Subj : I upgraded to the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2), and it's one of t To : All From : TechnologyDaily Date : Mon Sep 01 2025 16:30:10 I upgraded to the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2), and it's one of the easiest security systems I've ever installed Date: Mon, 01 Sep 2025 10:39:46 +0000 Description: Together with the new Sync Module Core, the second-gen Blink Video Doorbell offers head-to-toe images of visitors and a clear view of packages. FULL STORY ======================================================================Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: two-minute review The days of traditional analog doorbells connected via wires to an internal chime are fast coming to an end. Increasingly, people are turning to video doorbells, which will send an alert to your mobile phone when someone comes to the door. They will even act as an intercom so you can talk to whoever is there whether you are in the house, walking the dog or sitting on a beach. Like its predecessor, the Blink Video Doorbell doesnt come with its own indoor chime. Instead, you can pair it with a Blink Mini 2 camera (sold separately) or connect via the Alexa app on your phone to a Fire Stick or Amazon Echo Show. This will allow you to see who is at the front door on your TV screen/multimedia display or you can get a voice message via your Amazon Echo Dot when someone presses the doorbell. Alternatively, it may be possible to connect existing doorbell wiring from the Blink Video Doorbell to a legacy indoor chime providing its rated between 16 and 24 volts. Batteries are required for use whether you use existing doorbell wiring or not. The Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) uses three AA lithium batteries (Image credit: Chris Price) What I like about Blink devices is just how easy they are to add to an existing system. Ive already got several Blink cameras around the house so adding one more was simply a case of scanning the QR code on the back of the device and adding it to the home set up. However, if youve never installed a Blink camera before you will need to download the app (Android or iPhone) as well as connect the sync module provided to your broadband router (this acts as a hub for up to 10 Blink security devices). Unfortunately, as the one supplied isnt compatible with local storage via a connected USB flash drive, you will need to pay a monthly subscription for storing video footage and accessing the latest features see subscription options below. When it comes to mounting the video doorbell on the door there are two options. You can either use the standard flat mount or a wedge mount if you are placing it on a door architrave. As I was replacing the previous Blink video doorbell (Gen 1) I was hoping I could re-use the mount from that one to save time on installation. However, that wasnt possible because this unit is a slightly different size. Instead I used the black mount provided for the black video doorbell supplied by the manufacturer (a white version with white mount is also available). At least I didnt have to screw two new holes in the wood as theyre positioned in the same place on the mount as the previous version. Installing the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) is very straightforward, particularly if you already have other Blink devices at home (Image credit: Chris Price) Once installed, controlling the camera is simply a case of using the Blink app. One of the main differences between this model and its predecessor is the cameras lens, in particular the aspect ratio. Whereas the previous model offered a more conventional 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio with 1080p resolution, the new video doorbell boats a square 1:1 aspect ratio with improved 1440p resolution. It also offers a larger field of vision (150 degrees horizontal and 150 degrees vertical) compared to 135 degrees horizontal and just 80 degrees vertical on the previous model. The result is that not only is it possible to get a head-to-toe image of someone coming to the door, you can also view the ground handy to see any deliveries that have been left outside your front door. The in-app setup process is very simple (Image credit: Chris Price) Certainly the 1:1 aspect ratio does take a little bit of getting used to, especially the square shape on the Blink home page next to all of the other more conventional widescreen cameras. However, its worth bearing in mind that, because the field of view is so much bigger than its predecessor you will need to reduce the devices sensitivity, especially if you are paying for the Blink subscription with AI-powered Smart Detection. Otherwise, you may well record every person and vehicle that goes past your house as well as those who come to the door. Not only will this severely reduce the lifespan of the batteries, it is also highly annoying to get pointless alerts every few minutes. Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: subscription options There are two different subscription plans available depending on the number of Blink devices you own, and which features you require. Location Blink Basic Plan Blink Plus Plan US $3/month per device, or subscribe via Amazon for $30/year $10/month for unlimited devices or subscribe via Amazon for $100/year UK 2.50/month per device, or subscribe via Amazon for 24.99/year . 