way communication, and it works with Google Assistant and Alexa. It has no hidden costs, captures a large area, and can differentiate between people, packages, and animals.
The Ring Video Doorbell 4 has a $20 color pre-roll feature, a consistent design, and a hassle-free setup. Its app allows for two-way communication with quick responses.
The Google Nest Doorbell Battery is modern, works seamlessly with smart home devices, and includes quick responses and package detection. Its 3:4 aspect ratio provides a longer view, and the app has privacy features.
The Toucan Video Doorbell has a built-in siren and emergency calls, works with Alexa and Google Assistant, and has a 180-degree view. The wireless chime alerts you with six sounds, and the app offers remote access with two-way audio and Pro Plan options.
The 2020 Ring Video Doorbell has 1080p video and basic features, with no battery release function. It is affordable, reliable, and easy to use, with two-way communication and real-time alerts.
The Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free requires a monthly subscription fee but has a built-in siren, customizable motion detection, and 1080p HD video. It also has a modern design, clear video, and refined talkback features.
The best wireless doorbells we recommend in 2024
Livingetc knows design. We spend hours testing and comparing the latest products, bringing only our edit of the very best to you. Find out more about how we review.
The best wireless doorbell overall
Buy it if
✅ You want wide-angle views: the eufy Video Doorbell Dual offers impressive views, ensuring you won't miss any outdoor activity.
✅ You don't want a subscription: the doorbell provides access to footage without a subscription, saving ongoing costs.
✅ You like a user-friendly design: The setup is straightforward, and the doorbell boasts a sleek design with inclusive features.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You don't have space for the Homebase: the eufy Homebase requires an ethernet connection to the router and lacks a mounting option, limiting its placement options.
❌ You're a Siri household: the eufy doorbell won't work with Apple's smart home system like it does Google and Alexa.
The bottom line
★★★★★ Our reviewer was impressed with the eufy Video Doorbell Dual. Its dual cameras and smart user interface made it stand out from other smart doorbells. The advanced features are all included without any hidden costs, and you can easily expand the system with additional eufy cameras and devices using the Homebase.
The eufy Video Doorbell Dual exceeded our expectations with its user-friendly design, inclusive features, and impressive wide-angle views. It ensures you won't miss any outdoor activity and provides access to footage without a subscription.
Setup: The eufy doorbell package includes everything you need, from mounting brackets and plugs to cables and screws. Setting up the Homebase requires a few extra steps, but it's straightforward. Once connected, you can easily add the doorbell to the eufy Security app and mount it securely for convenient recharging.
Design: The eufy Video Doorbell Dual boasts a sleek design with two cameras and a long-lasting battery. Its black body, reminiscent of other eufy models, surpasses Ring's offerings in terms of style. The addition of rose gold rings around the camera lenses elevates its appearance, making it the focal point for guests and visitors. When motion is detected, the doorbell's button illuminates blue, indicating that the area is under surveillance. The eufy Homebase features a compact white body with a small blue light, signaling its operational status. However, it requires an ethernet connection to the router and lacks a mounting option, limiting its placement options.
Performance: The eufy Video Doorbell Dual is notable for its unique dual-camera view in the app, providing a comprehensive floor-to-ceiling perspective. This feature facilitates easy package recognition and helps monitor activity around the front door. The device offers 2-way communication and preset quick responses, enhancing user interaction. Users can select from various chimes or rely on push notifications via the Homebase to customize alerts for different modes.
The doorbell also supports geofencing and scheduling for flexible mode settings. It can differentiate between people, packages, and animals, providing custom alerts and storing footage locally on the eufy Homebase without additional cloud storage fees. The doorbell even integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant for smart speaker functionality, and users can access live feeds using Chromecast.
Read more: eufy Smart Wi-Fi Dual Cam Video Doorbell review
The best wireless doorbell for pre-roll footage
Buy it if
✅ You want more security: the Ring 4 has enhanced security and convenience with the new pre-roll feature.
✅ You're familiar with Ring: the model is user-friendly and familiar to existing Ring device users.
✅ You hate laggy apps: The efficient Ring app has fast loading times, clear navigation, and reliable two-way audio.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You already have a Ring doorbell: existing Ring doorbell owners may not find the new features essential.
❌ You don't like the design: those seeking a slimmer option may prefer the Pro models or the Ring Video Doorbell Wired.
The bottom line
★★★★½ The Ring Video Doorbell 4 is a solid choice, offering seamless functionality and Alexa integration. While it doesn't significantly outperform its predecessors, the added pre-roll feature may justify its higher price for security-conscious users. It's a great entry point for new buyers but less enticing for Ring Video Doorbell 3 owners.
The Ring Video Doorbell 4 impresses with its new pre-roll feature, enhancing security and convenience. While not essential for existing Ring doorbell owners, it's a great option for those new to smart doorbells.
