First Look: Ecobee’s New Smart Smart Doorbell Camera Unboxed

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Need to Know from SafeWise
  • Smart home brand ecobee releases its first-ever doorbell camera.
  • The Smart Doorbell Camera is available for around $160.
  • ecobee's new doorbell cam can display video on the Smart Thermostat Premium.

ecobee, a name synonymous with smart thermostats, has just unveiled its latest addition to its smart security ecosystem, and we're here to give you a sneak peek. The company sent us a box full of its latest offerings, including its Smart Doorbell Camera, Smart Thermostat Premium, and SmartSensors.

Image: Katie McEntire, SafeWise

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Unboxing ecobee's NEW Smart Doorbell Camera

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ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera: Built to brave the elements

Here's the big announcement: ecobee drops the Smart Doorbell Camera today. This marks ecobee's inaugural foray into the world of doorbell cameras, and we're excited to test it out.

What’s in the box

  • ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera
  • Backplate with pre-attached security screw
  • 20-degree wedge to change viewing angle
  • Chime adapter
  • Hardware: wire extenders, wire connectors, screws, and anchors

One notable feature is that this doorbell camera is hardwired only, which may initially raise eyebrows. However, there's a method to the madness—the ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, from a bone-chilling -13°F to a scorching 113°F. This robust build is the reason this device comes hardwired.

Opening the package, we're greeted with sleek, well-designed packaging that hints at what's inside. The camera itself is an elegant piece of technology, and its hardwired nature means you'll need an existing doorbell setup. Hardwiring has its pros and cons, but the camera's durability and reliability in varying climates are undoubtedly a strong selling point (especially if extreme weather continues to become the norm). Another perk? The ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera is always on and always connected, meaning you won’t miss anything important because of a dead battery.

ecobee doorbell on table with box

Image: Katie McEntire, SafeWise

ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera Specs

Feature
Specifications
Price$159.99
Warranty3-year limited warranty
PowerWorks with most doorbell transformers 16–24 VAC, 10–40 VA, 60 Hz
Image sensor5MP
Field of view175° vertical, 187° diagonal, 115° horizontal
Video resolution1080p HD
Night visionUp to 30 feet
Zoom8x
Weather ratingIP65
Temperature-13℉ to 113℉ (-20℃ to 45℃)
SecuritySupports WEP, WPA, WPA2, and WPA3 encryption
Smart home compatibilityecobee Smart Security, Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa
Detection alertsMotion, person, and package detection* with Advanced Radar Verification

*Package detection requires ecobee Smart Security subscription.

Image: Katie McEntire, SafeWise

ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium and SmartSensor: Form meets function

Now, let's turn our attention to the ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium and SmartSensor. The packaging deserves a shoutout for its aesthetic appeal and attention to detail. The unboxing experience feels like a treat in itself. We especially liked the nod to sustainability.

While you might find the idea of installing a thermostat intimidating, ecobee sets you up with everything you need, making the process less daunting. What's truly exciting is how the doorbell camera and thermostat can work in harmony. Picture this: someone rings your doorbell, and the video feed pops up on your thermostat, acting as a control panel, much like the integration between Amazon Alexa and Ring doorbells.

"We set out to make a doorbell camera that would stand apart from the rest. One that could see what others can't, like visitors from head-to-toe and packages right up against your door—even in extreme weather . . . The new Smart Doorbell Camera works even better with the rest of our ecobee smart home devices and Smart Security service, from showing a livestream of the camera right on the ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium to detecting the difference between people and packages on your doorstep."

— Stuart Lombard, ecobee Founder & CEO

On the other hand, the SmartSensor included with the thermostat serves as an extension of the thermostat—helping you monitor and regulate temperature in various areas of your home. Whether you have a chilly downstairs office (like I do!) or want to ensure consistent comfort throughout your home, this sensor has you covered.

Image: Katie McEntire, SafeWise

ecobee's versatile SmartSensors

ecobee also includes additional Smart Sensors that can be used on doors, windows, sliding glass doors, cabinets, and more—making them essential components for security and automation enthusiasts alike.

Stay tuned for ecobee reviews

We'll put these ecobee products through their paces and provide in-depth reviews soon. Testing the doorbell camera and thermostat's integration features will be especially intriguing. ecobee has been generous in sending us their latest offerings, and we can't wait to share our thoughts with you.

The good news? You can get the ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera for your home starting today.

Katie McEntire
Written by
Katie McEntire
As a renter, pet-owner, and woman living alone, Katie McEntire takes safety seriously. She’s tested devices like pet cameras, home security systems, and GPS trackers in her own home and devices in the name of safety. In addition to testing, writing, and reviewing for SafeWise, she also makes videos for the site’s YouTube channel. She’s been featured on publications like TechGuySmartBuy, Forbes, Healthy Moms, and Digital Care. Katie has a Bachelor’s degree in Technical Writing from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. She’s held previous writing positions at Overstock.com and Top Ten Reviews.

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