It’s no secret that everyone wants to ensure that they keep their home as safe as possible and be aware of what’s happening on the property at all times. Luckily, these days, homeowners can easily install many options to protect their property and monitor it with pictures or video. One such option is a peephole camera (also known as a doorbell camera), which has gained popularity in recent years.
With so many different options on the market, deciding which peephole camera would work best for your home and individual needs can be challenging. Our team recently got their hands on some of the top-rated peephole cameras on the market today and tried them out in their own homes.
A traditional peephole is a thing of the past with the emergence of the latest technology. Whether you’re looking for a very high-tech peephole camera or just want a camera that’s reliable and covers the basics, there’s a peephole camera out there for you. Keep reading to learn which ones we thought were the best.
What Is A Peephole Camera?
A peephole camera takes the traditional “door peephole” to a new level. It allows you a quick way to see who’s standing at your door before you open it and provides an added level of security and peace of mind.
Peephole cameras detect motion and use your home’s wireless network to record everyone that comes to your door with video or still pictures, even if they do not ring the doorbell. You can then view the peephole camera video or picture footage instantly (in real-time) or at a later time (for some models). Many peephole cameras also allow you to speak with the person on the other side of the door through your phone (or other wirelessly connected devices) without ever having to open it or even be at home.
Why You Should Consider Getting A Peephole Camera
Added Security
If your doorbell rings unexpectedly, a peephole camera gives you an alert on your screen and the ability to instantly look and view who’s standing outside your house. You do not have to open the door physically. As mentioned, some of the best peephole camera models allow you to speak directly to that person using your phone to ask who they are and why they rang your doorbell.
Even if you’re not at home, these smart high-tech options allow you to speak directly to the person at your door without them knowing whether you are speaking to them from inside the house or not. Such a security feature is one of the best ways to deter break-ins that can occur when the perpetrator thinks the home is empty.
Many of the video-enabled peephole camera options store high-resolution videos using cloud storage. This feature allows you to later re-visit this footage, if necessary, to identify who visited your doorstep if you experienced an issue or security breach. For models that don’t record video to the cloud, images are stored internally or on an SD card for future use.
Peace Of Mind
Sometimes you just want to be able to check what’s going on around your house without having to open the door, look through your regular peephole, or go outside. With a peephole camera, you have peace of mind knowing that you can look outside and see clearly no matter the time of day or night.
Some peephole camera models even allow this feature to work if there’s no one currently at your door or no motion detected by the camera. For some of the best peephole cameras, all you need to do is access them from your smartphone, and you’ll instantly get a clear picture or video of what is happening near your front door and the surrounding areas.
Convenience
Have you ever had a door-to-door solicitor interrupt your day to try and sell you something? With some video-enabled smart peephole cameras, you can conveniently speak with them without having to get up and answer the door and quickly tell them that you’re not interested or to come back later.
You’ll also have the convenience of being able to check on package deliveries while you’re away from home. For example, if you’re away on vacation and see via your peephole camera that a package has arrived at your doorstep, you can ask a neighbor or friend to grab it before anyone can notice that you’re away from home and steal it. Not only is this a great convenience feature, but also a security feature.
Now that you have a good idea of how a peephole camera can provide your home with the extra security it needs, let’s take a look at the best models on the market today that are worth checking out based on our team’s analysis.
Best Peephole Cameras
Ring Video Doorbell
The Ring Video Doorbell is one of the best-known peephole camera doorbells on the market. It’s also considered one of the premier products in this category for its sleek design, smart capabilities, and overall ease of use. Our tester agreed that it was straightforward to set up and configure.
We also especially like that it comes in two different color options (Venetian Bronze and Satin Nickel) to best match the outdoor aesthetic of your home. Additionally, it can pair with your Alexa or Echo to enable advanced features like announcements or two-way talking through your device.
You’ll never have to worry about replacing the batteries because it’s powered by a built-in rechargeable battery power or can connect to your existing doorbell wiring. And with enhanced motion detection and crisp nighttime vision, you’ll always see what’s going on around your front door. Our reviewer also liked its price point, finding it a relatively affordable model with many must-have features.
Ring Video Doorbell Specs
- 1080p HD Video, Live View, Night Vision
- Field of View = 155° horizontal, 90° vertical
- Operates from -5° F to 120° F (-20° C to 48° C), water-resistant
- Dimensions = 4.98 in x 2.44 in x 1.10 in (126.5 mm x 62 mm x 28 mm)
- Two-way audio with noise cancellation
Brinno SCH 1000 Duo Safe Smart Home Peephole Camera
If you’re looking for a peephole camera device with effortless installation, the Brinno Duo Safe Smart Home peep hole camera might make the best option. Our tester couldn’t believe that they had this small camera installed and running in less than 15 minutes.
