If you’ve ever compared 4K footage to “full HD” (i.e., 1080p) video, you’ll notice a significant difference. 4K video has multiple times the number of pixels as 1080p video, which means it has significantly more detail.
So, if you have a smart doorbell to assist secure your property from theft, doesn’t it make sense to have a smart doorbell that records in the greatest quality possible?
This is correct, but there are a few viable 4K smart doorbell possibilities (including Feels and a DIY technique), albeit you are currently pretty limited. Fortunately, a few smart doorbells have recording quality superior to ‘full HD.’
Smart Doorbells and the Problem With ‘Full HD’ Recording Quality
Smart doorbells are fantastic since they replace (or sit beside) your standard doorbell and, in addition to alerting you when someone approaches your front door, they record persons who stroll close. This might be handy for crime prevention as well as keeping a watch on your community in general.
While many aren’t full-fledged security systems (like hardwired CCTV cameras), they perform many of the same roles, which means that recording quality is critical.
Currently, many smart doorbells provide ‘full HD’ recording quality, which is 19201080 pixels. While this may appear good – especially because HD stands for High Definition – it does not always enable you to see people’s faces at night or even car plate numbers when they pass by during the day.
This can be aggravating, especially if you need to get a license plate number or view someone’s face in connection with a crime. When you can’t decipher these facts, you’ll wonder what the point of your smart doorbell is.
They are typically useful, but ones that record in higher resolution than full HD are much better.
Why 4K Smart Doorbells Would Be Awesome?
I said before that 4K captures four times the number of pixels as full HD. It’s practical twice as broad and tall (therefore 2 x 2 = four times as many pixels), but what does this mean? Paul Hibbert evaluated a 4K smart camera, demonstrating its different quality over full HD.
If you’ve been to an electronics/TV store in the recent decade, you’ve seen 4K TV screens that compare the quality to full HD – and they show a huge difference between the two video standards.
A 4K shrewd doorbell would be fabulous in light of the fact that, rather than attempting to make out vehicle plate numbers and individuals’ countenances from a good way, you would have the option to do it easily – an unmistakable benefit over full HD.
So, are there any 4K smart doorbells on the market? So, in the next two sections, I’ll go through this.
Feels: the World’s first 4K smart doorbell?!
None of the major smart doorbell manufacturers, including Ring, Nest, and Eufy, offer 4K smart doorbells. In reality, a search on Amazon for “4K smart doorbell” yields… no relevant results. Oh, no.
There are a few clarifications behind this (as I portray in the “Defects with 4K brilliant doorbells” segment underneath) yet fortunately, Feels – a relatively new player in the smart home field – has a well-funded IndieGoGo campaign that has already resulted in the production of hundreds of 4K smart doorbells.
Unfortunately, despite original targets for December 2020 delivery, the most recent reports (as of February 2020) indicated what had pushed things back for various reasons, including China production delays and the pandemic effect.
There have also been some complaints from backers that the program contains several issues. New Feels app upgrades are coming out all the time to fix these issues, but the Feels 4K doorbell is still in the works.
Nonetheless, I’m hoping that it’ll be able to overcome its manufacturing challenges since I’d want to put it through its paces. Can you ‘DIY’ it because no other ‘off the shelf’ doorbells offer 3840×2160 resolution?
A DIY 4K Smart Doorbell