8/month for unlimited devices or subscribe via Amazon for 80/year Australia AU$4.95/month per device, or subscribe via Amazon for AU$49.95/year AU$15/month for unlimited devices or subscribe via Amazon for AU$150/year Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: price and availability List price $69.99 / 59.99 (about AU$110) Launched August 2025 with Sync Module Currently available in UK and US (not Australia) With its second-generation video doorbell, Blink has managed to maintain the same $69.99 / 59.99 price point as the original video doorbell (you can now buy the earlier model for under 30 on Amazon in the UK without the sync module). Really, its exceptional value for money, much cheaper than a Ring video doorbell device, despite the two companies sharing Amazon ownership. However, it's not available in Australia at the time of writing, and its worth bearing in mind that if you want to benefit from the full functionality of the device, including the ability to store video clips, you will need to pay for a subscription costing from $3 / 2.50 a month. Thats because - unlike the first video doorbell which incorporated a sync module with the option of adding local storage its not the case with the second-generation model. You won't be able to store videos recorded by the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) on the Sync Module Core (Image credit: Chris Price) Instead of the Sync Module 2, the second-generation Blink video doorbell features the more basic Sync Module Core. Personally, I find that a little bit cheeky, but then at least the monthly subscription fees are cheaper than most of the rivals (Ring subscription plans start at $4.99 / 4.99 a month). In addition to unlimited cloud video storage, the Blink subscription package includes Blink Moments which stitches together multiple events from multiple cameras into one video. Then theres AI-Powered Smart Detection which tells you whether the camera has captured a person coming to the door/walking past your house, or a vehicle in your driveway/driving along the road. To reduce the amount of footage captured, which can be quite overwhelming, we recommend reducing the devices sensitivity and also editing the motion zones (areas of the frame that are active or private). Value score: 4/5 Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: design Easy-to-install mounting bracket Chunky design Available in white or black Blink cameras are renowned for being some of the most compact and lightweight devices on the market. However, the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) is a little bit of an exception. Tipping the scales at 4oz/113g, its both heavier than the first-generation model (3.2oz/91g) and also a little thicker too at 1.44in/36.6mm compared to 1inch/27mm. Image 1 of 2 The Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) is a little bulkier than its predecessor (Image credit: Chris Price) Image 2 of 2 The Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) is a little bulkier than its predecessor (Image credit: Chris Price) The main reason for this, of course, is that the new model incorporates space for three AA lithium batteries whereas the original model featured just two batteries. In turn, this means that battery life is much longer though its unlikely to be as long as the two-year lifespan that Blinks marketing suggests. Like its predecessor, two colour options are available (white or black) and there are two types of mount one for placing flat on the door frame and another for mounting on a door architrave. Using the standard mount with the screws provided, it only takes around five minutes to install wirelessly, although if you are connecting to existing doorbell wiring the process is much longer. Since there's no built-in chime, you'll need to connect it to Alexa devices or buy a Blink Mini 2 camera to hear the doorbell indoors. It only took around five minutes to install the doorbell with the included mount (Image credit: Chris Price) Looks-wise, the second-generation model is a little different from its predecessor with a larger oval shaped button in the middle, compared to the round button on the first generation model. Recording is also more subtle with a small blue light on the top right indicating when video is being captured, rather than the area around the central button becoming illuminated in blue. When the button in the centre is pushed by a visitor, it illuminates white and a message is sent to the connected phone telling you someone is at the door. As with the first-generation model, the doorbell sits inside a bracket but can be removed for changing batteries etc. by inserting a small metal key in the base. It is also rated IP-65 weather resistant which offers greater protection against the elements than the previous model which was only IP-54 rated. Design score: 4/5 Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: performance Good image quality (especially in Best mode) Stable video connection Overly sensitive camera Theres no question that when it comes to performance Blink has upped its game with this second gen model. The first one was certainly OK, but not as good as some of the admittedly more expensive video doorbells from companies such as Ring. However, in nearly every respect, the Gen 2 model offers better performance than its predecessor. Not only does it have a wider field of horizontal view (150 degrees compared to 135 degrees for the first model), it also offers a 150-degrees vertical field of view for a perfectly square 1:1 aspect ratio image. At first I thought that was a bit odd, but having used it for a little while its incredibly useful. Not only can you see an entire head-to-toe image of someone at the door you can also see if a parcel has been left on your doorstep. Image 1 of 2 The new square aspect ratio makes it easier to see both visitors and packages (Image credit: Chris Price) Image 2 of 2 The new square aspect ratio makes it easier to see both visitors and packages (Image credit: Chris Price) Whereas the previous model offered 1080p video resolution, the second-generation model boasts improved 1440p video resolution. Three video quality settings are on board (Best, Standard, and Saver). I settled on Best as its good to be able to see details more clearly although this will obviously reduce battery life. The second-generation model also offers improved night vision. Of course, its not all good news. The downside of the camera lens being much bigger is that it also collects much more footage too much. Blink cameras are known for being sensitive anyway and this latest model is no exception. Even with privacy zones set up, I found it necessary to dial the sensitivity right down to avoid false alerts (Image