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How to Budget for a Smart Video Doorbell

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How to Budget for a Smart Video Doorbell

Get your video doorbell installed during seasonal camera sales and spread the cost over time without paying interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $220 before anything else
Across the 0% window $12.22/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $220 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

You stop guessing who is at the door and finally see packages the second they land on your porch. Hardwired setups take about an hour to swap out with your old doorbell and hook right into your existing transformer. Fall home security sales are the best time to catch hardware bundles before the holiday delivery rush hits.

Call at least two local handymen or electricians for hardwired quotes because rates swing wildly across town. Compare their labor fees against the current retail price of the camera bundle to find your total project cost.

Remember that the 18-month 0% period on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card is a strict deadline and not free money. If you leave any balance on the card when those 18 months are up, interest kicks in on the original amount from day one.

The steps

  1. 01

    Pick your hardware and timing

    Shop during major home security camera sales to get the doorbell and any extra sensors bundled together. Check that your existing doorbell wiring has enough voltage before you buy.

  2. 02

    Get multiple quotes

    Call at least two local pros to install the hardwired unit and verify your transformer voltage. Do not accept the first price you hear until you have a competing offer.

  3. 03

    Map the 18 months

    Divide your total hardware and installation cost by 18 to find your exact monthly baseline. For a $220 total cost, you are looking at $12.22 per month to cover it before the clock runs out.

  4. 04

    Use the Citi Simplicity card

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. That window gives you room to pay off the $220 in chunks instead of all at once.

  5. 05

    Automate your payments

    Set up autopay for at least your monthly target so you never miss a due date. Check your math once the first bill arrives to make sure you are on track.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Do I really need a hardwired doorbell?

Battery models work fine, but hardwired versions give you continuous power and faster response times. You never have to worry about pulling the unit down to charge it in the middle of winter.

What if my existing wiring is too old?

An electrician can swap out your old doorbell transformer for a small extra fee. Factor that potential fix into your budget before you schedule the install.

How does the Citi Simplicity card help?

It gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. That lets you break the $220 cost into manageable chunks without paying extra.

When do home security sales happen?

You usually see the best camera bundle discounts during spring cleaning events, Prime Day in July, and Black Friday in November. Keep an eye on prices for a few weeks before you pull the trigger.