3 Best Smart Video Doorbells for Renters: Secure Your Space
If you’re a renter looking to boost security without tearing into walls or risking your deposit, smart video doorbells are your answer. These devices, like battery-powered options with easy installation, allow you to monitor who’s at your door remotely, often with features like night vision, 1080p HD resolution, wide-angle views, and two-way audio. They’re designed to balance security and flexibility—so you can switch or remove them as needed—yet they pack enough tech to keep you feeling protected. Curious which model fits your space?
TCL D1 Max Smart Lock with Camera and Fingerprint (WiFi, App Control)
- Advanced 3-in-1 Integration: The TCL video smart lock combines a WiFi door lock, 2K HD camera, and video doorbell. Equipped with six infrared lights and a smart sensor, it delivers exceptional video...
- 2K Video & 2-Way Audio: This smart deadbolt lock features a 172° wide-angle lens with 2K quality video and images. The built-in microphone and speaker enable smooth, clear conversations with...
- Dual Motion Sensors: The D1 Max smart lock combines passive infrared (PIR) detection with advanced radar technology, accurately sensing motion up to 3 meters away. It sends push alerts and records...
If you’re a renter and want a smart doorbell that keeps your home safe and is easy to install, the TCL D1 Max is a good choice. It’s a small device that does three things: it is a door lock, a camera, and a video doorbell. It connects to your WiFi so you can see and control it on your phone. It has a wide-angle lens and infrared lights, so it can show clear video even at night.
You can open your door using the app, your fingerprint, a keypad, or a regular key. It also detects motion up to 3 meters away with radar tech. The best part is, you can put it on your door without drilling or making permanent changes. It’s weatherproof and simple to install, making it perfect for renters.
Who benefits: Renters who want a flexible and easy-to-use smart lock and doorbell combo, without needing to make permanent changes to their door.
Pros:
- Combines a door lock, camera, and doorbell in one device.
- Easy to install without drilling or altering your door.
- Offers multiple ways to unlock and control, like app, fingerprint, keypad, or key.
Cons:
- Some users report problems with the app connecting or real-time video delays.
- Setting it up can be tricky if you’re not familiar with smart devices.
- A few people say the hardware and app can sometimes have glitches.
The TCL D1 Max is a handy tool for renters who want extra security. It’s simple to use, doesn’t require permanent changes, and helps you keep an eye on your home easily.
Video Intercom System with Camera and 2 Monitors
- 【Wired Video Intercom System】: You can see and talk with your visitors through the video door phone system when you answer the door,it will improve the safety of your home.
- 【Rainproof and Night Vision Monitor】: IP65 waterproof design,work stable in rainy,cloudy,cold and snow day. Built with 1200TVL pinhole camera,anti-oxidation aluminium alloy...
- 【Compatible with Electrical lock and Indoor Unlock】: This door phone can work with 12V electrical lock, so you can connect an electrical lock to this system. With this function, you don't need go...
A video intercom system with a camera and two monitors is a simple way to add security to your home or apartment. This wired system comes with a 7-inch screen and a weatherproof camera with IR-Cut rain cover. The camera is a 1200TVL pinhole type with IR LEDs, so it works well at night. It can handle snow, rain, and dust because it has an IP65 waterproof shell.
You can see who is at the door on the screen and talk to them easily. The system also lets you unlock the door remotely and watch outside. You don’t need many wires or big changes to install it.
This system is good for renters or homeowners who want simple, weatherproof security without complicated wiring. It’s easy to set up and works well in all kinds of weather.
Pros:
- Weatherproof shell made for rain, snow, and dust.
- Lets you unlock the door from a distance.
- Clear image with night vision to see visitors after dark.
Cons:
- Installing the wires can take some work.
- The 7-inch screen may be small for some people.
- Doesn’t include smart home features.
This video intercom system gives you a safe way to watch your door and talk to visitors. It’s a good pick if you want a simple, weatherproof security system for your home or apartment.
WiFi Video Doorbell with 4.3″ LCD, 1080P, Night Vision, 120° Wide Angle, Motion Detection, 2-Way Audio, Digital Peephole Viewer, Smart Life App
- Smart Digital Peephole Viewer with Wireless Connectivity and Intercom: The Smart Digital Peephole Viewer wirelessly connects to your WiFi router for handheld device monitoring, including smartphones...
- PIR Detection and Motion Triggered Alerts: The viewer features PIR motion detection, automatic day/night vision sensitivity, and push messages for video alerts, keeping your home safe. It also...
- Easy Installation, Long Standby: Installation is easy, and the viewer includes a 5000mAh battery for up to 30 days of standby time, along with low battery reminder and USB charging support. A...
The WiFi Video Doorbell with a 4.3-inch LCD screen is a great choice if you live in a rental. It’s easy to set up and doesn’t need permanent changes to your door. The camera has 1080P resolution, so you get clear pictures of anyone at your door. The 120° wide lens shows a big view of your porch, so you can see more. At night, the night vision helps you see in the dark.
You can talk to visitors or delivery people using two-way audio. The digital peephole lets you quickly glance outside without opening the door. All these features connect to the Smart Life App on your phone, so you can see who’s at your door and talk to them from anywhere.
Best for: Renters or anyone who wants a simple, no-permanent-install security camera with clear video and easy remote control.