Setup: The Ring doorbell package includes a mounting bracket, charging cable, security stickers, screwdriver, and wiring. Install, charge the battery, download the app, pair the device, and mount the doorbell using the included accessories. The mount allows for flexible positioning, and the app provides installation guidance.
Design: The Ring Video Doorbell 4 maintains the same design as the 2nd and 3rd Gen models for brand consistency. The boxy device has a swappable Satin Nickel faceplate, a black base for wall mounting, and a blue-glowing button to signal its use. This design choice is advantageous for those familiar with Ring doorbells, while those seeking a slimmer option can explore the Pro models or the Ring Video Doorbell Wired. The camera is positioned at the top, and the device's iconic appearance remains unchanged, providing a sense of familiarity for existing Ring users.
Performance: The Ring Video Doorbell 4 is the latest entry-level model. It's user-friendly and familiar to those who have used Ring devices before. The app makes adjusting the motion detection zones easy, allowing for a customized experience. Testing the doorbell for deliveries, the pre-roll video feature proved useful in capturing events before the doorbell was rung. The Ring app remains efficient with fast loading times, clear navigation, and reliable two-way audio. The app also allows for quick reply messages to visitors.
Read more: Ring Video Doorbell 4 review
The best wireless doorbell for Google smart homes
Buy it if
✅ You have a Google smart home: there is seamless smart home integration with Google Assistant-powered devices.
✅ You want something sleek: the stylish and modern design is available in multiple colors.
✅ You want a choice: the convenient battery-powered or wired setups give flexibility.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want a wider view: video footage's unconventional 3:4 aspect ratio may not suit everyone.
❌ You don't want a subscription: an additional subscription is required to access advanced features like Familiar Faces recognition and extended video storage.
★★★★½ The Google Nest Doorbell Battery is a sleek and easy-to-set-up video doorbell that integrates seamlessly with other smart devices. While it lacks compatibility with non-Google chimes and some advanced features are behind a paywall, it still comes highly recommended as an excellent update to the original Nest Hello.
The Google Nest Doorbell Battery offers extensive features and seamless smart home integration but falls short of perfection due to minor issues.
Setup: Setting up the Google Nest Doorbell is quick and easy. Power it using the provided cable, download the app, and scan the QR code to add the device. The package includes all necessary accessories, and the battery-powered design offers flexibility. Note that even if not using screws, the doorbell must be attached to the silver base mount.
Design: The Google Nest Doorbell Battery exceeded our size expectations, but its sleek redesign makes it the most attractive doorbell we've tested. Unlike the bulky designs of other leading brands, this smart doorbell boasts a modern look. Although it's still made of plastic, it has a luxurious sheen and is available in Ash (grey), Ivy (bluey-green), Linen (beige), or Snow (white). The 3:4 aspect ratio of the footage is unconventional, yet we appreciate how the live view fills our entire phone screen in portrait mode, allowing us to see the full picture. This feature is especially useful for monitoring deliveries.
Performance: The Google Nest Doorbell Battery integrates seamlessly with our Google Assistant-powered smart home. Once added to our account, we set up our Google Home Mini to notify us when someone rings the doorbell. This feature is particularly useful for larger homes or those who may not always have a phone nearby. The doorbell also offers customizable pre-set messages for visitors and intelligent detection features such as package detection.
While the device's aspect ratio is optimized for capturing visitors and packages, its 6x zoom feature ensures a clear view. During our testing period, the battery level remained at 60%, with the app estimating another two months of battery life. Subscribing to Nest Aware provides access to advanced features such as Familiar Faces recognition and extended video storage.
Read more: Google Nest Doorbell Battery review
The best wireless doorbell on a budget
Buy it if
✅ You want those security features: despite its affordable price, the doorbell offers strong security features such as a wide field of view, two-way audio, and a siren.
✅ You want something easy: the doorbell has all the necessary items for charging and mounting, and the setup process is straightforward.
✅ You want customization: The doorbell offers six different chime sounds, flexible mounting options, and 24 hours of free video storage, so users can tailor their experience.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want something more stylish: the doorbell's design is unremarkable, and removing it to recharge may be inconvenient for some users.
❌ You want the best view: while the doorbell provides a wide perspective, it doesn't completely cover the immediate area in front of the door, which may be a concern for users looking for comprehensive coverage.
❌ You appreciate a good app: some users may find the app's interface on certain devices, such as the iPhone SE, less than ideal.
The bottom line
★★★★½ The TOUCAN Video Doorbell impresses with its affordable price and extensive features, including a built-in siren and emergency contact capabilities. While the design is simple and the app interface could be more stylish, the added security and smart home convenience make it a worthwhile purchase. An optional subscription offers video footage access.
