Living in an apartment or condo comes with unique challenges when it comes to home security. Unlike detached houses, you often can’t drill through walls freely, hardwire new systems, or install bulky devices that alter the building’s exterior. That’s why choosing the right smart doorbell is essential—it needs to fit compact spaces, work with shared entryways, and still give you the peace of mind that your home is secure.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best smart doorbells for apartments and condos, focusing on wireless options, compatibility with shared entrances, and features that matter most for urban living.
1. What to Look for in a Smart Doorbell for Apartments
Before jumping into the top picks, it’s important to know the key features that make a doorbell ideal for apartment or condo use:
- Wireless Installation → Avoids the need for drilling or professional wiring.
- Compact Design → Fits in narrow hallways or small door frames.
- Battery-Powered Options → Convenient for renters who can’t modify electrical systems.
- Two-Way Audio → Lets you talk to visitors or delivery drivers from anywhere.
- Video Storage → Cloud or local recording options to review footage later.
- Shared Access → Ability to add multiple users (e.g., roommates or family).
2. Top Smart Doorbells for Apartments & Condos
Ring Video Doorbell (Battery Version)
One of the most popular options, Ring’s battery-powered model is perfect for renters. It doesn’t require wiring, installs easily with adhesive mounts, and connects seamlessly to Wi-Fi.
Pros:
- Easy, tool-free installation.
- Affordable entry-level price.
- Works well with Alexa.
Cons:
- Requires subscription for video storage.
- Video quality can drop in low-light conditions.
Google Nest Doorbell (Battery)
Sleek and modern, the Nest Doorbell is a favourite among condo residents. It offers excellent AI-powered motion detection that distinguishes between people, animals, and packages.
Pros:
- Clear video quality with HDR.
- Smart alerts reduce false notifications.
- Works with Google Home ecosystem.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost.
- Best features locked behind a subscription.
Eufy Security Video Doorbell (Battery-Powered)
Eufy is known for offering subscription-free video storage, making it attractive for budget-conscious residents. Its local storage hub keeps your data private while still providing crisp 2K resolution.
Pros:
- No monthly fees for video storage.
- High-resolution video.
- Easy installation and setup.
Cons:
- Bulkier design compared to Nest.
- Limited third-party smart home integrations.
Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (Wireless)
Arlo’s wireless option is stylish, with a taller aspect ratio that makes it easier to see packages left at your door. It’s especially handy in apartments where deliveries are common.
Pros:
- Wide field of view (great for seeing packages).
- Slim, attractive design.
- Good integration with Alexa and Google.
Cons:
- Subscription needed for advanced features.
- Battery life may require frequent recharging.
3. Smart Doorbells for Shared Entrances
If your apartment or condo has a shared entrance, you’ll need a solution that supports multi-user access and integrates with property systems:
- ButterflyMX Video Intercom → Designed for multi-unit buildings, ButterflyMX lets residents buzz in visitors directly from their smartphone. It’s more of a building-wide solution, but worth mentioning for condo associations.
- Ring Intercom Add-On → Works with existing intercoms to enable smartphone-based access for apartments that already use wired building entry systems.
4. Tips for Renters Installing Smart Doorbells
- Check Your Lease → Some landlords restrict drilling or exterior modifications. Opt for adhesive or magnetic mounts.
- Choose Battery-Powered → Avoids wiring complications and makes removal easier when you move out.
- Think About Wi-Fi → Apartments often have weak signals near doors. A Wi-Fi extender may be needed for smooth video streaming.
- Use Privacy Zones → Most apps let you block parts of the camera view (like your neighbour’s door) to respect privacy rules.
5. Final Thoughts
For apartment and condo residents, the best smart doorbell balances easy installation, wireless convenience, and smart features without requiring permanent changes to your home.
- If you want an affordable and simple option → go with Ring Battery Video Doorbell.
- For Google Home users who value AI detection → choose Nest Doorbell Battery.
- For no monthly fees and high-quality video → Eufy Security Doorbell is a standout.
- For stylish design and package visibility → Arlo Essential Doorbell is excellent.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, ecosystem (Google, Alexa, or standalone), and whether you need integration with a shared entry system. Whichever you choose, a smart doorbell will add convenience, peace of mind, and security to your apartment or condo living.