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5 Best Ethernet Doorbell Cameras – Expert Reviews

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Last updated: November 19, 2024

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It’s hard to find a good ethernet doorbell camera because there aren’t many in the market to begin with. In this post, I’m going to share my experience using the 5 best Power over Ethernet doorbells.

Is Ethernet Doorbell Camera Worth It?

Yes, an Ethernet doorbell camera is worth it if you value consistent performance and reliability. It offers stable connectivity, superior video quality, and simplifies installation by combining power and internet in one cable, making it ideal for enhancing home security.

What Is The Best PoE Doorbell Camera?

I have found the REOLINK Video Doorbell PoE Camera to be the best PoE video doorbell for its clear footage, extensive coverage, customizable tunes and messages, ability to detect humans pretty accurately, and no subscription costs.

5 Best PoE Doorbell Options

reolink video ethernet doorbell camera

The REOLINK Video Doorbell PoE Camera is easily the best PoE doorbell camera out there in the market. And when I got it first, I wondered if it’s so hyped only because there are not many options to begin with– but I was wrong. Having used it, I can say it’s totally worth the hype.

For starters, this doorbell camera offers a clear, 5MP HD image with a wide 180° view, perfect for keeping an eye on my entryway and ensuring I don’t miss a thing. Even in low light, the picture remains sharp and detailed, which is fantastic for security purposes.

The included chime with customizable tunes and voice messages further makes interacting with visitors easy and fun. For me, the installation was straightforward thanks to the Power over Ethernet (PoE) design. No more dealing with unreliable Wi-Fi connections – this wired setup is rock-solid.

Plus, I love the flexible storage options. It’s great not having to pay monthly fees for storing footage. The humanoid detection feature is a big plus, as it helps me avoid false alerts from non-human movements.

But on the downside, the doorbell only works with the Reolink chime, which might not fit seamlessly with some existing systems. Also, the camera doesn’t come with a power supply, so I had to get that separately. Lastly, the volume for custom messages is a bit low, which can be a minor issue.

However, these are but minor drawbacks in an otherwise totally awesome and reliable ethernet doorbell. REOLINK PoE Doorbell Camera’s clear images, easy installation, and reliable wired connection make it a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their home or business security.

Pros and Cons

  • Clear 5MP HD image with wide 180° view
  • Easy PoE installation with stable connectivity
  • Customizable chime and voice messages
  • Flexible storage options without monthly fees
  • Accurate humanoid detection to reduce false alerts
  • Only works with Reolink chime
  • No included power supply
  • Low volume for custom messages

2. Ring Video Doorbell Elite

ring video doorbell elite

The Ring Video Doorbell Elite is another excellent PoE doorbell. Its crystal-clear 1080HD video and infrared night vision ensure you never miss a detail, day or night. Plus, the Ethernet connection guarantees a stable and reliable performance without the hassle of charging batteries.

This doorbell lets you see, hear, and speak to visitors from your phone, tablet, or PC, providing peace of mind whether you’re at home or away. The advanced motion detection further allows you to customize motion zones, ensuring alerts are only triggered by relevant activity – thus reducing unnecessary alerts.

On top of that, the Power over Ethernet (PoE) feature eliminates the need for separate power cables, making installation clean and straightforward. The doorbell also integrates seamlessly with Alexa, allowing hands-free monitoring and interaction.

However, the Ring Video Doorbell Elite does have a few downsides. For one, the initial setup requires professional installation, which can be a bit costly and time-consuming. Additionally, while the doorbell itself offers excellent functionality, accessing recorded video requires a Ring Protect Plan, adding to the overall cost.

Still, the Elite Ring Ethernet Doorbell is a powerful addition to any security system. Its clear video quality, reliable Ethernet connection, and advanced motion detection make it ideal for anyone looking to enhance their home or business security.

Pros and Cons

  • Crystal-clear 1080HD video with infrared night vision
  • Stable and reliable performance with Ethernet connection
  • Peace of mind with see, hear, and speak functionality
  • Reduced false alerts with advanced motion detection
  • Easy installation with Power over Ethernet (PoE)
  • Hands-free monitoring with Alexa integration
  • Requires professional installation
  • Subscription needed for accessing recorded videos

3. Ubiquiti UniFi Protect UVC-G4 Doorbell Pro PoE Kit

ubiquiti unifi protect uvc g4 doorbell pro poe kit

The Ubiquiti UniFi Protect UVC-G4 Doorbell Pro PoE Kit – some of you may have heard its name and some not. Honestly, Ubiquiti products can be hard to find sometimes but if you can get your hands on this, you should buy it ASAP! This PoE doorbell offers reliable performance and comprehensive coverage, perfect for homeowners, small business owners, landlords, and property managers.

