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Set up the doorbell in the Blink app before mounting it, and first identify whether you have the original Blink Video Doorbell or the Video Doorbell (2nd Gen). Their Sync Module, battery, and transformer requirements differ. The original model can be used wired, wire-free, or in Event Response mode; the 2nd Gen requires a Sync Module.
1. Identify your model and choose how to use it
Check the product label or packaging for the model generation before buying batteries or connecting wires. Do not assume that one generation’s battery count or transformer range applies to another.
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| Setup choice | Original Blink Video Doorbell | Blink Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Sync Module | Recommended for the best experience; not required for Event Response mode. | Required for the doorbell to function. |
| Wired use | Compatible existing wiring can provide supplemental power and ring a compatible in-home mechanical or digital chime. The doorbell still uses batteries. | Follow the 2nd Gen app and installation instructions. Its transformer range is listed below; wiring does not replace the specified batteries. |
| Wire-free use | Battery-powered, with no connection to existing wiring; this mode does not ring an indoor chime. | Follow the in-app setup path for the 2nd Gen and use a Sync Module. |
| Event Response | Connects to Wi-Fi without existing wiring or a Sync Module, with reduced functionality to conserve battery. Blink describes motion alerts and doorbell-press notifications, with a limited time window to open Live View. | Not applicable as a Sync-Module-free option; a Sync Module is required. |
Blink says a Sync Module can extend the original Video Doorbell’s battery life to up to two years of normal operation. That is the manufacturer’s claim, not a guarantee; actual battery life depends on use and conditions.
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Use the correct batteries for your generation
- Original Video Doorbell: two AA 1.5 V lithium non-rechargeable batteries.
- Video Doorbell (2nd Gen): three Energizer AA 1.5 V lithium non-rechargeable batteries.
Follow the polarity marks in the battery compartment. Both models use their specified batteries even when wired; wiring is supplemental power and, where supported, a chime connection.
#1 Best Overall
- Our second-generation Video Doorbell and fourth-generation Outdoor 4 cameras offer up to two years of battery life and improved security features for more peace of mind, no matter where you are.
- Last longer with two-year battery life — Experience up to two years of smart security coverage on both devices with included AA Energizer lithium batteries and a Blink Sync Module (included with Outdoor 4).
- See and speak from the Blink app — Experience head-to-toe HD viewing from Video Doorbell and 1080p HD live view from Outdoor 4 as well as infrared night vision and crisp two-way audio.
- See more at your door with Blink Video Doorbell — Greet guests and watch packages get delivered, day and night, with head-to-toe HD view and infrared night vision. Use two-way talk to hear and speak through the Blink app.
- Enhanced motion detection with Outdoor 4 — With Outdoor 4, enjoy a wider field of view and be alerted to motion faster with dual-zone, enhanced motion detection.
Verify the wired transformer range
For wired installation, compare the transformer label with the figures for the exact model before connecting anything:
- Original Video Doorbell: 16–24 VAC, 50–60 Hz, 40 VA maximum, according to Blink’s wired installation guide.
- Video Doorbell (2nd Gen): 8–24 V AC, 50–60 Hz, 40 VA maximum, according to Blink’s mounting guide.
Do not connect a wired doorbell if you cannot verify the transformer specifications. Blink Support advises consulting a licensed professional if you are unsure; electrical work carries a risk of shock.
Rank #2
- Video Doorbell is our second-generation smart security doorbell with up to two years of battery life, an expanded field of view, and improved security features for more peace of mind, no matter where you are.
- Last longer with two-year battery life — Experience up to two years of smart security coverage on both devices with included AA Energizer lithium batteries and a Blink Sync Module (included with Outdoor 4).
- See and speak from the Blink app — Experience head-to-toe HD viewing from Video Doorbell and 1080p HD live view from Outdoor 4 as well as infrared night vision and crisp two-way audio.
- See more at your door with Blink Video Doorbell — Greet guests and watch packages get delivered, day and night, with head-to-toe HD view and infrared night vision. Use two-way talk to hear and speak through the Blink app.
- Enhanced motion detection with Outdoor 4 — With our all-new Outdoor 4, enjoy a wider field of view and be alerted to motion faster with dual-zone, enhanced motion detection.
3. Set up the Sync Module and doorbell in the app
- Install the Blink app and sign in or create an account.
- If you have a 2nd Gen doorbell, add a Sync Module first. For the original doorbell, add one first if you plan to use it. In the app, scan the module’s QR code, connect it to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network, and wait for setup confirmation.
- Install the model-specific batteries. In the app, choose to add a device and scan the QR code inside the battery compartment.
- Select an existing system or create one, then connect the doorbell to Wi-Fi as prompted.
- Finish the in-app setup before mounting. Choose the wired or non-wired path when the app asks, and follow the instructions for your model.
4. Connect existing doorbell wiring safely
Only follow the wired path if you have compatible existing wiring and have verified the transformer range for your generation. Turn off power to the doorbell circuit at the breaker before handling any wires. Follow the Blink app’s model-specific wiring instructions; do not rely on wire color alone to identify connections.
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- With circuit power off, handle the existing chime wiring as directed by the app and your model’s installation guide.
- Complete the app’s wired setup steps. Restore power only when the instructions indicate.
- Test the in-home chime and confirm the doorbell appears connected in the Blink app.
If you cannot confidently verify the transformer or wiring, stop and have a licensed professional complete the electrical work.
Rank #3
- Video Doorbell is our second-generation smart security doorbell with up to two years of battery life, an expanded field of view, and improved security features for more peace of mind, no matter where you are.
- Last longer with two-year battery life — Experience up to two years of continuous security coverage with three AA Energizer lithium batteries and a Blink Sync Module (both included).
- See more at your door — Greet guests and watch packages get delivered, day and night, with head-to-toe HD view and infrared night vision. Use two-way talk to hear and speak through the Blink app.
- Set up in minutes — Easily install wire-free or connect Video Doorbell to existing doorbell wiring. When wired, Video Doorbell will sound through your home. Without wiring, you can use your Blink Mini 2 camera (sold separately) as an indoor plug-in chime. You'll also get alerts on your Blink app with each doorbell press.
- Always know who's there — As part of a Blink Subscription Plan (sold separately), get alerts whenever a person is detected and enjoy features like Blink Moments, which stitches together clips into a single video to save and share.
5. Mount the doorbell
Choose the position and prepare the surface
Use the supplied mounting plate and paper template, and follow the app’s instructions for your generation and surface. Blink’s 2nd Gen mounting guide recommends positioning the doorbell 40–48 inches high. It lists an electric drill, a 3/32-inch bit for screws, a 7/32-inch bit for anchors, a Phillips-head screwdriver, and tape for the template.
Attach the plate and secure the doorbell
- Hold the template at the chosen location and mark the mounting points.
- Use the supplied screws and, where appropriate for the surface, anchors to attach the mounting plate.
- Secure the doorbell to the plate as shown in the app and confirm it remains connected.
Adjust the camera angle only if needed
The included mount points the camera straight out. Blink’s separately sold corner mount provides 25° of horizontal adjustment to the left or right; its wedge mount provides 5° of vertical tilt. These accessories are useful only if the standard mount cannot aim the camera appropriately. Check that an accessory listing fits your exact generation. Blink identifies the seal as being in the battery door and rates the doorbell IP-54 weather-resistant; that rating does not mean waterproof.
Quick Recap
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