Table of Contents
1. Introduction – Why Smart Doorbells for Apartments Matter in 2025
If you live in an apartment, you know the struggle: packages vanish from your doorstep, unexpected knocks make you cautious, and your landlord’s rules keep you from drilling holes or rewiring anything. The best smart doorbells for apartments can change all of that. It lets you:
- See who’s at your door in real time — whether you’re home or miles away
- Get alerts when packages arrive
- Communicate with visitors without opening the door
- Keep video evidence in case of theft or disputes
But here’s the catch for renters: most doorbells are designed for homeowners. They require drilling into walls, hardwiring into your existing doorbell system, or making permanent modifications — all of which can get you in trouble with your landlord.
Note: If you’re a renter and can’t drill into your doorframe, check out our full guide on the best renter friendly Ring doorbell mounts for no-drill, landlord-approved options.
That’s why this guide focuses exclusively on smart doorbells for apartments that are:
- Renter-friendly (no drilling or permanent installation required)
- Wireless or battery-powered (no need to mess with wiring)
- Secure (encrypted data, privacy controls, and good video quality)
We’ve tested, compared, and analyzed dozens of models to bring you the top 5 smart doorbells for apartments in 2025 — each perfect for renters who want security without violating their lease.
2. Quick Picks – Our Top 5 Smart Doorbells for Apartments
Here’s a quick overview of our top choices of best smart doorbells for apartments before we dive into detailed reviews:
| Product | Best For | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ring Peephole Cam 2 | Overall best for renters | $$$ | Peephole replacement, motion alerts, two-way talk |
| Eufy Security Video Doorbell S220 (Battery) | No subscription fees | $$ | Local storage, 2K video, long battery life |
| Google Nest Doorbell (Battery) | Best AI features | $$$ | Smart alerts, facial recognition, Google Home integration |
| Blink Video Doorbell (Battery) | Budget pick | $ | Works with Alexa, long battery life, affordable |
| Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell | Wide field of view | $$$ | 180° view, HDR video, motion zones |
If you’re looking for a system that can handle multiple tenants or shared entrances, check out our Best Smart Doorbells for Apartment Building Security guide, which reviews the top models for large complexes and multi-unit living.
3. What to Look for in an Apartment Smart Doorbell
Before buying smart doorbells for apartments, here are the key factors every renter should consider — and why they matter.
a) Installation Type
Look for no-drill or peephole mount options. Adhesive brackets are also great for renters, and some smart doorbells are designed to replace the existing peephole entirely.
b) Power Source
- Battery-powered: Most renter-friendly and easy to install.
- Plug-in options: Good if you have a nearby outlet.
- Wired: Usually not recommended for apartments unless you already have a doorbell system.
c) Subscription Requirements
Some brands (like Ring and Nest) require monthly fees to unlock video history, while others (like Eufy) offer free local storage.
d) Video Quality
Aim for at least 1080p HD for clear footage. If budget allows, 2K or HDR is even better for facial recognition and low-light performance.
e) Smart Home Integration
Check if it works with your devices:
- Alexa for Echo users
- Google Home for Nest Hub users
- Apple HomeKit for iPhone & Apple ecosystem users
f) Privacy & Security Features
Look for end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and customizable privacy zones.
4. In-Depth Reviews – Best Smart Doorbells for Apartments in 2025
1. Ring Peephole Cam 2 – Best Overall for Renters
If you want the easiest, most landlord-approved upgrade to your apartment’s security, the Ring Peephole Cam 2 is it. Instead of drilling into the wall, you simply replace your existing door’s peephole with this camera — no damage, no tools beyond a screwdriver, and it can be removed when you move out.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD video with night vision
- Motion detection alerts to your phone
- Two-way audio for speaking to visitors
- Knock detection (even if they don’t press the button)
- Works with Alexa devices for voice control
- Battery-powered (removable, rechargeable battery pack)
Pros:
✅ No drilling or permanent installation — perfect for renters
✅ Knock detection is unique and great for apartment hallways
✅ Clear 1080p video and responsive app
✅ Alexa integration for Echo Show live feeds
Cons:
❌ Requires a subscription for video history
❌ Slightly bulkier than some adhesive-mount options
Ring Peephole Cam
Smart video doorbell, HD video, 2-way talk, easy installation.
$129.99
View on AmazonBest For: Renters who want a damage-free, easy-to-install doorbell that fits into the peephole slot.
2. Eufy Security Video Doorbell S220 (Battery) – Best for No Subscription Fees
Most smart doorbells lock essential features like video history behind a subscription. Eufy’s S220 is different — it stores footage locally on the included base station, so you pay $0 in ongoing fees.