The TOUCAN Wireless Video Doorbell offers impressive security features despite its budget-friendly price. While its design is unremarkable, its strong performance compensates for aesthetic shortcomings.
Setup: Setting up the TOUCAN Video Doorbell is a breeze, with all necessary items for charging and mounting clearly labeled in the package. The kit includes the doorbell, chime, AA batteries, charging cable, sticky strips, screwdriver, screws, rawlplugs, mounting bracket, and security stickers. Just download the Toucan app, insert the batteries, and mount using screws or sticky strips.
Design: The Toucan Video Doorbell has a simple black and white design with a blue light indicating motion detection. It's smaller than leading competitors but has the drawback of needing to be removed for recharging. The accompanying wireless chime is convenient and portable, unlike others that require separate plugs. However, the app's user interface on iPhone SE appears squished, although it doesn't affect functionality.
Performance: The Toucan Video Doorbell features a 4:4 square image with a 180-degree field of view, providing a wider perspective of the surroundings. While it doesn't completely cover the immediate area in front of the door, it makes it more challenging for porch pirates to go unnoticed. Despite its price, it offers numerous useful features, such as two-way audio, remote access to live feed, quick responses, and a siren. Including a siren and the option to call an emergency number directly from the interface enhances its security capabilities.
The doorbell also offers customization options with six different chime sounds and the flexibility to use tape for mounting instead of permanent installation. It also provides 24 hours of free video storage, with subscription plans offering added features like extended storage, recording bookmarks, and adding multiple users to the account.
Read more: Toucan Video Doorbell review
The best Ring doorbell if you don't need advanced features
Buy it if
✅ You want something basic: the doorbell offers reliable
1080p video quality for monitoring your doorstep.
✅ You want real-time alerts and 2-way communication: features work flawlessly, and you will receive prompt notifications of any activity.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want convenient charging: the doorbell lacks a battery release function.
❌ You want up-to-date features: depending on your specific needs, it may lack some of the advanced features of newer models.
The bottom line
★★★★ The 2020 standard Ring Video Doorbell provides reliable and affordable smart doorbell features, including 1080p video quality and two-way communication. However, it lacks a convenient battery release function, and its battery is non-replaceable. Nonetheless, it offers straightforward setup, real-time alerts, and seamless two-way communication, making it a budget-friendly choice.
The 2020 Ring Video Doorbell offers reliable 1080p video, two-way communication, and real-time alerts. It lacks a convenient battery release function but is budget-friendly.
Setup: Installing the Ring Video Doorbell is simple. The straightforward process involves using the easy-to-navigate app and following clear instructions. Everything you need for installation comes in the box, making it a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Design: The second-generation Ring Video Doorbell has a sleek, modern design and a compact build, making it visually appealing and unobtrusive when installed. Its weather-resistant casing ensures durability, while the interchangeable faceplates allow customization to suit different home aesthetics. The doorbell also integrates a motion-activated camera and a doorbell button.
Performance: The 2nd generation Ring Video Doorbell delivers reliable and convenient home security features with solid performance. It offers clear and sharp 1080p HD video quality for monitoring your doorstep. The two-way communication function works seamlessly, and real-time alerts mean you are promptly notified of any activity at your door. While it may lack some of the advanced features of newer models, the 2nd gen Ring Video Doorbell remains a dependable and cost-effective option for those seeking a reliable smart doorbell solution without spending a lot.
The best 2K wireless doorbell
Buy it if
✅ You want effortless installation: the doorbell is easy to install and has all the necessary hardware.
✅ You need excellent image quality: it offers high-definition video and clear two-way audio, providing a great user experience.
✅ You want instant notifications: the doorbell provides instant notifications when the button is pressed, improving security and convenience.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want something smaller: some users may find the dimensions of the doorbell larger than preferred.
❌ You need fast charging: a full charge takes around five hours, which may be longer for some users.
The bottom line
★★★★ We are impressed with the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free due to its cost, features, and easy installation. The video quality and two-way talkback are excellent. Although the monthly subscription is a drawback, the features justify the cost. The only downside is the bulky design, which may not suit period properties.
The Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free, powered by a battery, is effortless to install and features excellent HD video and clear two-way audio. It's among the few wire-free video doorbells that can call your phone or smart speaker when someone is at the door and offers a wide 180-degree view.
Setup: The package includes the doorbell unit, rechargeable battery, charging cable, wall mounting screw kit, battery release pin, and quick-start guide. It comes with flat or angled mounting plates for the best view. Installing the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free is easy; simply charge the battery, then attach the doorbell unit using the provided hardware.
Design: The Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free in white is a stylish and modern option that complements a 1960s property with its simple design and sleek finish. Its large circular button and camera above it make for a contemporary look, although some may find its dimensions a bit larger than preferred. The doorbell's wire-free feature allows for easy battery removal and charging, taking around five hours for a full charge. However, it's important to note that the camera isn't waterproof when the battery is removed, requiring the camera and battery to be taken indoors for charging.
