How Many UK Homes Use Ring Doorbells? Stats, Trends, and Real-Life Insights
Discover how popular Ring doorbells have become in the UK, explore market stats, trends, and what it means for privacy and street safety.
Video Doorbell Market 2025: What’s Hot and How to Choose
Video doorbells have gone from optional gadgets to near‑essential security gear for many UK homes. In 2025 you’ll see more options, tighter prices, and smarter features than ever before. Below we break down the biggest trends, price points, and real‑world tips so you can pick the right doorbell without the guesswork.
Key Trends Shaping the Market
First off, wired and battery models are now neck‑and‑neck. Battery‑power gives you a clean look and easy DIY install, while wired units still win on constant power and sometimes longer video storage. Many manufacturers now bundle a small‑size transformer with battery kits, making hybrid installs common.
Second, AI‑driven motion detection is becoming standard. Instead of recording everything, the doorbell learns what looks like a person, a pet, or a passing car. This cuts down on storage use and makes alerts less noisy.
Third, privacy‑focused features are popping up after a few high‑profile lawsuits. Look for devices that let you disable cloud recording, store footage locally on a micro‑SD card, and give you clear consent prompts for neighbours.
Pricing and What You Really Get
Budget‑friendly models sit around £40‑£80 and usually offer 1080p video, basic motion alerts, and battery power. Mid‑range doorbells cost £90‑£150; they add two‑way audio, AI zones, and optional local storage. Premium units—think £200 and up—bring 4K video, facial recognition, and integration with whole‑home automation platforms like Alexa or Google Home.
Don’t forget hidden costs. A wired system may need a 12‑24VAC transformer (often £10‑£20). Battery units require a spare battery or a monthly charge for a high‑capacity pack. Cloud storage subscriptions range from £2‑£5 per month, though many brands let you skip the fee if you’re okay with local storage only.
Installation time also matters. Battery doorbells can be up‑mounted in 15‑30 minutes with a screwdriver. Wired units usually need a bit of electrical work—if you’re not comfortable handling a transformer, budget £50‑£80 for a pro install.
Finally, check the Wi‑Fi requirements. Most UK homes run 2.4 GHz networks, but newer doorbells also support 5 GHz for smoother streaming. If your router is older, you might need an upgrade to avoid laggy video feeds.
When you compare products, write down the must‑haves: video resolution, power type, storage method, AI features, and price. Then match those against what you actually need—like whether you want to see who’s at the door when the Wi‑Fi drops, or if you’re fine with local recordings only.
Choosing the right video doorbell doesn’t have to be a headache. Focus on the core features that matter for your home, keep an eye on hidden costs, and don’t forget to read the fine print on privacy settings. With the market maturing, you’ll find a solid, secure doorbell that fits your budget and gives you peace of mind.
