Fortect may not be one of the biggest names when it comes to the best antivirus and security, but this German business demands attention thanks to an ethos that prizes transparency, trust and user empowerment.
They’re all good qualities when trying to identify your next piece of security software, and it means that we’re eager to evaluate the company’s specific antivirus credentials in this review.
If you need a free antivirus product, then Fortect does have one option available – but it’s very limited. You can view and fix issues one-by-one using a manual repair system, but automatic repairs are only supported in the paid versions of the product.
Fortect’s paid antivirus module is found within a wider product called PC Suite, which also includes a slate of PC tweaking, optimization and repair tools alongside security features.
Fortect’s most affordable paid product, Essential, protects one system for one year and includes all of the app’s core features for $38.
Upgrade to the multi-device plan for $47 and you get unlimited annual usage for three devices. The Ultimate product, which costs $65, includes licenses for five devices.
Those single-device and three-device plans are priced reasonably, but the Ultimate product feels a tad expensive: Norton 360 Deluxe supports five devices for $49, for instance, and you can get Sophos Home Premium protection for ten devices for $44.99.
(Image credit: Fortect)
Fortect: Interface
Installation is easy and, once it’s complete, Fortect runs through a comprehensive system scan. Because this is a PC suite rather than just an antivirus scanner, its results outlined a host of issues, but Fortect was comprehensive when tackling security: it detected a vast array of potential privacy issues, for instance.
Get beyond that initial scan and Fortect has one of the best interfaces we’ve seen on a PC security and tweaking app.
It’s modern and mature, with navy blue shades throughout, and the dashboard has a huge “On” button that starts a full system scan.
The front page has indicators so you can see if malware and real-time protection are both activated, and on the left-hand side there are links to the app’s performance, security, privacy and VPN modules.
(Image credit: Fortect)
Delve into the Security section and you can deploy quick and custom scans and toggle malware and real-time protection, and drag and drop folders and files for custom scans.
In the Security settings menu you can enable real-time protection, cloud-based analysis and the browsing shield, which blocks harmful sites. You can also customize the frequency of security reports and tweak file quarantine settings.
The app’s Privacy module includes browser cache cleanup, and a unique tool that enables users to remove traces of Office apps from their system. You’re also invited to install an effective, free Chrome browser extension that monitors your browsing activity and highlights any issues.
(Image credit: Fortect)
Fortect: Antivirus and Protection
Fortect’s Antivirus module delivers real-time malware and web browser protection, comprehensive scanning for malware and unwanted apps, and cloud-based technology that provides the app with updates of new and emerging threats.
The app automatically fixes and removes threats, repairs your system if it becomes unstable, and can be used to create system restore points. Malicious files, folders and apps can also be quarantined.
Fortect’s macOS version also includes real-time protection, cloud-based security, full system scanning, quarantine management and detailed security reports, and its Android and iOS apps include all of those abilities alongside network scanning, website blocking, data breaches alerts and a system advisor.
To access these features across multiple devices, you’ll have to pay for one of the pricier tiers that supports multi-device usage.
(Image credit: Fortect)
Most of the antivirus products we cover have been independently tested by AV-Comparatives and AV Test – or a reputable alternative like SE Labs.
Sadly, none of those organizations have evaluated Fortect, so we’re turning to Virus Bulletin and AppEsteem.
VirusBulletin is a global authority on the antivirus industry and has been testing consumer and enterprise security software for over two decades. VirusBulletin’s publications include reports by leading researchers and details about new threats, with archives going back to 1989.
VirusBulletin’s VB100 certification is awarded to apps that “meet the basic standards required to be recognized as legitimate and properly functioning anti-malware solutions.” Fortect has earned that certification with a Grade A result, with 99.19% of malware detected and only 0.007% false positives.
AppEsteem certifies apps using the Anti-Malware Testing Standards Organization’s protocols to provide consumers can see which apps offer effective antivirus performance without false positives and over-aggressive monetization tactics.
AppEsteem’s testing saw Fortect rated as a Contender, with an 88% rating for Deceptors and a 94% pass mark for certification. That’s not the best score and it means you’ll likely see some upselling attempts in this app – and we can vouch for that, given that upon installation we were presented with an offer to upgrade to a multi-device app.
