Doorbells are small and convenient home accessories that have been around for over a hundred years. They’re often the first thing that guests interact with when they visit a home. Doorbells announce someone’s arrival without the need for excessive knocking or shouting. While they can be found on homes of all sizes, they’re particularly useful in large homes.
In the past, doorbells utilized a series of complex wiring and electrical circuits. These days, they operate on much more advanced technology. This has, ironically enough, made them much simpler and easier to use. Wireless doorbells have opened up a world of possibilities for homeowners. The high-tech radio technology used to power them has eliminated the need for costly home renovations, making the convenience of doorbells much more accessible to people across the world.
Not only that, but integrated smart technology has added a lot of extra perks as well. Wireless doorbell systems can improve your home’s overall security levels. More advanced features, such as a live intercom system, video functionality, and motion sensors, let you keep watch over your front door at all times.
Wireless doorbells are a hot commodity in today’s home market. As a result, you’ll find a bevy of options at your disposal. Products range from relatively low-tech radio transmitting devices up to fully connected devices that you can access from anywhere in the world. Here are some wireless doorbell reviews to help you find a product that can add loads of convenience and safety to your home.
ConsumerExpert’s Best Wireless Doorbells
SadoTech Model C Wireless Doorbell
The Sadotech wireless doorbell is a sleek and simple option that can cover your entire home. It comes with a single wireless transmitter and receiver. However, you can expand the system with additional equipment, including motion sensors and door sensors. The system has a range of approximately 500 feet. That range goes up to 1,000 feet in an open area. The door chime receiver plugs into any standard outlet. It comes with 50 different chime sounds and four volume levels.
The button uses replaceable batteries. It has a sleek waterproof design to stand up to the elements as well. Both components are made out of plastic. There’s a ring light to provide visual notifications. Best of all, the wireless doorbell kit comes in a rainbow of colors, allowing you to express your personal style.
Pros:
500-foot range
Waterproof button
50 different chime sounds
Simple installation
Plug-in receiver
Available in many colors
Expandable system
Can get as loud as 110 dB
Cons:
Made of plastic
No smart features
AVANTEK D-3B Wireless Doorbell
With a range of over 1,300 feet, the Avantek doorbell kit is great for bigger homes. This kit includes two receivers. Both of them have volume controls built right in. There are five settings. The loudest is 115 dB, which is as loud as a live concert. There are also 52 different chime melodies to choose from. The system automatically remembers your chosen chime, even if the power goes out.
The push-button transmitter is thin and easy to install with the included adhesive. Instead of using traditional replaceable batteries, this doorbell has a high-capacity lithium battery that can last up to three years. It’s waterproof and remains fully operational in temperatures as low as negative 4 degrees or as high as 140 degrees.
Pros:
Includes lithium battery with 3-year lifespan
Over 1,000-foot range
Includes two door chime receivers
52 chimes
Five volume levels
Simple installation process
LED lights
Cons:
Made of plastic
No smart features
Ring Video Doorbell Pro
The Ring Pro doorbell is a smart device that offers ample protection for your home. In addition to being a doorbell, the Ring Pro has a built-in video camera that shoots in 1080p HD. Motion sensors can alert you to the presence of strangers. The doorbell connects to Wi-Fi, so it can send you notification on your phone. You’ll be able to view the live feed from the camera and speak to your guests through the intercom system.
One of the most unique thing about this doorbell is that it works with Amazon Alexa. You can use Alexa devices to receive audible chimes and speak to people at your door directly.
Pros:
Works with Amazon Alexa
Metal body
Motion sensor
High-definition video camera
Two-way audio communication
Wi-Fi connectivity
Sends push notifications to smartphone
Cons:
Button requires wired installation
No dedicated receiver
Ring Video Doorbell
The Ring doorbell was one of the first smart doorbells available. Even today, it still does a great job at securing your home. This model is completely wireless, using replaceable batteries. Like the previous doorbell, it can communicate with Alexa-enabled devices. It also works with most smartphones via a dedicated app and push notifications.
