Be a Smarty-Pants! A DIY Guide to Smart Doorbells and Their Average Costs

Hey there, folks! I see you're considering jumping onto the smart home technology bandwagon. Trust me, it's a sweet ride. As your friendly neighborhood repairman, I'm all too familiar with wires, circuits, and installations of every shape and size. Today, I'll guide you through the financial landscape of smart doorbells. Trust me, this upgrade isn't going to break your bank. Are you ready to be a smarty-pants?

The New Ring on the Block

Gone are the days when a doorbell meant a simple ding-dong. In our high-tech age, smart doorbells are the new talk of the town. They are like the multi-utility Swiss knives of home security, providing visual and audio alerts, capturing images, offering two-way-communication, and even integrating with home automation systems. Now, I can already see you thinking, "All these features must cost an arm and a leg, don't they?" Well, the good news is, they don't have to!

Averaging the Value

Prices vary from brand to brand, and model to model, but you can expect an average range of $100-$250 for a quality smart doorbell. The price goes upward depending upon added features and integration capabilities with other smart devices. On the lower end, you have basic models that typically run you about $30-$60, but may lack some advanced features, while higher-end models can cost around $500. Remember, you're paying for the benefits of advanced technology and convenience here, so it's an investment, alright!

A Brand-by-Brand Breakdown

As your trusty repairman, I've had plenty of experiences installing different kinds of smart doorbells. Below, I give you an idea of what some of the popular brands may cost you.

Ring Models

One of the pioneers in the smart doorbell industry, Ring offers products that range from their basic Video Doorbell at $99.99 to their high-end Video Doorbell Elite at $349.99.

Nest Hello

Nest Hello, coming from Google's range of smart home products, averages around $229. It integrates well with other Google devices.

Arlo Models

The Arlo Video Doorbell is moderately priced at about $149. The best part? It offers a wide field of view!

Consider the Cost of Installation

For all the DIY fans like me, it's important to keep in mind that the cost of the device isn't the only cost associated with owning a smart doorbell. You'll also have to factor in the cost of installation, which could be between $100-$200 if you hire a professional. But if you decide to flex your DIY muscles and install the device yourself, you could save a pretty penny.

Go Pro or Go DIY?

In this debate, always consider the complexity of your specific model. The simpler models operate over batteries and can be easily installed, while the more complex ones may require wiring and professional help. If you're new to the home tech world, it might be worth it to hire a pro the first time around, just to get the hang of things.

And now for our Final Ding Dong

Smart doorbells are a fantastic investment for your home. They provide not only an extra layer of security but also a large helping of convenience. Average costs, as we've seen, are quite reasonable considering their immense utility. So, whether you're a home automation junkie or just someone wanting to spruce up their porch, a smart doorbell might just be your next perfect buy.

Remember always to consider your specific needs, budget, and whether you'll be going the DIY route or hiring a professional for installation. And whatever you do, have fun with your tech! Keep those DIY juices flowing, and until next time, ride on the wave of being a smarty-pants in this smart world!