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Blink Video Doorbell Review – Is the Blink Doorbell Camera Right For You?
Blink Video Doorbell Review
When it comes to doorbell cameras, there is no shortage of options from which one can choose. However, the playing field is dramatically smaller if one is seeking a name brand, quality unit for under $50.
We briefly featured the Blink video doorbell camera in our Ring vs Blink comparison review…and in this Blink video doorbell review, we will dive deeper to see how the Blink Doorbell stands up to the competition.
Blink Doorbell Camera Review
Table of Contents
The Blink Video Doorbell Camera
Is the $49 Blink Doorbell Camera right for you?
Blink is one of the most popular budget wireless Wi-Fi security cameras on the market. Owned by Amazon, we think the Blink doorbell camera offers a lot of value for less than $50.
But, what kind of performance does it really deliver at that price point?
Is it right for you? Well…you be the judge.
This Blink doorbell review will lay it all out and let you decide.
Pressed for time? Our quick jump table of contents to the left will take you to the sections that spark your interest.
Blink Doorbell Camera Reviews – 2024 Editor’s Blink Video Doorbell Camera Review
Editor's Review Summary of Blink Security Camera and Doorbell Video
Name: Blink Security Cameras Review
Description: Editor's review summary of Blink Security Cameras and Doorbell Video Cam
Summary
Great overall value!
Pros
- Wallet-Friendly
- Alexa Compatible
- Can be Monitored Locally
Cons
- Not as Feature-Rich as some of the competition.
-
Set Up - 8.5/10
8.5/10
-
Ease of Use - 8/10
8/10
-
Features - 8/10
8/10
-
Design - 8/10
8/10
-
Price and Value - 9.5/10
9.5/10
Overall
8.4/10
How We Rank – Disclaimer
The rankings and ratings expressed on this site are the opinion of www.thehomesecurityadvisor.com and are subject to change. To keep this valuable service free, we generate advertising revenue from the companies featured in our rankings. Disclosure: The Home Security Advisor participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Learn More.
Pros and Cons of the Blink Doorbell Cam
Pros
Low Price Point
Easy Set Up
Hard-wired or wireless
Option for Local Video Storage
Cons
No Live Feed
Limited Vertical Field of Vision
Blink Doorbell Camera -You’ve Got Questions
Our Blink Video Doorbell Camera Review has the answers
Brochures and spec sheets are one thing….how a device performs under real-world conditions in the field is another. Some of the questions we cover in this Blink doorbell camera review are:
How would it come packaged?
Would it be easy to set up?
What is the field of vision?
Would the IR provide decent night vision?
How well would the app perform?
How is the battery life?
How well would the Blink doorbell camera stand up to the elements?
What are the ongoing costs?
Here is what we found…
Unboxing the Blink Doorbell Camera
The Blink Video Doorbell Camera is nicely packaged and includes:
- Doorbell
- Back Plate
- Paper template with taped Opening Key
- Mounting Kit: 2 plastic wall anchors, 2 plastic wire caps, 2 #8 3/4-inch Phillips head woodscrews, 2 #8 1/4-inch Phillips head machine screws
- 2 size AA 1.5 volt Lithium non-rechargeable batteries
- Product Guide
Overall…the equipment is well packaged and has an upscale product feel that belies its modest price tag.
Setting Up the Blink Doorbell Cam
Setting up the Blink video doorbell camera is fairly straightforward.
To get started you will need to position the device within range of your 2.4GHz WiFi Router.
You will also need to connect to your network with either an Android or IOS mobile device…and download the Blink Home Monitor app from either Google Play or the App Store.
Take a quick shot of the QR code on your smartphone…and it will take you through the EZ step-by-step setup guide.
The Blink customer support page will walk you through the process, as well, if you prefer your instructions in larger print.
The entire process is pretty straightforward…and takes less than 5 minutes.
The Blink Home Monitor App
Overall, we found the Blink Home Monitor App to work pretty well.
It was given a 3.4 rating on The Apple Store and a 2.8 on Google Play.
