Blink Video Doorbell Upgrades Boost Security and Battery Life

Blink, Amazon’s budget-friendly security brand, has launched the second generation of its popular video doorbell, delivering significant upgrades while maintaining an affordable price point under $70. This new model enhances home security by combining improved video quality, smarter motion alerts, and an industry-leading battery life.

Sharper Video and Smarter Detection

The new Blink Video Doorbell features a 1440p by 1440p resolution, a notable upgrade from the previous 1080p, offering clearer and more detailed footage. Its 150-degree field of view with a 1:1 aspect ratio provides a comprehensive head-to-toe perspective of your porch, ensuring you don’t miss any activity or package deliveries.

A standout feature is the addition of person detection powered by on-device computer vision. This means the doorbell can distinguish between people and other motion triggers like animals or wind, reducing false alerts. Importantly, this AI runs locally on the device, enhancing privacy and speed, though it requires a modest subscription for cloud storage and notifications.

Battery Life and Hardware Enhancements

Blink continues to lead the market with an impressive two-year battery life, powered by three AA lithium batteries and its custom silicon chip optimized for power management. This longevity far surpasses competitors like Ring, which offer shorter battery spans. The doorbell’s slightly larger design accommodates the extra battery without compromising installation ease.

The device requires the new Sync Module Core hub, which supports extended range, live view on demand, and two-way audio, though it lacks local storage options found in previous modules. The doorbell also supports hardwiring to existing indoor chimes and is rated IP65 for outdoor durability.

Trade-offs and Market Position

To preserve battery life, Blink limits Wi-Fi connectivity to 2.4GHz and restricts motion-activated video clips to 30 seconds. The two-way audio operates on a push-to-talk basis, similar to a walkie-talkie, rather than full duplex. While these constraints might feel like compromises, they enable Blink to deliver unmatched battery endurance at a budget price.

Overall, Blink’s second-generation video doorbell offers a compelling balance of affordability, enhanced features, and exceptional battery life, making it an excellent choice for consumers seeking reliable smart home security without breaking the bank.