The concealed peephole design also appeals to many users who prefer not to let others know they use a peephole camera device. It installs in your door’s standard peephole and looks undetectable to visitors who approach.
If you prefer the camera to have the added convenience of motion detection, you can set up the optional motion detector and the peephole camera. It has flexible installation options so that you can position the motion detector anywhere near your front door, making it not immediately noticeable to approaching visitors.
Keep in mind that this peephole camera model does not record video; instead, it sends still pictures of the activity outside your door to your email. However, it makes an excellent option for someone who wants basic added security for their door.
Brinno SHC 1000 Duo Safe Specs
- Optical-grade lens peephole
- 15/32” (12 mm) peephole barrel
- Field of View = 90° vertical
- Dimensions = 3.4 in x 6.2 in x 1.3 in (87 mm x 158 mm x 34 mm)
- Two-way audio with noise cancellation
- JPEG file format for photos
BCOM Digital Peephole Viewer
We choose to add this option to our list because of its durability and excellent wireless capabilities. It’s made of aluminum alloy and comes with a 5-inch screen (indoor unit) that lets you immediately view who’s standing outside your door without needing access to your smartphone or another device. The app allows you to speak directly with the person on the other side through your smartphone.
Our tester for this model lives in an apartment and found that it worked exceptionally well in this type of setting, but it would also work in a regular home setting.
The unit typically has about a 30-day battery life before needing recharging, and recharging is easy using the indoor unit. It also stores the local recordings on an SD memory card within the indoor unit.
BCOM Digital Peephole Viewer Specs
- 1720p Video outdoor camera
- 15mm -16mm peephole diameter
- Field of View = 120°
- LCD Resolution 480 x 272
- Power Supply: 5000 mAh lithium-ion battery, 30-45 days standby time with normal use
Zerone 3.5” LCD HD Screen Peephole Camera
The Zerone LCD HD Screen Peephole Camera provides another good option for users who want a concealed peephole camera within their door. Its hidden style looks very similar to a regular peephole, and you can install it easily without any extra equipment.
It comes with a 3.5 -inch color LCD screen that you use to view HD images and videos of the visitors at your door. The unit is easy to operate and only takes one press to activate and view the outside camera. The camera’s 120° wide viewing angle provides a decent view of the outdoor area and immediate surroundings.
This option makes a great choice for someone who just wants basic security and isn’t concerned about managing the unit through smartphone apps or connecting to other Wi-Fi-enabled devices.
Zerone 3.5” LCD HD Screen Peephole Viewer Specs
- 480 x 320p video resolution
- Screen Size: 3.5-inch LCD
- Field of View = 120°
- Power Supply 4 x AAA batteries
Anjielo Smart Peephole Camera, Wi-Fi Video Doorbell
This unit records videos and snapshot pictures, making it a good option for people who like to monitor the activity around their house discretely. It has night-vision technology and can detect motion at a distance of up to 20 feet.
Our tester liked that they could monitor this option via an app on their smartphone. It also has a two-way intercom capability for speaking with the people on the other side of the door. They also liked that it included an LED screen for the inside of the door, so they could easily see outside, even if their smartphone wasn’t close by. However, you need your connected device and the installed app to communicate with the person outside the door.
Anjielo Smart Peephole Camera Specs
- 1280 x 960p video resolution
- Screen Size: 4.3 inches
- Field of View = 120°
- Wired Connection
JeaTone Wi-Fi Peephole Viewer
As one of the more well-known brands of peephole and security cameras, JeaTone doesn’t disappoint with this particular model. It has excellent video quality in the daytime, and nighttime conditions, which our tester found was important in feeling secure within the home.
It also supports a wide range of peephole sizes, which makes it a good option for many door types. Because it has a Wi-Fi connection, you can communicate with who’s outside your door, whether they press the doorbell or just trigger the motion sensor. The app it uses to do this function works on both Apple and Android devices.
Like many other options, you can quickly monitor visitors or outside activity using the LCD screen installed inside your door.
JeaTone Wi-Fi Peephole Viewer Specs
- 1920 x 1080p video resolution
- Peephole Diameter Size = 15 mm – 60 mm (actual peephole is 14 mm)
- Dimensions = 5.2 in x 3.74 in x 0.59 in (58 mm x 50 mm x 20 mm)
- Screen Size: 4.3 inches LCD screen
- Field of View = 120° wide angle
- Battery Type = 5000 mAh lithium battery
Remo Door Cam Smart Security Camera
If you’re looking for an over-the-door option with high-resolution video, you may want to consider the Remo Smart Security Camera. This camera doesn’t mount in a peephole or regular doorbell location but rather over the door, providing a downward view of your doorway and the surrounding area.
