Do Smart Doorbells Need Wiring? Wired vs Battery, Install Options (UK 2025)
Do smart doorbells require wiring? Clear UK-focused answer: wired vs battery, install paths, costs, voltage, Wi‑Fi, chime compatibility, and a simple checklist.
Wired vs Battery Video Doorbell: What You Need to Know
When you shop for a video doorbell, the biggest decision is usually wired or battery powered. Both options promise clear video and smartphone alerts, but they behave very differently once you install them. Below we break down the real‑world differences so you can choose the one that fits your house, budget and lifestyle.
Installation and upfront costs
A wired doorbell needs a connection to your existing doorbell transformer or a dedicated low‑voltage line. If you already have a wired doorbell, the job is often a quick swap – just match the wires, turn the power back on, and you’re set. If you don’t have a transformer, you’ll need to add one (usually $30‑$80) and maybe run new wiring, which can add $100‑$200 if you hire an electrician.
Battery‑powered models are plug‑and‑play. You mount the unit, snap in the battery (or use a built‑in rechargeable pack), and pair it with your Wi‑Fi. There’s no need for a drill or a professional, so you can get it up in under an hour and spend almost nothing on tools.
Performance and reliability
Wired units get a constant power supply, so they can run higher‑resolution cameras, more motion zones, and they never worry about a dying battery. This matters if you have a busy front porch, a large yard, or you want features like continuous recording.
Battery doorbells conserve power by dimming the screen, lowering video quality at night, or limiting motion alerts. Modern batteries can last 6‑12 months under moderate use, but heavy traffic or cold weather can cut that down to a few weeks. You’ll need to keep an eye on the battery level and replace or recharge it regularly.
Both types need a stable Wi‑Fi signal. If your router is far from the door, a wired doorbell with a power‑over‑Ethernet (PoE) adapter can offer a stronger, more reliable link, while a battery unit might drop frames or miss alerts.
In short, wired doorbells win on constant performance; battery models win on ease of install and flexibility.
Cost over time
Wired units usually have a higher upfront price ($150‑$250) plus any installation fees. Battery models start lower ($80‑$130) but you’ll buy replacement batteries or pay for a larger rechargeable pack every year. If you expect to move houses often, the battery option avoids having to run new wiring each time.
Consider also the subscription side. Most brands charge for cloud storage regardless of power source, so the ongoing cost is the same. The only extra expense for wired units is occasional power‑line maintenance.
Now that you see the trade‑offs, think about your home’s layout, how much foot traffic you have at the front door, and whether you want a quick DIY install or a set‑and‑forget solution.
If you value hassle‑free installation and can manage battery swaps, go battery. If you need always‑on video, multiple motion zones, and don’t mind a brief professional call‑out, choose wired. Either way, a video doorbell adds a layer of security that helps deter burglars and lets you see who’s at the door from your phone.