We conducted tests in three categories: usability, video and audio quality, and ease of installation. We also used this opportunity to test more smart locks and see how well the two kinds of devices work together. As we researched for this review, we learned how to install traditional doorbells to help us prepare to test smart doorbells in our lab. We emailed Dale Pistilli, vice president of sales and marketing at August Home for insights into video doorbells. When we asked about the most important things to look for in a video doorbell, Pistilli suggested that consumers focus on nighttime video quality, video storage fees, smart lock integration and unique features like August's HindSight, which captures video before people approach, even if they don't press the doorbell. We also emailed a Ring spokesperson, who explained some of the technical differences between mechanical and digital doorbell chimes, which you'll find later in our guide. How We TestedFor our video doorbell testing, we installed each unit in our smart home lab, which allowed us to test six of seven smart doorbells simultaneously. This wasn't easy since we also needed to connect most of the doorbells to a Heath Zenith SL 2796 02 Basic Series Wired Door Chime and a 16. 5 volt power source to simulate conditions you might face in your home. UsabilityThe best video doorbells are user friendly and come with an array of features that make them convenient while improving security around your door. We examined 20 factors that affect what happens when someone rings the doorbell, accepting a call, in call controls and motion detection settings.