Doorbell for Apartments: Best Picks for Renters
Living in an apartment comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to securing your front door. Whether you're concerned about package theft or just want to keep an eye on visitors, having a video doorbell camera is a smart investment for renters. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best video doorbell for your apartment?
Best Doorbells for Apartments: Top Picks for Renters
Here’s a comparison of four popular video doorbells—Kangaroo, Ring, Blink, and Arlo—and how they stack up in terms of features important to renters.
| Feature | Kangaroo Doorbell (Photo/Video) | Ring Video Doorbell | Blink Video Doorbell | Arlo Essential Doorbell |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Installation Type | Wireless/Wired | Wireless/Wired | Wireless/Wired | Wireless/Wired |
| Battery Operated | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Video Quality | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD |
| Field of View | 160° | 155° | 135° | 180° |
| Motion Detection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Night Vision | Yes, Colored Night Vision | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Home | Works with Alexa, Google Assistant | Works with Alexa, Google Assistant | Works with Alexa, Google Assistant | Works with Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Chime Compatibility | Yes | Yes (optional chime) | Yes (optional chime) | Yes (optional chime) |
| Two-Way Audio | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cloud Storage | Free plan, Optional Subscription | Subscription required for video storage | Subscription required for video storage | Subscription required for video storage |
| Price Range | $39-$70 | $99-$199 | $50-$99 | $129-$149 |
| Privacy Features | Adjustable motion zones | Adjustable motion zones | Adjustable motion zones | Adjustable motion zones |
Why Kangaroo Doorbell Camera is the Best Choice for Renters
Among the four options, Kangaroo Doorbell Cameras stands out as the best choice for renters. Here’s why:
Affordable Price: At just $39-$70, the Kangaroo Photo Doorbell and Video Doorbell Camera is a steal compared to its competitors. Renting often means keeping your expenses low, and Kangaroo offers top-tier security without breaking the bank.
Wireless, Easy Installation: The Kangaroo Doorbell is 100% wireless and battery-operated, making it perfect for apartments where you can’t drill or install permanent wiring. You can easily set it up without damaging the property. - Kangaroo Video Doorbell (wireless/wired doorbell) offers the option for wired installation if preferred.
Essential Features for Security: Kangaroo offers the same core features you’d find in higher-end models, such as motion detection, night vision, and two-way audio, but at a fraction of the cost.
Smart Home Compatibility: Kangaroo integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can monitor your apartment using voice commands and connect it to other smart home devices.
Privacy Controls: With customizable motion detection zones, you can ensure that the camera records only what’s important, helping to protect your neighbors' privacy and comply with apartment regulations.
Compact Design: Its sleek, compact design fits perfectly in apartment spaces, making it discreet and efficient at securing your front door.
What Renters say about Kangaroo Doorbell Cameras
"Good price and affordable. Love this doorbell, cam easy to install no screws or anything like that necessary. It comes with the sticker so that you can stick it on the outside of your apartment. It works great great battery life great support system easy set up." - Mecho, BestBuy Verified Review
"My Kangaroo is great. Living alone, it’s always better to know who’s at the door before you open it... This kangaroo was worth every penny. It does exactly what the box says it will do and send messages to my phone if someone shows up and I’m not home." - Kim Wilson, Amazon Verified Purchase
"The device I bought was very easily set up. No glitches or error messages for me. I read what to expect from my device and it's performing as promised. The app is super easy to use as well. Thanks guys" - Jimmy, Kangaroo PlayStore Review
"I love my Kangaroo doorbell! 24/7 video sent to your phone. No contract. I have had my Kangaroo doorbell for 2 years and it still works like the day I got it. Dependable and clear video!! It is great security and lights up when someone gets on my driveway to let the person know it is a Kangaroo security system and I get to watch it live - in real time on my phone. Best present I have ever received!!! Thank you Kangaroo!!!" - Lisa Allred, Kangaroo PlayStore Review
"Pretty happy with the system, monitoring and the coverage. Camera's are effective and the app makes it easy to arm my home. Thanks Roo!" - Anthony Tee, Kangaroo PlayStore Review
Kangaroo vs. Ring, Blink, and Arlo: Detailed Review
Let’s take a closer look at how Kangaroo compares to the other options.
Kangaroo Doorbell Camera
The Kangaroo Doorbell Camera is designed with renters in mind. Its affordable price, easy setup, and robust features make it a standout. You get motion detection, night vision, and a 160° field of view, which is more than enough to monitor your apartment’s front door. And at $20-$30, it's the most budget-friendly option.
Pros: Extremely affordable, easy installation, great smart home integration, essential security features.
Cons: Requires a subscription for cloud storage, but still far cheaper than other options.
Ring Video Doorbell
The Ring Video Doorbell is a solid option, offering both wired and wireless installations. If you're interested in high-end security, the Ring Peephole Camera is great for apartment dwellers as it fits directly into the door’s peephole. However, the price is higher than Kangaroo, and for renters, that might be a deciding factor.
