Best Doorbell Cameras for Apartments: Top 3 Picks for 2025

Looking to boost your apartment security without drilling holes or breaking your lease? A doorbell camera might be the perfect solution. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to choose the best doorbell camera for apartments—from legal considerations and camera types to installation tips and top product recommendations—so you can keep your entryway secure, smart, and renter-friendly.

Are Doorbell Cameras Legal in Apartments?

In most places, it’s not illegal to use a doorbell camera in an apartment—but there are important rules and limits you need to be aware of. Since apartments are often shared spaces, you may not have full control over areas like hallways or door frames outside your unit. Some landlords or building managers don’t allow tenants to attach devices to exterior doors or walls, especially if it causes damage or alters the property.

Also, privacy laws in many regions require you to get consent before recording in shared or public areas. This means your doorbell camera should be focused only on your own doorway and not pointing at neighbors’ doors or down a long hallway. In some states or countries, you might even need to inform guests or neighbors that they're being recorded.

Before installing anything, it’s a good idea to:

• Check your lease agreement for any restrictions.

• Get written permission from your landlord.

• Make sure the camera’s view doesn’t invade others’ privacy.

Being respectful of others’ space and following building rules will help you stay compliant—and avoid having to take your camera down later.

Types of Doorbell Cameras Suitable for Apartment Use

Not all doorbell cameras are designed with apartment living in mind. As a renter, you need something that’s easy to install, doesn’t damage property, and works well in smaller entryways or shared hallways. The good news is that there are several types of doorbell cameras that meet these needs. Below is a comparison to help you understand the main options and choose what fits your space and lifestyle best:

Type	Power Source	Installation Difficulty	Best For	Notes
Battery-Powered (Wireless)	Rechargeable battery	⭐ Easy	Renters, no wiring needed	Most flexible; no drilling required
Plug-In (Wireless)	Power outlet	⭐⭐ Moderate	Units with nearby indoor outlet	Needs a nearby plug; check door gap width
Hardwired	Doorbell wiring	⭐⭐⭐ Advanced	Owners or long-term tenants	May require drilling; not ideal for renters
Wi-Fi Connected	Wireless signal	Varies	Most apartment users	Easy to set up; relies on stable internet
Local Network (PoE, wired)	Ethernet or LAN	⭐⭐⭐ Advanced	Tech-savvy or commercial spaces	Stable, but not practical for most renters

If you're in a rental unit, battery-powered and plug-in doorbell cameras are usually the safest and most convenient choices. They offer the flexibility to install and remove without damaging the property—something both you and your landlord will appreciate.

Pros and Cons of Using a Doorbell Camera in an Apartment

Installing a doorbell camera in your apartment can bring real benefits—but it also comes with a few limitations you’ll want to think about. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:

Pros:

• See who’s at the door in real time – Whether it’s a delivery, friend, or stranger, you’ll know instantly through your phone.

• Protect packages from theft – Doorbell cameras help deter porch pirates and give you proof if something goes missing.

• Night vision adds security – Even in low light, the camera can detect motion and record video, so you’re covered 24/7.

Cons:

• Limited space for installation – Narrow door frames or shared hallways can make it tricky to mount the device properly.

• Wi-Fi signal may be spotty – Apartments with thick walls or shared networks can affect video quality or delay alerts.

• Rental rules and privacy laws apply – You’ll need to respect your lease and make sure your camera isn’t invading others’ privacy.

Weighing these pros and cons will help you decide whether a doorbell camera is the right fit for your apartment—and which type to go for if you move forward.

How to Choose the Best Doorbell Camera for Apartments

Choosing the right doorbell camera for your apartment isn’t just about picking the most expensive or feature-packed model. As a renter, you have unique needs—like easy installation, no property damage, and respect for privacy laws. Here are the key things to look for when deciding on the best option for your space:

1. Resolution and Video Quality

Look for a doorbell camera with at least 1080p resolution. This ensures you can clearly see faces, packages, and important details around your door. In tight apartment hallways with mixed lighting, higher resolution can make a big difference. Some high-end models even offer 2K or 4K video, but 1080p is usually enough for everyday use. The clearer the video, the more reliable your footage will be if something unexpected happens.

2. Night Vision Capability

Many important events—like suspicious activity or unexpected visitors—happen at night. That’s why night vision is a must-have. Cameras with infrared (black and white) or full-color night vision allow you to see clearly even in total darkness. If your apartment hallway has poor lighting, this feature becomes even more essential. Always check sample footage if possible to judge night-time clarity before you buy.

3. Installation Method

Most landlords don’t want tenants drilling holes or modifying door frames. That means your doorbell camera should be renter-friendly. Look for models that use adhesive mounts, hanging brackets, or doorframe clips. These options are easy to install, don’t cause damage, and are just as easy to remove when you move out. Simple, tool-free installation can save you time—and your security deposit.

