Video Doorbells with Chimes (What Actually Works)
Video doorbell chimes provide audible alerts when visitors arrive, but compatibility and reliability vary significantly. Success depends on three constraints: chime type (built-in vs add-on vs existing), compatibility (voltage and wiring requirements), and placement (wired vs wireless options). No chime solution works perfectly in all situations—the best option matches your doorbell type, existing infrastructure, and alert preferences. Wired doorbells typically have better chime compatibility than battery models.
What Video Doorbells with Chimes Can (and Can't) Do
A properly configured doorbell chime can provide reliable audible alerts when matched to your setup. In most cases, you can expect:
- Built-in chimes on some doorbells (sound comes directly from the device, typically quieter)
- Wi-Fi chime compatibility for wireless alerts (separate plug-in devices, often louder)
- Existing chime compatibility with wired doorbells (if voltage matches, typically 16-24VAC)
- Multiple chime support on some systems (place chimes in different rooms)
- Customizable alert sounds on many models (choose from different chime tones)
Installation guides consistently show that wired doorbells can work with existing mechanical chimes if voltage is compatible, while battery-powered doorbells typically require Wi-Fi chimes (Wirecutter). However, what determines whether chimes work well isn't just compatibility—it's voltage matching, wiring quality, chime type, and realistic expectations about reliability. These factors matter more than whether a doorbell claims "chime compatible."
What You Will NOT Get With Video Doorbell Chimes
With video doorbell chimes, you will not get:
- Universal compatibility with all existing chimes (voltage and type must match)
- Perfect reliability without proper setup (wiring issues cause failures)
- Loud built-in chimes (built-in chimes are typically quieter than separate devices)
- Wi-Fi chime operation during power outages (requires power to function)
- Zero setup complexity for existing chime integration (may require adapters or wiring changes)
- Battery doorbell compatibility with wired mechanical chimes (battery doorbells need Wi-Fi chimes)
- Perfect sound quality from all chime types (mechanical chimes have different sound than digital)
If a product claims universal chime compatibility without limitations, expect specific voltage or wiring requirements.
Choose the Right Chime Solution Based on Your Situation
Existing Wired Chime System
If you have an existing mechanical or digital chime:
- Wired doorbell with compatible voltage (check 16-24VAC requirement)
- Chime adapter if needed (some doorbells require adapters for digital chimes)
- Voltage compatibility check before installation
Tradeoff to accept: may require adapter; wiring must be correct; not all chimes are compatible.
Best fit: Wired doorbell compatible with your existing chime voltage.
No Existing Chime (New Installation)
If you don't have an existing chime system:
- Wi-Fi chime (plug-in, wireless, easy setup)
- Built-in chime (if doorbell has one, simpler but quieter)
- Multiple chimes if you want alerts in multiple rooms
Tradeoff to accept: Wi-Fi chimes require power outlet; built-in chimes may be too quiet; additional cost for separate chimes.
Best fit: Wi-Fi chime system for flexible placement and volume.
Battery-Powered Doorbell
If you're using a battery-powered doorbell:
- Wi-Fi chime required (battery doorbells don't work with wired chimes)
- Plug-in chime for reliable power
- Multiple chimes if supported by system
Tradeoff to accept: requires separate chime purchase; needs power outlet; won't work during power outages.
Best fit: Wi-Fi chime compatible with your battery doorbell system.
Multiple Rooms (Want Alerts Everywhere)
If you want chimes in multiple locations:
- System supporting multiple chimes (check limits)
- Wi-Fi chimes for flexible placement
- Volume control on each chime
Tradeoff to accept: multiple chimes cost more; each needs power outlet; system may limit number of chimes.
Best fit: Doorbell system with multi-chime support.
Best Options for Chimes Right Now
These options are included because they fit the constraints discussed above (chime compatibility, type, and availability at the time of writing).