A camera built into the button housing provides you with a clear view of who’s at your door. Infrared technology is used as well so that you can see in low-light conditions. You can speak with guests remotely through your phone or with an Alexa device.
Pros:
Works with Amazon Alexa
Sleek metal body
Video camera with infrared
Built-in microphone and speaker
Wi-Fi connectivity
Uses replaceable batteries
Cons:
No motion detection
No dedicated receiver
Lovin Wireless Doorbell Chime Kit
The doorbell kit from Lovin has a futuristic look, complete with flashing blue lights. Both the receiver and button are made out of smooth plastic. The receiver plugs directly into a standard outlet. A ring of LED lights is included. They will flash each time the button is pressed, helping those who are hearing impaired know that someone is at the door. The receiver also has 32 different beautiful chimes to choose from.
The button is large and clearly visible. It uses a single 12-volt battery and can be attached to your home using screws or double-sided tape. The design of the button keeps all of the crucial electronics safe from dust and water.
Pros:
Up to 1,000-foot range
Simple design
34 audio chimes
Four volume settings
Lights for hearing impaired
Resistant to dust and water
Can add more buttons and receivers
Cons:
Doesn’t get as loud as some options
Plastic body
No smarthome features
Honeywell E-Series Portable Wireless Doorbell
The portable wireless door chime from Honeywell is great for homeowners on the go. The battery-operated receiver can be carried with you around or your home or property. It’s a convenient option for those who want to know if guests come while they’re working outside. The system has a 450-foot range and comes with a single, low-profile button.
The receiver has eight chimes installed already. However, you can add more of your own. It’s compatible with MP3 files, allowing you to use your favorite song as your door chime.
Pros:
450-foot range
Comes with eight chime tunes
Compatible with downloaded MP3 files
Mute timer
Portable receiver
Can be expanded with more buttons and motion sensors
Cons:
Doesn’t get as loud as some options
Requires more batteries
Aventek Mini Wireless Doorbell
Another option from Avantek is this small mini system. It features one push-button transmitter and a small receiver. Both pieces of equipment are quite compact. The button uses a lithium battery that can last up to three years. It has a low-profile design, allowing it to blend in with your home’s exterior effortlessly.
The same goes for the door chime receiver. It plugs into any standard outlet. The built-in speakers can get quite loud, ensuring that the doorbell is heard from anywhere in the home.
Pros:
Up to 1,000-foot range
Button uses long-lasting battery
Receiver plugs into standard outlet
52 chimes
Five volume levels between 25 dB and 115 dB
LED notification lights
Cons:
Made of plastic
Doesn’t have any smart features
1byone Easy Chime Wireless Doorbell Kit
This model has a compact design and up to 36 ringtones to choose from, each with 3 levels of adjustable volume, going from 25 to 110 dB. There are 3 notification modes, these modes include sound and LED flash combined, LED flash only, and sound only. This is a very easy to install device as the receiver can be either free standing or wall mounted with the necessary hardware included. You can fix the push button onto a doorframe with either attached adhesive tape or with screws. The push button is also waterproof as another pro.
You can easily add up to 5 push buttons to your receiver and each push button can be paired with more than one receiver so that you can increase your notification coverage area. There have been occasions where this doorbell only gets a range of 2 feet and has been known to go off with nobody there.
Honeywell Premium Portable Wireless Doorbell
This particular Honeywell is wireless and uses AA alkaline batteries. It can work with up to three push buttons and motion detectors. It even works with door contacts to allow for added security. There are three chime tunes to choose from with a fully adjustable volume. There are a total of three visual alert icons available. There is a self-learning code system that automatically will adjust to eliminate any interference.
There is also a 250 foot operating range for this model. The push button action is positive and smooth and has a definite click to it, there is not a lot of pressure required to get it to work. A con is this isn’t the easiest model to set up, and battery changes can be difficult as well. It comes with both mounting tape and screws. However, the screws are recommended.
TeckNet Wireless Doorbell
This model has an operating range of feet, however, in an open area it has up to 1000 feet operation. The remote transmitter button is weatherproof and approved for outdoor usage. The receiver easily plugs into an electrical outlet and there are no batteries required for the main receiver. There are blue LED flashes when there is someone at your door with this doorbell.
