As others have said, not compatible with SmartThings, but then none of the video doorbells are at this time.
Not being compatible means you just have to run it as a separate app. You can’t trigger anything in SmartThings off of motion detection by the doorbell device.
I have a different device, the Kuna lantern, and I’m really happy with it even though there’s no integration. I think a lot of the choices of these devices is based on aesthetics. Different styles appeal to different people.
There are also some real feature differences to consider.
The Kuna has four main features for $199
- light
- camera
- two way audio
- panic button siren
The audio and live viewing through the Kuna’s camera can be initiated either by the motion sensor or manually from the app. That was important to me, because I like to be able to visually check for packages even though the motion alert might’ve been several hours earlier. Mostly to see if my housemate remembered to bring stuff in.
Some of these devices only give you access to the camera if there’s a motion alert active. This is true of ring.
Can I initiate a live video feed? No, currently the camera turns on when the button on the front of Ring Doorbell is pushed, or when motion is detected. On-demand remote camera access is a feature we are looking into.
For other people, the power options may be more important. Kuna requires being connected to power, but then you usually use it to replace the porch light. Some other devices offer a battery-only option.
And then there’s the very important question of exactly what video can be stored, and how much it will cost you to store it. How long are the clips, do you have a choice in that length, where are they stored, can they be downloaded Or just reviewed, etc. You just need to check the details of each device’s plans, there is a lot of variation from one to another.
For all these devices, the prerequisite question is how strong is the Wi-Fi signal exactly the point where you are going to put the device. If you have a window near your door, you will probably be OK. But if the area where the device will be put is all brick and metal, it may be a problem. You can do a quick check of this just by putting your phone on Wi-Fi and holding it where you will install the device and seeing how well you can access the Internet. If the signal’s bad, the video from your doorbell will be bad too, no matter which device you pick.
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