Best Power over Ethernet (POE) Video Doorbell
Nowadays, criminal activities are increasing like wildfire, but having a reliable security system like a POE doorbell can be of great help.
POE (Power Over Ethernet) security systems mostly depend on two important components to function efficiently. Power plays an important role in providing the required energy for the security system to function normally. On the other hand, ethernet cables help to send data from the camera to your smart devices and vice versa.
The ethernet cable consists of four pairs of wires that serve specific roles and functions in the security camera. For instance, the first two pairs of wires play an important role in sending and receiving data, while the remaining two pairs supply electric power to the smart doorbells and cameras.
So, today in this guide, we will share some of the pros and cons of the best POE video doorbell on the market so that you can have the best security setup for your home.
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POE Video Doorbell
In the last few years, POE video doorbells have become one of the most effective ways of keeping your house safe in the UK. Here is a list of the advantages and disadvantages of installing a POE video doorbell.
Pros Of Installing POE Video Doorbell
1. More Reliable Than A WiFi Camera
POE video doorbells are designed to work with ethernet cable without the need for an internet connection; hence, they are more reliable than a WiFi camera. Simply connect the device to an ethernet cable, which will automatically sync all the necessary data to your smart devices.
2. Centralised Power Supply
One of the best features of a POE video doorbell is its connection to a central PSE (Power Supply Over Ethernet). This ensures that the camera and motion sensor remains active during a power cut. In addition, the POE camera will perform all the functions since the backup supply power will provide it with enough energy to get the job done.
However, you need to make sure that the PSE has a stable power supply and it has sufficient charge.
3. Easy Setup Process
Unlike other security camera options that require power cables to operate, the POE camera is mostly dependent on ethernet cables, which makes it easier to install and set up. In addition, the POE camera set-up requires minimum maintenance, which makes it extremely affordable and to repair.
Cons Of Installing POE Video Camera
Limited Options For POE Security Cameras
Since POE video doorbells have recently launched on the UK Market, there are only a few options you can choose from. At the moment, there are only two brands that make some of the best POE doorbells, and we have listed them below for your convenience.
Top 2 POE Video Doorbells
Top Pick
Ring Doorbell Elite
Pros
- Extremely weatherproof
- Reliable motion detection
- 1080 video quality
- Supports all features of POE+
- Easy Installation
Cons
- Needs subscription to access cloud storage
The Ring Video Doorbell Elite is one of the best doorbells on the market that offers all the features of a POE security system. In addition, the brand’s elite unit has a sophisticated and energy-efficient motion sensor, which makes it extremely reliable.
Standout Features
- Video Resolution: 1080P
- Resistance rating: IPx5
- Viewing angle: 160 degree
Product Highlights
Right off the bat, the Ring Video Doorbell Elite has professional-grade security, making it extremely responsive to motion detection. You don’t require any technical knowledge to install this camera system since it uses POE technology.
Moreover, the brand has designed the Ring Video Doorbell Elite to have all the advanced security features needed for commercial purposes as well. Since the unit is designed to be a part of the Ring ecosystem, you can expect to get regular updates. This ensures that the security of your property remains up to date without any compromise on the features the brand has to offer.
Another impressive feature of the Ring Video Doorbell Elite is the connectivity option it has to offer. The device can instantly connect to your Google Home and Alexa devices; hence you can operate it through voice commands. You can also draw custom monitoring areas since it has wide motion detection zones.
The only drawback of this system is that you need to pay for the subscription service if you want to access all the cloud storage features.
Doorbird D101
Pros
- Integrates seamlessly with other Doorbird products
- Reliable and fast motion detection
- Wide camera angle
- Free cloud storage
- Supports remote live viewing
Cons
- Low video resolution of 720p
If you are looking for a multipurpose security camera without having to worry about paying for a subscription plan, then the Doorbird D101 is just the right option for you. In fact, customers are given free access to cloud storage, which makes this security solution extremely budget-friendly.
Standout Features:
- Video resolution: 720p
- Resistance rating: IP54
- Viewing angle: 180 degree
Product Highlights
The D101 has one of the most premium designs on the market, and the IP54 rating makes it resistant to all weather conditions. In addition, you can connect to this device using a Wi-Fi or a POE connection. This makes it extremely versatile since it can work even without an internet connection.
Additionally, the 180-degree wide angle enables users to view a large section of their area without any hassle. And the remote live viewing enables users to receive quick alerts on their phones while away from home. However, this device offers a lower video resolution compared to the Ring Video Doorbell Elite system.
Frequently Asked Question
Do POE Video Doorbells Work With Other Smart Home Devices?
Yes! A POE video doorbell has the ability to connect to different smart devices as well as voice assistants, which makes them extremely versatile and multifunctional. However, you need to be very careful while choosing your POE doorbells since not all of them support connectivity options with smart devices such as Google Assistant and Apple Homekit.
Therefore, we recommend checking the product description thoroughly before making your final purchase.
Do You Need A Subscription Service To Use A POE Ring Doorbell?
Under normal circumstances, you will need to pay a recurring subscription fee every month if you want to access all the features of the POE Ring Doorbell. In addition, the subscription feature gives you access to features such as facial detection, person identification and many more.
But some brands offer all the services of POE doorbells without a subscription. These doorbells come packed with various feature sets, which makes them extremely affordable and useful.
Can A POE Video Doorbell Connect With Your Existing Security Systems?
If you plan to upgrade your old NVR security cameras by connecting them with an IP POE video doorbell, we recommend choosing the same manufacturer. This will allow the POE video doorbell to give a better video feed and image quality.
Some security systems may work well with other brands, but you will need to do some research. Additionally, you can save more money by expanding your security system with the same brand’s POE doorbell.
Is It Difficult To Install A POE Video Doorbell By Yourself?
POE doorbells are one of the easiest smart home devices you can install for your home since it doesn’t require any technical knowledge or skills. Besides, you don’t need to work with live current wires since they operate on an ethernet cable. This makes the setup process completely user-friendly and easy.
In case you are having a problem installing the camera by yourself, get in touch with a professional to do the job.
How Do You Connect The POE Doorbell To The Ethernet?
Most POE doorbells are very easy to connect to the ethernet as long as you follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Just connect the device to the dedicated app, and it shall take care of all the work for you.
However, first-time users or people who don’t have a lot of experience with such devices can reach out to the brand to seek professional help.
Final Verdict
The Ring Doorbell Elite is our top recommendation since it offers superior resolution while recording the video feed. In addition, it has all the features of a POE camera, which makes this an ideal option when it comes to functionality. However, you need to pay for the monthly subscription if you want full access to the cloud storage feature.
On the other hand, the Doorbird D101 is a good alternative if you are looking for something more affordable. Moreover, users get complete access to free cloud storage for more than 50 visitors. But it does fall short when it comes to video quality and video resolution.
With this, we hope you’ve found the right home security for yourself. Don’t forget to keep an eye on this space for more such reads.
See you again!