Early online ratings on the former weren’t particularly kind- but, an update seemed to improve things dramatically after a June update.
“Update 6/2/22: an automatic SW update a couple of days ago seemed to have vastly improved some of the situations I described below. So I feel obliged to update my review as well. Most notably, the USB access without the cloud subscription is working flawlessly for a couple days now. … Now, it’s reliable and reasonably quick to let me review all the recordings. And the SW just seems much less buggy going from one use to another. So, together with the great hardware, I now consider this a good product worth recommending”
Hopefully, Android owners will experience the same in future updates.
Mounting the Blink Doorbell Camera
Because the unit is completely wireless and runs on battery power, mounting the camera is as simple as selecting a location and screwing it in. As our existing doorbell chime wiring was questionable, we elected to go ahead and just install it as a separate wireless unit.
This would also give us a chance to monitor battery life and utilize the Blink Doorbell chime independently of our own 1960s-era doorbell chime.
2 screws, snap on the cover…and Presto – we were in business.
Of course, the unit does have to be able to connect to the network…but, this did not pose a problem, as we use a mesh system that gives great coverage throughout the home.
You should always test your own network to ensure that any blin devices. (or any wi-fi cameras) will work where you wish to install them. A strong steady signal is important regardless of which company or camera you are installing.
Weather Resistance
Built to withstand normal outdoor conditions, the Blink doorbell camera is rated to be dust resistant and operate between -4° to 113° F (-20° to 45° C). It carries an IP54 rating, which means it is water-resistant, but, cannot be submerged in water or handle prolonged direct heavy spray.
It is best mounted under an overhang. However, we don’t have one and, so far, we’ve encountered a couple of days of torrential downpours with no signs of ill effects.
A cold Maine winter may tell us more as the months pass by. The Blink video doorbell camera certainly looks like it is up to the task.
Blink Doorbell Security Camera
Specs, Features and Components
- 1080p HD resolution – Crisp, clear high definition video. 135º horizontal and 80º vertical.
- Easy Installation – No wires or electricians. Simple DIY wireless installation.
- IP54 Certified Weather Resistant – Built to withstand normal outdoor conditions, -4° to 113° F (-20° to 45° C). Cannot be submerged in water or handle prolonged direct heavy spray.
- Night Vision – IR illumination – 850 nm.
- Connectivity – 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi connection @ 2.4GHz
- 2-way Audio – Listen or speak right through the Blink Mobile App
- Up to 264 GB of Local Storage – Supports up to 264GB Micro SD Card (with the Sync Module 2- purchased separately)-PLUS free cloud storage for 60 days.
- PIR Motion Sensors – Range-23 feet. Zones and sensitivity can be adjusted.
- Dimensions –130 x 42 x 27 mm
The status indicator illuminates with red, green and blue states to indicate various connection scenarios.
The 1080p High Definition camera provides a panoramic field of view. The PIR motion sensor detects alerts and activates the recording and notification alerts. The light sensor which automatically switches to IR “night vision” in low light situations.
The system can be set up to use an existing doorbell chime or, if mounted wirelessly the chime can be announced through the Blink Home Monitor App on any iOS, Android, Fire OS device , or another indoor camera.
Blink Doorbell Settings and Navigation
The app is straightforward, user-friendly, and very intuitive.
The Home page will show preview images of the various cameras on your system.
Here you can arm or disarm the entire group of cameras or deactivate them individually. Tapping the video icon will bring you to a live view where you can also use the two-way talk feature. The camera icon will enable you to update the preview image with the current live image.
Adding additional cameras is as easy as clicking the “+” icon at the top and following the step-by-step instructions.
The settings icon on the top right-hand corner of each image will take you to the individual setting page for that camera where you can control the lengths of the video clips, motion sensitivity, trigger zones, etc. to customize how each camera will function.
And along the bottom of the home page, you can navigate to the storage history, system settings, account settings, etc.
Overall, I had no trouble navigating and adjusting settings.
