Ecobee EB-CAMSDB-01 Smart Doorbell Camera Review
The smart doorbell market has been rapidly evolving, with various brands vying for dominance in this burgeoning niche. Among the latest entrants is the Ecobee EB-CAMSDB-01 Smart Doorbell Camera, which aims to integrate seamlessly into the broader smart home ecosystem while providing robust security features.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the Ecobee EB-CAMSDB-01 sports a sleek and modern design that stands out from many of its competitors. Its large physical size can be a double-edged sword; on the one hand, it's easily noticeable by visitors, but on the other hand, it may not fit as unobtrusively on some door frames. The glass facade, while aesthetically pleasing, raises concerns about potential scratching and fragility, especially compared to the more resilient materials used by some competitors.
Installation and Setup
The installation of the Ecobee EB-CAMSDB-01 is relatively straightforward, requiring a 16VAC/30VA transformer and some basic tools. The process is well-documented, and Ecobee's customer support can assist if issues arise. Once installed, the initial configuration and smart home integration process are intuitive, especially for those already invested in the Ecobee ecosystem.
Features and Integration
The doorbell comes packed with features that are becoming standard, such as 1080p HD video with a 5MP sensor, two-way audio, and radar-powered motion detection. The 175-degree vertical and 115-degree horizontal field of view is expansive, ensuring that you get a comprehensive view of your doorstep. Integration is a strong suit for the Ecobee EB-CAMSDB-01, particularly with the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium, which can act as a smart hub.
Smart Home Ecosystem Compatibility
The device plays well with Apple HomeKit and Amazon Alexa, providing a streamlined user experience. However, the limited support for HomeKit Secure Video may affect some users who rely on Apple's ecosystem for notifications and recordings. Google Home support, slated for 2024, will be a welcome addition for Android users.
Performance
The video quality provided by the 1080p HD resolution and 5MP sensor is commendable, delivering clear images during the day. The color and IR night vision capabilities are also notable, providing visibility in low-light conditions. Two-way audio communication is reliable, with clear audio that facilitates easy conversations with visitors.
Video and Audio Quality
The high-resolution camera provides detailed video that is essential for identifying individuals and monitoring packages. The expansive field of view captures a wide area, reducing blind spots. The night vision feature is effective, although the quality is not on par with daylight footage.
Motion Detection and Notifications
Ecobee's radar-powered motion detection is efficient, with person and package detection being particular highlights. However, some users report inconsistent person detection and motion alerts, which could be attributed to software issues. Real-time notifications for people and packages are a boon, but delayed notifications and slow loading of the live video feed can be frustrating.
Smart Features and Security
The built-in siren and the ability to integrate a chime with speaker-enabled Ecobee devices enhance the security aspect of the doorbell. Privacy is taken seriously with data encryption and two-factor authentication, although one must be aware that cloud-based storage requires a subscription. The 30-day video storage option is a significant advantage for those who want to keep a record of their doorstep activity.
Additional Smart Capabilities
The automatic tracking and zooming features are impressive, allowing the camera to follow movement and provide a closer look at visitors or packages. Mechanical chime control is a thoughtful addition, although customization options are somewhat limited.
User Experience
The Ecobee app serves as the primary interface for interacting with the doorbell camera. While the app design is clean and user-friendly, performance issues such as lag and slow loading have been reported. Connectivity issues also appear to be a sporadic concern for some users. Ecobee's track record with software updates and system stability will be an area to watch as the product matures.
Daily Use and Reliability
Over time, the day-to-day reliability of the Ecobee EB-CAMSDB-01 is generally good, but it's not without its flaws. Some users may encounter inconsistencies with person detection and motion alerts, which could undermine the sense of security. However, the free remote camera viewing is a redeeming feature, allowing users to check in on their home at any time.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Seamless integration with the Ecobee ecosystem and other smart home platforms
- Reliable two-way audio communication
- Efficient motion detection with person and package recognition
- Weather-resistant design
- Expansive field of view
- 30-day video storage option
- Strong privacy and security features
- Sleek and modern design
- Free remote camera viewing
- High-resolution 8MP camera
- Real-time notifications for people and packages
- Automatic tracking and zooming
- 3-year manufacturer warranty
Cons:
- Subscription required for advanced features such as video recording and rich notifications
- Delayed notifications and slow loading of the live video feed
- Limited support for HomeKit Secure Video
- Glass facade prone to scratches and fragility concerns
- Connectivity issues reported by some users
- App performance issues including lag and slow loading
- Inconsistent person detection and motion alerts for some users
- Issues with software updates and stability reported by some users
- Large physical size compared to other doorbells on the market
- Limited customization of detection zone
Final Thoughts
The Ecobee EB-CAMSDB-01 Smart Doorbell Camera presents a compelling option for those already invested in the Ecobee ecosystem or looking for a smart doorbell with robust features. The integration with smart home systems and the array of security features are significant draws. However, the subscription requirement for advanced features and some performance inconsistencies may give pause to potential buyers.
When considering the value proposition, it's important to weigh the importance of seamless integration and high-quality video against the recurring cost of subscription services and potential reliability concerns. If Ecobee can address the software and stability issues, the EB-CAMSDB-01 has the potential to be a leading contender in the smart doorbell space. Buyers seeking a well-integrated and feature-rich smart doorbell will find the Ecobee EB-CAMSDB-01 to be a worthy consideration, but they should be mindful of the caveats highlighted in this review.