credit: Chris Price) With motion sensitivity set to five, I found the camera was recording around 100 events a day, most of them of people walking their dog past the house or delivery vans going by. Even with the privacy zones set up to block out the extremes of the frame (including areas of sky) the camera was still extremely active. In the end it was necessary to reduce sensitivity to just two out of 10 so it only captured people actually coming to the door. Finally, its worth mentioning the sync module. Whereas the previous model included the Sync Module 2 with a USB socket so you could insert a USB flash drive for storing video clips, this model comes with the Sync Module Core without local storage. Essentially this means if you want to store video clips you will need to pay a subscription of at least $3 / 2.50 a month. Performance score: 4.5/5 Should you buy the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core? Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) score card Attribute Notes Score Value This video doorbell represents pretty good value for money. Even the monthly subscription charge for premium features is around half the price of some devices. 4/5 Design Available in black or white, the Blink doorbell is a much bulkier model than its predecessor. It is accompanied by a small sync module which connects to your router. 4/5 Performance Although the motion sensor is a little overly-sensitive, performance is very good indeed particularly the 1:1 aspect ratio for head-to-toe video capture. 4.5/5 Overall When it comes to performance Blink have upped their game with improved quality images and longer battery life. Just a shame the supplied sync module cant be used for storing clips. 4.5/5 Buy it if You already have a Blink camera The software makes it easy to use the video doorbell as part of a Blink home security system comprising indoor and outdoor cameras. You want a wide viewing angle One of the main benefits of the latest Blink camera is the head-to-toe viewing angle so you can see whoever comes to the door and the parcels that are left on the doorstep. Don't buy it if You need a separate chime indoors The Blink doesnt come with a chime so you will need to turn up the volume of the device or rely on either a separate Blink camera or connect to Alexa-enabled device. You dont want to buy expensive batteries With this model you will need to buy three expensive Lithium AA batteries. Blink claims up to two years battery life but its likely to be a lot shorter. Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: also consider Product Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 1) and Sync Module Yale Smart Video Doorbell and Doorbell Chime Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus Subscription price From 2.50 a month From 2.50 a month From 3.50 a month From 4.99 a month Viewing angle 150 degrees horizontal 135 degrees horizontal 154 degrees horizontal 150 degrees horizontal Network connection Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) Audio Two-way audio Two-way audio Two-way audio Two-way audio Video 1440p Full HD resolution 1080p Full HD resolution 1080p Full HD resolution 1536p Full HD resolution Power Battery Battery Mains or battery Battery Hardware price 59 (with Sync Module Core) 59 (with Sync Module 2) 129 (video doorbell), 29 (chime) 129 (video doorbell), 139 (with basic chime) If you're not sure whether the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core are the right combo for you, here are two other options to consider. Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus Amazon-owned Ring has firmly established itself as the go to company for video doorbells. It offers several models including this wire-free model which also features a head-to-toe view. Read our full Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus review Yale Smart Video Doorbell and Doorbell Chime A solidly built video doorbell, the Yale device offers good image and sound quality. However, streaming recorded content and speaking to people at the door can be a little slow. Read our full Yale Smart Video Doorbell review How I tested the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core I used the doorbell every day for 10 days I installed it myself The doorbell was set up on the front door facing towards the road To test a video doorbell properly you need to use it as part of your home system. Fortunately, I already have other Blink cameras so adding another one was particularly straightforward. But even if I didnt then downloading the app would have been easy enough. Installation takes around 15 minutes or so, requiring a screw driver to attach the mount to the door frame before positioning the camera in place. Its roughly the same size as the previous one, in terms of length and width, so thankfully I didnt have to worry about unsightly screw holes all over the door frame. The new Blink Video Doorbell is roughly the same height and width as its predecessor, so I didn't have to worry about messy screw holes when I upgraded (Image credit: Chris Price) During the period of testing, I really began to appreciate the devices head-to-toe viewing. I get a lot of deliveries, so being able to see if they have been left on the doorstep when Im out is handy. Another bonus is the additional power that having another AA battery brings. Whereas the previous model relied on two lithium AA batteries that had to be changed every three months, this one has three. However, I think its extremely unlikely these will last two years as Blink claims in its marketing blurb. Im pretty sure Ill be changing the batteries again in six months time given how sensitive the cameras motion sensor is!. For more details, see how we test, review, and rate products at TechRadar. First reviewed August 2025 ====================================================================== Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/home/home-security/blink-video-doorbell-gen-2-and-sy nc-module-core-review --- Mystic BBS v1.12 A49 (Linux/64) * Origin: tqwNet Technology News (1337:1/100) .