Introduction (Does It Do What It Should)

I can’t remember the last time that I reviewed a Swann product, but after checking, I saw that it was over ten years ago. I think its time I made up for the past decade and reviewed the SwannBuddy4K Video Doorbell.

Now, I have reviewed a lot of smart doorbells before, and I was pleased to check out this, from a company that specializes in cameras and such. It is a wireless 4K video doorbell and chime unit, and it can operate 100 percent wire-free with the rechargeable battery (via USB-C) or just connect existing doorbell wiring (which I didn’t really know was a feature).

You can see in the video how I had to connect it, and some of the problems that I ran into. Once I got the chime to pair, I had to switch the Wi-Fi sensor in my phone to the Swann one. I kept trying it with my own Wi-Fi network, but I did get it to work.

So, you can view anything in 4K with a super-wide angle of 165 degrees. I’m not certain what sets off the motion detector, but it can detect both heat and movement. I’ve had issues with motion-capture cameras that have given me false positives, so I find that is good. Oh, and this thing comes with a free 32 GB MicroSD, not to mention 24 hour rolling cloud storage. I was able to rip that footage for a night shot, and it is pretty clear, able to see 16 feet/5 meters.

I have heard that there is some kind of AI Voice Assistant that can talk to visitors. It is something that you can get by downloading the app, which helped me set up the doorbell to my phone. This app uses a microphone so you can talk to anyone who might be at the door via two-way communication. Now, I am told the Swann Security App has the option of no monthly security fees, but when I tried logging in, I was getting some kind of prompting for a 90-day trial.

If you are worried about whether or not this can withstand the elements, it is IP56 rated. It is quite a good deal that you can get for a price of $199.99.

Facts About The Company

According to the company’s “About Us” page, Swann is a global leader in security monitoring, consumer electronics, and other security-centric solutions for smart homes and businesses. Apparently, they started in Melbourne, and now they are in 40 countries and 6 continents.

They basically want to do a “one app ecosystem”, to control all devices like cameras and such with one great app. Their software allows for some serious detection, and so I am really itching to review more of their products.

What Does This Company Make?

I’m looking at their website, and I am seeing quite a bit of stuff. I see some DVR Systems and Cameras, NVR Systems and Cameras, Wireless Battery Security Cameras, Powered Wi-Fi Security Cameras, Wired Home Security Systems, and Business Security Systems.

Just the Specs, Man

If you’re the type that needs this info, this section is for you!

SwannBuddy4K™ Video Doorbell
Video Resolution: 4K
Viewing Angle: 165° Vertical View
Motion Sensitivity: True Detect Heat-Sensing
PIR Distance: Up to 16ft/5m
Night Vision Distance: Up to 16ft/5m
Memory: Secure Cloud & 32GB Micro SD Card included
Audio: 2 Way Audio – Microphone & Speaker
Audio Range: Up to 16ft/5m
Power Source: Rechargeable 6500mAh Lithium Battery
Battery Recharging: Via USB-C Cable (included) or Connect to Existing Doorbell Wiring
Supported Power: 5V DC / 12-24V AC
Dimensions (WxDxH): 2.1″ x 1.25″ x 5.5″/ 55mm x 32mm x 140mm
Weight: 7.5oz / 213g
Operating Temperature: 14°F to 122°F/ -10°C to 50°C†
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor & Outdoor (IP56 rated)
Wi-Fi Frequency: 2.4GHz (wireless range up to 65ft/20m*)
App (iOS & Android™): Swann Security App
SwannShield Voice Assistant: Yes, via App

SwannBuddy4K™ Chime Speaker Unit
Chimes: 6 Options
Power Source: 2 x AA Batteries (included)
Dimensions (WxDxH): 2.6″ x 0.98″ x 2.6″/ 67mm x 28mm x 67mm
Weight: 1.5oz / 47g
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor Only

If there is something on this that I didn’t cover, please let me know.

Okay, Get To The Unboxing Already!

Maybe I Want It, But Is There Anything Else Like It? Maybe For A Lower Price? Please?

Well, I haven’t done a review of a doorbell in a while, but I did like this one from Toucan from a while ago, and I think you can get it cheaper. Then there was that one from Netatmo, and I have a feeling that I really get back in touch with that particular company. Then there was that one from Bosma, which was also a while ago. Why has it been so long since I reviewed some of these products? Yeah, don’t get me started on Eufy, because it has been far too long. That one is owned by Anker, and I really lost contact with them.