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:
- Enhanced 2K HDR: Capture every detail with the Arlo Pro 5S's superior 2K HDR Video Quality and 12x Zoom, ensuring your home security cameras never miss a thing
- Color Night Vision: Experience unparalleled surveillance camera technology with Color Night Vision; this spotlight camera also wards off unwelcome guests using an Integrated Spotlight
- Wide Field of View: Keep an eye on more with this outside security camera's 160 Field of View; this wireless camera is also easy to install and adjust on the included mount
- Stay Connected: Setting up your wireless security camera is seamless with dual-band wifi that supports both 2.4 and 5 GHz networks and automatically connects to whichever is stronger
- Arlo Secure Plan Trial: Premium features like 30-Day Video Cloud Storage; People, Package, and Vehicle Detection; 24/7 Emergency Response; and more, require a paid subscription after trial
- 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
- Instant Communication with 2-Way Talk and Quick Response: Answer your door instantly from anywhere with 2-Way Talk functionality. Engage in real-time communication with visitors, or use Quick Response messages if you're occupied. Take control of your property's security with seamless interaction at your fingertips
- 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
- Instant Communication with 2-Way Talk and Quick Response: Answer your door instantly from anywhere with 2-Way Talk functionality. Engage in real-time communication with visitors, or use Quick Response messages if you're occupied. Take control of your property's security with seamless interaction at your fingertips
- 5MP Super HD Day & Night! Incredible 5MP 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.
- 🍀 WIFI connection, no wire needs, achieve a two way intercoms between the doorbell and mobile phone.Real-time mobile phone, support Single-way calls, photos, recording, caring for your family makes you more secure，support 2.4G WIFI (Not support 5G Wifi)
- 🍀 Disassembly free cycle charging, built-in 800MAH lithium high-capacity battery, more than 5 months of normal use,Charging time 1.5 hours.Equipped infrared night vision, automatically open at night
- 🍀 Two-way audio: communicate with visitors through single-way audio,With noise cancellation microphone. It is weather resistantce,You can monitor your front door by watching real-time video
- 🍀 High definition clear video with 65° viewing angle, display the details in front of your door,reliable and practica
- 🍀 There are no restrictions on using a smartphone to enter the doorbell.So you can let the whole family supervise your home.The doorbell can be controlled by APP, automatical work model, intelligent and portable.Portable in size and weight, convenient to install and disassembly
- 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.
- Enhance your smart home and make your devices work better together. Save video evidence in case of emergency, reduce home insurance costs by up to 10%, and get faster 911 responses. Get 1 free month of ecobee Smart Security when you register your devices.
- Reduce your heating and cooling costs by 26% annually and breathe easier with air quality monitoring.
- Get smart notifications when your doors or windows are opened or closed
- 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.
- Full HD resolution with 1080p HDR so you don’t miss any important details. You can even use two-way talk to answer your door and talk to your guests from anywhere, live through your smartphone or tablet.
- Enhance your home security with our doorbell’s 90° wide-angle lens, capturing detailed images right in front of your door. Easily and clearly see your visitors, reliable and practical. supports 2.4G WIFI, does not support 5G WIFI.
- Our device allows you to communicate with your visitors using the two-way audio feature. With a noise-cancelling microphone, you can have clear and uninterrupted conversations with anyone at your front door.
- Our doorbell is equipped with high-power infrared lamps that automatically activate at night. The built-in light sensor ensures clear vision even in complete darkness.
- The doorbell can be controlled by APP, automatic working mode. With this doorbell, you can use your smartphone to monitor your home anytime, anywhere, without any limitations. Keep your family safe and secure.
- This doorbell is designed to be portable and easy to install. Whether you’re moving to new home or simply repositioning the doorbell, requires no complicated wiring Experience convenience and flexibility at its finest.
- 【2K+/5MP Live View】Always know what happens in front of your door through the Tapo app. With the starlight sensor and 2K 5MP resolution, check all the fine details captured even in low-light environments.
- 【Color Night Vision】With the embedded spotlight and starlight sensor, Tapo D230S1 reveals high-fidelity details and color at night.
- 【Head-to-Toe View】With the camera’s ultra-wide FOV(160° Diagonal), Tapo 4:3 live view ensures users can check visitors from head-to-toe as close as 1m, which shows more vertical details than other 16:9 doorbells'.
- 【Longer Battery Life】The rechargeable and removable battery with a low-power protocol extends your usage.
- 【Smart AI Detection and Notification】Smart AI algorithms identify people and cars, and notify users as needed.
- 5MP UHD, 40% Improved From 2k: Adopted 7 pieces of an advanced ultra-clear optical glass lens ensures you get sharp, detailed images even in low-light or bright conditions.
- Triple Motion Detection, No False Alerts: Advanced radar and PIR motion sensors and intelligent human detection can distinguish between near and far objects' track, and judge whether they are people or animals.
- 60 Days Loop Recording: Stored videos directly to your HomeBase with built-in 8G memory and view them anytime anywhere, no monthly fee.
- 180 Days From 1 Charge: Built-in rechargeable battery and 58% consumption reduced low-power wireless connection, ensure 180 days of flawless front door coverage from 1 charge.
- 166° Field of View: You could see a person from head to toe or a package on the ground, there are no blind spots.
Last update on 2024-06-05
