Enhance security and convenience with a video doorbell

25 Sep 2024

Video doorbells, also known as smart doorbells, are more than a nice-to-have novelty device for your front door. Easy to use and install, these smart devices offer security, convenience and peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.

Many seniors who live alone can feel vulnerable when the doorbell rings, especially if they are not expecting anyone. Seniors can also face increased risks from intruders or unwanted solicitors.

Video doorbells allow you to see who is at the door in real-time, without needing to physically approach it.

By connecting the doorbell to a smartphone app or a smart home system, you can answer the door and communicate with visitors from anywhere in your home – or choose not to. You can screen visitors before opening the door, which is particularly useful for managing unexpected or potentially troublesome interactions.

The built-in motion sensors will alert you to any activity around the door, further enhancing your ability to respond promptly to unusual situations.

Another significant benefit is the convenience of remote communication, particularly if you use a walking aid or have other mobility issues that makes it difficult to respond to the doorbell quickly. You won’t have to rush to the door or risk falling while moving quickly.

Many video doorbells also come with video recording capabilities. This means you have a record of who visited your home and when, which can be helpful for managing deliveries, tracking interactions, or reviewing events if something seems amiss.

However, not all video doorbells are created equal. Some things to consider when choosing your device include:

• Automatic capturing: This feature will automatically capture and save images as soon as someone gets close to your doorstep. If thieves are lurking around your home, you can quickly send the image to the police department.
• Camera quality: Camera quality is very important. Check that your device takes high-definition images both during the day and at night so you can always see who’s at your door.
• Night vision: Enhanced night vision will give you great visibility in low light, meaning it will still alert you if someone’s lurking around your home.
• Two-way audio: Two-way audio allows you to speak with a person in front of your door without ever opening it.
• Warranty: If the brand doesn’t offer a money-back guarantee or warranty, you should stay away from it. Always look for something you can try out and receive a full refund if you don’t find it useful.

A few video doorbells to consider:

• Osmo VideoBell (osmo-aus.com) – A well-priced market leading video doorbell
• Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 (ring.com) – A great premium option with lots of features
• Ring Video Doorbell Wired (ring.com) – All the security without breaking the bank
• Google Nest Wireless Doorbell (store.google.com) – A super simple smart home upgrade
• Wyze Pro (www.wyze.com) – One of the best video doorbells for a reasonable price