Updated Blink Video Doorbell by Amazon with expanded field of view and enhanced person detection capabilities
Amazon has launched a new iteration of the Blink Video Doorbell, boasting several enhancements and an attractive price point. At $60, the device remains affordable, as it faces stiff competition from Ring, another brand owned by Amazon.
For current users of the Blink Video Doorbell, the upgrades may not prompt an immediate upgrade, but new buyers or those seeking an upgrade will find some significant improvements. The latest model features a "head-to-toe" HD live view with a 1:1 aspect ratio, offering a more comprehensive external perspective of your front door. The camera also boasts a 150-degree field of view, marking an improvement over the previous generation's 135 degrees. Additionally, it boasts a higher resolution of 1440p, compared to the previous version's 1080p.
Lastly, the new Blink Video Doorbell has an improved IP65 rating, offering better resistance to inclement weather.
The Blink Video Doorbell (currently priced at $69.99 on Amazon) introduces a head-to-toe HD live view for a more detailed look at visitors at your front door. Its improved field of view is another notable improvement.
One new feature in the latest Blink Video Doorbell is person detection, alerting users when a human being is at the door, rather than simply detecting movements. However, this functionality requires a Blink subscription plan.
A key difference between the new Blink and the older versions is the requirement for a Sync Module Core hub, which is necessary to use the doorbell and is sold separately. Priced at $59.99, the cost rises to $79.99 when bundled with the hub. This hub allows for local video feed storage. As an alternative, users can sign up for the $3-a-month Blink subscription, which can store up to 60 days of video without the need for the hub.
For those who prioritize local storage, more expensive options include the Sync Module 2 ($50) with a 256GB USB flash drive attachment or the Sync Module XR ($70) with a microSD card slot. These hubs also allow users to control other Blink devices, such as the Blink Mini and Mini 2.
When considering alternatives to the new Blink Video Doorbell, there are several options offering compelling features and competitive pricing. Some top choices, focusing on key specifications and affordability, include:
- Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd Gen) – High resolution, wide field of view, and robust AI detection for people, vehicles, and animals. It supports both cloud and local storage.
- Google Nest Doorbell 2nd Gen – Solid AI detection, facial recognition, and two-way audio, with a free 3-hour storage tier, making it an attractive option for many users.
- Tapo Smart Wi-Fi Video Doorbell D225 – One of the most affordable 2K options with a broad field of view and person/vehicle detection. Cloud storage is optional and inexpensive.
- Eufy S200/S330 – Known for local storage without subscription fees, strong privacy, and high-quality video, available at various price points.
- Ezviz DB2 – Recognized for advanced security features, although detailed field of view and storage information are less widely reported.
- Aqara G4 – Notable for Apple HomeKit support, but has a narrower field of view and mixed reviews on video quality.
The new Blink Video Doorbell, now equipped with person detection and a head-to-toe HD live view, offers enhanced smart-home technology for home-and-garden gadget enthusiasts. The Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd Gen), with its high resolution, wide field of view, and robust AI detection, is a compelling alternative that blends well into a smart-home lifestyle.
