In recent years, smart doorbells have become one of the most popular tech upgrades for homeowners—and for good reason. With features like motion detection, video recording, and two-way audio, these sleek devices promise convenience and a sense of security right at your doorstep. But while they offer many advantages, it’s important to recognize that smart doorbells aren’t a silver bullet for home protection.
Before you buy—or put too much faith in the one you already have—let’s take a closer look at what smart doorbells do well, and what they don’t guarantee.
What Smart Doorbells Do Well
- Deter Package Theft and Suspicious Activity
Just the sight of a camera can make some would-be porch pirates think twice. Smart doorbells can also notify you instantly when someone approaches your front door—whether it’s a delivery person, neighbor, or unfamiliar visitor. - Provide Real-Time and Recorded Video
With live feeds and cloud or local video storage, you can check who’s at your door from anywhere. Missed a knock while you were out? You can still see who it was. - Enhance Convenience
Gone are the days of blindly opening the door. Smart doorbells let you screen visitors, communicate with them through two-way audio, and even remotely unlock doors (if integrated with a smart lock system). - Support Evidence Collection
If something suspicious happens—like a stolen package or attempted break-in—smart doorbells can provide useful footage that might assist law enforcement or insurance claims.
What Smart Doorbells Do Not Guarantee
- They Don’t Prevent Crime
While they can act as a deterrent, smart doorbells don’t physically stop someone from trespassing, stealing, or damaging property. A determined intruder may ignore the camera entirely or take steps to avoid being seen. - They’re Not a Substitute for a Full Security System
A doorbell camera covers your front entry—but what about side doors, windows, or the backyard? Smart doorbells are just one piece of the home security puzzle. Without sensors, alarms, or multiple camera views, they offer limited protection. - They Rely on Your Internet and Power Supply
No Wi-Fi? No footage. A dead power source or connectivity issue can render your doorbell useless when you need it most. Some models have battery backup, but many do not. - They Can Be Hacked
As with any internet-connected device, smart doorbells can be vulnerable if not properly secured. Weak passwords, outdated firmware, or unsecured networks could allow unwanted access to your camera feed. - They Can Miss Events
Smart doorbells use motion sensors to trigger recordings, but these aren’t always perfect. You might miss quick-moving individuals or get too many false alerts from passing cars or blowing leaves. Even with sensitivity settings, no device is flawless.
A Smart Investment—With Realistic Expectations
Smart doorbells are a valuable addition to any modern home. They offer convenience, visibility, and an added layer of accountability for what happens around your front door. But they’re not an all-in-one solution, and they don’t replace traditional safety measures like locks, exterior lighting, or community awareness.
If you’re considering a smart doorbell, think of it as one tool in your home security toolkit—not a guarantee of safety, but a smart step toward it.