Apps from Avast, AVG, Sophos and others provided a cleaner experience than Fortect, but tools from Malwarebytes, Bitdefender and Norton received poorer ratings – so Fortect is not the worst offender here, and you shouldn’t let the occasional special offer put you off.
(Image credit: Fortect)
Fortect: Other features
As Fortect Antivirus is included in a wider PC Suite, that means you get a solid range of additional features in the app.
Fortect’s Performance Scan identifies junk files and crashed apps that can slow your PC down, and the app also has a Driver Updater that will make sure your system is always up to date.
Those PC performance features are not particularly extensive, though, and there are plenty of features missing elsewhere if you compare Fortect to apps like Norton 360 and Sophos Home Premium.
(Image credit: Fortect)
Norton, for instance, included an unlimited VPN, dark web monitoring, parental controls, a password manager and a private browser. Sophos had more in-depth web filtering. None of that is available with Fortect.
Support options are underwhelming, too. If you need help with Fortect, you can complete a web form and get a response within 48 hours – below the industry standard in 2025. Norton has live chat and phone support options and paid options for more extensive help, and Sophos has chat options.
It’s worth mentioning that Fortect is a slightly different product to those two rivals: it concentrates on PC optimization and security. But given the pricing parity between all of these tools, it makes Fortect’s value proposition look a little underwhelming.
Fortect: Final verdict
The antivirus testing that we’ve found indicates that Fortect does an excellent job of protecting devices from the latest threats.
That said, its lack of testing from our favored testing sites means that we’re reluctant to give a wholehearted recommendation when compared to tools that have scored well across a wider array of testing services.
There’s no doubt that this app is a slick, easy to use tool: it’s got an excellent interface with straightforward design and sensible organization. But that does mean that Fortect lacks the in-depth tweaking and customization options that are commonplace on tools that will appeal for a more technical audience.
Go beyond its core antivirus and PC performance functionality, though, and there’s not much on offer here compared to other tools – rivals routinely include VPNs, password managers, parental controls and more, alongside better support.
Fortect may do a good job with antivirus abilities, but rivals offer more functionality and customization. Fortect is not bad, but there are better options available.
OnePlus has been investing a lot in camera capabilities in the past few years, aiming to rectify what had traditionally been one of the biggest gripes people had with its phones before - image quality.
Now, it's going to take things to another level, according to a new rumor. OnePlus is allegedly working on its first self-developed "Image Engine", which is described as "a proprietary platform built to take full control of photo and video processing".
This is said to contain advanced image algorithms to better handle low-light detail, skin tone accuracy, and dynamic range "in ways...
Apple's first foldable-display iPhone, which we're calling iPhone Fold for the sake of simplicity, is widely rumored to be coming in late 2026, after many, many years of rumors and speculation about it.
When it does arrive, it won't have an in-display fingerprint scanner, according to renowned purveyor of Apple-related supply chain information Ming-Chi Kuo.
Six months ago, I predicted the foldable iPhone would use side-button Touch ID. There are now market rumors that it will adopt an under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, but I think that’s unlikely. It’s expected that Luxshare...
The Y-series devices are vivo’s best-sellers in China, and the brand-new Y500 has finally made its debut. The new device continues the trend of Chinese midrangers with massive battery capacity as it gets a gargantuan 8,200mAh (!) cell. That’s not the only new addition, as the phone is now IP68/IP69 rated against water and dust, and it also gets updated to the Dimensity 7300 chip.
Getting the chip and battery upgrade is one thing but vivo claims the Y500 is also superior in terms of durability.
The phone can handle water submersions at 1.5-meter depths for over 24 hours, pressurized...
Realme launched the Watch 3 in 2022, and it's been missing a successor ever since. That will, however, change soon, if a new rumor is to be believed.
The Realme Watch 5 is allegedly coming, and the renders below purportedly portray it. The Realme Watch 5 is said to have a 1.97-inch rectangular AMOLED screen with 390x450 resolution and 600-nit peak brightness.
It will pack a 460 mAh battery which will be advertised to deliver up to 14 days of usage on one charge, or 20 days through a customizable "Light Smart Mode". Realme will also promise that the battery will retain at least 80%...