It comes with a 2MP main camera and an additional package camera, both providing clear video up to 20 feet in night vision. The wide 155° diagonal field of view lets you see visitors and packages clearly, which is essential for remote door monitoring.

The two-way audio feature further allows you to interact with visitors directly from your phone, offering convenience and peace of mind. The PoE connectivity also simplifies installation and ensures stable, uninterrupted operation.

Plus, integration with the UniFi Protect app and seamless compatibility with iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS systems makes it perfect for smart home integration. The customizable motion detection zones help reduce false alerts, which is great for high-traffic areas.

However, the initial setup requires a bit of networking knowledge, which might necessitate professional help. The device’s price is on the higher side, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, full two-way audio functionality is limited to the UniFi app, with no direct integration with popular smart assistants like Google or Alexa.

But if you can navigate these minor drawbacks, the Ubiquiti UniFi Protect UVC-G4 Doorbell Pro PoE Kit is a powerful, reliable choice. Its clear video quality, reliable PoE connection, and advanced motion detection overall make it a worthy investment.

Pros and Cons

  • Reliable performance with PoE connectivity
  • Comprehensive coverage with dual cameras and night vision
  • Convenience and peace of mind with two-way audio
  • Stable, uninterrupted operation through PoE
  • Smart home integration with UniFi Protect app
  • Reduced false alerts with customizable motion detection zones
  • Requires some networking knowledge for setup
  • Higher price point
  • Full two-way audio limited to UniFi app, no direct smart assistant integration

      4. Amocam Video Doorbell with Chime

      amocam video doorbell with chime

      If you are on a budget but still want a reliable ethernet doorbell, the Amocam Video Doorbell with Chime is just the thing for you! And it lets you choose whether you want to use it as an ethernet doorbell or connect it to Wi-Fi.

      On top of that, the two-way audio and integrated Tuya app functionality lets you manage entry communications effectively, an essential feature for landlords and property managers who need to control access remotely.

      The inclusion of a 32GB SD card for local storage is a great addition, eliminating the need for costly subscriptions and making it appealing from a price point of view. Plus, the ability to integrate with DC 12V electronic locks and the provision of ID cards for access ensure seamless operation in multi-unit dwellings or tech-centric workplaces.

      But while it supports dual connectivity, it lacks support for 5GHz WiFi, potentially limiting faster data transfer speeds. Additionally, its plastic build might not withstand harsh environmental conditions as well as metal alternatives, posing a concern for outdoor use.

      Still, depending on the fact that it costs only around 30 dollars, the Amocam Video Doorbell with Chime is a solid choice for enhancing security and operational efficiency across a variety of property types – without breaking the bank!

      Pros and Cons

      • Dual connectivity with WiFi and PoE
      • No monthly fee
      • Remote access with the Tuya app
      • Clear Two-Way audio
      • ID Card entry to let multiple users in easily in busy buildings
      • No 5GHz WiFi
      • Plastic body might not hold up in extreme weather
      • Installation might be tricky

          5. GBF Smart Video Door Phone & Doorbell

          gbf smart video door phone doorbell

          The GBF Smart Video Door Phone & Doorbell – you probably haven’t heard about it because it’s not exactly from a very known brand. But having used it, I can tell you it’s a pretty solid choice when it comes to PoE doorbells.

          This doorbell lets you answer and view callers remotely via my mobile devices, making it perfect for remote door monitoring and enhanced home security. The advanced motion detection feature ensures you receive alerts only for relevant activities, reducing false alarms and keeping my notifications manageable.

          The smart keypad further allows you to generate temporary or permanent PIN codes, which is ideal for granting access to various individuals like guests or service personnel. The two integrated relays can control two different locks, which really helps in managing multiple entry points.

          On top of that, the Power over Ethernet (PoE) feature simplifies installation, eliminating the need for separate power cables and reducing wiring complexity. The app integration further allows seamless smart home system integration, making it convenient for you to manage your security system from anywhere.

          But I found that the app can be a bit glitchy and lacks a manual, which made setup and operation challenging for me at first. Additionally, some advanced features require a subscription, which wasn’t clear upfront. The doorbell also lacks night vision, which can be a significant drawback for round-the-clock monitoring.

          Overall, I think the GBF Smart Video Door Phone & Doorbell would be a valuable addition to any security system. Its clear video quality, reliable PoE connection, and comprehensive monitoring features make it an excellent choice when it comes to ethernet video doorbells.

