Verdict on Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery)
If you have a strong Wi-Fi connection at home, the Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery) is a solid choice. Installation is quick, the audio and video quality are decent, and the app is user-friendly. However, it struggles with fine details and has limited motion detection range.
Pros
Simple setup and installation
Useful 'Quick Replies' feature
Fast charging
Extensive customization options
Compatible with Amazon Alexa & Google Home
No subscription fees required
Cons
No USB-C charger included
Not effective with weak Wi-Fi signals
Limited motion detection range
Short battery longevity
Our team rigorously tests and compares a variety of products to help you make informed choices.
I aimed to see if the Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery) could rival my Ring Wired Doorbell Pro. After a 10-day trial, it shows promise as a budget-friendly alternative without monthly fees, although it has limitations.
Having used top-tier video doorbells for years, I sought clear footage, crisp audio, and a reliable app. The Reolink had quite the task ahead.
Leading models simplify answering the door and monitoring your property for peace of mind. Here's what I found about the Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery) during my evaluation.
Quick Summary of the Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery)
The Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery) is an excellent choice without recurring fees.
This video doorbell is an ideal security solution for renters, offering quick installation and generally good footage. While details of people and packages can be vague, it's enough to alert you when something is amiss.
Priced at $119.99, discounts are often available. You can avoid ongoing subscription fees by using a 256GB microSD card for storage.
If your Wi-Fi isn't strong and you prefer a permanent installation, consider the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro, which excels in quality and responsiveness. Alternatively, the eufy E340 is another subscription-free option with impressive 2K footage.
Specifications of Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery)
| Field of View | 150°x150°x180° |
|---|---|
| Storage | 256GB microSD + Cloud |
| Sensor Type | 1/3.11" CMOS |
| Object Recognition | Yes – people, packages, vehicles |
| Video Resolution | 2K Super HD |
| Power | Rechargeable battery or hardwired |
| Two-Way Audio | Yes |
| Operating Distance | 0 to 23 feet |
| Alert Type | Motion-only |
| Voice Assistance | Compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa |
| Dimensions | 6.2 x 1.8 x 1.16 inches |
Installation and Setup of Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery)
The Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery) is available in both battery and hardwired versions. Installation requires the Reolink app and a suitable location.
Included in the box are: the doorbell, mounting plate, horizontal wedge, mounting template, USB-C cable, extension cable, jumper cable, screws, and instructions. You can install it as either battery-powered or wired.
The battery comes partially charged for setup. It's essential to download the app first before charging. The app is available on the App Store and Google Play, accessed via a QR code in the instructions.
During setup, you can pair the Chime (sold separately for $24.99 at Reolink) with the doorbell. This is useful for hearing notifications inside your home without needing your phone.
To pair, plug the Chime into an outlet and follow the app's instructions. When the doorbell button is pressed, the Chime will sound and send notifications to your smartphone.
The Reolink Chime is essential for audible notifications when you're not near your phone.
The Chime features 12 ringtones and five volume levels, ranging from 71dB to 89dB.
If using the battery-powered version, charge it fully after setup before installation. A USB-C cable is provided, but you'll need a charging plug, which can be purchased separately.
After charging, the button light will change from orange to green.
You can connect the Reolink Video Doorbell to an existing wired doorbell system, requiring 8 to 24VAC voltage. I opted for battery power, ensuring my Wi-Fi signal was strong enough (10Mbps minimum).
To optimize the field of view, I used the included horizontal wedge and mounted it at a height of 48 inches for best performance.
Installation was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions. I managed it solo, and quality screws made a significant difference.
The doorbell's field of view is adjusted perfectly down our drive.
Video Quality of Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery)
After 10 days of use, here's what I observed:
Daytime: Faces are somewhat visible, but detail is lacking. Cars are clear, but license plates are often indistinguishable.
It only detects larger packages, as shown during my testing at close range within the 150-degree field of view.
The doorbell effectively detects vehicles and packages.
Nighttime: The picture is clear, although detail is again lost. Faces are unrecognizable, and license plates are hard to see. Motion detection is prompt, and the illuminated lens and button enhance security.
The illuminated doorbell indicates it's powered on and recording.
Dynamic Light: Bright and dark areas are well-balanced. I had no glare issues, and I could easily monitor movements during live streams.
Audio Quality of Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery)
The audio is clear with minimal interference.
Conversations are easily heard, along with background noises like birds and passing vehicles. However, wind noise may become an issue in harsher conditions.
App and Smart Features of Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery)
Stored footage can be accessed via the Reolink app.
The Reolink app is user-friendly and available on both app stores. It's stable and intuitive, though it could use some improvements in navigation.
Accessing stored events requires navigating through the home screen, which could be more straightforward. The app allows battery level checks, display settings for motion detection, and integration with voice assistants.
You can connect the doorbell to Google Home and/or Amazon Alexa for alerts through compatible devices.
Live and stored footage can be shared through the app.
Past events are organized by date in the Playback section, and you can download, delete, or share individual events. An emergency audio alarm can be triggered in the app, although the activation method could be clearer. You can also use the Tap to Talk feature for instant communication.
Motion Detection and Notifications of Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery)
Receive notifications for detected motion.
The doorbell utilizes AI to detect people, vehicles, and packages within a 23-foot range. However, it may miss movements outside this range.
Notifications are sent to your phone, and motion events are saved in Playback.
You can enable motion boxes in the settings to outline detected objects. The sensitivity of the PIR sensor can be adjusted to reduce false alerts.
Pressing the doorbell button initiates a phone call, allowing for two-way audio communication or triggering pre-set responses from the app.
Power and Battery Life of Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery)
Charging takes about three hours.
This doorbell features a 7000mAh rechargeable battery. Battery life varies based on settings and usage, but I found it dropped from 100% to 41% in ten days, suggesting it may last about four weeks.
Several battery modes are available, including an
