Blink Video Doorbell: Enhancing Home Security with Smart Features

Introduction:

Home security is a top priority for homeowners, and the Blink Video Doorbell is here to provide the perfect solution. With its two-way audio, HD video capabilities, motion alerts, and Alexa integration, this sleek device offers an array of features to ensure your home remains secure. In this article, we'll delve into the world of the Blink Video Doorbell, exploring its capabilities and what makes it an excellent addition to your home.

A Smarter Way to Answer the Door:

The Blink Video Doorbell allows you to answer your door from anywhere using your smartphone. It features 1080p HD day video and infrared night vision, ensuring that you have a clear view of your doorstep, day or night. The two-way audio feature enables you to have conversations with visitors, enhancing convenience and security.

Long-Lasting Battery Life and Custom Alerts:

Experience peace of mind with the Blink Video Doorbell's long-lasting battery life. You can customize alerts to receive notifications when motion is detected or when someone presses the doorbell. These features make it easy to stay informed about activity at your front door, even when you're not at home.

Flexible Installation Options:

The Blink Video Doorbell offers flexible installation options. You can connect it to existing doorbell wiring or pair it with a Sync Module (sold separately) to enable live view and two-way audio on demand. This adaptability ensures that the doorbell can fit seamlessly into any home.

Cloud Storage or Local Storage:

Choose how you want to store your video clips. The Blink Subscription Plan offers a free 30-day trial of cloud storage, allowing you to save and share clips securely in the cloud. Alternatively, you can opt for local storage using the Sync Module 2 and a USB drive (each sold separately), providing you with control over your data.

Adaptable to Your Home:

The Blink Video Doorbell is designed to accommodate all types of homes. You have the option to go wire-free or connect it to your existing doorbell wiring, enabling it to sound your in-home chime. Without wiring, you can also use the Blink Mini camera (sold separately) as an indoor plug-in chime.

Quick and Easy Setup:

Setting up the Blink Video Doorbell is a breeze. With the included AA lithium batteries and a simple scan of the QR code, you can have your doorbell ready to use in minutes. Connect it to your Wi-Fi network through the app, and you're good to go.

Alexa Integration:

The Blink Video Doorbell works seamlessly with Alexa-enabled devices. You can receive alerts and answer the door using two-way audio, just by asking Alexa. This integration adds an extra layer of convenience to your smart home ecosystem.

Product Specifications:

Field of view: 135° horizontal, 80° vertical
Video resolution: 1080p HD video during the day, infrared HD night vision after dark
Photo resolution: 640 x 360 nHD
Camera frame rate: Up to 30 fps
Size: 130 x 42 x 34 mm
Weight: 91 grams
Power: 2 AA 1.5V lithium metal (non-rechargeable) batteries or existing chime wiring (16-24 VAC)
Battery life: Up to two years, based on default settings and usage
Requirements: Always-on high-speed internet connection (such as broadband, fiber, or DSL), 2.4 GHz 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi network
Connection: Battery or wired
Available colors: Black, White
Minimum smartphone requirements: iOS 14.0, Android 6.0, Fire OS 7
Blink app: Blink Home Monitor
Included in the box: Blink Video Doorbell, 2 AA 1.5V non-rechargeable AA lithium metal batteries, mounting kit
Audio: Speaker output and 2-way audio recording
LEDs: 1 LED ring to indicate activity (optional), flashes in blue, red, and green
Warranty and service: 1-year limited warranty and service included

Install: Setting up the Blink Video Doorbell is straightforward, and users noted the convenience of the installation process. A special mention was made regarding the use of a "wedge" for installation, which improved the camera's angle for better coverage. While the included backplate was deemed somewhat cheap, the addition of a sturdy wedge enhanced the installation.

Power vs. batteries: Users mentioned that even when hardwired, the Blink Video Doorbell still requires 2 AA batteries for powering the camera. It was explained that this was due to compatibility with older doorbell systems that might not provide sufficient power for the camera. The device adapts to the power available, whether from batteries or wiring.

Set-up: Users praised the ease and simplicity of the setup process, comparing it to adding a regular Blink camera to their existing system. The inclusion of step-by-step instructions and QR code scanning made the initial setup hassle-free.

Motion Sensor: The Blink Video Doorbell was noted to use a camera-based motion sensor, which some users found less effective than the more traditional physical motion sensors used in larger Blink cameras. It was emphasized that placement and configuration of the device play a crucial role in minimizing false motion alerts.

Video Quality: Users were generally satisfied with the video quality of the Blink Video Doorbell, particularly its wide-angle lens that provided broad coverage of the front porch. The microphone for audio recording was also found to work effectively.

Sound Chime/Notifications: The doorbell was commended for its chime, which is activated when the doorbell button is pressed. However, it was advised that for larger or noisy homes, additional measures such as connecting to an Alexa device might be necessary to ensure that you always hear the doorbell.

Conclusion:

The Blink Video Doorbell is a smart and cost-effective solution for enhancing your home security. Its easy setup, flexible installation options, and compatibility with existing Blink systems make it a practical choice for homeowners. With features like two-way audio, motion alerts, and Alexa integration, it provides the convenience and peace of mind you need to keep your home secure. Whether you opt for cloud or local storage, the Blink Video Doorbell is designed to adapt to your preferences, making it an excellent addition to any smart home.