Looking for an affordable way to boost your home’s security? The Blink Video Doorbell is a popular choice, promising long battery life and a clear view of your doorstep. We put this latest model to the test to see if it lives up to the hype.
Quick Facts
⭐ Rating: 4.2/5 (19196 reviews)
💰 Price: $59.99
🏷️ Brand: Blink
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- ✅ Impressive two-year battery life
- ✅ Clear head-to-toe HD video and night vision
- ✅ Simple wire-free or wired setup options
- ✅ Two-way talk for easy communication
- ✅ Works seamlessly with Alexa
❌ Cons
- ❌ Requires a separate Sync Module (not included)
- ❌ Subscription plan needed for advanced features like person detection and cloud storage
- ❌ Indoor chime functionality requires an additional Blink Mini 2 camera or existing doorbell wiring
Detailed Review
The Blink Video Doorbell, now in its second generation, aims to provide peace of mind without breaking the bank. One of its standout features is the advertised two-year battery life, thanks to the included Energizer lithium batteries. This is a huge plus for anyone who dreads frequent battery changes. The camera itself delivers a crisp, head-to-toe HD view, allowing you to see more of your porch and packages, day or night, with its infrared night vision. The two-way talk feature is a standard but essential inclusion, letting you communicate with visitors directly through the Blink app.
Setting up the Blink Video Doorbell is designed to be straightforward. You have the option of a completely wire-free installation, which is ideal for renters or those who don’t want to mess with wiring. If you do have existing doorbell wiring, you can connect it for continuous power, and it will even sound your existing indoor chime. For those going wire-free, the Blink app provides alerts, but you’ll need a Blink Mini 2 camera (sold separately) if you want an indoor plug-in chime.
A significant point to consider with Blink is its reliance on a subscription plan for certain key features. While you can use the doorbell for live viewing and motion alerts without a subscription, advanced functionalities like person detection, Blink Moments (video clip compilation), and cloud storage for your footage require a paid Blink Subscription Plan. It’s worth noting that a free 30-day trial is offered, giving you a chance to experience these features. Integration with Alexa is a strong suit, allowing for voice commands to answer the door or manage your system.
Our Verdict
The Blink Video Doorbell is a compelling option for budget-conscious homeowners seeking basic smart doorbell functionality and exceptional battery life. However, potential buyers should be aware of the extra cost for the Sync Module and the subscription service for full feature access.