Comparison guide
Best Doorbell Cameras 2026: 5 Compared on Deterrence
The best doorbell camera depends on whether you want it monitored: the Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro is the best pick inside a professionally monitored system, Ring is the best value for Alexa households, Google Nest suits Google Home users, SimpliSafe fits its own DIY alarm, and Arlo's 2K doorbell is the cheapest at about $130. This guide sets 5 criteria, compares the 5 doorbells in one table, then covers deterrence, wiring, and the best fit by home.
Updated by thevivint.com, an independent Vivint Authorized Dealer.
Free Vivint quote for your address. Installation is currently free for new customers.
The 5 Criteria
We compare doorbells on 5 things: price, field of view, package detection, whether the doorbell deters a person on its own, and the monthly cost of keeping video history.
5 Doorbells Compared
The table uses manufacturer list prices and 2026 reviews; retail prices move often, so treat them as list prices checked in October 2026.
| Doorbell | Price | Power | Video plan | Stands out for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro | $249.99 | Wired | In the $44.99 monitored plan | 180° by 180° view; package detection; ties into the alarm |
| Ring Wired Doorbell Pro | $229.99 to $249.99 | Wired | Ring subscription from $4.99 a month | Alexa integration; wide accessory range |
| Google Nest Doorbell | $179.99 | Wired or battery | Google Home Premium from $10 a month | Familiar-face alerts |
| SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro | About $169 | Wired | From $4.99 a month for the doorbell | Works with the SimpliSafe alarm |
| Arlo Video Doorbell 2K | About $129.99 | Wired or battery | Arlo Secure, about $8 a month for one device | Lowest price; 2K video |
Sources: vivint.com; NerdWallet and Security.org 2026 doorbell reviews; Techlicious and SmartHomeCompared for Ring list prices; T3 for Arlo plan pricing.
Deterrence
The Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro is the only one of the 5 that is part of a professionally monitored alarm, and it detects packages and can sound a warning when someone lingers or reaches for a parcel; the other 4 alert your phone and leave the response to you.
Vivint's Outdoor Camera Pro adds Smart Deter for the driveway. The Smart Deter guide explains how it works.
Wired or Battery
Wired doorbells never need charging and record more reliably; battery models suit homes without doorbell wiring. The Vivint, Ring Wired Pro, and SimpliSafe doorbells need existing 16 to 24 volt doorbell wiring, while Nest and Arlo sell battery versions.
No wiring at home? The doorbell without wiring guide lists 3 options with costs.
Best Fit by Home
Each doorbell fits one kind of household best.
| Household | Best pick |
|---|---|
| Wants police dispatch and a doorbell in one system | Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro |
| Uses Alexa and wants a cheap monthly plan | Ring |
| Runs a Google Home setup | Google Nest Doorbell |
| Already owns a SimpliSafe alarm | SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro |
| Wants the lowest upfront price | Arlo Video Doorbell 2K |
The Vivint vs Ring comparison covers the full systems beyond the doorbells.
Frequently Asked Questions
Call (507) 460-0098 now to get a free quote
Ready to turn your home into a smart home? Call now to get started or fill out the form.