After testing eight popular video doorbells, the Google Nest Doorbell (battery) emerges as the best overall, surpassing Ring with superior motion detection and video quality.
Modern doorbells have evolved into security cameras with chimes, watching visitors before they even press the button. With so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. I tested eight models to help you decide.
At a Glance
- Best overall: Google Nest Doorbell (battery) — £129
- Best budget: Blink Smart Video Doorbell with Sync Module 2 — £69.99
- Best subscription-free: Eufy Video Doorbell E340 — £119.99
How I Tested
I mounted all eight doorbells on a board at doorbell height and lived with the setup for two weeks. I measured motion detection range, video quality, notification speed, and app usability. Delivery drivers were suspicious of the multiple cameras, but the results were clear.
Best Overall: Google Nest Doorbell (battery)
The Nest Doorbell offers a near-perfect viewing angle that captures enough area without making people look too small. Video and audio are consistently clear, day and night. Motion detection consistently triggers from about 3 metres away, and notifications arrive on smartphones and smart speakers within about five seconds — among the fastest tested.
Downsides: It doesn't include a chime; you'll need a separate Nest Mini or compatible smart speaker (£49). Also, a Nest Aware subscription (£80/year) is required for meaningful cloud storage — without it, events are stored for only three hours.
Subscription: Google Home Premium (£80/year for 30-day storage) or Premium Advanced (£160/year for 60-day 24/7 recording).
Best Budget: Blink Smart Video Doorbell with Sync Module 2
The Blink doorbell is an affordable option that still offers solid performance. It includes a Sync Module 2 for local storage, reducing reliance on subscriptions. Motion detection and video quality are adequate for most users, though not as sharp as the Nest.
Best Subscription-Free: Eufy Video Doorbell E340
Eufy's E340 stores footage locally on a built-in microSD card or HomeBase, with no monthly fees. It offers dual cameras for a full view of packages and visitors. Video quality is excellent, and the app is intuitive.
All doorbells not returned after testing were donated to the British Heart Foundation.