The Best Wireless Doorbells for 2022
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Best Wireless Doorbell
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Technology for the humble doorbell has greatly improved in recent years beyond just the standard bell notification. They now offer a simple and easy way to add a range of alert options and convenient smart tech to your home.
To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best wireless doorbells currently available.
UPDATED: February 1, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the Ring Video Doorbell because it includes a 1080p HD video camera, microphone, and speaker to communicate with visitors in real-time from anywhere on your phone.
What is a wireless doorbell?
One of the main benefits of wireless doorbells is that they can be installed quickly and easily. The specific installation varies by manufacturer but typically the doorbell (transmitter) is attached to the exterior of the house and the receiver (the unit that produces the chime) is plugged into a standard outlet. The receiver then wirelessly connects to the battery-powered doorbell, so no wiring is required as with older systems.
RELATED: The Best Keyless Door Locks
Here of some features and components to be aware of when selecting a specific model:
Video Capabilities
Some of these smart doorbells are equipped with cameras that have the ability to record and provide live video. The recording can be activated in a range of ways including motion and pressing of the button. For the motion activation, a sensor detects movement near the doorbell and begins recording. This is helpful for package deliveries when the item is simply being dropped off at the front door. The sensor sensitivity should be adjustable so that it isn't providing a lot of false positives. In other words, you don't want hours of video recording the tree moving outside.
Another option is to activate when the button is pressed. This is a fairly straightforward option that will only record if someone is actively pressing the doorbell. This is helpful to see who was at the door but unlike the motion sensor, it doesn't provide any video if they don't actually use the button.
The Ring doorbell, for example, will also provide a live video of what is happing in front of the camera. This is a really cool feature that acts as a security camera in real-time. The video is viewed through an app on your smartphone which means you can check it out from anywhere, not just within your home. So if you are at work or on vacation you can check what is happening outside of your house.
Microphones and Speakers
Some doorbells have built-in microphones and speakers that allow you to communicate with visitors. This is done via the smartphone app so it allows you to talk to someone at your door even if you are not at home. In addition, if you are home, is a nice safety feature as it allows you to communicate with someone without actually having to open the door.
Receiver Features
The receiver is the device that is located in your home that gets the signal from the doorbell and produces the chime. This can be powered in several different ways depending on the model. Some simply plug into a wall outlet, this makes for a quick and easy install but does limit the location to where an outlet is available. However, this means that it will always be taking up a wall outlet.
The maximum distance the receiver can be placed from the doorbell will vary by manufacturer. The standard maximum range currently available is typically around 1,000 feet for proper operation. Given the size of the average home, even the limited range units should not have a problem exceeding the limits.
The receiver can also be battery powered which allows for unlimited placement options as long it is within the transmitter range. However, as with all batteries, they will either need to be charged or replaced when needed.
Chime Options
As mentioned above the receiver creates the chime to let you know someone is at the door. These modern units offer the ability to change the chime volume so that you can set it to your desired level. For example, if you are often upstairs you may want it set to a higher volume.
Most devices come with dozens of different chime options so you can find the one that works best for you. Some even allow you to upload your own chime as an MP3 for unlimited customization options.
Some receivers that are equipped with lights have the option of producing a silent flashing indicator when the doorbell is activated. This silent option is great for not disturbing kids or pets and can provide a visual alert for people with hearing impairments.
Color Options
Both the receiver and doorbell for most units are offered in a variety of colors to suit your interior and exterior design preferences. One thing I noticed with my own front door is that it is best to go with lighter colors. I found that using dark hardware on my door made it almost impossible to see the lock at night. The same goes for a doorbell, a lighter color will generally show up better in low light conditions. That being said, many of these doorbells do come with an illuminated button so it is less of an issue locating it at night.
Weatherproof Rating
Since these doorbells spend their lives outdoors it is important that they are weatherproof to avoid damage over time. The standard rating system is known as the IP Code (Ingress Protection Code) and is published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This IP Code or rating establishes the amount of protection provided against the intrusion of dust and water. This system is used to provide specific values to help clarify the rather vague terms of waterproof, weatherproof, and water-resistant.
The most common rating for these doorbells is IP55. The first number refers to solid particle protection. In this case, a “5” means it is protected from the ingress of dust that may interfere with the operation. The second number refers to the protection from water. In this case, an IP55 has a rating of “5”. The exact definition is that can withstand a 1/4” jet of water from any angle. Typically we call this a “water-resistant” rating meaning it can withstand outdoor conditions but not be completely submerged in water.
Installation and Mounting
Despite the name, some of these wireless transmitters have a hardwire option. Hardwiring is going to be a relatively simple option if you are replacing an existing doorbell. However, if it is a new installation it will be more involved as it will require running a wire.
The battery option is either a rechargeable setup that requires removing it from the doorbell or uses just standard replaceable batteries.
