Competition is evolving as well, driving overall price points down and making smart home security systems more affordable for individuals around the world.
Unfortunately, affordability doesn’t always translate into a more user-friendly experience.
While home security and certain security devices are relatively simple to understand, that doesn’t mean you won’t have any questions or concerns. For me, I had hundreds of questions pop up when I was first getting started.
One of my questions was simple, but I just wasn’t sure in the beginning. Do doorbell cameras need Wi-Fi? After some trial and error and research, here’s what I can tell you.
Do doorbell cameras need Wi-Fi? No, doorbell cameras do not need Wi-Fi to function. Wi-Fi is the preferred method of connectivity for doorbell cameras, but it is not the only option. Some doorbell cameras can also use 3G/4G/5G cellular data. You can also connect using a mobile hotspot.
I’m sure this only scratches the surface of this question and you're probably looking for more detail.
The good news is I plan on delivering that and bringing you everything you need to know about doorbell cameras and their connectivity options so you can make sure it really is the UPS man on your doorstep the next time that doorbell rings.
Yes, You Have Other Options for Doorbell Camera Connectivity, But That Doesn’t Mean You Should Use Them
There are other options to gain signal and connect to your doorbell camera outside of a wireless network, but that doesn’t mean that they should be your first choice.
A Wi-Fi connection is still going to be your #1 option hands down. No question about it.
A Wi-Fi connection is going to provide a stable and secure connection which offers the best signal for connectivity to your doorbell camera. You can even add a signal booster, if needed, to add strength to the connection for other devices.
The Other (Not as Favorable) Connectivity Options
Here are some options for those of you who would prefer to buy a security system before springing the budget on home internet service.
Many Wi-Fi based security systems and cameras are capable of transmitting data using 3G and 4G cellular data. And soon 5G may be in the picture as well.
Data usage charges on cell phone plans that don’t include unlimited data can rack up quickly. Streaming and accessing live video are functions that require copious amounts of data. About the same amount of data as streaming your favorite Netflix show.
This is yet another reason to consider an internet provider instead of relying on your mobile network for connectivity. The cost of using data through a 3G or 4G network might end up being more than a monthly internet bill.
And while you can also connect through a mobile hot spot, it may not be the best option. Let’s think about something for a moment. Have you ever tried using a hot spot on your cell phone for minor data usage or for loading a file that’s a bit on the large side? Did it take just under a decade to complete this task?
Exactly. Slow, right?
Not to mention the connection through a hot-spot is unreliable, to say the least. This is why we recommend Wi-Fi as the preferred method of connectivity for your doorbell camera.