In early August, Samsung revealed the roadmap for One UI 8 beta rollout for older and mid-range devices. According to it, the Galaxy A36, A35, A55 and A54 would get it in September and, indeed, here comes the first beta.
The Samsung Galaxy A36 is the newest model of the A-series (the A56 is suspiciously absent from the roadmap). The first beta for it has a build number A366EXXU4ZYHD and weighs 2.1GB. It’s available only to users in the US, the UK, Korea and India. You need to opt into the beta program using the Samsung Members app to get it.
The Galaxy A35 and A55 should be subject to...
Last year’s Xiaomi 15 series made its debut in October with the Xiaomi 15 and 15 Pro and according to leaks the 16 series will arrive earlier than that. A new post by Digital Chat Station reveals that the Xiaomi 16 models will launch in the second-to-last week of September. More specifically, DCS believes we’ll see the Xiaomi 16 launch between September 24 and 26.
That’s no coincidence, since Qualcomm is launching its next flagship 8 series chipset - the Snapdragon 8 Gen Elite 2 (or 8 Elite Gen 5) on September 23.
Xiaomi 16 leaked illustrative render
Based on the most recent...
OpenNMS has carved out a solid position in ourbest network monitoring tools roundup as a compelling open-source alternative to commercial solutions. The platform offers two distributions — Horizon for rapid innovation and Meridian for enterprise stability, both completely open source. You'll find comprehensive fault, performance, and traffic monitoring capabilities that rival expensive proprietary tools.
Techradar reviewers spend several weeks researching each major IT platform in the market. We found that OpenNMS excels at handling large-scale networks, with Fortune 500 companies using it to monitor tens of thousands of devices. While LogicMonitor remains our pick for the best network monitoring tool of 2025, OpenNMS delivers exceptional value for teams with strong technical skills.
OpenNMS: Features
OpenNMS packs an impressive array of monitoring capabilities that rival commercial platforms costing thousands more. You get comprehensive network discovery, fault detection, performance monitoring, and traffic analysis in a single platform.
The feature set is well-suited for large enterprises and technical teams who need deep customization options. While some competitors offer more polished interfaces, OpenNMS compensates with raw power and flexibility. At $44,100 annually for enterprise support, the pricing reflects the platform's enterprise-grade capabilities.
Network discovery and auto-discovery
OpenNMS automatically discovers devices across your network using industry-standard protocols like SNMP, HTTP, and JDBC. You can configure discovery ranges and let the platform map your entire infrastructure without manual intervention. The system integrates with over 2,000 networking vendors, ensuring compatibility with your existing hardware.
Fault management and alerting
The platform excels at fault detection with intelligent path outage analysis. Instead of flooding you with alerts when a core device fails, OpenNMS sends a single notification for the root cause. You may also appreciate features like escalation policies and contact groups that ensure the right people get notified at the right time.
Performance monitoring and graphing
Real-time performance data collection covers everything from CPU utilization to custom metrics. OpenNMS generates comprehensive graphs that integrate beautifully with Grafana for advanced visualization. The system handles up to 300,000 data points per second, making it suitable for the largest enterprise networks.
Flow analysis and traffic monitoring
Built-in support for NetFlow v5/9, IPFIX, and sFlow provides deep traffic analysis capabilities. You can track bandwidth utilization, identify top talkers, and analyze traffic patterns across your entire network. This feature alone justifies the platform for many organizations.
Business service monitoring
OpenNMS maps network performance to business services, helping you understand how technical issues impact operations. You can create custom service definitions and track their health across multiple network components. This business-focused approach sets OpenNMS apart from basic monitoring tools.
(Image credit: OpenNMS)
OpenNMS: Ease of use
OpenNMS demands significant technical expertise, and you'll need to invest time learning its configuration approaches. The web interface handles basic tasks, but advanced features require editing XML files and command-line work. We found the learning curve particularly steep for teams coming from simpler monitoring tools. However, once you master the basics, the platform's flexibility becomes a major advantage.