4. Power Source

Doorbell cameras typically use one of three power options: battery-powered, plug-in, or hardwired. For apartment renters, battery-powered models are the most flexible—you can install them anywhere without worrying about wiring or outlet placement. Plug-in cameras are a good choice if you have a nearby outlet inside the door. Hardwired options are more complex and usually not suitable unless you own the property.

5. Smart Features

Today’s doorbell cameras can do much more than just record video. Useful features include motion detection, AI-based person recognition, and two-way audio. These smart tools let you get real-time alerts, talk to delivery drivers, or scare off suspicious visitors—all from your phone. If you’re away from home often, these functions give you extra peace of mind and control.

6. Privacy Considerations

In apartment settings, camera placement is sensitive. You don’t want your doorbell to record neighbors’ doors, shared hallways, or public spaces—it could violate privacy laws or building policies. Make sure the camera's angle is adjustable or that it includes privacy zones to block out unwanted areas. Being respectful of others’ space will help you stay compliant and avoid complaints.

7. Storage Options

You’ll need to choose between cloud storage and local storage (like a microSD card). Cloud storage is convenient and lets you access footage from anywhere, but often requires a monthly fee. Local storage doesn’t require subscriptions and keeps your data offline, but it may have limited space. Consider what’s more important to you: no extra cost, or remote access and backups.

Top Picks: Best Video Doorbells for Apartments

Here are three highly recommended video doorbell options from aosu, each offering features that are well-suited to apartment living.

• Best Value for Money: The aosu Video Doorbell SE is a solid choice for renters who want essential features without spending too much. It offers HD video, two-way audio, motion detection, and a lightweight design that’s easy to install without tools—perfect for temporary setups or frequent movers.

• Best All-Around Choice for Renters: The aosu Video Doorbell Pro balances smart features with affordability. With 1080p video, voice assistant compatibility, and long battery life, it fits well on most apartment doors and installs easily without permanent changes.

• Top Pick for Video Quality and Smart Features: The aosu Video Doorbell Ultra delivers 4K ultra HD video and a wide field of view for unmatched clarity. Its AI-powered motion detection minimizes false alerts, and local storage eliminates the need for monthly cloud subscriptions—making it perfect for users who want premium performance.

How to Install a Renter-Friendly Doorbell Camera

If you’re renting, the last thing you want is to lose your security deposit over a few screw holes. Thankfully, many video doorbells today are designed with renters in mind. Here’s a step-by-step guide to install your camera safely—without damaging walls or doors.

Step 1: Choose a no-drill mounting option

Look for a model that offers tool-free installation, such as adhesive backing, mounting brackets, or doorframe clip-on mounts. These options are perfect for renters because they don’t require drilling or permanent changes, and they’re easy to remove when you move out.

Step 2: Clean the mounting surface

Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the doorframe or wall area where you plan to install the camera. Removing dust, grease, or moisture will help the adhesive or mounting bracket stick firmly and reduce the chance of it falling off over time.

Step 3: Attach the camera securely

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to stick, hook, or clip the camera into place. Make sure it’s aligned vertically and firmly pressed in. If you're using adhesive, hold it in place for 30–60 seconds to ensure a strong bond.

Step 4: Connect to Wi-Fi and download the app

Once the camera is mounted, plug it in or insert the battery. Then, follow the in-app setup process to connect the device to your home Wi-Fi network. Most video doorbells come with a companion app that walks you through the steps.

Step 5: Adjust the angle and test alerts

After setup, check the camera’s live view in the app. Adjust the angle if needed to ensure it’s capturing your doorway and not pointing at shared hallways or neighbors. Walk in front of it to test motion detection and confirm that alerts are being sent to your phone properly.

FAQs

Can I install a doorbell camera if my apartment doesn’t have existing wiring?

Yes, you can. Many video doorbells today are designed to work without existing doorbell wiring. Battery-powered or plug-in wireless models are ideal for apartments because they don’t require complex installation or electrical work. They can be set up in just a few minutes, making them a renter-friendly solution.

Will a doorbell camera invade my neighbor’s privacy?

Not necessarily. As long as the camera is positioned to monitor only your doorway and avoids capturing footage of shared hallways or neighboring units, you should be fine. Many devices also allow you to adjust the viewing angle or create privacy zones within the app to block off certain areas from being recorded.

What if someone tries to steal the camera?

Most modern video doorbells come with anti-theft measures such as security screws, tamper alerts, and automatic video uploads. If someone attempts to remove the device, it will typically record and store footage instantly—either in the cloud or on local storage—so you’ll have evidence even if the device is taken.

Conclusion

Choosing the right doorbell camera for your apartment comes down to your living situation and personal priorities. If you’re a renter, a wireless, battery-powered model is usually the best fit—it’s easy to install, doesn’t require drilling, and can be removed without leaving a trace. If you care most about sharp video quality, go for a high-resolution option. On a tight budget? A simple HD model with essential features will do the job. And if you can’t make any modifications to your door or wall, be sure to choose a camera that offers tool-free, renter-friendly installation.