Review – The Reolink 2K Battery Doorbell: Is It the Subscription-Free Smart Doorbell You’ve Been Looking For?

In an age where home security is no longer a luxury but a necessity, smart doorbells have become a staple for countless homeowners. Yet, many of the most popular models come with a hidden cost: a mandatory monthly subscription fee to access the best features, like recorded video and smart alerts. Finding a high-quality, reliable, and feature-rich doorbell that doesn't require a recurring payment can feel like a daunting task. Enter the Reolink 2K Battery Doorbell, a device that promises to deliver on all fronts without locking you into a long-term financial commitment. I recently took a deep dive into this product, and here's a detailed breakdown of what makes it a compelling contender in the smart home market.

My review starts with the basics: the unboxing. Right out of the box, the Reolink 2K gives a strong first impression. It comes with everything you need for a straightforward installation, including the doorbell unit, a mounting plate, and a very handy angled mount. This last accessory is a thoughtful inclusion, allowing you to perfectly adjust the viewing angle for optimal coverage, whether your entryway is straight on or to the side. The device itself feels solid and well-built, suggesting it's designed to withstand the elements.

When it comes to installation, the Reolink 2K offers great flexibility. It can function as a completely battery-powered device, which is ideal for renters or anyone who doesn't want to mess with their home’s wiring. However, if you're looking for continuous power and peace of mind, it can also be hardwired to your existing doorbell wiring. While this provides a constant power source, it's a task that might require an electrician for those who aren't comfortable with electrical work. The video review provides a detailed look at both installation methods, helping you decide which path is right for you before you even buy the product.

The 10 Reasons to Watch This Review

What truly sets the Reolink 2K apart from its competitors are its features—all ten of them, available without a single subscription fee. Let's break down the key highlights you'll see in the video.

1. Stunning 2K Video Resolution: Unlike the standard 1080p found on many doorbells, the Reolink captures video in crisp 4-megapixel (4MP) 2K resolution. This means you get a much clearer, more detailed picture, making it easier to identify faces and read car registration plates from a distance.

2. 1:1 Aspect Ratio with Head-to-Toe View: This is a major selling point. The 180-degree field of view with a unique 1:1 aspect ratio ensures you can see a person from their head to their toes, and crucially, see any parcels left on your porch. You'll never have to wonder if a delivery was missed again.

3. Dual-Band Wi-Fi Connectivity: Supporting both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi bands, this doorbell ensures you have a stable and reliable connection. This prevents lag and dropped signals, providing seamless live viewing and notifications.

4. Smart Detection: The Reolink doesn't just detect motion; it intelligently identifies people, vehicles, and even parcels. This reduces false alarms from pets or swaying trees and gives you the ability to customise detection zones for your specific needs.

5. Two-Way Audio with Smart Replies: Communicate directly with visitors or delivery drivers through the app. A fantastic feature is the ability to set up smart replies, allowing you to send pre-recorded messages with just a tap, even if you’re too busy to talk.

6. Local Storage: This is the core of its subscription-free model. The doorbell includes a micro SD card slot that supports cards up to 256GB. This gives you ample space to store hours of video footage directly on the device, accessible anytime without a cloud service.

7. Weatherproof IP65 Rating: Designed to withstand the elements, the IP65 rating means the doorbell is protected from dust and is resistant to low-pressure water jets from any direction. Rain, wind, and even dust storms are no match for this durable device.

8. Home Assistant Integration: For the savvy smart home enthusiast, this is a huge plus. The doorbell can be integrated with Home Assistant, allowing for advanced automation and control within a larger smart ecosystem.

9. Flexible Power Options: As mentioned earlier, the choice between using it as a battery-powered device or a hardwired one gives homeowners incredible flexibility, making it a viable option for nearly any living situation.

10. The Intuitive Reolink App: The accompanying app is well-designed and easy to use. It allows for live viewing, playback of recorded events, and customisation of all the doorbell's settings, from motion sensitivity to notification preferences.

Final Verdict

The Reolink 2K Battery Doorbell truly offers a comprehensive, high-quality solution for home security without the burden of monthly fees. It provides a level of detail and a feature set that often requires a subscription with other brands. The installation flexibility, paired with its advanced smart features, makes it excellent value. For anyone serious about home security and saving money in the long run, this is a product well worth considering.

Ready to see all these features in action? Watch the full video review to get a complete, unbiased look at why the Reolink 2K might just be the best smart doorbell for you.

Thanks to Connect It for gifting me this doorbell. I have purchased the Home Hub myself and a future review will be coming soon. Link to the doorbell below

https://connectit.ie/products/reolink-doorbell-battery-smart-2k-dual-band-wi-fi-battery-doorbell-with-head-to-toe-view