Key Features:
- 2K video resolution with HDR for clear images
- Battery-powered (up to 6 months per charge)
- Local storage (no monthly subscription required)
- AI-powered human detection to reduce false alerts
- Works with Google Assistant and Alexa
Pros:
✅ Crisp 2K video quality
✅ No subscription fees ever
✅ Long battery life
✅ Good privacy controls with local storage
Cons:
❌ Requires a separate base station (included)
❌ Slight delay in notifications compared to Nest or Ring
eufy Security, Video Doorbell S220 (Battery-Powered) Kit
Security Camera – 2K Resolution, 180-Day Battery Life, Encrypted Local Storage, No Monthly Fees, Built-in Storage, Motion Only Alert.
$99.99
View on AmazonBest For: Budget-conscious renters who don’t want to pay ongoing subscription fees.
3. Google Nest Doorbell (Battery) – Best AI and Smart Features
The Google Nest Doorbell (Battery) is perfect for tech-savvy renters who want top-tier AI detection, smart alerts, and seamless Google Home integration.
Key Features:
- 960 × 1280 resolution with HDR
- Smart detection for people, packages, animals, and vehicles
- Face recognition (with Nest Aware subscription)
- Battery or wired installation
- Works with Google Assistant devices
Pros:
✅ Excellent AI-powered detection
✅ Slim and modern design
✅ Works well with Google smart displays
✅ Battery or wired flexibility
Cons:
❌ Subscription required for face recognition and video history
❌ Video resolution slightly lower than 2K competitors
Best For: Google ecosystem users who want smart AI features and clean design.
4. Blink Video Doorbell (Battery) – Best Budget Pick
If you want a smart doorbell under $60 that still gets the job done, the Blink Video Doorbell is an unbeatable value. It works as a wired or battery-powered device and integrates smoothly with Alexa.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD video
- Battery life up to 2 years (with 2 AA batteries)
- Motion detection and alerts
- Works with Alexa devices
- Optional cloud storage subscription
Pros:
✅ Very affordable
✅ Impressive battery life
✅ Works wirelessly or wired
✅ Easy to set up
Cons:
❌ Cloud storage requires subscription
❌ No advanced AI features
Best For: Renters who want a simple, budget-friendly smart doorbell without sacrificing core functionality.
5. Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell – Best Wide-Angle View
If your apartment hallway is narrow or angled, you’ll love the Arlo Essential’s 180° field of view. It captures more of your entry area than most competitors, reducing blind spots.
Key Features:
- 1080p HD with HDR
- 180° wide-angle view
- Direct-to-mobile calls when someone presses the bell
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit
- Motion detection with customizable zones
Pros:
✅ Extra-wide view ideal for small hallways
✅ Works across multiple smart home ecosystems
✅ Good HDR performance in tricky lighting
Cons:
❌ Subscription needed for cloud storage
❌ Shorter battery life than Eufy or Blink
Best For: Apartments where wide-angle coverage is important for visibility.
Suggested Read: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Security Systems for Home
5. Buyer’s Decision Guide for Best Smart Doorbells for Apartments
Side-by-Side Comparison of Best Smart Doorbells for Apartments
| Model | Best For | Video Quality | Installation Type | Battery Life | Storage Type | Subscription Needed? | Smart Home Compatibility | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ring Peephole Cam 2 | Damage-free renter install | 1080p HD | Peephole replacement | ~6 months | Cloud | Yes (for history) | Alexa | $$ |
| Eufy S220 | No ongoing fees | 2K HDR | Adhesive/wireless | ~6 months | Local (base station) | No | Alexa, Google | $$ |
| Google Nest Doorbell (Battery) | AI features & Google users | 960×1280 HDR | Adhesive/wireless/wired | ~3–4 months | Cloud | Yes (for history/face ID) | Google Assistant | $$$ |
| Blink Video Doorbell | Budget pick | 1080p HD | Wireless/wired | Up to 2 years | Cloud | Optional | Alexa | $ |
| Arlo Essential | Wide hallway coverage | 1080p HDR | Wireless/wired | ~3 months | Cloud | Yes (for history) | Alexa, Google, HomeKit | $$–$$$ |
Pros & Cons Summary
| Model | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Ring Peephole Cam 2 | Easiest install for renters, knock detection, Alexa-friendly | Subscription required, bulky look |
| Eufy S220 | 2K video, no fees, long battery life | Needs base station, slight notification delay |
| Google Nest Doorbell | Excellent AI, slim design, flexible install | Lower resolution, subscription needed for most features |
| Blink Video Doorbell | Cheapest, longest battery life, easy setup | No AI detection, optional subscription for storage |
| Arlo Essential | 180° wide view, multi-platform support | Shorter battery life, subscription for history |
Which One Should You Buy?
