Smart Doorbells Showdown: Google Nest, Arlo, Ring, and Eufy – In-Depth Comparison
When it comes to keeping our homes safe, smart doorbells have become a popular choice. These devices not only notify us when someone is at our door but also provide video surveillance and other features to enhance security.
In this article, we’ll be comparing four popular smart doorbells: Google Doorbell, Arlo, Ring Doorbell, and Eufy Doorbell. We’ll delve into their features, pros, and cons to help you choose the best one for your needs. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Models:
Google Doorbell (Nest Doorbell): Nest Doorbell (battery) – This is the latest version of Google’s Nest Doorbell, released in 2021. The Nest Hello, which is an older model, was not included in the comparison.
Arlo Doorbell: Arlo Video Doorbell – This model was released in 2019 and is the primary video doorbell offered by Arlo.
Ring Doorbell: The comparison mentioned a variety of Ring Doorbell models, including the original Ring Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 3, and Ring Doorbell Pro. These models differ in terms of video resolution, field of view, and other features. The latest model at the time of my knowledge cutoff was the Ring Doorbell 4, released in 2021.
Eufy Doorbell: Eufy Security Video Doorbell 2K (battery) – This model offers 2K video resolution and local storage. It was the main focus of the comparison, although Eufy does offer other models with slightly different features.
1. Google Doorbell (Nest Doorbell)
Google’s Nest Doorbell is a powerful and intelligent option for homeowners. This device offers a range of features to enhance your home’s security.
Key Features:
- High-quality video resolution (up to 1600×1200)
- 160-degree field of view
- Facial recognition
- 24/7 continuous recording (with Nest Aware subscription)
- Pre-recorded responses
- Google Assistant integration
Pros:
- Intelligent alerts: Google Doorbell provides person, animal, and vehicle detection, which helps minimize false alarms.
- Facial recognition: This feature allows the doorbell to recognize familiar faces and notify you when friends or family members arrive.
- Google Assistant integration: Control the doorbell and receive notifications on your Google Home devices.
Cons:
- Requires subscription for advanced features: To access features like facial recognition and 24/7 recording, you’ll need a Nest Aware subscription.
- Higher price: Google Doorbell tends to be more expensive than some of its competitors.
2. Arlo Doorbell
Arlo Doorbell is a versatile and reliable choice for homeowners seeking a balance between affordability and features.
Key Features:
- 1536×1536 video resolution
- 180-degree field of view
- Two-way audio
- Package and vehicle detection
- Built-in siren
- Works with Arlo cameras
Pros:
- Wide field of view: The 180-degree field of view helps you keep an eye on your entire porch area.
- Compatibility: Arlo Doorbell is compatible with Arlo cameras, allowing for seamless integration with your existing security system.
- Built-in siren: This feature can be triggered manually or automatically if motion is detected, potentially deterring intruders.
Cons:
- No facial recognition: Unlike Google Doorbell, Arlo lacks facial recognition capabilities.
- Subscription needed for some features: Access to features like package detection and video history requires an Arlo Smart subscription.
3. Ring Doorbell
Ring Doorbell is one of the most popular options in the market, offering a variety of models to suit different needs and budgets.
Key Features:
- Video resolution varies by model (720p to 1080p)
- Field of view ranges from 155 to 160 degrees
- Two-way audio
- Customizable motion zones
- Works with Amazon Alexa
- Variety of models available (e.g., Ring Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 3, Ring Doorbell Pro)
Pros:
- Variety of options: With multiple models to choose from, you can select the one that best fits your needs and budget.
- Customizable motion zones: You can customize motion detection zones to focus on specific areas, reducing false alarms.
- Amazon Alexa integration: Ring Doorbell works seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, allowing you to control the doorbell and receive notifications on your Echo devices.
Cons:
- Subscription needed for advanced features: A Ring Protect subscription is required to access features like video history and sharing.
- Privacy concerns: Some users have raised privacy concerns regarding data collection and sharing with law enforcement.
4. Eufy Doorbell
Eufy Doorbell is an excellent option for those looking for a balance between features, quality, and affordability without needing a subscription.
Key Features:
- 2K video resolution (2560×1920)
- 160-degree field of view
- Two-way audio
- Local video storage
- Pre-recorded responses
- Works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
Pros:
- No subscription required: Eufy Doorbell offers local video storage, eliminating the need for a subscription to access recorded footage.
- High video quality: The 2K video resolution provides clearer and more detailed images than some competitors.
- Smart assistant compatibility: The doorbell works with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for voice control and notifications.
Cons:
- No facial recognition: Eufy Doorbell lacks facial recognition capabilities.
- Limited smart home integration: Integration with other smart home devices and systems may be limited compared to competitors like Google and Ring.
Summary and Recommendations
Now that we’ve compared the four smart doorbells, it’s time to decide which one is best for you. Here’s a quick summary to help you make your choice:
| Feature/Price | Google Doorbell (Nest Doorbell) | Arlo Doorbell | Ring Doorbell | Eufy Doorbell |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Video Resolution | 1600×1200 | 1536×1536 | 720p to 1080p (varies) | 2560×1920 |
| Field of View | 160° | 180° | 155° to 160° (varies) | 160° |
| Facial Recognition | Yes | No | No | No |
| Two-Way Audio | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Subscription Needed | Yes (Nest Aware) | Yes (Arlo Smart) | Yes (Ring Protect) | No |
| Smart Assistant | Google Assistant | – | Amazon Alexa | Google & Amazon |
| Price (approx.) | ||||
| GBP (£) | £180 – £200 | £140 – £160 | £90 – £250 (varies) | £110 – £130 |
| USD ($) | $240 – $260 | $190 – $210 | $120 – $330 (varies) | $150 – $170 |
| EUR (€) | €220 – €240 | €170 – €190 | €100 – €290 (varies) | €130 – €150 |
- Google Doorbell (Nest Doorbell): Best for users who value advanced features like facial recognition and integration with Google Home devices, and are willing to pay a higher price and subscribe to Nest Aware.
- Arlo Doorbell: A great choice for those who already own Arlo cameras or want a wide field of view, built-in siren, and are willing to pay for an Arlo Smart subscription to access some features.
- Ring Doorbell: Ideal for users who want a variety of models to choose from, customizable motion zones, and integration with Amazon Alexa devices, but are willing to subscribe to Ring Protect for video history access.
- Eufy Doorbell: A top choice for those who want high-quality video and local storage without needing a subscription, and are willing to forgo facial recognition and extensive smart home integration.
Ultimately, the best smart doorbell for you will depend on your priorities, budget, and existing smart home ecosystem. Consider each doorbell’s features, pros, and cons before making your decision. Good luck, and may your home be safer and smarter with the right doorbell!
