Doorbells are low-voltage devices installed outside a house's door. It lets the residents know that someone is outside. An electromagnet is present, which is a set of coiled wires wrapped around a piece of magnet. When a visitor presses the doorbell button, electricity flows through the internal electromagnet. 

An electric current flowing through the coiled wire produces a magnetic field. The system that makes the doorbell sound uses this magnetic field. For instance, in a chime bell, the magnetic field moves the magnetic piston that strikes the two tone bars, creating a “ding dong” sound. 

In the 19th century, a Scottish inventor, William Murdoch, invented the first doorbell that used a piped system of compressed air. In 1831, the first electric doorbell was manufactured by Joseph Henry. By 1900, the concept of doorbells became common.  

What are the Types of Doorbells?

The following are the 5 types of doorbells: 

1. Intercom Doorbells

2. Wired Doorbells

3. Wireless Doorbells

4. Smart Doorbells

5. Video Doorbells

Intercom Doorbell

Intercom doorbells offer the functionality of both an intercom and a doorbell. They have built-in cameras, speakers, and microphones. You can verify the identity of the visitor before opening the door. They are ideal for surveillance. Residents can also integrate intercom doorbells with their mobile apps or smart home systems to allow access even when they’re away from the location. 

Wired Doorbells

Wired doorbells are traditional doorbells as they don’t depend upon the batteries or wireless signals. They are hard-wired into the electrical system. They can easily integrate into existing security systems such as CCTV cameras, intercoms, etc. Wired doorbells are durable and low-maintenance.

Wireless Doorbells

A wireless doorbell uses radio waves, WiFi, or Bluetooth to transmit signals between the outer unit (push button) and internal unit (chime). When someone presses the push button, a wireless signal is sent to the receiver that produces an audible chime. It is easy to install and portable. 

Smart Doorbells

Smart doorbells are internet-connected devices. They send notifications on the smart devices (tablets, smartphones, iPads, etc) when a visitor arrives. Their motion sensors detect the presence of visitors. The homeowner can communicate with the visitor through the built-in camera and microphone. Users can open the door from any location with smart locks in smart doorbells.

Video Doorbells

Video doorbells have a built-in camera and microphone which enables two-way communication with the visitor. Connect your video doorbells to smart devices, such as mobile phones with a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection. Video doorbells also have infrared LEDs or IR illumination to keep functioning at night.

How to Choose the Right Doorbell for Your Home

When choosing a doorbell for your home, first understand your needs. Then set the budget. Look for the features of the doorbells. Check the alignment of features with your requirements. Then, look at installation options and usability. Lastly, purchase the doorbell from the most suitable brand. 

Doorbell Installation Guide

Doorbell installation differs based on the type of doorbell. The guide is categorized into two types: 

1. Wired doorbell

2. Wireless doorbell

Installing a Wired Doorbell

To install a wired doorbell, turn off the circuit breaker. Confirm that no power is flowing with a voltage tester. Connect a transformer to your main electrical panel. Then, plan for where the wiring will run. 

Connect one wire from the transformer and one from the doorbell button to the designated terminals on the chime. Then, install your doorbell button outside your house. Finish by connecting and securing wiring. 

Installing a Wireless or Smart Doorbell

First, charge or insert the battery into your smart doorbell. Then, install your doorbell on the exterior wall or doorfront. Open the doorbell’s app on your smartphone and connect it to your home WiFi network. Lastly, customize the settings like motion detection zones and notifications visibility on a preference basis. 

What are the Best Doorbell Brands in 2025?

Here are the leading doorbell brands in 2025:  

1. Ring

Ring has 3 models of video doorbells; battery doorbell, battery doorbell plus, and battery doorbell pro. It offers a 66% taller head-to-toe view. Their doorbells are convenient and have upgraded security features.  

2. Google Nest

Google Nest is owned by Google. Their doorbells offer HD video quality, 6x digital zoom, and a 3:4 aspect ratio. They are sleek in design. Color options are also available. 

3. Arlo

Arlo is known for its video doorbells. They are available in wired and wireless settings. They have 2K or HD cameras, 180° field of view, motion sensors, and a night vision feature. 

4. Eufy

Eufy is popular for its video doorbells. Their doorbells have dual cameras. Power options are flexible. Local storage ranges from 8GB to 16 GB. 

5. Blink

Blink’s doorbells are highly durable. They have a water-resistant power adapter, so they keep functioning in harsh weather. You can integrate Blink’s doorbells with smart devices like Alexa.  

6. SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe’s video doorbells have customization options. The application does not send extra notifications.  

7. Unifi

Unifi has premium doorbells in two colors, black and white. They have numerous features such as a microphone, fingerprint sensor, speaker, LCM display, and an HD (2MP) 30 FPS camera.  

8. Lorex

Lorex has wired and battery-powered models of smart doorbells. They are easy to install. The prices are economical, starting from $89.99. Each model has a camera with different resolutions. 

9. Wyze

Wyze has two types of doorbells, Wyze Duo Cam Doorbell and Wyze Duo Cam Doorbell with extra battery. Silver and black colors are available in Wyze doorbells. You can also integrate them with the existing wiring system. 

10. Reolink

Reolink doorbells can easily detect packages and persons with smart detectors. They have a 5MP 2 K+ Super HD camera. The IP65 weatherproof rating ensures durability. 

11. Ecobee

Ecobee’s smart doorbell offers a 175° vertical field of view. They can connect to your WiFi and your smart home devices. You can customize the notifications settings from the application. 

12. Tp-Link Tapo

Tapo Smart Battery Video Doorbell gives a head-to-toe view of your doorfront. Their doorbells are water and dust-resistant. They have an anti-theft alarm, a smart AI detection system, and a longer battery life.