Today, I'll be sharing my thoughts on the Blink Video Doorbell. As an existing Blink customer, I was excited to add this doorbell to my setup. It offers a range of features, including two-way audio, HD video, motion and chime app alerts, and Alexa compatibility. Whether you choose to go wired or wire-free, this doorbell provides convenience and security. Now, let's dive into the pros and cons.
Pros and Cons
What We Liked
- High-quality video: The 1080p HD day and infrared night video capture clear footage, ensuring you can see who's at your door at any time. The wide-angle lens provides broad coverage of your front porch.
- Easy installation: Setting up the doorbell was a breeze, with the included AA lithium batteries and simple app connectivity. It took me just a few minutes to get it up and running.
- Customizable alerts: You have the option to receive alerts when motion is detected or when someone presses the video doorbell. This allows you to stay informed about any activity at your doorstep.
- Versatility: The doorbell can be used wire-free with the included batteries, or you can connect it to your existing doorbell wiring for additional options. It can also be paired with the Blink Mini camera to function as an indoor plug-in chime.
- Works with Alexa: Alexa integration allows you to receive alerts and answer the front door with two-way audio using voice commands.
What Can Be Improved
- Camera-based motion sensor: The doorbell uses a camera-based motion sensor, which can result in false detection triggered by changes in light and shadows. It would be beneficial to have the option for a more reliable physical movement sensor.
- Doorbell button visibility: The light around the doorbell button only illuminates when pressed and doesn't stay constantly lit. This may make it less noticeable to visitors, especially in the absence of a porch light.
Quick Verdict
The Blink Video Doorbell is a solid addition to the Blink ecosystem, especially if you're already a Blink customer. With its clear video quality, easy installation, and customizable alerts, it offers convenience and security for your home. While the camera-based motion sensor can sometimes lead to false detections, the wide-angle lens provides comprehensive coverage of your front porch. Overall, I believe this doorbell is worth the cost, especially if you can find it on sale. If you're looking for an affordable and reliable video doorbell solution, give the Blink Video Doorbell a try.
You can find more information about the product here.
Unboxing - What's Inside?
I recently purchased the Blink Video Doorbell from Amazon and was excited to receive it. The delivery was quite fast, taking only a couple of days to arrive at my doorstep.
Inside the box, I found the following:
- Blink Video Doorbell
- 2 1.5V non-rechargeable AA lithium metal batteries
- Mounting kit
Specifications
Here are the specifications of the Blink Video Doorbell:
- Software Security Updates: This device receives guaranteed software security updates until at least four years after the device is last available for purchase as a new unit on the website.
- Compatibility: Sync Module, Sync Module 2, compatible Fire and Echo devices.
- Operating temperature: -4 to 113° F.
- Generation: 1st Generation.
- Support: Click here to view more information on the Blink Video Doorbell support page. Click here to see the setup guide.
- Warranty and service: 1-year limited warranty and service included. Use of Blink devices is subject to the terms found here.
- LEDs: 1 LED ring to help you know when it’s active (optional). Flashes in blue, red, and green.
- Audio: Speaker output and 2-way audio recording.
- Weight: 91 grams.
- Size: 130 x 42 x 34 mm.
- Camera frame rate: Up to 30 fps.
- Photo resolution: View captured images in 640 x 360 nHD.
- Video resolution: Record and view in 1080p HD video during the day and with infrared HD night vision after dark.
- Field of view: 135° horizontal, 80° vertical.
User Guide
The documentation provided with the Blink Video Doorbell was extremely helpful in setting up the device. It provided step-by-step instructions and clear explanations on how to connect the doorbell, configure the settings, and use the app. I highly recommend referring to the user guide for a seamless setup experience. You can find the user guide here.
Features - What We Found
Two-way audio and HD video
The Blink Video Doorbell allows you to answer your door no matter where you are through your smartphone. With its 1080p HD day and infrared night video, you can see and communicate clearly with whoever is at your front door. The two-way audio feature enables a seamless conversation with the person outside, giving you the ability to provide instructions or ask questions.
This feature is especially useful for those who are away from home or not able to physically get to the door. Whether you're at work or on vacation, you can still interact with visitors and ensure the security of your home.
Pro-tip: Use the two-way audio feature to instruct delivery personnel on where to leave packages or to let friends and family in remotely.
Motion and chime app alerts
With the Blink Video Doorbell, you can receive alerts whenever motion is detected or someone presses the doorbell. These alerts will be sent to your smartphone through the Blink app, keeping you informed about any activity at your front door.
In addition to motion alerts, the doorbell can also activate your existing in-home chime when wired, providing an audible notification inside your home. This ensures that you never miss a visitor even if your smartphone is not readily available or you're not near it.
Stay updated on all front door activity and have peace of mind knowing that you'll be alerted whenever someone approaches or rings the doorbell.
Cloud or local storage options
The Blink Video Doorbell offers two storage options for your recorded clips. You can choose to save and share clips in the cloud with the free 30-day trial of the Blink Subscription Plan. This allows you to access and view your video clips from anywhere and anytime through the Blink app.
If you prefer to have local storage of your video clips, you can use the Sync Module 2 and a USB drive (sold separately) to store the footage. This gives you the flexibility to keep the recordings within your home and have complete control over your data.
Alexa enabled
The Blink Video Doorbell is compatible with Alexa, allowing you to receive alerts and answer the door with two-way audio using voice commands. When wired or paired with a Sync Module, you can simply ask Alexa to answer the front door and communicate with visitors hands-free.
By integrating with Alexa, the doorbell enhances your smart home experience and provides added convenience and accessibility.
Flexible installation options
The Blink Video Doorbell is designed for every home, offering flexible installation options. You can choose to go wire-free by using the included AA lithium batteries, making it easy to install the doorbell in any location without the need for electrical wiring.
If you prefer a wired connection, you can connect the doorbell to your existing doorbell wiring. This allows you to utilize your existing in-home chime along with the doorbell, providing a familiar and audible notification for visitors.
For additional peace of mind, the doorbell can also be paired with a Blink Mini camera (sold separately) and used as an indoor plug-in chime, further expanding your home security system.
Final Thoughts
Our Score: 85.0
I recently purchased the Blink Video Doorbell and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. The video quality is fantastic, with 1080p HD day and infrared night vision, allowing me to see who's at my door at any time. The two-way audio feature is also a great addition, as I can easily communicate with visitors from my smartphone.
One of the standout features for me is the long-lasting battery life. With the option to connect to existing doorbell wiring or use the included AA batteries, I have the flexibility to choose what works best for me. The custom alerts and privacy settings are also impressive, ensuring that I have full control over my video doorbell.
Setting up the Blink Video Doorbell was a breeze, thanks to the intuitive app and straightforward instructions. I was able to connect to Wi-Fi in minutes and start using the doorbell immediately. Additionally, the doorbell works seamlessly with Alexa, allowing me to receive alerts and answer the front door with just my voice.
I highly recommend the Blink Video Doorbell to anyone in need of a reliable and high-quality doorbell. Whether you choose to go wired or wire-free, this doorbell offers an excellent user experience with its impressive features and easy installation process. Don't miss out on this great addition to your home security system!
Click here to check out the Blink Video Doorbell on Amazon.