When it comes to securing an apartment building, choosing the best smart doorbells for apartment building security is more complicated than picking one for a single home. With multiple tenants, shared entryways, and sometimes large property layouts, your doorbell system needs to be multi-user friendly, privacy-conscious, and technically reliable.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best smart doorbells for apartment building security in 2025, explain what makes them ideal for multi-unit living, and help you pick the one that fits your building’s size, budget, and security needs.
Table of Contents
What to Look in the Best Smart Doorbells for Apartment Building Security
Before we get to our top picks, here’s what matters most for multi-unit security systems:
- Multi-User Access – Ability to allow different residents to receive alerts and view video feeds without compromising privacy.
- Shared Entry Management – Integration with intercoms or buzz-in systems so residents can let guests in remotely.
- Video Quality & Night Vision – Clear, high-resolution footage day and night is essential for identifying visitors.
- Wi-Fi Range & Stability – Larger buildings may need mesh networking or Ethernet connectivity to keep video stable.
- Privacy Controls – Options to limit what other tenants can see and record.
- Integration with Building Security – Works with door locks, security cameras, and alarm systems.
5 Best Smart Doorbells for Apartment Building Security (2025)
1. Ring Video Doorbell Elite – Best Professional Wired Option
Best for: Large buildings with professional installation budgets
Key Features:
- Flush-mounted Ethernet connection for maximum stability
- 1080p HD video with motion detection zones
- Works with Ring Alarm and Alexa-enabled devices
- Adjustable privacy zones for tenant security
| Pros | Cons |
| Ethernet-powered (no Wi-Fi dropouts) | Expensive compared to other models |
| Professional-grade design and durability | Requires professional installation |
| Reliable motion alerts |
Ring Video Doorbell Elite
1080p HD Video, Live View, Night Vision, 160° horizontal, 90° vertical view, Advanced Motion Detection.
$349.99
View on Amazon2. Nest Doorbell (Wired, 2nd Gen) – Best for Google Home Integration
Best for: Buildings using Google smart home systems
Key Features:
- 24/7 continuous recording (with Nest Aware subscription)
- Person, package, and vehicle detection
- Integration with Google Assistant displays and speakers
| Pros | Cons |
| Crystal-clear video with HDR | Subscription needed for full features |
| AI-powered detection reduces false alerts | Wi-Fi only (no Ethernet) |
| Seamless Google ecosystem integration |
3. Eufy Security Video Doorbell Dual – Best Subscription-Free Option
Best for: Buildings avoiding ongoing monthly costs
Key Features:
- Dual-camera setup (front + package view)
- Local storage (no subscription fees)
- AI detection for humans and packages
| Pros | Cons |
| No monthly fees | Wi-Fi dependent |
| Excellent video quality from two angles | Limited smart home integrations compared to Ring/Nest |
| Strong privacy controls |
4. Aiphone JO Series Video Intercom – Best for Large Complexes
Best for: Buildings needing intercom + video capabilities
Key Features:
- Indoor intercom monitors with touchscreens
- Multiple entry door integration
- Wired connection for reliability
| Pros | Cons |
| Handles multiple entry points | Requires professional wiring |
| Highly durable commercial-grade system | Higher upfront cost |
| Great for high-traffic entryways |
5. Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell – Best Budget-Friendly Building Option
Best for: Smaller apartment buildings or tight budgets
Key Features:
- 180° viewing angle with HD video
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKit
- Direct-to-phone video calls when the doorbell rings
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable without sacrificing quality | Requires wiring |
| Wide field of view covers entire entry | Some features need subscription |
| Simple installation |
Comparison Table of Best Smart Doorbells for Apartment Building Security
| Model | Power | Video Quality | Storage | Multi-Tenant Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ring Video Doorbell Elite | Ethernet | 1080p | Cloud | Yes | $$$$ |
| Nest Doorbell (Wired) | Wi-Fi | HDR 1080p | Cloud | Yes | $$$ |
| Eufy Video Doorbell Dual | Wi-Fi | 2K | Local | Yes | $$ |
| Aiphone JO Series | Wired | HD | Local | Yes | $$$$ |
| Arlo Essential Wired | Wired | 1080p | Cloud | Limited | $ |
Which Smart Doorbell is Best for Your Building?
- Best for Large Buildings: Ring Video Doorbell Elite
- Best for Google Smart Buildings: Nest Doorbell (Wired)
- Best for No Subscription Costs: Eufy Video Doorbell Dual
- Best for Full Intercom Replacement: Aiphone JO Series
- Best Budget Option: Arlo Essential Wired
Installation & Maintenance Tips
- For large buildings, use Ethernet-powered systems to avoid Wi-Fi dead zones.
- Consider a mesh Wi-Fi setup if multiple entry points are far from the router.
- Always set privacy zones to prevent unwanted recording of private spaces.
- Work with the building manager or HOA before installing to avoid disputes.
FAQs
Can multiple tenants use one smart doorbell?
Yes, many systems allow multiple accounts or guest access so each resident can receive alerts.
Can a smart doorbell replace an intercom?
Yes, but only if the model supports two-way audio and remote entry control.
Are wired or wireless systems better for buildings?
Wired systems are generally more reliable for high-traffic, multi-unit entryways.
