Here are some tips for choosing a Smart Doorbell Camera

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Here are some tips for choosing a Smart Doorbell Camera Smart homes are a natural extension to home connectivity and the technology that you use to live comfortably. Smart doorbell cameras, on the other hand, are catching up in terms if features and capabilities that can prove useful for both homeowners as well as renters. Smart doorbell cameras make it easier and more accessible than traditional doorbell cameras. Your phone can be used to answer the door remotely, receive packages or confirm that your guests have arrived safely. The basic capabilities of a smart doorbell camera need to be met. As long as you have a smartphone with strong signal, you will be able to stay connected. The upgrade options will allow you to choose between models or brands.

Connectivity Your front porch camera must connect to your WiFi at minimum and provide an easy-to use interface for streaming video. You can also link other smart devices like tablets and smartphones to one doorbell camera. You should look for a doorbell camera which can connect you even when you are away. Some smarter options offer push notifications for doorbell ringing or active porches to make you feel connected even if you're miles away.

Integration You may already have an assistant or system for home automation that you love. Make sure all Wi-Fienabled new devices can connect to this device. You can receive voice alerts from your smart homebell even if your phone is not nearby. You should choose a smart-compatible doorbell to match your home system.

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Wireless vs. wired The wiring capabilities of your front door will dictate whether or not you purchase a wired or battery powered doorbell camera. You can install a wired camera if you have existing electric doorbell wiring to your front doorframe. You may have to install battery-powered models if you don't have wired access to your doorbell camera. The battery life of wireless doorbell cameras can be short. Manufacturers may recommend using rechargeable batteries. However, if you need something more practical, having your front door wired is an option. You don't have to change batteries and your front door feeds will never go out of order if the power goes out. Some wired doorbell cameras also have battery backups.

Night vision Night vision is important, especially during winter when the daylight is short and the sun sets earlier. Night vision allows you to see outside of your home, even if someone is sneaking up on you. A camera should have a 180o view, night vision and easy day/night switching. For night vision, front porch lights or house motion-activated lighting may be too bright. A camera that switches between different light conditions is required.

Interaction Smart doorbell cameras do more than passively monitor your front door. You can answer your front door from anywhere. This is why two-way audio is necessary. Two-way communication allows you to greet visitors, send postal carriers, or direct house sitters and dog walkers to your hidden key.

Motion Sensing A doorbell camera must have motion detection. Your doorbell camera can detect motion and notify you when someone is on your porch. Your front door could have a motion-activated camera that captures

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wildlife. It is possible to check if pranksters "doorbell ditching", before they ring your front doorbell. A doorbell camera can be used to filter out wind-blown debris, pedestrians and lawn decorations. Some cameras can also record motion detection.

Recording Storage: Cloud or Local Your doorbell camera choice could be made or broken by the ability to view recordings afterward. If you have packages that go missing or your property is frequented, it is important to be able to replay recorded snippets. Cloud storage is required by most doorbell camera manufacturers. Cloud storage may not offer you many options for archiving your recordings. Look for companies that offer monthly rates if you wish to preserve your video. Most people find 30 days to be sufficient. Be mindful of storage time. You want an app that is easy to use and allows you to find the date and time quickly. You don't need a monthly subscription. Instead, you can choose a doorbell camera which records locally. These options include in-camera storage, which allows you to review previous recordings without the need for a cloud subscription. This will save you money on short-term storage.

Installation You can find many DIY doorbell cameras that are easy to install. These cameras are typically batteryoperated but you may be able wire one yourself if you have the necessary skills. Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions. If you don't have one, consider hiring someone to install it. You can save money by purchasing a service that includes installation along with a doorbell camera. The local installers are familiar with the products and will help you get set up quickly.

Associated Security and Monitoring Products These doorbell cameras can be used as a standalone product in certain situations. They are not part of any home security system. To keep your home safe and secure, other smart home devices such as doorbell cameras can be used together. You can add additional devices to your home by selecting a doorbell camera which works with an interconnected suite of home security technology. You also have the option of Wi-Fi-connected garage doors, smart locks, outdoor cameras, and other smart home products, as well as your favorite smart assistant.

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