Pros: Flexible installation, privacy options with Ring Peephole, good video quality.
Cons: More expensive, subscriptions required for full cloud access.
Blink Video Doorbell
The Blink Video Doorbell is another budget-friendly option, similar to Kangaroo. It offers basic features like 1080p video quality, motion detection, and smart home integration. However, it lacks the sleek design and user-friendly features that make Kangaroo a better fit for renters.
Pros: Affordable, wireless, works with Alexa.
Cons: Less advanced features compared to competitors, subscription needed for storage.
Arlo Essential Doorbell
The Arlo Essential Doorbell offers some impressive features, like a 180° field of view and great video quality. However, it’s also one of the more expensive options, and its higher cost may not be justifiable for renters who need a more temporary or affordable solution.
Pros: Wide field of view, excellent video quality, flexible installation.
Cons: Higher price point, subscriptions required for cloud storage.
Can I Put a Camera in Front of My Apartment Door?
This is a common question for renters. Most of the time, you can install a doorbell camera or video doorbell on your apartment door as long as it doesn't cause permanent damage to the property. Wireless video doorbells, like those from Kangaroo, Ring, and Blink, are renter-friendly options that won’t require drilling or complex wiring.
However, it’s always best to check with your landlord or rental agreement to ensure you're not violating any terms. Some apartments might have restrictions, especially if the camera is visible to neighbors or common areas.
Is It Legal to Have a Doorbell Camera?
In general, it’s legal to have a doorbell camera on your property, including apartments. But privacy laws can vary depending on where you live. If the video doorbell camera captures footage of public areas or your neighbors' doorways, it could raise privacy concerns.
Before installing a doorbell camera in your apartment, review local regulations and always ensure the camera is positioned to capture only your personal property, like the front door, and not shared spaces.
Do Doorbell Cameras Record All the Time?
Most video doorbell cameras don't record continuously. They typically use motion detection to start recording when someone approaches your front door. For example, Ring, Kangaroo, and Blink cameras begin recording only when they detect movement or when you access the live view.
If you want 24/7 continuous recording, you may need to invest in a more advanced system that offers this feature, like the Google Nest Doorbell. Keep in mind that continuous recording can use up a lot of bandwidth and storage, so many renters prefer the motion-activated option.
Why a Video Doorbell for Your Apartment?
Video doorbells offer several advantages for apartment renters:
Enhanced Security: See who's at your door before opening it, deterring potential intruders and providing a sense of security.
Package Protection: Monitor deliveries and deter porch pirates with real-time alerts and video footage.
Convenience: Answer your door from anywhere, even when you're not home, thanks to live view and two-way audio features.
Neighborly Communication: Some video doorbells offer intercom features, allowing you to communicate with neighbors or building management.
Key Considerations for Apartment Doorbells
Installation: Look for easy DIY installation options that won't damage your apartment or violate your lease agreement. Wireless video doorbells are often preferred for their flexibility and ease of installation.
Battery Life: If you opt for a battery-operated doorbell, consider its battery life and how often you'll need to recharge it.
Video Quality: Choose a doorbell with clear video quality, ideally 1080p or higher, for better identification and evidence capture.
Field of View: A wider field of view allows you to see more of your surroundings, including packages left on the doorstep.
Smart Home Integration: If you have other smart home devices, consider a doorbell that integrates with them, such as Alexa or Google Assistant.
Privacy: Ensure the doorbell has privacy features, such as customizable motion zones and privacy masking, to protect your and your neighbor's privacy.
Read More:
Kangaroo Doorbell: the Affordable Answer to Ring Doorbell
Video Doorbell Vs Security Camera: the Ultimate Face-Off
Find Your Best Smart Doorbell Cameras for Front Door Security
Conclusion: Kangaroo is the Best Doorbell for Renters
When it comes to securing your apartment, the Kangaroo Doorbell Cameras are the best option for renters. Its unbeatable price, easy wireless installation, and essential security features make it a top pick. Whether you're concerned about package theft, monitoring visitors, or simply adding an extra layer of security to your front door, Kangaroo delivers everything you need—at a fraction of the cost of its competitors.
For renters who want an affordable, reliable, and easy-to-install doorbell camera, the Kangaroo Doorbell Camera is hands down the winner.
Did You Know?
Wireless doorbells were first introduced in the early 20th century and have since become a popular choice for homeowners and renters alike. Unlike traditional wired doorbells, wireless doorbells operate using radio waves to transmit signals between the button at your door and the chime inside your home. This innovation allows for easy, no-drill installations, making it perfect for apartments and renters who need a flexible solution. Plus, with advances in battery-powered technology, wireless doorbells now offer video capabilities, motion detection, and smart home integration—all without the need for complicated wiring!