Several online instructions teach you how to create a smart doorbell yourself – using a Raspberry Pi. These range in price from $40 to $150, depending on what you want to accomplish, in any case, many individuals go for a straightforward 1080p (Full HD) camera focal point.
Nonetheless, in April 2020, the Raspberry Pi blog unveiled a new 4K camera for $50. This can record at 40-60 fps relying upon settings, which is fairly momentous – especially given that Ring devices often only accomplish 15 fps.
On Amazon, you can also find a little cheaper Pi-compatible camera named Arducam. This records at a higher resolution than 4K (at 4192×3120 pixels), however, only at 12 frames per second.
So, if you’re up for a challenge, creating your Pi-powered smart doorbell may be a great idea – especially if you use Sony’s official Pi camera, which can arrive at an undeniable degree of FPS even at 4K goal.
Why FPS Matters (Both Good and Bad)
FPS stands for ‘first-person shooter,’ as most gamers are aware. In this context, it stands for ‘frames per second.’ A frame is a collection of numerous still pictures that make up a video. As a result, if a movie has 30 still pictures (frames) every second, it is referred to as a 30 fps video.
This is significant because if a video were just two frames per second (for example), you’d only get two pictures per second – resulting in an extremely jumpy film that may miss vital details like the license plate number of a passing automobile. As a result, a greater frame rate is preferable.
I am generally speaking! As the next section explains, a high FPS mixed with 4K video quality might be a drawback.
The Flaws With 4K Smart Doorbells
The concept of high FPS, high-resolution video is fantastic: you can see people’s faces and license plate numbers even if they’re sprinting (or driving) by.
However, keep in mind that smart cameras include smart functions, such as only getting motion alerts if it detects a person. Alternatively, you can get notifications if motion is detected in a certain camera zone (such as a path or walkway).
All of this requires on-device computing power to function properly. However, the more frames in a video (i.e., the higher the FPS), the more needed processing power. This is also true for pixels: the more pixels there are, the more necessary processing.
On the off chance that you had a full HD 15 fps video (say, from Ring) and compared it to a 4K 30 fps video (say, from a DIY smart doorbell), you’d need 8x the processing power to monitor the video stream effectively and send out the required messages.
Ouch. This isn’t ideal, especially because it will inevitably cost more money because more powerful gear will be required.
Second, this needs additional storage space. In the event that you store the video cuts locally, your NAS should be multiple times the size of a full HD NAS to hold a 4K video.
If you keep the recorded video in the cloud, you will still need to pay for more storage space – and you may need to update your internet connection as well because the needed upload rates will be 4x faster!
The third fault with a 4K smart doorbell consumes significantly more electricity, whether plugged in or battery-powered. This is due to the additional processing needs of 4K footage than full HD video.
Finally, 4K smart doorbells are not widely available! Yes, the Feels doorbell is interesting, but it’s currently a very low-production device that won’t be widely available for a couple of years (if it does enter mainstream production at all, that is). So what’s the other option?
Suitable Alternatives to 4K Smart Doorbells
If you want higher than full HD recording quality (which I do!), there are two popular options: the Ring Doorbell Pro 2 and the Eufy 2K doorbell.
The Eufy 2K doorbell records in a resolution of – you guessed it – 2K. Uh oh, another buzzword! This is better than full HD but poorer than 4K, with a 2560 x 1920.
The Ring Doorbell Pro 2 has a resolution of 1,536p (1536 pixels tall). However, the width is unknown at the time of writing.
Finally, the Nest Hello records at a resolution of 1600 x 1200p. While this implies a narrower vision (1600p vs. 1920p for full HD), it also means a somewhat taller perspective (1200p vs. 1080p for full HD), which helps you see more people while they’re standing by your doorbell.
Best Seller List of 4K Smart Doorbells:

- Revolutionary 4K Ultra HD Video Quality: Experience groundbreaking video quality with our market-leading doorbell, featuring the first-ever 4K Ultra HD capability. Capture unparalleled detail in every frame, setting a new standard for home security
- Fusion Compatibility for Enhanced Performance: This doorbell is Fusion Compatible, ensuring seamless integration with cutting-edge technology for enhanced performance. Stay ahead of the curve with a security system that adapts to the latest innovations
- Color Night Vision for Brighter Visibility: Stand out with Color Night Vision, providing superior video clarity even in low-light conditions. Enjoy better and brighter video in the dark, requiring only ambient lighting to deliver impressive results for round-the-clock surveillance
- Smart Alerts with Comprehensive Detection: Stay informed with Smart Alerts that go beyond the basics. Receive notifications for arrivals, package deliveries, and even if a package is removed—all without any additional fees. Benefit from Person, Vehicle, Animal, and Package detection for a fully comprehensive security solution
- Full Head-to-Toe View: See the full picture from head to toe, with this video doorbell's expansive 9:16 aspect ratio. This provides the full length of a person and can keep an eye on items delivered.

