Switchbot Video Doorbell Review Summary
The Switchbot Video Doorbell may not be the first device with a wireless monitor, but it’s arguably the best implementation.
For elderly or less tech-savvy users, it’s an outstanding option thanks to the easy-to-use display and quick response times. While it’s pricier than some alternatives like Ring, it avoids the ongoing subscription trap thanks to local storage and includes a dedicated monitor in the box.
Overview
I’ve tested the Switchbot Video Doorbell extensively — first at home to explore all the features and setup process, and then installed it at my Mum’s house. That’s because I think this device is the perfect video doorbell for someone older or less tech-savvy. If you already use a Switchbot Smart Lock, it’s also a great companion product.
Price and Battery
The Switchbot Video Doorbell costs around £160, but there are bundle deals with Switchbot locks and regular voucher codes that bring the price down. You can also add a solar panel for an extra £45, meaning you’ll never have to recharge it — something I think is well worth it.
Design
The doorbell itself has a silver body with a light-up button, speaker, microphone, camera, and two LED lights that activate in low-light conditions when motion is detected. The base includes a USB-C charging port, and you can also hardwire it for mains power.
Specifications
The indoor monitor can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Its front display shows the time, weather, lock status (if paired with a Switchbot Lock), Wi-Fi signal, and doorbell battery level. Below the screen are four buttons, plus two large buttons for answering and hanging up calls.
Feature List
The specifications include an IP65 waterproof rating and 2K ultra-wide camera with colour night vision offering a 165° field of view (though not tall enough to capture the doorstep fully). It runs on a 5000mAh rechargeable battery claiming 570-day life, supported by optional mains power or solar panel. Motion alerts are delivered even when offline and it supports Alexa and Home Assistant but does not yet support Apple HomeKit.
Installation
It is Matter listed for future compatibility though cameras aren’t supported just yet, offers local storage with 4GB included (expandable to 512GB) or optional cloud storage available. There’s anti-theft mode with tamper alerts and NFC support for unlocking a paired Switchbot Smart Lock plus indoor chime volume up to 100dB.
Setting It Up
The doorbell is feature-packed, so let’s move on to installation which is straightforward. You get included screws, sticky pads, and an optional angle bracket with the solar panel including a long lead and mounting bracket as well.
Everyday Use Experience
I recommend pairing the Switchbot Video Doorbell with the Switchbot app before mounting, so you can adjust positioning via the Switchbot app by adding it to your Wi-Fi and assigning it to a room. Setup allows configuration of chime volume, night vision modes, whether the display stays on or sleeps, binding it to a lock.
Performance Details
NFC cards can be copied from the lock to the doorbell which is brilliant too since motion detection settings are adjustable (human, pet, vehicle recognition with AI) alongside sensitivity and schedules. As a doorbell, it performs very well because visitors pressing button appear almost instantly on indoor display allowing answering and talking via built-in microphone.
Notification Speed
You can scroll through events on the display or app though saving clips in app is less intuitive — you have to record them manually during playback. The live feed loads rapidly even when away from home while at night LED lights illuminate visitors in colour, meaning no subscription required for past recordings thanks to local storage.
App Features
The app and indoor display include handy quick-replies, alarm feature, spotlight controls but motion detection can be oversensitive sometimes triggered by moving bushes. There is also some audio distortion slightly at maximum speaker volume on auto replies which are a minor downside.
Conclusion
In short: if you want a reliable easy-to-use and subscription-free smart doorbell — especially for an older family member, the Switchbot Video Doorbell is one of the best choices out there. For £160 plus optional £45 solar panel it offers excellent value as discount codes are frequently available so rarely need to pay full price.