Pros:
- Easy to install and remove, good for renters
- Clear 1080P video with a wide shot of the door area
- Use the Smart Life App to check your door anytime and talk to visitors
Cons:
- The battery lasts about 30 days, so you will need to charge it from time to time
- Might need special adapters for different door sizes or peepholes
- It works with the Smart Life App but may not connect with very advanced home systems
This doorbell is simple and useful for keeping your home secure. It’s perfect if you want an affordable, easy-to-use camera that helps you see and talk to people at your door.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Smart Video Doorbells for Renters
When choosing a smart video doorbell, you’ll want to consider how easily it installs—because nobody wants to spend the whole weekend wrestling with wires or rented walls—plus what power options are available, whether battery-powered or wired, so you don’t get caught with a dead device. Connectivity stability matters, too, because a flaky WiFi can turn your smart doorbell into a fancy paperweight, and ensuring compatibility with your existing devices can save you headaches down the line. Finally, don’t forget about privacy safeguards, since your front door is prime real estate for privacy and security—no one wants their neighbor peeking at their doorstep virtually, after all.
Installation Ease
Installing a smart video doorbell as a renter is simple. Pick wireless models. These don’t need wires or drilling. This saves time and prevents damage. Many models include instructions or templates. This makes setup easy, like putting together furniture. Rechargeable batteries or USB chargers keep the doorbell powered. You don’t need to hardwire it or call an electrician.
Choose a model that works with your door. Look for adjustable mounts. These fit different door thicknesses and frames. If you don’t want to leave marks, choose a doorbell that is easy to remove. It won’t damage your door. You can take it with you when you move out.
These tips make installing a smart doorbell easy and stress-free.
Power Options
Picking the right power for your smart video doorbell makes a big difference. If you rent your home, you might not want to mess with the wires. Look for a doorbell with a rechargeable battery or one that runs on batteries only. Some models can use existing doorbell wires or portable power banks. These options make installation easy and quick.
Choose a doorbell with a good-sized battery, like 5000mAh. That lets you use live video, talk to visitors, and get alerts without needing to recharge often. Some doorbells have energy-saving features, like sleep modes, to help save power. These let the doorbell stay alert without wasting batteries.
When you pick your doorbell, think about convenience and features. Find a power setup that works for your rental home and keeps it secure. A good choice helps you stay connected with less hassle.
Connectivity Stability
A good WiFi connection is what keeps your smart video doorbell working well. For renters, they might not be able to change the wires easily, so good WiFi is even more important. A strong, steady WiFi or wired connection makes sure your doorbell streams video smoothly and sends alerts quickly. If the signal is weak or slow, the video can look blurry, messages can come late, and the sound might not be clear. It’s like trying to talk through a tin can—with bad signal, it’s hard to understand.
Places with big or multi-story homes often have weak WiFi signals. To fix this, you can get a better router or add WiFi extenders. This helps boost the signal, so your doorbell works better. When your connection is solid, you get quick alerts during emergencies, real-time videos, and easy remote unlocking.
If your WiFi isn’t good, your doorbell might just be a decoration. It won’t do its real job of keeping you safe. Good internet makes sure your home stays secure and your doorbell works when you need it most.
Device Compatibility
When choosing a smart video doorbell, make sure it works with your devices. First, check if it fits your phone’s system—iPhone or Android—so you can use the app easily. Next, see if it connects to your WiFi. Some doorbells work only with 2.4 GHz networks, while others work with 5 GHz too. Confirming this will prevent connection problems.
Look for a doorbell that works with your smart home systems like Alexa or Google Assistant. This makes controlling the doorbell easier. Also, think about how you want to mount it. Make sure it fits your door and any special features like peepholes.
Finally, check if it has useful features like two-way audio. This lets you talk to visitors clearly. Choosing a doorbell that matches these points will give you a device that’s simple to use and fits your living situation.
Privacy Safeguards
Even if you just rent your apartment, you can still keep your privacy safe with a smart video doorbell. The key is to pick a device with good security features. Make sure it uses encryption. Encryption is like a lock that keeps your video and data safe from others hijacking it.
Check if the doorbell lets you set privacy zones or hide certain areas. For example, you might want to hide your mailbox or your neighbor’s window from being recorded. Some doorbells let you store videos on an SD card. This way, you control your recordings and don’t have to rely only on cloud storage, which can be less secure.
Also, look for a doorbell that allows you to control who can see your videos. It should let you manage permissions easily. Keep your device up to date with the latest security patches. Firmware updates fix security holes and make your device safer.
FAQs
Can Smart Doorbells Be Easily Removed When Moving?
Yes, smart doorbells can be easily removed when you’re moving. Most are designed with portable mounts or adhesive pads, making it simple to uninstall without damaging your door or leaving behind a mess, perfect for renters.
Do Renters Need Landlord Permission to Install Smart Doorbells?
You generally need your landlord’s permission to install smart doorbells, as they involve modifications to the property. Always check your lease agreement and discuss with your landlord to avoid potential issues and guarantee you’re following rules.
Are There Privacy Concerns With Wifi-Connected Doorbells?
Yes, Wi-Fi-connected doorbells can raise privacy concerns since they record video and audio, potentially capturing sensitive moments. You should understand data storage policies and secure your device with strong passwords to protect your privacy.
How Do Smart Doorbells Affect Renter’s Security Deposits?
Smart doorbells typically don’t affect your security deposit if you install them without damage. Use removable mounts and avoid wall drilling. Always check with your landlord first, and remove the device carefully before moving out.
Are Smart Video Doorbells Compatible With All Types of Doors?
Most smart video doorbells are compatible with standard doors, but you should verify size, wiring, and mounting options. You might need an adapter or additional tools for non-standard or unusual doors to guarantee proper installation.
Last update on 2026-01-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API