Video Doorbell vs Security Camera: Which One Does Your Home Need?
Find out which one is right for you
Find out which one is right for you
What separates a security camera from video doorbells? We’ll break down the key differences below.
Perhaps the biggest difference between a wireless doorbell camera and a standard security camera is what they’re used for.
A security camera is designed to be installed relatively high, usually near the roof along the front, back, and sides of your house. These cameras then point downward toward the ground at an angle so they capture video of a wide area surrounding your property. They can be installed virtually anywhere outside of the house and are great for tracking movement on your lawn, spotting suspicious cars on the street, and keeping tabs on the general environment.
On the other hand, a video doorbell is specifically designed to be used as a replacement for your front door’s doorbell. It’s usually placed chest high next to the door, and watches over visitors as they approach your home’s entry way. It can be the first interaction you have with friends and family when they arrive at your house, and it can also act as the last line of defense against unwanted solicitors or porch pirates.
Security cameras are passive and meant to be as unobtrusive as possible. Visitors typically don’t interact with them unless a light or alarm automatically triggers when someone enters the recording area.
A video doorbell, meanwhile, includes a button, just like a regular doorbell. Visitors are meant to press the button to ring the doorbell, which rings a chime in the house and also pings the doorbell owner’s smart device to alert them someone is at the door.
Security cameras can feature a range of audio functions, depending on the camera. Some include both a speaker and a microphone to allow for two-way communication between the homeowner and visitor, while some don’t have any audio features at all.
Video doorbells tend to include two-way audio functionality as a default feature, since they’re designed to be a direct portal to your guests. Some, like the Arlo Video Doorbell, also include the ability to leave pre-recorded reply messages that play if you’re unable to answer.
When someone enters the field of view, makes a noise, or moves within a security camera’s feed, the camera will detect that activity and automatically send an alert to your smart device. A video doorbell can do all of that and send notifications when someone rings your doorbell, which then gives you an opportunity to view your feed and respond via two-way audio.
The best home security camera is one that fits your specific needs. Ask yourself the following questions to find out which camera will work best for you.
If you’re starting from scratch, it’s best to start by analyzing what your needs are. Starting with a single video doorbell can be a great way to kick off your journey toward a secure household. Then, you can supplement that camera with other outdoor cameras around the perimeter of your house, which will all work together to keep you alerted about any emergencies that need your attention.
No neighborhood is fully immune from porch pirates. A video doorbell can keep a watchful eye on your front door and alert you when deliveries arrive so you can bring them inside right when they show up. They’ll also monitor the area and alert you if it detects suspicious activity, so you can ensure your packages stay safe on your porch by the time you get home.
If people are constantly ringing your doorbell, a video doorbell can help you more easily attend to your guests. Answer the door right from your smart device, and get smart notifications with AI-powered detection features like Arlo Intelligence so you know exactly who or what is showing up at your front door.
Security cameras can be installed virtually anywhere on the side of your house and be pointed at anything. So if you have an expensive purchase like a car or boat parked in the driveway, or have pets running around the backyard, then a security camera might be the best pick for your needs.
Looking for a way to secure your front door without spending a ton of money? The Arlo Video Doorbell has you covered.
Our best-in-class wireless video doorbell includes a number of features that you can access, right out of the box. You’ll get crystal clear 2K video, a wide 180° Field of View, and Night Vision so you can see everything that approaches your porch. Plus, built-in 2-Way Audio makes it easy to talk with anyone who arrives, making it easy to notify guests or direct package deliveries whether you’re at home, at work, or on vacation.
Pair your new Arlo Video Doorbell with Arlo Smart Aware, and get even more out of our award-winning security system. The Early Warning System leverages powerful AI algorithms to detect and instantly alert you about suspicious activity. Smart Activity Zones allow you to cover the most important areas in your feed. 60-Day Video History gives you instant access to your archives. And with Arlo Smart Secure, you’ll even get 24/7 Professional Monitoring and 24/7 Emergency Response, adding a human touch to automated security.
Discover the Arlo difference. Pick up an Arlo Video Doorbell today, and you’ll enjoy a free 30-day trial of Arlo Smart Secure.