- Full HD 1080p HDR with two-way talk to answer your door and talk to your guests from anywhere live through your smartphone, tablet, or Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium. Works with Apple HomeKit and Alexa. Apple HomeKit Secure Video not supported
- Advanced radar verification, motion, person, and package detection, and activity zones, so you only get alerts for who or what is at your door. Package Detection requires Ecobee Smart Security subscription
- Industry-leading, head-to-toe field of view, so you can see everything - day or night. With Smart Focus, auto-pan allows for a closer, clearer view of visitors or packages at your door with an expansive 175° vertical and 187° diagonal field of view.
- Everything you need is included in the box, and you can Install using our intuitive mobile guide. Our products are backed by a 3-year industry leading manufacturer warranty and our dedicated in-house customer support team is available seven days a week.
- Your Ecobee thermostats and cameras will ring throughout the house and you can even see and talk to visitors live through your Smart Thermostat Premium. Plus, the Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera integrates seamlessly with systems you love such as Apple HomeKit and Alexa. Apple HomeKit Secure Video not supported

- 2K Super HD Day & Night! Incredible 2K HD, with advanced HDR/3D DNR and distortion correction technologies, brings you sharp and detailed images even in low light conditions.
- 2.4/5GHz WiFi & Waterproof! No worry about network disconnection; its 5GHz WiFi ensures a stable and fluent network experience. No worry about harsh weather as well; it's waterproof!
- 180° Wide Viewing Angle! Find the right position for your doorbell with its 15° wedge kit and enjoy the super wide field of view. Get more extra surrounding details for better and quicker responses.
- Chime V2 Included! Plug the chime included to any electrical socket at any room and be confidently alerted when visitors "knock". You can choose 1 of its 10 tunes and adjust its volume.
- Answer the Door Faster! With its built-in mic and speaker, you can hear and talk back to the visitors even if you're not at home. You can also preset voice messages or automatic replies for times when you're occupied.

- Revolutionary 4K Ultra HD Video Quality: Experience groundbreaking video quality with our market-leading doorbell, featuring the first-ever 4K Ultra HD capability. Capture unparalleled detail in every frame, setting a new standard for home security
- Fusion Compatibility for Enhanced Performance: This doorbell is Fusion Compatible, ensuring seamless integration with cutting-edge technology for enhanced performance. Stay ahead of the curve with a security system that adapts to the latest innovations
- Color Night Vision for Brighter Visibility: Stand out with Color Night Vision, providing superior video clarity even in low-light conditions. Enjoy better and brighter video in the dark, requiring only ambient lighting to deliver impressive results for round-the-clock surveillance
- Smart Alerts with Comprehensive Detection: Stay informed with Smart Alerts that go beyond the basics. Receive notifications for arrivals, package deliveries, and even if a package is removed—all without any additional fees. Benefit from Person, Vehicle, Animal, and Package detection for a fully comprehensive security solution
- Full Head-to-Toe View: See the full picture from head to toe, with this video doorbell's expansive 9:16 aspect ratio. This provides the full length of a person and can keep an eye on items delivered.

- 【2K Resolution】See who's at your door with crystal clear 2K 3MP crisp high resolution video, capturing every detail even when you zoom in. Easily identify faces with no worries of grainy images, and enjoy a 160° diagonal field of view showing you everything you need to see outside your door.Controller Type:Android;Amazon Alexa;Google Assistant.Connectivity protocol:Wi-Fi.Power source type:Corded Electric.Controller type :Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa
- 【Instant Notifications & Modular Chime】Get instant push notifications when the doorbell button is pressed or adjust the volume for select times. The modular Chime design allows you to conveniently place your chime where you want, choose from several different tones, and adjust the volume directly on the device. Never miss another delivery or wake your family with an unexpected guest.
- 【2-Way Audio】Kasa Smart home video doorbell gives you the ability to answer your door even when you're not home. Watch live from anywhere, anytime on your phone or favorite supported device, and carry on a crystal-clear 2-way conversation with a single tap on the Kasa app.
- 【Alexa & Google Assistant Compatible】Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, the KD110 can also play video on your favorite supported display with Amazon Echo Show or Google Chrome Cast. Easily get your home security footage up on a larger display such as your TV.
- 【Night or Day, Rain or Shine】With IP64 weatherproofing, the KD110 is ready for harsh particles and rain. Thanks to the built-in IR sensor, see what's there even in the dark up to 30 ft. away. Whether it's night or day, you'll clearly see the visitors, delivery personnel or possible intruders that come to your home.