          Pros and Cons

          • Improved security with 1080P camera and built-in POE
          • Remote monitoring via mobile devices
          • Reduced false alarms with advanced motion detection
          • Convenient access control with smart keypad and temporary PIN codes
          • Simplified installation with Power over Ethernet (PoE)
          • Smart home system integration with app support
          • App can be glitchy and lacks a manual
          • Some advanced features require a subscription
          • No night vision for low-light monitoring

              Expert Tips To Buy The Best PoE Doorbell Camera

              Here’s what to look for when buying a PoE doorbell camera:

              🌟 Video Quality

              High-resolution video is crucial for clear and detailed monitoring. Look for cameras with at least 1080P resolution to ensure you can identify faces and other details easily. Higher resolutions, such as 2K or 5MP, offer even better clarity.

              📐 Field of View (FOV)

              A wider FOV allows you to see more of your surroundings, reducing blind spots. Look for cameras with a horizontal FOV of at least 140° to cover a broad area and ensure comprehensive monitoring of your entry points.

              🌙 Night Vision

              Ensuring your doorbell camera can capture clear video in low-light conditions is essential for 24/7 security. Look for cameras with infrared (IR) night vision or built-in LED illumination to see clearly after dark.

              🎤 Two-Way Audio

              This feature allows you to communicate directly with visitors through the doorbell, enhancing convenience and security. It’s particularly useful for instructing delivery personnel, greeting guests, or deterring potential intruders.

              🚶 Motion Detection

              Advanced motion detection can differentiate between humans, animals, and other movements, reducing false alerts. Look for customizable motion zones and sensitivity settings to tailor alerts to your specific needs.

              🏠 Smart Integration

              Compatibility with smart home systems and devices like Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit enhances the functionality of your doorbell camera. This integration allows for voice commands, automated routines, and seamless control through your existing smart home ecosystem.

              🔧 Ease of Installation

              Ethernet doorbell cameras with Power over Ethernet (PoE) simplify installation by requiring just one cable for both power and internet. This reduces wiring complexity and ensures a stable, uninterrupted connection.

              💾 Storage Options

              Flexible storage options, including local storage (SD cards) and cloud services, provide different ways to save and review footage. Some cameras offer free local storage, while others may require subscriptions for cloud services.

              🌦️ Weather Resistance

              If you’re installing the doorbell camera outdoors, ensure it has a good IP rating (e.g., IP65 or higher) to withstand various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.

              💡 Additional Features

              Consider other useful features such as pre-recorded messages, package detection, facial recognition, and event logging. These can enhance the overall utility and convenience of your doorbell camera.

              All About Video Doorbell With Ethernet Connection

              Whether you’re a homeowner, small business owner, landlord, property manager, tech enthusiast, or security professional, there’s an Ethernet doorbell camera on this list that will meet your requirements. Consider your specific needs and the features each camera offers to make the best decision.

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              Frequently Asked Questions

              Should I get an Ethernet doorbell?

              Yes, an Ethernet doorbell is a great choice for a stable and reliable connection. It ensures consistent video quality without Wi-Fi interruptions, provides better security, and often includes advanced features like PoE (Power over Ethernet) for simplified installation.

              Can a Ring doorbell be wired to Ethernet?

              No, Ring doorbells typically connect via Wi-Fi. They do not have an Ethernet port for direct wired connections. However, you can use a Power over Ethernet (PoE) adapter to connect some Ring models to Ethernet indirectly, providing both power and network connectivity.

              How does a hardwired doorbell work?

              A hardwired doorbell connects directly to your home’s electrical system. Pressing the doorbell button completes an electrical circuit, sending a signal to the chime inside your home. This traditional setup ensures a reliable power source and consistent operation without battery concerns.

              What are the disadvantages of a wired doorbell?

              Wired doorbells can be challenging to install, requiring electrical knowledge and sometimes professional help. They depend on your home’s existing wiring, which may be outdated or incompatible. Additionally, they lack the flexibility of placement compared to wireless models, limiting your installation options.

              Ojash

              Author

              Hi, I’m Ojash! My journey into smart home technology began with a simple lighting upgrade that quickly turned into a passion. I was fascinated by how connected devices could completely transform everyday living. With over 7 years of experience, I now specialize in creating tailored smart home solutions that enhance comfort, convenience, and efficiency. Through my work at JustSmarter, I enjoy sharing practical advice and insights, helping readers confidently explore the smart home world.

              Hashir

              Reviewer

              Hi, I’m Hashir, a tech enthusiast with a deep love for smart home innovations. My interest in technology has always been driven by the idea of making everyday life more streamlined and efficient. After years of experimenting with smart devices in my own home, I’ve made it my mission to share what I’ve learned with others. I focus on practical, easy-to-understand solutions that anyone can implement to enhance their home. Writing for JustSmarter allows me to connect with fellow tech lovers and help them take their first steps—or next steps—into the exciting world of smart homes.

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