Option A: Wired with existing chime compatibility
- Best for: Users with existing wired chime systems
- Product: Reolink Video Doorbell WiFi Camera (Wired)
- Why it fits: Wired installation; includes chime; compatible with existing doorbell wiring (12-24VAC); works with mechanical chimes
- Tradeoff: Requires existing doorbell wiring; chime compatibility depends on voltage matching; check specifications for your chime type
- Action: Check availability
Option B: Battery with Wi-Fi chime support
- Best for: Users needing wireless installation with audible alerts
- Product: Eufy Security Video Doorbell 2K (Battery)
- Why it fits: Battery-powered for flexible installation; compatible with Eufy Wi-Fi chime (sold separately or in bundle); supports multiple chimes
- Tradeoff: Wi-Fi chime requires separate purchase; needs power outlet; won't work during power outages
- Action: Check availability
Option C: Dual power with chime options
- Best for: Users wanting flexibility with chime compatibility
- Product: Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation)
- Why it fits: Can be wired (works with existing chimes if compatible) or battery-powered (requires Ring Chime); flexible chime options
- Tradeoff: Existing chime compatibility depends on wiring; Ring Chime required for battery mode; full features require subscription
- Action: Check availability
Tip: Before installing, check your existing chime voltage (typically 16-24VAC) and type (mechanical vs digital). For battery doorbells, plan for Wi-Fi chime placement near power outlets. Test chime compatibility before final installation.
FAQ
Do video doorbells work with existing chimes?
It depends on the doorbell and your existing chime system. Wired doorbells can often work with existing mechanical or digital chimes if voltage is compatible (typically 16-24VAC). Some doorbells require specific chime compatibility or may need a chime adapter. Battery-powered doorbells typically don't work with existing wired chimes.
What's the difference between built-in and add-on chimes?
Built-in chimes are integrated into the doorbell itself, providing sound directly from the device. Add-on chimes are separate devices (like Wi-Fi chimes or plug-in chimes) that connect wirelessly to the doorbell. Built-in chimes are simpler but quieter, while add-on chimes can be placed anywhere and are often louder.
Do I need a chime for a video doorbell?
No, chimes are optional. Video doorbells send notifications to your smartphone, so a chime isn't required for basic functionality. However, chimes are useful if you want audible alerts without checking your phone, or if you want to hear visitors when you're home.
Why do some doorbells not work with existing chimes?
Compatibility issues can arise from voltage mismatches, incompatible chime types (mechanical vs digital), or doorbell design that doesn't support traditional chimes. Some modern doorbells use Wi-Fi chimes instead of wired connections, which aren't compatible with existing mechanical chimes.
What are Wi-Fi chimes?
Wi-Fi chimes are separate devices that connect wirelessly to your video doorbell and plug into a wall outlet. They provide audible alerts without requiring wiring and can be placed anywhere in your home. They're often required for battery-powered doorbells or doorbells that don't support traditional wired chimes.
Do chimes work during power outages?
It depends on the chime type. Wi-Fi chimes require power and won't work during outages. Wired mechanical chimes may work if your doorbell wiring has battery backup, but most modern systems rely on power. Battery-powered doorbells with Wi-Fi chimes won't work without power.
Can I use multiple chimes with one doorbell?
Yes, many systems support multiple Wi-Fi chimes, allowing you to place chimes in different rooms. Some systems limit the number of chimes, so check specifications. Wired chimes can also be daisy-chained in some configurations, but this requires proper wiring.
What causes chime failures?
Common causes include voltage incompatibility, wiring issues, chime adapter problems, Wi-Fi connectivity issues (for Wi-Fi chimes), or incompatible chime types. Mechanical chimes may fail due to wear, while digital chimes can have electronic failures.
Bottom Line
Video doorbell chimes work well when matched to your setup: wired doorbells can use existing chimes if voltage matches, battery doorbells require Wi-Fi chimes, and chime compatibility depends on voltage and wiring. Choose based on your doorbell type, existing infrastructure, and alert preferences—chime success comes from understanding compatibility requirements and setup needs.
Related Guides
If you're considering video doorbells, you might also find these guides helpful:
- Wired vs Wireless Video Doorbells — To understand power options
- Battery-Powered Video Doorbells — If you need battery power
- Video Doorbells Without Drilling — If installation is a concern
Affiliate disclosure: Some links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only link to options that fit the decision criteria described on this page.
Last updated: 2026-01-03