- 【Complete Flexibility - Wired and Wireless】The Tapo D225 offers users complete flexibility to mount the doorbell as they need. If hardwired (8-24V), users can take advantage of existing doorbell wiring to install. Hardwiring provides a unique option for 24/7 continuous recording for comprehensive monitoring. The doorbell camera also has a built in 10,000mAh battery allowing for flexible installation wherever needed for up to 8 months of battery life between charges.
- 【Incredible 2K QHD Live View】View with incredible clarity monitoring in fine detail. Easily identify faces even when zoomed in, showing you everything you need to see outside your door
- 【180° Head-to-Toe Field of View】Say goodbye to blind spots. See the full picture with a 180° ultra-wide head-to-toe field of view. The ideal front door camera ensures you capture every detail from top to bottom, providing complete coverage.
- 【Ring Call – Never Miss a Visitor】Receive a phone call to answer your door without opening up the Tapo app. Quickly answer visitors with once-click convenience. Stay connected, stay informed, and never miss a visitor again. (Calls are generated via app and will not use cellular minutes)
- 【Free Person/Package/Vehicle Detection】This smart doorbell is equipped with advanced AI technology that detects any person, package or vehicle approaching your property. It sends real-time notifications directly to your device indicating person/vehicle/package detection, with the ability to select one, all, or no detection notifications.

- See more — Get 66% more vertical coverage with the latest version of Ring’s best-selling Video Doorbell (2nd Gen), now featuring Head-to-Toe Video.
- Built-In Battery — Battery Doorbell includes a built-in battery, which charges with a convenient USB-C charging port. To recharge, simply detach your doorbell from the wall and connect to the included charging cable.
- Install in a Snap — Charge it up, click into place, and stay connected right from your phone.
- Connect to who’s there — See and respond to activity with Live View & Two-Way Talk.
- Stay in the know — Receive real-time alerts on your phone when motion is detected.

- Get the Full Picture: See who’s there & what’s on the ground with head-to-toe view. Thanks to an ultra-wide 165° viewing angle & 1:1 aspect ratio you can see the activity other cameras miss.
- Talk to Visitors: Use the microphone & speaker to talk with people near the camera. Scare off intruders or ask the delivery person to hide the package somewhere safe.
- Flexibility First: You can operate 100% wire-free with the rechargeable battery or connect to your existing doorbell wiring. It’s built tough to withstand the elements, with an IP56 rating
- You’ll Never Be in the Dark: The SwannBuddy4K can even see up to 16ft (5m) in the dark, with powerful infrared night vision that automatically kicks in as night falls!
- Local & Cloud Storage: Set & forget with free recording of clips to local memory (32GB micro SD included) or the cloud.

- Reliable Indoor & Outdoor Video Doorbell Wired/Wire-Free - Watch, listen and talk. Monitor your home, property and keep your loved ones safe with 2K video quality. A video doorbell home monitoring system that is IP65 weather resistant
- Arlo protects your everything. Including your privacy - At Arlo, we are as passionate about privacy as we are about safeguarding your home & family. Arlo is designed to keep your personal information private and in your control
- Don’t miss a moment with the Arlo App - Get real-time notifications with motion activation & live video streaming in the Arlo app. Includes remote siren activation, night vision, built-in camera spotlight & large field of view (180 degrees)
- Get more with an Arlo Secure Plan (subscription required) - Share & store video for up to 60 days, see animated previews from your phone's lock screen, personalize your security with people and vehicle recognition + package and animal detection
- Customer service designed for you Get help for your products within the Arlo app and join the Arlo community to learn, ask questions or share feedback. 24/7 chat is also available on the Arlo website and in the app.

- See Every Detail - Receive sharp video image quality with 1080p Resolution and an expansive 170-degree wide-angle camera view and a 16:9 Aspect Ratio. Never miss a thing, day or night, with IR Night Vision capabilities
- Motion Activated Detection - Program the Nightlight feature to turn on in the dark when motion is detected, or manually to deter unwanted guests. Utilize Person Detection and get an instant notification from the Lorex Home app when motion from a person is detected within the camera’s view
- Respond Instantly - 2-Way Talk allows you to hear and speak directly through the doorbell to anyone at your front door, while being able to see them through the camera. If you’re busy, have Quick Response answer for you
- Lorex Video Vault - With the pre-installed 32GB MicroSD or through Lorex Fusion, your videos stay private and secure. The Lorex Home app allows you to remotely access your devices to view live video and playback recorded footage. Connect all of your devices to one recorder with secure local storage for enhanced privacy and protection. No subscription fees
Last update on 2025-02-06