Video Doorbell

I own the doorbell 1 so I can’t comment on your specific model but I live in northern ontario where it hasn’t been above -20C for like two weeks now and my batteries are still going strong! Make sure you buy the energizer ultimate lithium, they are expensive BUT last way longer than anything else I’ve tried :)

I compared the new 2nd Generation doorbell against the first gen. Overall I think it's a worthwhile upgrade over the previous doorbell, mostly for the wider field of view since you can now see packages on the ground or visitors from head to toe. Pros: \+ Wider 150 degree field of view \+ Official IP65 Rating \+ Loads live view around 2x faster \+ Slightly better lowlight video \+ 1440P by 1440P resolution (not that impactful) Cons: \- Low bitrate video still so 1440P video doesn't look much better than 1080P video on previous gen doorbell \- If purchased with Sync Module Core unit, zero local storage options are available, however, you can purchase the doorbell alone and pair it with the previous Sync Module 2 or Sync Module XR, which does allow for local storage.

Those are pretty good loading speeds already. I have many comments on the review video I did for the first gen of people complaining about the live view loading speed. I'm definitely getting longer than 4 second loading times with the 1st gen and Sync module 2 (no monthly plan).

The reason you are seeing varying information is because there are two versions on the doorbell camera, each with different situations. Original (Gen 1) doorbell does not require a Sync Module, but without the Sync Module the doorbell will be in "event response mode" if not connected to a hardwired chime. Also, the doorbell will require a subscription for clip storage without a Sync Module. "Newest" (Gen 2) doorbell does require a Sync Module. If purchased with a Sync Module, it will come with the Sync Module CORE, which does not support local storage. If the Sync Module Core is used, you will need to pay for a subscription for clip storage. If you purchase / use a Sync Module 2 or Sync Module XR (pointless to buy this one unless you need extended range on an Outdoor Gen 4 camera) you won't need a subscription for either generation of doorbell.

I’m going to use a gen 2 sync module for both to see if it makes a difference. Wondering if the new “core” version of sync module is faster. You should try a sync module 2 with record VS core on a generation 2 doorbell. I used a 3D printed one previously, guessing the footprint of this one isn’t the same and will need to get a new one printed. Hoping I can skip it all together with the taller field of view, or at least use something a bit smaller so it doesn’t stick out as far. I never have understood why the camera is aimed to get pictures of the sky. Distortion in the upper and lower zones maybe? Would be nice if lens could be aimed down a few degrees by user and skip the adding wedges. Only real use I can think of is a basement apartment it can capture people walking down stairs.

I think the old version is fine for video quality, it’s all about expectations. These aren’t POE cameras that are $200 each just for the camera. Then you need a recorder, switch with POE and a UPS in case home power is cut. If I replaced these with a full blown high definition system I would have over $10,000 in this system. I use them as motion sensors to turn on outside lights, when I come home at night. As pet cameras to checkup on my dog. In basement to read how much time I have before laundry is done. As a wireless doorbell that rings several Amazon echo devices in my home and garage. As a deterrent for would be thieves when several echo devices in garage and house announce someone is present and turns lights on.

I have 2 generation 1 doorbells on a generation 2 sync module. I just timed both it takes at most 4 seconds to open live view on both. A few times they opened in 2 or 3 seconds. I should get my generation 2 today, It’ll be interesting to compare.

Yesterday I installed a leftover Blink Gen 1 Doorbell on the hidden part of the Garage Door Frame. 30 years a little too late for when it would have really been used. But having a Bell and Camera there is pretty good. From the onset of the initial thought was Sun exposure. I installed early afternoon and the Sail Shades that line whole area in front of the door to where the drive meets the Circle Drive weren't covering the the Sun shining on that spot. The one spot that is not covered. I too am in Denver and although the Garage Door is facing Northwest the Doorbell is line-of-site to the Southwest, the worst Sun track you can have. So I'm now in Sun Protection mode. Which is taking the unit down for now. It's obvious that the unit can't or I won't let the it bake into a Fudge Brownie . . .

Blink with local storage. They recently upgraded their doorbell camera and have an upgraded indoor camera with a light you can control. I love ours. I buy during Black Friday sales or amazon days.

I use blink as I can easily connect it to my Alexa devices