I Didn’t Think I Needed a Video Doorbell Until This Happened…

I used to think wireless video doorbells were just one of those “extra” things.

You know — like smart light bulbs or Wi-Fi toasters. Cool to have, but not something I actually needed.

That changed real quick after I had a few packages go missing. At first, I figured it was just delivery mix-ups. But then one day, I got the notification that a package had been “delivered”… and nothing was there. No knock. No box. Nothing.

That’s when I started looking into video doorbells.

At first, I didn’t know where to start. There are so many brands — Ring, Blink, Eufy, Google, all promising crystal clear video and 24/7 protection. So I decided to test a few of the top-rated ones on Amazon to see which ones were actually worth it — and which were just hype.

What surprised me most? It wasn’t just about catching thieves or deliveries. Having a wireless video doorbell made my life easier. I could check who was at the door without getting up, talk to people through the speaker, and even review footage when I was out of town.

I tested 5 of the best wireless video doorbells under $200 — and here’s what stood out. One of them seriously blew me away, especially for the price.

1. Blink Video Doorbell

Pros:

🎥 1080p HD video with infrared night vision — clear footage day or night, even in low light

🔋 Runs on two AA batteries for up to 2 years — no hardwiring needed, totally wireless

📱 Instant motion alerts and live view from the Blink app — check your door from anywhere

🗣️ Two-way audio — talk to delivery drivers or visitors without opening the door

🧠 Pairs seamlessly with Alexa-enabled devices — see who’s at the door using your Echo Show

Cons:

📦 Cloud storage requires a subscription — local storage only available with Blink Sync Module (sold separately)

2. Ring Video Doorbell

Pros:

📹 Crisp 1080p HD video with night vision — see clearly, even in total darkness

🧠 Built-in motion detection alerts — get notified the moment someone approaches your door

🗣️ Two-way audio lets you speak to visitors from anywhere using the Ring app

🔋 Flexible power options — runs on a rechargeable battery or can be hardwired

🏠 Works seamlessly with Alexa and other Ring devices — easily integrate into your smart home setup

📦 Includes Package Alerts with Ring Protect Plan — get notified when a package is detected

Cons:

💳 Most advanced features (like video history & smart alerts) require a Ring Protect subscription

3. TP-Link Tapo D210 Video Doorbell

Pros:

🌙 2K HD resolution + night vision + built-in spotlight — super sharp video day or night

👁️‍🗨️ Ultra-wide 160° field of view — covers your entire porch area, not just straight ahead

🎯 Smart motion detection with person recognition — reduces false alerts from cars or trees

🧠 Works with Alexa & Google Assistant — check your door feed with a simple voice command

💾 Comes with local storage (microSD support up to 512GB) — no subscription required

🔋 Flexible install: battery-powered or hardwired

Cons:

📦 Cloud storage and AI features like package detection require a Tapo Care subscription

4. Reolink 2K+ Wired Video Doorbell

Pros:

📹 2K+ super HD resolution (5MP) — captures faces, packages, and license plates in sharp detail

👁️‍🗨️ Wide-angle lens (180° diagonal) — covers your entire doorstep and side areas

🚨 Comes with built-in chime — no extra purchase needed for alerts inside your home

💾 Includes a 64GB microSD card — stores up to 6000 clips with no monthly fee

🧠 Smart motion zones & person detection — reduce false alerts and focus only on real threats

🎙️ Two-way audio + instant push notifications through Reolink app

Cons:

🔌 Requires hardwiring — not ideal for renters or homes without an existing doorbell system

5. Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell

Pros:

🔍 180° field of view + 1:1 aspect ratio — see visitors head-to-toe and packages on the ground

🎯 Smart alerts for people, packages, animals, and vehicles — filters out the noise, focuses on what matters

🌙 1080p HD video with night vision — clear, sharp visuals even after dark

📡 Wireless setup with rechargeable battery — installs in minutes, no wiring needed

📱 Works with Alexa, Google Assistant & Apple HomeKit — one of the most compatible options

📦 Optional Arlo Secure subscription adds cloud recording, advanced object detection & emergency response

Cons:

💳 Most smart features require an Arlo Secure plan after the trial ends

Which Wireless Doorbell Is Right for You?

Not sure which one to grab? Here’s a quick breakdown based on your needs:

• Just want something simple that works?
  → Go with the Blink Video Doorbell. It’s budget-friendly, battery-powered, and syncs great with Alexa.
• Want the best overall with smart features?
  → The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) is the most balanced — reliable video, easy app, and top-notch support.
• Need ultra-clear footage & full-porch coverage?
  → The TP-Link Tapo D210 gives you 2K video, wide-angle view, and works even without a subscription.
• Don’t want to pay monthly fees?
  → Grab the Reolink 2K+. It comes with a microSD card and no forced subscriptions.
• Already use Alexa, Google, or Apple smart home gear?
  → The Arlo Essential works with all 3, plus it gives you smart alerts for people, packages & more.

Adding a wireless video doorbell isn’t just about catching porch pirates. It’s about peace of mind — knowing who’s at your door, whether you’re home or not.

Each of these options brings something different to the table, from budget simplicity to smart home integrations to subscription-free storage.