Smart home security has grown rapidly, and video doorbells and smart locks are now among the most popular upgrades homeowners choose. They promise convenience, remote access, and greater peace of mind all from a smartphone. But an important question remains: do video doorbells and smart locks really offer enough protection for your home on their own?
This guide takes a realistic, homeowner-focused look at what these smart devices can and cannot do, helping you decide whether they’re sufficient or just one part of a stronger home security strategy.
Understanding Video Doorbells and Smart Locks
Before evaluating their effectiveness, it’s important to understand how these devices work.
What Is a Video Doorbell?
A video doorbell is a smart camera installed at your front door that allows you to:
- See and speak to visitors in real time
- Receive motion alerts
- Record video footage
- Monitor deliveries and visitors remotely
Many models include night vision, cloud storage, and AI-based motion detection.
What Is a Smart Lock?
A smart lock replaces or enhances a traditional door lock and allows you to:
- Lock and unlock doors remotely
- Use keypads, fingerprints, or smartphone access
- Create temporary or scheduled access codes
- Track entry and exit activity
Together, these devices modernise how you control and monitor your front door.
The Security Benefits of Video Doorbells
Visual Deterrence
The presence of a visible camera can discourage opportunistic criminals. Many burglars prefer easy, unnoticed targets, and a video doorbell signals surveillance.
Real-Time Awareness
Motion alerts notify you instantly when someone approaches your door, even if you’re not home. This awareness can help prevent package theft or unwanted visitors.
Evidence Collection
Recorded footage can be valuable if an incident occurs. Clear video evidence helps identify intruders and supports police investigations or insurance claims.
Remote Communication
Two-way audio allows you to speak to visitors or delivery drivers without opening the door, improving safety, especially for elderly residents or people living alone.
The Security Benefits of Smart Locks
Keyless Convenience
Smart locks eliminate risks associated with lost or copied keys. Access is controlled digitally, making it easier to manage.
Controlled Access
You can issue temporary codes to guests, cleaners, or tradespeople and revoke them anytime, no need to change locks.
Activity Monitoring
Many smart locks log entry times, helping you track who enters your home and when.
Integration with Smart Systems
Smart locks often integrate with alarms, cameras, and automation systems, enabling features like auto-locking doors or arming security systems when you leave.
Where Video Doorbells and Smart Locks Fall Short
Despite their benefits, these devices have limitations that homeowners should understand.
They Focus Mainly on the Front Door
Most burglaries don’t occur at the front door alone. Criminals often enter through:
- Rear doors
- Windows
- Side entrances
A video doorbell and smart lock only protect one access point.
They Are Reactive, Not Preventive
Video doorbells record events, but they don’t physically stop someone from breaking in. Footage is useful after an incident, but it doesn’t always prevent one.
Dependence on Internet and Power
Smart devices rely on:
- Stable internet connection
- Continuous power supply
If Wi-Fi goes down or power is cut, functionality may be limited unless backup systems are in place.
Potential Cybersecurity Risks
Poorly secured devices or weak passwords can make smart locks vulnerable to hacking. While rare, digital security must be taken seriously.
Are They Enough on Their Own?
The honest answer: for most homes, no, not on their own.
Video doorbells and smart locks significantly improve convenience and front-door monitoring, but they are best viewed as components of a layered security approach, not complete solutions.
How to Strengthen Protection Beyond Smart Devices
Add Door and Window Sensors
Sensors trigger alerts when doors or windows are opened unexpectedly, covering multiple entry points.
Use Motion Detectors
Indoor and outdoor motion sensors provide broader coverage and early warning of movement inside or around the home.
Install Outdoor Security Cameras
Cameras covering gardens, driveways, and side paths increase visibility and deterrence.
Consider an Alarm System
An audible alarm can scare intruders away immediately and alert neighbours.
The Role of Professional Monitoring
Many video doorbells and smart locks are self-monitored, meaning alerts go only to your phone. Professional monitoring services:
- Respond 24/7
- Contact emergency services if needed
- Provide faster intervention
This adds another layer of protection, especially when you’re unavailable.
Smart Locks vs Traditional Locks: Which Is Safer?
Smart locks are not automatically more secure than high-quality traditional locks. The real safety depends on:
- Build quality
- Locking mechanism strength
- Installation quality
A poorly installed smart lock is less secure than a well-installed, high-grade mechanical lock. Ideally, smart locks should complement, not replace, solid physical security.
Best Practices for Using Smart Security Devices Safely
- Use strong, unique passwords
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Keep firmware updated
- Secure your home Wi-Fi network
- Choose reputable brands with regular security updates
These steps reduce the risk of digital vulnerabilities.
Who Benefits Most from Video Doorbells and Smart Locks?
These devices are especially beneficial for:
- Families with frequent deliveries
- Elderly homeowners needing remote monitoring
- Rental property owners managing access
- Busy professionals who travel often
However, even in these cases, additional security layers are recommended.
Cost vs Value Consideration
Video doorbells and smart locks are generally affordable compared to full alarm systems. They offer:
- Strong value for convenience
- Moderate security improvement
- Easy installation
But expecting them to replace a comprehensive security system may lead to a false sense of safety.
Building a Balanced Home Security System
The most effective home security combines:
- Physical security (strong doors, locks, windows)
- Smart technology (doorbells, locks, cameras)
- Detection systems (alarms, sensors)
- Human awareness (neighbours, routines)
Each layer compensates for the limitations of the others.
Final Thoughts
Video doorbells and smart locks are excellent tools for modernising home security, improving awareness, and adding convenience. They provide valuable front-door protection, real-time monitoring, and access control, but they are not complete security solutions on their own.
For true peace of mind, they should be part of a broader, layered approach that includes alarms, sensors, and physical security measures. When used correctly and combined with other protections, smart devices play a powerful role in keeping your home safer, smarter, and more secure.