Blink Mobile App Home Page
Adding Devices on Blink App
Blink Doorbell App – Settings
Blink Doorbell Review- Features+Performance
Easy DIY Install…Your Choice- The Blink Doorbell Camera is Completely Wireless!
No expensive electricions…no wiring…no holes, fishing wires or drilling (other than mounting screws). The Blink Video Doorbell can easily be hooked up to your existing doorbell chime or operate completely wirelessly using the included 2 Lithium 1.5V AA batteries. Either way, installation is simple and painless.
IP54Certified Weather Resistant
The camera performed without issues through a couple of days of heavy downpours. Sorry, we can’t vouch for the extreme temperature ratings yet…but a cold Maine winter will certainly put the Blink doorbell cam to the test.
1080P HD Video Image
The 1080HD image offers a brilliant full-color panoramic view with 135º horizontal and 80º vertical field of vision. We would like to have seen a bit more vertical field of vision so that it could show parcels on the doorstep, like the Wyze video doorbell..but, the video quality is outstanding for a budget video doorbell camera.
Night Vision
When the lights go down…the IR takes over to provide night vision capability. Of course, the image at night is not in full color.
Motion Activated Security Notifications
When it detects motion, the system will send notification alerts through the Blink Home Monitor App.
2 -Way Audio
Whether you are home or not, you can communicate with visitors at the front door right through the Blink Home Monitor App. Once the PIR detects movement, it will send a notification and you can access the app. Just depress the microphone icon to speak to the visitors or scare away would-be intruders.
Local or Cloud Storage
No expensive monthly charges are necessary. You can choose either cloud storage (free for the 1st 60 days…$3/mo. thereafter) or use the optional Blink Sync Module 2 for up to 264GB of local storage.
Alexa Compatibility
As Blink is owned by Amazon, it is a given that it is Alexa-compatible. This means that you can easily connect, view, and manage the Blink Video doorbell using voice commands on your mobile phone and any other Alexa-supported device such as the Echo Show, Fire TV, and Fire Tablets.
Unbeatable Battery Life
Blink claims that its video doorbell can last up to 2 years before needing to change the batteries. While it is too early to verify, we will update this Blink video doorbell when it’s time to change out the batteries.
Ease of Installation
Just download the app, pair the device to your network, and select a location where you want protection. Mount the device with 2 screws. It doesn’t get much easier!
For less than $50, this budget video doorbell offers a lot of bang for the buck. If you are willing to forgo the package detection features found in the Ring video doorbell, this doorbell camera is an outstanding value.
And, if you pair it with the Sync module 2, you can avoid costly monthly charges when you store footage locally, on a USB stick! (all for less than the price of a wireless Ring Doorbell)
8 Great Features of the Blink Doorbell Camera
Free Cloud Storage
Mobile APP
Blink Home Monitor App allows users to interact, view and record video.
1080p HD Video
Live view and recording in crystal clear 1080p HD. 135° Field of Vision.
IP-54 IP Weatherproof Rating
Night Vision
Powerful IR illumination provides nighttime viewing capability up to about 7 meters.
Motion Detection
Advanced motion detection with adjustable PIR zones and sensitivity.
Battery, Wired or Solar Powered
Can be powered with existing doorbell wiring, 2 AA batteries, and an optional solar power source is available, too.
Two-Way Talk
Common Blink Doorbell Camera Q&As
Does the Blink doorbell have a monthly fee?
Blink Video Doorbell Storage Costs
The Blink video doorbell gives you the option of either storing video clips locally or a monthly Cloud storage subscription.
Local storage capability requires the purchase of the Sync Module 2 (which can be purchased separately…but, is often included in packages for an additional $10). This module serves as a hub for the entire Blink lineup and can store up to 256GB of video on a USB flash drive (purchased separately)
If you prefer, you can subscribe to Cloud storage for$3 a month per camera or $10 a month for unlimited cameras.
If you pay on an annual basis, it is $30 and $100 respectively. Essentially you get 2 months free. No contract is required.
Blink cameras come with a 30-day trial subscription when you activate the camera.
Are there any contracts with a Blink Doorbell Cam?
