The Merkury Doorbell Camera is an affordably priced product for buyers who have an existing wiring system and want to explore the Internet of Things (IoT) for optimal security. Its reasonable price point is its best feature. The New York-based company specializes in various electronics, including speakers, earbuds, and this new venture into doorbell cameras.
The doorbell camera is a natural segue for this company. Rising crime rates have fueled this segment’s growth, with revenue expected to reach $8.95 billion by 2026. The Merkury product has many of the features users expect with these devices, such as two-way audio and smart assistant connectivity. It works with your choice of two smartphone apps to manage it remotely and receive its output.
It’s a laudable effect, considering its price tag. Unfortunately, it misses the mark with usability, which many consider a deal-breaker factor.
The Merkury Doorbell Camera gets props for usability just because you can choose between two smartphone apps, Geeni or Smart Life. Both are intuitive and user-friendly. However, we’d give the nod to the former, although they each have their usability issues. Nevertheless, the use of an app with a doorbell camera is brilliant. It can help not only with break-ins but the equally frustrating porch piracy.
Durable Design
An outdoor doorbell camera must be able to handle the elements. According to the manufacturer, the Merkury Doorbell Camera is weather resistant. However, it does not provide an Ingress Protection or IP rating. That makes this declaration subjective.
We always appreciate it when a manufacturer offers a warranty, even if it’s only for 30 days. We think that it makes a compelling statement about the company’s faith in its products. Merkury Innovations has a 1-year limited warranty on the doorbell camera. You’ll likely find the obvious manufacturing defects right away. However, as we all know, things often happen weeks or months after our purchases.
Wonky Connectivity
This issue can threaten the value of the Merkury Doorbell Camera’s usability. A security device is only as good as its connectivity. It’s one area where the company drops the ball, much to the displeasure of its users. It would be easy to chalk it down to a poor internet connection. However, many buyers have reported this problem centering on this device while others on their Wi-Fi are unaffected.
FAQs on the Merkury Doorbell Camera
How easy is the doorbell camera to install?
The company tries to make the installation easy with the provided instructions. Unfortunately, they need a serious edit to make them useful. Nonetheless, you’ll find helpful videos to walk you through the process. However, it’ll be infinitely easier if you have existing wiring in place with a doorbell or chime. Otherwise, it’s a piece of cake. Without it, you’re looking at installing dedicated wiring, which puts it in the pro realm.
Is the output decent?
The camera’s resolution is decent and probably enough for you to take legal action in case of theft. However, you’ll get the best use of it if you clean the lens occasionally. After all, it doesn’t take a lot to foul the lens. Make sure to use a lint-free cloth to avoid scratching it.
How well does the camera handle the elements?
We can only speculate about the camera’s durability in the field without an IP rating. We suggest positioning it where it can get the best protection without compromising its field of view to get the most out of your purchase.
What the Users Say
We wanted to see what other users thought about the Merkury Doorbell Camera and how useful it proved to be. We researched reviews and forums to get the pulse of the buyers’ satisfaction with the product. Overall, the sentiments were in line with what we’ve discussed. They are positive but highlight the limitations of a product at this price point. If you’re looking for better resolution and usability, you’ll have to pop for a bit more.
It’s not a bad choice if you’re just dipping your toes in the water. You may not be sure if you need this functionality. This product will make your exploration less painful to see if upgrading is an option for you.
Conclusion
The Merkury Doorbell Camera is an entry-level product in this category. It covers the basics with decent functionality if you have existing wiring in place. The smartphone app makes using it intuitively without issues. Therein lies its value. You can manage it remotely to get the best use out of this smartphone security device. These products are useful. This one may not be a permanent solution but will show you the possibilities.
Chris has been writing since 2009 on a variety of topics. Her motto with all of her writing is “science-based writing nurtured by education and critical thinking.” Chris specializes in science topics and has a special love for health and environmental topics, and animals of all shapes and sizes.