Performance: Our reviewer had recently installed an Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Security Camera at the review property, so they opted for a different perspective of the front of the house with the doorbell. They noticed that the doorbell offers better quality talkback than the security camera, and the daytime video footage is much clearer. The video footage, both during the day and at night, was excellent in quality.
The doorbell also provides instant notifications when the button is pressed, which is a significant improvement compared to other video security products we've tested that often had a lag in notifications.
Read more: Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free review
Will my wireless doorbell work with Alexa/Google Home?
Compatibility with your smart home hub will depend on the wireless doorbell you buy, but, generally speaking, Ring doorbells will always work with Amazon Alexa smart speakers and displays. The same goes for Ring Alarms and other security products, as they all come under the same banner.
Similarly, Nest products come from Google and will work well with a Google-branded doorbell. Anything else will vary, so it's important to check before buying.
Once set up, we love how some of the best wireless doorbells work with smart displays, such as the Echo Show or Nest Hub, allowing you to see what's happening outside from the comfort of your kitchen or bedroom.
Are video doorbells safe?
Many are concerned—and for a good reason—about the security implications of essentially strapping a surveillance device to the front of your home, but there are many protections in place to prevent things from getting dystopian.
We recommend going for a well-known brand so as not to fall foul of a device that's more vulnerable to hackers. Set a strong password when signing up, always download software updates when they are released, and make sure all settings are correct for your needs.
All this said, smart doorbells could form an essential part of a home security system, adding an affordable camera that can detect motion and send alerts directly to your device when something untoward happens.
Are wireless doorbells worth it?
Whether you opt for a chime-only doorbell or a smart video doorbell that doubles as a security device, you may wonder whether investing in a wireless doorbell is worth it. After all, a traditional ringer has served you well up to this point.
Wireless doorbells offer convenience, first and foremost, allowing you to place your device anywhere (as long as it's near your Wi-Fi signal or indoor chime). This, combined with the smarts of modern releases from Google and Ring, makes the best wireless doorbells an affordable way to incorporate your front door into a wider smart home system.
How we test the best wireless doorbells
The products chosen for this guide have all been tested by our writers and editors, with decades of experience between them. Unless otherwise stated, all of the products we recommended have been independently reviewed in real-home environments to ensure that our readers get the most honest, relevant information possible. Where possible, links to more in-depth reviews are also provided so you can read more about what we thought during the testing process.
The best wireless doorbells are chosen based on various criteria, including affordability, video quality, ease of setup and use, app performance, compatibility with wider smart home systems, and more.
-
What We’re Coveting From Habitat This Entertaining SeasonFind the pieces on our nice list this year at this exclusive pop-up...
-
Cups, But Sexy — The Only 6 Sipping Essentials You Need This Hosting SeasonPour into cups for every holiday occasion and get ready to charm, surprise, and delight your guests
-
Spotted: Fornasetti Plates Are 30% Off at Saks Fifth Avenue — Run, Don't Walk, to Snap up This Iconic CollectionIf you have ever wanted to have a Fornasetti piece in your home, now is the time to buy the Italian brand's icon face-themed decor
-
I've Always Wanted One of Joanna Gaines' Stylish Rugs, and I've Just Found Them on Sale — These Are the Styles I'm Tossing UpIt's the perfect way to add a stylish touch of old-world-money to your interiors without having to actually spend too much
-
It's a Trade Secret! This Store Is Where Interior Designers Buy Their Bath Mats, and They're On Sale NowWe know you already love H&M's candles and vases, so it's time to get on board with their bathmats, especially now that they are 30% off
-
51 Stocking Stuffers for Less Than $50 (From an Editor Who's Been Doing This for Two Decades, Now)Our executive editor knows a stylish stocking stuffer when he sees one, and lately, he's seen a lot of them
-
15 Black Friday Furniture Deals For Your Living Room — Stolen Straight From Our Editors' Shopping CartsPut your trust in our stylish team of editors this Black Friday and shop from their living room furniture picks
-
I'm a Travel Editor — These Are the On-Sale Coffee Table Books to Gift to Loved Ones With WanderlustForget ordinary destination guides: our curated edit of volumes for design-minded travelers brings you unexpected stories from across the world, told from fresh, captivating perspectives
-
Boring But Beautiful — 6 Sexy Kitchen Essentials You'll Want to Show Off, Not Hide AwayI've decided to scour the internet and find some of the best deals to make your hosting season stress-free and truly chic
-
West Elm's Faux Fur Throws Are Better Than the Real Deal — And Less Than $70 for Black FridayWest Elm’s faux fur throws are the ultimate universal gift — even if you’re gifting yourself
