Installing a doorbell camera costs an average of $300 or between $50 and $1,100, depending on if you need new wiring.
The trusty doorbell camera is a superstar in the world of home security gadgets. But how much does it cost to install a doorbell camera? It ranges from $50 to $600 and costs $300 on average. Your location and the work involved will impact your out-of-pocket expenses.
Several influences impact the cost of professional smart doorbell installation.
The model you choose and its features impact the price of a smart doorbell camera. Standard doorbell camera features include activity alerts, 1080p HD resolution, two-way talk, and live-stream video on your smartphone.
Inexpensive wireless models can cost as little as $50. These are typically great solutions for renters looking for a temporary solution. Peephole cameras are a great example: a clever no-drill, pop-in solution that replaces standard peepholes.
Mid-to-higher range cameras include both wireless and wired options. Prices range from $120 to $300 for most models. You can expect boosted night vision, expanded head-to-toe views, 4K video recording, and motion zones, which is a feature that allows you to exclude high-traffic areas to increase the device's effectiveness. Top-tier smart doorbell cameras may cost as much as $500, depending on the features.
| Doorbell Camera Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Wired | $120–$300 |
| Wireless | $50–$150 |
One of the top factors influencing labor costs is the complexity of the installation. A wireless doorbell camera is generally more straightforward and quicker to install than a wired one. In most cases, they don't require drilling into your front door to attach, and they run on batteries. Many options can be easily installed in minutes.
Wired doorbells involving electrical work and drilling in a door can take several hours and may require hiring a professional home security system installer—more on that next.
Doorbells requiring professional installation involve running new wiring (if you don’t already have the wiring in place), configuring multiple devices, and integrating them into an existing security system. New wiring, in particular, requires the expertise of a local professional home security system installer and, in some instances, a licensed electrician. The average cost to hire an electrician is $50 to $100 per hour.
The location of your doorbell and how accessible it is for the installer can affect the cost. If the doorbell is in a hard-to-reach or awkward spot, installing it may take more time and effort. In most cases, you’ll install your doorbell camera at your main entrance, which is accessible to begin with.
Adding extra features to your doorbell system, such as smart locks or multiple cameras, can raise the installation cost as it may require more equipment and setup. Smart locks range in price from $100 to $450. Security camera costs range from $40 to $150—the type of security camera you select will impact the price.
Small added expenses can drive up costs unexpectedly.
| Type of Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Electrician to run new wiring | $162–$535 |
| Installing a smart lock for boosted security | $100–$450 |
| Installing a security camera for boosted security | $40–$150 |
| Extended warranty for two years | $19–$50 |
| Cloud subscription fees per month | $5–$40 |
Typically, limited warranties are baked into product costs. But there are instances when you can purchase added or extended coverage. It will cover unexpected defects or malfunctions, saving you from hefty repair or replacement expenses.
Prices vary depending on the point of purchase—for instance, a store warranty or a manufacturer warranty. You can expect to pay anywhere between $19 and $50 or more for two-year coverage.
Many doorbell camera manufacturers offer cloud storage for video footage, often with a subscription fee. Subscription prices vary but generally cost around $5 to $40 per month. The number of recordings captured each month may impact cost.
Practice password safety with your Wi-Fi network. Changing your password regularly can help prevent hackers from accessing your security devices.
Investing in a DIY home security kit can reduce the cost of materials and eliminate the installation cost of home security upgrades entirely. These kits often include the doorbell camera and essential components like power transformers, wiring, and sensors for securing windows and doors.
By purchasing these items together as a package, you can often take advantage of cost savings compared to buying each component individually. Kits like these that include smart doorbell cameras range from $300 to $600. Remember, you may need a few basic tools for DIY installation, like a screwdriver.
Deciding between a DIY installation and hiring a local security camera installer depends on your comfort level with technology and your specific needs.
DIY installations can be cost-effective and offer a sense of accomplishment. Many modern smart doorbell cameras are designed with user-friendly interfaces, making DIY installation accessible to tech-savvy individuals.
On the other hand, hiring a professional ensures a hassle-free and expertly executed installation, reducing the risk of technical issues or mistakes. It's a wise choice when dealing with wiring or integrating existing systems. Ultimately, your choice should consider your skills, the complexity of the installation, and your willingness to invest time and effort in setting up the smart door camera.
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You may not always need to hire a local electrician to install a doorbell camera. Wireless doorbell cameras, for instance, are simple enough for the average homeowner to install. They easily attach to your threshold and run on batteries, so no wiring is necessary.
However, wired doorbells with cameras likely require electrical work that should only be attempted by licensed electricians. You’ll need to call a pro if you’re working with a wired doorbell camera.
Yes, there are, and they often come with a screw set to ensure they stay secure. They run on batteries, depend on WiFi, and often require a WiFi extender. These typically cost less than $50. Doorbell cameras like these are great for renters who can't install a wired solution. However, a wired doorbell camera is a better choice for homeowners looking to invest wisely in home security.
While smart doorbells offer security and convenience, they come with disadvantages. Most non-wired options rely on a stable internet connection, making them vulnerable to outages. The same applies to wired devices that depend on power, but most models have a backup battery. There is also the privacy issue, as these devices constantly capture video and audio around the front door, which could be a pro or con. Considering these factors is essential before moving forward with installation.
Yes, you can purchase a solar-powered doorbell camera. But there are vital factors to consider when shopping for one. First and foremost, assess the sunlight exposure in your area, as these devices typically require about 4 hours of direct sunlight daily to operate optimally. Due to insufficient sunlight, cloudy, rainy, or wet climates may affect their performance. Investing in a compatible solar panel is often the most effective and sustainable approach to keeping these devices operating.
In addition to a doorbell camera, you can upgrade your home’s security with several different features. Backyard security, for instance, may include a mix of security cameras, lighting, and fencing. Additional security cameras around your property, as well as a total smart security system with an alarm connected to your smartphone, are also advisable. This could well be worth the cost for the peace of mind alone, but home security systems also lower home insurance costs.