You have 32 different ringtones to choose from and four levels of adjustable volume, from 25 dB to 85 dB. This model has a memory function for chime and sound selection. The push button can either be attached with double side adhesive tape or with screws. This doorbell isn’t as loud as some others, so if you or someone in your home is hard of hearing, this may not be a good option.
Heath Zenith Wireless Door Chime
The Heath Zenith has a contemporary styling of wood paneling. It is battery operated with a 150 foot range. There is an adjustable volume control and a 2 note melody for front entrance and a one note melody for rear entrance. This is a very easy to install doorbell as there is no need to rewire. It only works with two doors, and it isn’t as loud as other models.
1byone Easy Chime Wireless Doobell
This 1byone Easy Chime model has a lone range that goes up to 500 feet with a total of 36 different ringtones for you to choose from. There are three levels of adjustable volume, going from 15dB to 110 dB. You can choose from 3 notification modes, either sound and flash, flash only, or just sound. It is possible to add on additional push buttons and receivers by yourself, each receiver can pair with up to five total push buttons. Installation is easy and there are no batteries required for the plug in receiver.
There is adhesive tape to fix the push button to your door frame. The push button is approved for outdoor use as it is weatherproof. The adhesive tape does not always stick very well so it may be necessary to drill holes into the device. However, dry wall anchors and screws are included. A con is that it will take up an entire wall socket as it does not rotate to allow for any other use of the plug in.
GE Wireless Doorbell Kit
This GE doorbell kit comes with one wireless door chime along with two compatible push buttons. There is a total of 150 foot wireless range and eight unique ringtones to choose from. This model allows for individual sounds for each door and a total of four volume levels to choose from. It has a sleek brushed nickel look and is ready to use with no wiring required, so installation is easy. Batteries are required but not included. An issue with this model is that even with four volume levels, it is still not very loud.
There are a lot of things to consider when looking at a wireless doorbell. You want it to be loud enough, to look good with your home, and of course for it to work. Things like different ringtones for different doors as well as range are things you may not originally have thought about considering but are important aspects of a doorbell. There are several on the market, and it can get overwhelming when trying to choose the right doorbell. However, with a little research and a little understanding of what to expect, then you will be able to find the right doorbell for you and your home.
Wireless Doorbell Buying Guide
Innovations in smart home technology have lead to a wide selection of doorbells to choose from. While the concept may seem simple enough, the things that these devices can do are anything but. Many brands have included a selection of advanced features that you never knew you needed. Whether you’re looking for one of these feature-rich doorbells or something more on the simpler side of things, there’s a lot to consider before you make a purchase.
Connectivity
One of the first things you should consider is how the doorbell actually works. There are a couple of different types of wireless technologies used. The first is through radio waves. When the doorbell is pressed, a radio signal is sent to the chime inside your home. This type of technology is the simplest and is used for doorbells that perform have a singular function.
Alternatively, doorbells can connect to your in-home Wi-Fi signal. Essentially, the signal from the button press is transmitted over the Internet to your smartphone, tablet, and chime box.
Range
The range of the doorbell will directly affect its efficiency. Most standard wireless doorbells have a range of about 300 feet. This is suitable for most medium-sized homes. If you have a large home or one with more than one floor, you may need to get a doorbell that includes signal extenders. An expandable wireless doorbell allows you to have more than one receiver throughout your home as well as additional buttons on different doors.
Or, you could go with a device that connects through Wi-Fi. As long as the receiver is placed close to the actual doorbell, the range really isn’t an issue. The receiver is capable of notifying you that someone is at your door no matter where you are in the world.
There are a few things that could affect your range. Thicker walls and certain materials can make it more difficult for the signal to penetrate. In these cases, you may need to invest in a doorbell that’s capable of producing a much stronger signal.
Receivers and Chimes
The receiver is what’s going to actually notify you that someone is at your door. Most doorbells have a simple plug-in receiver that can be placed anywhere in your home, as long as its within range. It features a small speaker that produces a chime. Some options also have lights and physical indicators to accompany the sound.