Our tester liked that this peephole camera had most of the features of the Ring Doorbell but didn’t require the installation of an actual doorbell. Instead, it just hung above the front door in minutes. It’s also Alexa-enabled, giving it additional security monitoring capabilities besides your smartphone or tablet.
Because this peephole camera is Wi-Fi-enabled, you can hear and speak to your visitors directly through Alexa or the app on your device. You’ll get reliable alerts every time that it detects motion. Our tester also liked that you could adjust the motion sensitivity, however. This feature allowed them to eliminate some of the false notifications or receive more notifications if desired.
Remo Door Cam Smart Security Specs
- High-quality 1080p HD video resolution
- Dimensions = 4.5 in x 2.4 in x 6.7 in
- Field of View = 160° wide angle
- Battery Type = 3 D Batteries
DigitHarbor LCD Screen Digital Door Camera
The DigitHarbor provides another option for those looking for a peephole camera with an included display unit inside the door. The peephole portion works with most peephole sizes and is not too difficult to install.
It automatically takes a photo when a visitor presses the “ring” button and can store up to 75 photos in its internal memory (automatically overwriting the oldest ones).
Our tester liked its simplicity and that it didn’t require a micro SD card to store the images. They also liked the long battery life, as it can go up to 6 months without needing charging. Although it’s not the highest resolution camera out there, it does the job, and our tester said they had no real problem identifying people from the images. The only thing they wished it had was a motion sensor because it would only take an image when someone presses the ring button.
DigitHarbor LCD Screen Digital Door Camera Specs
- 1 million pixel HD camera
- Dimensions = 7.87 x 3.94 x 4.72 inches
- Field of View = 120° wide angle
- Battery Type = 1200 mAh lithium battery
- Screen Size: 3-inch LCD
Things To Consider Before Buying A Peephole Camera
As you can see from the peephole cameras that we tested, many different options of peephole cameras exist to meet a variety of different needs, configurations, and budgets. Here are some things you’ll want to consider when deciding which one works best for you.
Resolution
Obviously, a higher resolution will give you a clearer view of who’s standing at your door. However, depending on your needs, it may make sense not to opt for the highest resolution available. Many people on a budget can get by just fine without needing HD video.
Of course, if you’re looking for the ultimate level of detail in your surroundings, you’ll need to invest in a camera with HD-quality video resolution.
Field Of View
You want to look for a peephole camera with a wide field of view. Otherwise, you’ll only be able to see a small section of your front door, and if the person moves out of that section, you will no longer see them well. Opt for a peephole camera that at least has a minimum 90° angle field of view, but remember, for the best viewing experience, you’ll want a more extensive field of view. Most of the cameras on our list have at least a 120° wide angle.
Technology
For some people having all of the best security technology is important. These customers will want to choose a peephole camera, like the Ring, that has Wi-Fi connectivity, smartphone compatibility, and video and can also connect to their Alexa device. The more technology the peephole camera has, the more you can interact with it and utilize it even if you are not at home.
However, some people find too much technology burdensome or overwhelming on a peephole camera. These users may find that a simpler peephole camera option better meets their needs. In this case, a peephole camera that only has viewing via the indoor LCD unit might make the best option.
Many people also consider motion alerts a “must-have” feature of their peephole cameras. If that’s the case, you’ll want to ensure the model you purchase has those capabilities.
Night Vision
Most of us want the best security during nighttime, and having a peephole camera that works well in low-light settings is a must. Suppose your peephole camera does not have the proper night vision technology. In that case, you will not get clear pictures or video of anything at your door after dark, or you may need to add extra lighting to your door area to get a viewable image through the camera.
Is A Peephole Camera Worth It?
With so many options of smart cameras on the market today that fit a variety of different needs and budgets, a peephole camera makes a worthwhile investment in protecting your property. We definitely think that the peace of mind a peephole camera provides makes it well worth the cost. Even people who live in apartments and cannot hard-wire doorbells into their doors can benefit from many peephole camera options, as many cameras don’t require extensive installation. There’s really no good reason why anyone can’t add this easy upgrade to their home, and hopefully, our list of the best peephole cameras inspires you.
Wrapping It Up
Peephole cameras have gained traction recently and have come a long way since they first hit the market. With so many reliable and easy-to-install peephole camera options available, we think that everyone can find a camera option that works with their lifestyle and monitoring needs.
If you have the budget, we definitely recommend looking for a peephole camera with HD video recording that allows you to monitor the unit from your Smart device. There’s nothing like being able to communicate with someone standing outside your home without even having to physically be home at all.
Related:
Please note: As an Amazon Associate, we Earned from qualified purchases. This will not cost you anything
1 Response
The blog provides definite and authentic information. I genuinely prefer your style, and your authenticity has made up my mind to come again and read the blog to increase my knowledge.