Most models have the option of simply sticking the doorbell to the exterior wall with double-sided tape. While convenient, this should be avoided because someone could simply walk up and steal it off the wall. If possible, the better solution is to fasten it to the side of the house with screws to reduce the risk of theft.
To get an idea of the process check out this quick unboxing and installation video of a 1st Gen Ring unit (replacing a hardwired existing doorbell):
Subscription Fees
Advanced features on some of these devices such as recording video may require a monthly or annual subscription. This is something to keep in mind when selecting a model as it will add to the total cost over time.
Now, on to the individual products. I’ve compiled a list of the best wireless doorbells on the market today, from manufacturers including Ring and Honeywell.
Each unit has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy. Each one has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make an informed selection.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: Ring Video Wireless Doorbell
The Ring Video doorbell features an HD camera allowing real-time video on a phone, computer, or tablet.
Includes adjustable motion-activated alerts and notifications when the doorbell is pressed.
Features the ability to speak to visitors via the built-in microphone and speakers.
Includes “Live View” which allows the user to see and hear what is happening at the door from anywhere.
Produces video in 1080p HD quality in addition to night vision.
Connects to Alexa and the Ring app for an all-in-one home security solution.
Powered by the built-in rechargeable battery so no wiring is required or it can be hardwired to an existing doorbell system for continuous charging.
If you don’t just want phone notifications and prefer a traditional indoor chime you will also need to get the Ring Chime. The Pro version includes a night light and WiFi extender and nightlight:
Runner-up: AVANTEK Wireless Doorbell
The AVANTEK doorbell features a wireless range of up to 1,000 feet to allow for flexibility with the placement of the receiver.
Includes 52 ring options to find the one you like best.
Offers an adjustable ring volume wide volume from 0 to 115 dB.
Includes an LED alert that provides a silent option.
Uses a lithium battery in the doorbell that lasts for up to three years before replacement.
Equipped with a receiver that simply plugs into a wall socket for an easy installation.
Features a waterproof rating of IP55.
Best Color Options: SadoTech Wireless Doorbell
The SadoTech doorbell features a smart memory that keeps the ring setting even if power is lost.
Equipped with a receiver that plugs into a standard outlet and the doorbell is battery powered.
Features a transmitter range of up to 1,000 feet.
Includes four chime volume levels up to 115 dB.
Available in a range of colors to match your home design.
Includes 52 chime options.
Best Budget Option: TeckNet Wireless Doorbell
The TeckNet WA658 doorbell features 32 chime options to choose your favorite.
Offers a simple installation by simply plugging the receiver into a standard wall outlet.
Includes four ring volume levels.
Features a receiver operating range of 820 feet.
Includes a flashing light indicator for a silent visual notification.
Best Custom Ring: Honeywell Series 9 Wireless Doorbell
The Honeywell Series 9 offers the ability to download MP3 files for a custom ring in addition to the eight provided chimes.
Features an LED light that includes seven customizable colors.
Includes an adjustable ring volume and has a sleep mode and mute timer.
Features a wireless range of up to 450 feet.
Offers the ability to connect up to six accessories such as door opening or motion sensors.
Comes with a wall mounting kit.
Cordless receiver is powered by four C batteries.
Best Value: Secrui Wireless Doorbell
The Secrui doorbell features an adjustable chime volume from 0 to 120 dB.
Features a wireless operating range of up to 1,000 feet.
Powered by a lithium battery with a lifespan of up to three years.
Includes an indicator LED light for silent alerts.
Offers the ability to connect up to 20 transmitters to add more doorbells or sensors.
Includes a waterproof rating of IP55.
Best Modern Design: NOVETE Wireless Doorbell
The NOVETE doorbell features a long connection range of up to 1300 feet.
Features an adjustable ring volume of up to 115 dB.
Comes with 52 chimes for a range of options.
Features a blue LED alert if a silent option is preferred.
Receiver plugs into a power outlet for easy installation.
Features a lithium battery-powered doorbell transmitter for a lifespan of up to 3 years.
Best Smart Memory Function: BO YING Wireless Doorbell
The BO YING doorbell Includes a smart memory function to save the volume and ring settings in the event of a power outage.
Features customizable tones for each transmitter, for example, to have different chimes for the front and back doors.
Offers a 1,000-foot range for flexible receiver placement options.
Features an LED indicator for quiet alerts.
Equipped with a receiver plugs into a standard wall outlet.
Best for Multiple Doors: Coolqiya Wireless Doorbell
The Coolqiya system features three receivers and two doorbell transmitters for multiple doors and/or floors of the house.
Pairs up to 20 additional transmitters for setting up additional alerts.
Offers four different volume levels to customize to the alert range.
Features 52 different chime options.
Includes a visual flash indicator for quiet alerts.
I hope this list of the best wireless doorbells was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
