Review: Brinno DUO Is a Smart Door Camera for Apartments & More

While I have a Ring video doorbell, it has some drawbacks. First, I had to physically hardwire it into my house. If I lived in an apartment, that would not be an option. The other issue is that I have to find and open my phone to see who is there. If I'm at the door, a peephole makes more sense. The folks at Brinno have a solution, with the Brinno DUO Smart Peephole DoorCam ($199.95). Brinno sent me the peephole camera and, sure enough, no heavy duty tools were required to install it.

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The Brinno DUO is an improvement because it has a built-in LCD screen for instant viewing. You don't have to find your phone or tablet to see the visitor. Brinno hAS a free companion app, although currently it is not integrated with Alexa or Apple HomeKit. When motion is detected, or a visitor uses the peephole's knocker, then images are sent via email and also stored on the included 8 GB microSD card. A microSD card to SD adapter is included. The device uses replaceable AA batteries so you will need to remember to charge the device or replace the batteries.

Pros

• Does not require heavy duty tools or permanent installation
• Built-in LCD screen for instant viewing
• Free companion app
• Images sent via email and stored on included 8 GB microSD card (SD adapter included)
• Uses replaceable AA batteries

Cons

• Need to pay attention to batteries
• Not sold everywhere
• Somewhat cumbersome setup
• No HomeKit or Alexa integration, currently

Final Verdict

If you are looking for an accessory, the Brinno DUO Smart Peephole DoorCam from Brinno should be high on your list.