The great thing about wireless doorbells is that you don’t have to settle for a simple “ding dong” sound. They often have many different chimes for you to choose from, allowing you to customize your bell to your liking. Also, make sure that the doorbell has many volume levels. A doorbell will do you no good if you can barely hear it.
Physical Design
Your new doorbell is going to be seen by everyone that comes over, so why not get something that complements your home? Wireless door chimes are available in just about any style you can think of. Whether you have a modern home or a traditional one, you can find a chime kit to match. Typically, the doorbell that goes outside of your home is designed to match the receiver or chime box, ensuring that things look good on both ends.
Protection from the Elements
In addition to the aesthetic appeal a doorbell offers, it’s important to consider its weatherproofing. The button for your front door will be exposed to heavy rain, direct sunlight, and anything else Mother Nature throws at it. To protect your investment, the doorbell should be fully sealed and made out of high-quality material. You can find cheaper options made out of thick plastic. However, metal varieties have a better chance of lasting for several years.
Power Source
Because these devices are completely wireless, they rely on power at both ends. The push-button transmitter for the door will be powered by a battery. Some devices use replaceable batteries that you can find anywhere while others utilize a rechargeable option. Most chime kits have a plug-in receiver that you can use on any standard outlet. However, there are some out there that use batteries as well for easy placement.
Smart Technology
Another thing you should think about is whether or not you want smart technology in your wireless doorbell system. As mentioned earlier, you can get devices that are packed with many great features. Smart home gadgets are all the rage nowadays because they let you take control of your home with your smartphone. Doorbells are no different.
If you already have a smart home system, there are plenty of wireless door chimes that will work with it straight out of the box. With a few minutes of setup, these doorbells will work seamlessly with home security systems, lights, and much more. Many doorbells expand the reach of the chime as well. Wi-Fi models can send notifications in real-time, alerting you visitors when you’re at work and away from your home.
Video and Audio Capabilities
Video doorbells have grown in popularity quite a bit. In addition to acting like a normal door chime, these doorbells do double-duty as a security system. Most have built-in motion detectors that are sensitive enough to notify you of the presence of visitors before they even make it to the door. Some even have a two-way intercom system so that you can communicate with visitors right from your smartphone.
This can prove to be incredibly useful in a variety of situations. Many stories of package thieves and home intruders being thwarted by video doorbells have gone viral in recent years, showing just how effective they are at keeping homes safe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wireless Door Bells
How are wireless doorbells installed?
Most wireless chimes can be installed in just a few minutes. The whole purpose of a wireless product is that it doesn’t require you to install any additional wiring. You can simply plug in the receiver inside your home and attach the push-button transmitter on your door. This can be done with a few screws or with double-sided tape.
Are wireless door chimes permanent?
One big perk of a wireless doorbell kit is that you can take it with you whenever you move. Portable wireless doorbells are perfect for renters. You can use non-permanent installation methods to ensure that no signs of the doorbell exist once you leave.
What types of surfaces can the transmitter be installed on?
This all depends on the installation method you choose. If you’re screwing the device onto your siding, most surfaces will work. Though, you may need special tools if you plan on drilling into any masonry. If you use an adhesive to stick the button on, a smooth surface is best. Avoid sticking it directly to metal or any type of porous material.
Are there any special permit requirements to use a wireless doorbell?
In most cases, you do not need a permit to install a wireless doorbell on your home. Because there’s no permanent electrical wiring, most jurisdictions don’t consider installation to be a form of remodeling. Of course, it’s always a good idea to check with the local code to make sure. This is especially true if you’re in an apartment or rental, in which case you may need permission from your landlord.
How many buttons can a wireless doorbell kit support?
Most kits will support more than one doorbell, allowing you to have a button on each door in your home. The exact number of buttons the kit will support varies from brand to brand. However, most support five or six buttons for one receiver.
Will the wireless technology interfere with other electronics?
The signal produced by the transmitter will not affect your electronics in most cases. These systems operate on a different frequency than Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.