- If you rent and can’t drill:
Go for Ring Peephole Cam 2 — it’s literally made for apartments with peepholes. - If you hate paying monthly fees:
Eufy S220 gives you high-quality video without ongoing costs. - If you live in Google’s ecosystem:
Google Nest Doorbell is your best bet for smart AI alerts and integration. - If you want the cheapest option:
Blink Video Doorbell gets you smart security for under $60. - If your hallway has tricky angles:
Arlo Essential gives you the widest view in this list.
6. Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Smart Doorbell for Your Apartment
Choosing a smart doorbell for renters or an apartment smart doorbell is very different from picking one for a house. Renters face unique challenges — you can’t always drill into walls, run wiring, or make permanent changes without landlord approval. Here’s what you should focus on about smart doorbells for apartments before hitting the “buy” button.
1. Installation Type (Renter-Friendly Is Key)
Look for renter friendly Ring doorbells or other models that use:
- Adhesive mounts (e.g., Eufy S220)
- Peephole replacement (e.g., Ring Peephole Cam 2)
- No-drill brackets for doors or walls
📌 Tip: If you live in a building with strict rules, confirm that the smart doorbell for apartment building you choose can be fully removed without damage.
2. Power Source
- Battery-powered doorbells are ideal for renters because they don’t require hardwiring.
- Look for models with long battery life (4–6 months minimum).
- If you want a wireless Ring camera for apartments, check that charging is easy — preferably with a quick-release battery.
3. Video Quality
- For narrow apartment hallways, a wide field of view (160°+) is crucial.
- 2K resolution (like Eufy S220) offers better detail, but 1080p HD is still good for most renters.
4. Storage & Subscription Costs
- Many smart WiFi video doorbell camera options require a subscription for cloud storage.
- If you want to avoid ongoing costs, pick a smart wireless WiFi video doorbell with local storage (like Eufy).
- Cloud storage can be worth it if you want smart AI alerts (people, package, or face recognition).
5. Smart Home Integration
- Alexa users: Ring, Blink, and Arlo integrate seamlessly.
- Google Home users: Nest Doorbell and Arlo are best.
- Apple HomeKit fans: Arlo is the top choice in this list.
6. Privacy & Security
Make sure your security doorbell with WiFi camera:
- Uses encrypted video transmission
- Lets you manage your own data (especially if using local storage)
- Offers two-factor authentication for app logins
7. Special Features for Apartments
- Knock detection (great for peephole models)
- Package detection for high-rise deliveries
- Motion zones so you’re not getting alerts every time the neighbor’s cat walks by
7. FAQs – Best Smart Doorbells for Apartments
1. Can I put a Ring doorbell in my apartment?
Yes — but it depends on your building’s rules. The easiest option is the Ring Peephole Cam 2, which replaces your existing peephole without drilling or wiring. If you’re not allowed to alter your door, consider a renter friendly Ring doorbell mount that attaches with adhesive or clamps.
2. Which smart doorbell is best for renters?
For most renters, the Eufy S220 is the best balance of high-quality video, long battery life, and no monthly fees. If you want easy integration with Alexa, choose the Ring Peephole Cam 2.
3. Are wireless video doorbells secure?
Yes, but only if you choose a model with:
– Encrypted video streams
– Two-factor authentication for your app
– Regular firmware updates from the manufacturer
4. Do smart doorbells work in apartment buildings?
Yes, but you’ll want a smart doorbell for apartment building that can handle narrow hallways and shared entryways. Wide field of view (160°+) is ideal so you don’t miss activity.
5. What’s the cheapest smart doorbell for apartments?
The Blink Video Doorbell is the most budget-friendly option that still offers HD video, motion alerts, and Alexa integration.
6. Do I need a subscription for a smart doorbell?
Not always. Models like Eufy S220 offer local storage so you don’t pay monthly. However, cloud-based options (Ring, Arlo, Nest) usually require a subscription for video history and advanced features.
7. How do I install a smart doorbell without drilling?
Look for:
– Adhesive mounts
– Peephole replacement kits
– Clamp mounts that fit around your doorframe
These let you install a smart wireless WiFi video doorbell without permanent changes.
Bottom Line
Choosing the best smart doorbells for apartments isn’t just about picking a top-rated gadget — it’s about finding one that truly works for your space. For apartment dwellers, the ideal model is wireless, quick to install, and easy to remove when you move out, with a slim design perfect for narrow doorways. Always check your building’s rules to ensure your smart doorbell is allowed, and pick one that integrates smoothly with your smart home system. The right smart doorbell for your apartment will deliver security, convenience, and peace of mind every time the bell rings.
