Blink Video Doorbell | Two-way audio, HD video, motion and chime app alerts and Alexa enabled — wired or wire-free (Black).
- Answer your door no matter where you are from your smartphone with 1080p HD day and infrared night video and two-way audio.
- Experience long-lasting battery life, custom alerts, privacy settings, and more.
- Get alerts when motion is detected or someone presses Video Doorbell. Connect to existing doorbell wiring or pair with a Sync Module (sold separately) to engage live view and two-way audio on demand.
- Choose to save and share clips in the cloud with a free 30-day trial of the Blink Subscription Plan or locally with the Sync Module 2 and USB drive (each sold separately).
- Designed for every home, go wire-free or connect to doorbell wiring to also sound your existing in-home chime. Without wiring, you can use your Blink Mini camera (sold separately) as an indoor plug-in chime.
- Set up yourself in minutes with the two included AA lithium batteries then connect to wifi in the app.
- Works with Alexa — receive alerts and answer with two-way audio. When wired or paired with a Sync Module, just ask Alexa to answer the front door.
- Includes one Video Doorbell, 2 AA 1.5V Lithium Batteries, 4 Screws, 1 Case Opening Tool. Does not include Sync Module 2 which can be found in all “Systems” above (recommended for optimal use while on battery).
Blink Video Doorbell: Reliable Home Security with an Affordable Edge
The Blink Video Doorbell by Amazon is an entry-level video doorbell offering high-quality video surveillance, two-way audio, and a range of smart home integrations, all at an affordable price. This compact device is a solid choice for those looking to improve their home security without the complexity or expense of premium systems. Let’s dive into the key features, setup, performance, and pros and cons to see how the Blink Video Doorbell stands out in the home security market.
Key Features
- 1080p HD Video Quality
The Blink Video Doorbell offers 1080p HD video, capturing clear and detailed footage of anyone who approaches your door, whether it’s during the day or at night. The device also has infrared night vision, which enhances the visibility of footage recorded after dark. This clarity is vital for identifying visitors or detecting potential threats. - Two-Way Audio
Equipped with two-way audio, the Blink Video Doorbell lets you hear and speak with visitors from anywhere. This feature is especially useful for remotely answering the door, which can make it look as though someone is home even when you’re away. With the Blink app, homeowners can receive real-time notifications and respond immediately to deliveries, guests, or even unexpected visitors. - Customizable Motion Detection
Motion detection alerts are customizable, allowing users to set specific zones for monitoring. This means you can focus on areas that matter most, such as your porch or driveway, and reduce false alerts from moving cars or passing pedestrians. When the doorbell detects motion, it sends a notification to your smartphone, allowing you to respond or review the footage promptly. - Battery or Wired Power Options
One of the standout features of the Blink Video Doorbell is its flexible power options. It can operate on two AA lithium batteries, which last up to two years with moderate use, or it can be hardwired to an existing doorbell system. The battery option makes it especially convenient for renters or those who prefer a simple, wireless installation. - Integration with Amazon Alexa
Since Blink is an Amazon brand, the device integrates seamlessly with Alexa. By linking it to an Echo Show or Fire TV, you can view a live feed from the doorbell on these devices with a simple voice command. This integration adds another layer of convenience and enhances the smart home experience for Alexa users. - Subscription and Local Storage Options
Blink offers two storage options: cloud storage through a subscription or local storage via the Blink Sync Module 2. The cloud subscription plan provides video storage for a small monthly fee, while the Sync Module 2, sold separately, enables local storage of video clips on a USB drive, offering a subscription-free alternative.
Setup and Installation
The Blink Video Doorbell is known for its straightforward installation process. With the included mounting kit, users can set up the device in just a few minutes. The app walks you through each step, from connecting to Wi-Fi to configuring settings. For those using the battery option, installation requires no wiring, making it ideal for anyone seeking a quick and hassle-free setup. The wired option, however, provides continuous power, which may appeal to users who don’t want to worry about battery life.
Performance and User Experience
In terms of video performance, the Blink Video Doorbell holds up well for an entry-level device, delivering sharp images and relatively good motion detection accuracy. During the day, video footage is crisp, and the night vision feature is effective, though it may lose a bit of detail in very low light.
The Blink app is user-friendly and intuitive, allowing users to adjust motion zones, set privacy preferences, and review saved clips with ease. One drawback, however, is that Blink’s motion alerts can occasionally lag by a few seconds, which might result in slight delays in viewing or responding to visitors. However, this may vary based on the strength of your Wi-Fi connection.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price, making it accessible for most homeowners.
- Flexible power options (battery or wired).
- Good video quality and effective night vision.
- Two-way audio and Alexa compatibility.
- Simple, hassle-free installation.
Cons:
- Motion alerts may lag slightly depending on Wi-Fi strength.
- Limited advanced features compared to higher-end video doorbells.
- Local storage requires purchasing the Blink Sync Module 2.
Is the Blink Video Doorbell Right for You?
The Blink Video Doorbell is ideal for users who want a reliable, entry-level video doorbell with essential smart features. Its competitive pricing makes it a great choice for budget-conscious homeowners and renters looking to add a layer of security to their home without extensive wiring or costly subscriptions. However, for those who seek advanced security features like facial recognition, 24/7 recording, or broader smart home compatibility beyond Alexa, a more premium model may be preferable.
In summary, the Blink Video Doorbell offers great value, providing solid video quality, easy setup, and practical features that suit everyday security needs. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking to enhance their home’s security with an intuitive, affordable, and effective device that integrates seamlessly with the Amazon ecosystem.