Blink video doorbell is a home-security device that records, communicates, and offers alerts to prevent porch piracy. This doorbell is known for its affordability, premium quality, and frequent updates. Blink video doorbell is an Amazon-owned device and works well with Amazon Echo Show and Alexa. Its design is similar to the Google Nest doorbell with slight differences in color and button. Blink doorbell has a fish eye to record and an oval-shaped button that lights up when pressed. Amazon has launched both wireless and wired Blink doorbells, along with sync modules, over time. Blink 2nd-Gen and sync module 2 are the latest models with improved battery life and camera quality. 

The Amazon Alexa app makes it easy to control the doorbell functionalities. Owners access the camera, two-way audio system, and recording even when they are away. Unlike Nest doorbell, which requires a subscription to save and access camera recordings, the Blink doorbell offers download access to local USB storage. Use the activity zones and motion detectors to get alerts if someone passes by. Blink doorbell battery lasts for two years, depending on the usage and recordings. Make sure to have a proper wifi setup of 2.4 GHZ and module sync 2 to prevent battery drainage.

What Are the Key Features of the Blink Video Doorbell?

Here are the five features of the latest Blink Video Doorbell Device:

1. HD Video Quality: Blink 2nd-Gen doorbell has 1440p HD color video with a wide 150-degree head-to-toe field of view. It’s a fish-eye capture of a person from head to toe, and a wedge plate helps to adjust the angle on the corners. This device uses Infrared (IR) to provide a clear view even at night. Blink 2nd generation has a 1:1 aspect ratio compared to 16:9 for the first gen, which covers the proch completely.
2. Motion Detection: The latest Blink doorbell detects motion in specific activity and privacy zones. It uses frame-to-frame image comparison to detect and send alerts via the Alexa app. People can select a specific area to avoid getting animal or traffic motion alerts. Blink doorbell records only specific events when the battery is low. 
3. Two-Way Audio: The Blink doorbell has a two-way audio system, and Alexa makes it even easier. Access the audio function via the Echo Show or Alexa app on your phone to talk to the person at the door. “Alexa, talk to the front door” command begins the communication. 
4. App Notifications: The Amazon Alexa app sends alerts of motion, parcel, and animal when turned on. They notify the person about what’s happening at the door even when they are away. It’s easy to customize the press announcements from settings in the Alexa app.
5. Weather Resistance: Doorbells are often installed on porches under porch roofs, and waterproof mounts protect them from dust. Blink 2nd-gen doorbell has built-in IP-65 to resist changing weather conditions. 

What Models of Blink Video Doorbell Are Available?

Here are the two models of the Blink video doorbell available, including the Blink 1st-gen and 2nd-gen. These devices can be purchased in four types:

1. Blink Video Doorbell (Battery): Blink video doorbells are available in both wired and wireless forms. A battery-powered doorbell works best for renters who shift over time. It is suitable anywhere on the front door and backyard without wiring hassle.
2. Blink Video Doorbell (Wired Option): The Wired Blink doorbell does not compromise on quality when recording and does not go off like a wireless one. There is no need to replace the batteries, and they can be adjusted to the existing wiring. Wired doorbells require constant power to provide alerts and record events.
3. Blink with Sync Module 2: Blink 2nd-gen is available with sync module 2 to make the battery last longer and communicate effectively. This sync module makes it easy to handle ten Blink devices at a time and saves time. It is an optional accessory that allows users to save recordings without a subscription from the USB port.
4. Accessory Bundles: Doorbell box contains blink, wedge, mounts, screws, batteries, base plate, and a setup guide. These add-ons make it easy to set up the doorbell without technical assistance at home.

What Power Options Does the Blink Video Doorbell Support?

Blink video doorbells support the wireless and wired power options, though both rely on AA lithium batteries. Amazon uses these non-rechargeable batteries as the primary power source that lasts for two years. People often get confused for a wireless battery-based video doorbell. It is due to the difference in Blink power consumption. Blink wireless doorbell relies on a transformer that provides 8-24 VAC (Volts of Alternating Current) at 50-60Hz, with a maximum of 40 VA (Volt-Amps) to ring the bell. It depends on the battery for the camera, recordings, and two-way communication to avoid power problems. Blink doorbells provide a notification when the battery is running low to replace it. 

How Is Video Stored on the Blink Doorbell?

Video is stored in two ways in Blink doorbells:

1. Local Storage: Blink doorbell requires a sync module 2 to save the video recordings locally on a USB. This local storage is free of cost and does not require a subscription. 
2. Cloud Storage: Users have to purchase the Blink subscription to access and save recordings in cloud storage. Blink offers the Blink Basic Plan for $3.99/month and $39.99/year. Its Blink Plus Plan is a bit expensive. It costs around $11.99/month and $119.99/year for an extended warranty and unlimited device coverage.

How Do You Install and Set Up the Blink Video Doorbell?

Read the manufacturer's instructions and follow the Blink setup guide. Remove the old doorbell if found and adjust the base plate. Tighten the screws and attach the wedge to adjust the angle. Secure the wires to the right terminals in case of a wired doorbell. Secure the doorbell in place with a slight tuck sound. Make sure to connect the doorbell to wifi and install the Alexa app to adjust it accordingly.

How Does Blink Video Doorbell Integrate with Alexa?

Download the Amazon Alexa app and go to the skill and games. Type “Blink” and tap on the first Blink doorbell to launch it. Follow the on-screen instructions and sign in with your Google account to integrate the doorbell with the Alexa app. Make sure to adjust the notifications and motion sensitivity after integration from the “devices tab”. Access the live camera and mic from the app and click on the gear icon to change press announcements. Users can also change the press, battery announcement sounds, and the devices to receive these alerts.

Who Should Choose the Blink Video Doorbell?

Blink video doorbell is a budget-friendly device for those on a tight budget. It costs $30 to $45, while the latest Google Nest Doorbell (Wired, 3rd Gen) is priced at $139.99 to $180. It is the best investment for homeowners with the Amazon ecosystem. Renters choose the battery-powered doorbells as they have to shift over time.