No. If you choose the Cloud subscription it is month to month. If you pre-pay for a year, you basically get 2 months free.
Is there any wiring necessary to install the Blink doorbell?
The Blink video doorbell gives you the option of hooking up to the existing doorbell wiring or setting it up completely wirelessly.
It is powered by 2 Li AA batteries.
How long do the batteries last on a Blink Doorbell camera?
Blink claims a 2-year battery life under relatively ideal conditions.
While they have taken a number of steps to prolong battery life…a more realistic expectation might be 6-12 months under real-world circumstances.
Changing batteries is simple. Just snap off the cover using the enclosed “opening key”.
We will update this Blink Video Doorbell review when we change batteries based on our usage.
How long is the warranty?
All Blink wireless security cameras come with a 1-year limited warranty.
Does the Blink doorbell record all the time?
No, the Blink doorbell does not record all the time. It only records when a motion sensor is triggered or when a visitor presses the doorbell button.
Does the Blink Video Doorbell Camera ring inside?
When you press the Doorbell button, the Blink Doorbell sound will play from the speaker of any other blink cameras that are on the network. Additionally, your existing doorbell chime will also ring if connected.
The Blink app will also play the same sound, and depending on your Notification Options, you’ll get a notification.
Blink Video Doorbell Review – Summary and Final Thoughts
Blink set out to fill the need for a quality doorbell camera that is simple to install – at a reasonable price. It might not have some of the advanced features that some doorbell cameras offer, but it certainly gets the job done.
We especially like that it can be paired with the Blinks Sync Module 2 which will enable it to store video clips locally. Right now (June ’22), you can package the Sync Module 2 with your Blink Doorbell for only $10 more!
This means that you don’t have to pay a monthly charge to store your video clips!
Whether you intend to use it as a stand-alone device or combine it with your Frontpoint, ADT or Vivint Security system, the Blink doorbell camera is a cost-effective way to help thwart “porch-pirates” and provide additional security at your front door.
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Is Purchasing The Blink Doorbell Enough?
While getting a highly rated Blink Video Doorbell Camera is a worthwhile investment- you might not want to stop there. When it comes to protecting your home and family, investing a few dollars in a monitored home security system may be the next logical step to protecting the things that are most important to you.
A monitored alarm system can help protect your home and family against many threats. Among them are break-ins, home invasions, and environmental threats such as fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, floods, frozen pipes, and more.
And it might be much more affordable than you think.
Today’s home security systems are typically wireless and can be either professionally installed by companies like ADT, or self-installed. DIY systems like Frontpoint, make it even more affordable…and don’t require a long-term contract.
Looking for all the bells and whistles? Companies like Vivint can also serve as the hub for a smart home automation system that includes cameras, doorbell cameras, energy management systems, lighting, and smart locks.
Including your new Blink doorbell camera in a fully integrated security system can take it to the next level, and afford you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your valuables, home, and family are fully protected.
Want Total Peace of Mind?
Take Our Simple Quiz to find your Best Home Security Company.
Top 3 Rated Security Systems to Combine with your Blink Doorbell Camera
Best Overall
Frontpoint Security
HSA Rating
9.5
Rates from $34.99
♦No Long Term Contracts
♦A+ BBB Rating
♦Best Customer Service
Best Automation
Vivint Security
HSA Rating
9.2
Rates from $29.99
♦Cutting Edge Tech
♦Flex Pay Financing
♦No Contract Option
Best Pro Install
ADT – Safe Streets
HSA Rating
8.9
Rates from $28.99
♦Name Recognition
♦Experience
♦Professional Install
Get the Blink Doorbell
- 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 batter
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Thank you for your interest in this Blink Video Doorbell Review. If you have experience with a Blink Doorbell Camera, please feel free to share your experiences in the section for customer Blink Doorbell Reviews.
Customer Blink Doorbell Reviews
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Last Updated on January 24, 2024 by
The Blink doorbell kit includes two #8 1/4-inch Phillip’s head machine screws. What are they used for?
Editor's Rating
Outstanding overall value.
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