The interface itself feels dated compared to modern alternatives like LogicMonitor or Datadog. You'll spend time navigating between different sections to accomplish tasks that other platforms handle in single dashboards. OpenNMS has acknowledged this limitation and continues improving the web UI, but significant configuration work still happens outside the browser. The rigorous community documentation helps, but expect weeks of learning before you're fully productive.
OpenNMS: Pricing
Plan
Starting price (paid annually)
What's included
Horizon (Community)
Free
Open source version, community support, all core features
Meridian Core
Contact for pricing
Basic enterprise features, email support
Meridian Essential
Contact for pricing
Installation consulting, guaranteed SLAs, regular support
Meridian Premier
Contact for pricing
Enhanced SLAs (2hr critical response), priority support
Meridian Premier+
Contact for pricing
1hr critical response, 24/7 support options
OpenNMS offers an attractive pricing structure with a completely free open-source option that includes all core monitoring features. But the jump to enterprise support is significant at about $44,100 annually, which gives you installation consulting and guaranteed response times.
This pricing model works well for organizations that either have strong internal expertise (free version) or can afford to pay for the enterprise-grade support guarantees. Compared to competitors like LogicMonitor starting at $375 monthly, OpenNMS provides better value for large deployments where per-device pricing becomes expensive.
OpenNMS: Customer support
OpenNMS provides tiered support options ranging from community forums to enterprise-grade SLAs. The free community version relies on extensive documentation and active user forums. You'll find helpful resources, but response times depend on community availability. They also maintain a detailed knowledge base and video tutorial tfor common issues.
Enterprise customers get dedicated support portals with guaranteed response times. Critical issues receive 1-4 hour responses depending on your plan, with business-hours coverage standard across paid tiers. Support tickets integrate with internal development processes, ensuring bug fixes and enhancements get proper attention. However, enhancement requests don't carry SLA guarantees, which may frustrate teams expecting rapid feature development.
OpenNMS: Alternatives
OpenNMS occupies a unique position as the most capable open-source network monitoring platform, competing directly with commercial giants like SolarWinds and PRTG. You'll find it particularly valuable if you need enterprise-scale monitoring without per-device licensing costs. The platform works best for large organizations with dedicated network teams who can invest time in proper configuration and customization.
Key competitors include LogicMonitor for cloud-native environments, Datadog for application-focused monitoring, and Nagios for simpler network oversight. OpenNMS differentiates itself through comprehensive flow analysis, business service mapping, and the ability to handle massive device counts without licensing restrictions. However, teams wanting plug-and-play simplicity should consider commercial alternatives that prioritize ease of use over raw functionality.
OpenNMS: Final verdict
OpenNMS delivers exceptional value for organizations willing to invest in proper implementation and training. You get enterprise-grade monitoring capabilities that rival solutions costing significantly more, plus the flexibility that comes with open-source software. The platform works best for sprawling networks where customization and scalability matter more than interface polish.
However, you shouldn't underestimate the learning curve and ongoing maintenance requirements. Small teams or organizations lacking dedicated network expertise may find commercial alternatives more cost-effective when factoring in implementation time. For the right use case, technical teams monitoring large, diverse networks — OpenNMS represents one of the best values in enterprise monitoring.
FAQs
What's the difference between OpenNMS Horizon and Meridian?
Horizon is the community version where new features are developed and tested rapidly, making it ideal for organizations wanting the latest capabilities. Meridian focuses on long-term stability with enterprise support options, receiving thoroughly tested features after they've proven stable in Horizon deployments.
Can OpenNMS monitor cloud infrastructure and hybrid environments?
Yes, OpenNMS supports distributed monitoring through Minion collectors that can be deployed in remote locations or cloud environments. You can monitor AWS, Azure, and other cloud services alongside traditional on-premises infrastructure from a single platform.
How does OpenNMS licensing work for commercial use?
The core OpenNMS software is completely open source and free for commercial use. You only pay for enterprise support, consulting services, and additional commercial components if needed. There are no per-device licensing fees, making it cost-effective for large deployments.
What level of technical expertise is required to implement OpenNMS?
You'll need solid networking knowledge and Linux administration skills for successful deployment. While basic monitoring can be configured through the web interface, advanced features require XML editing and command-line configuration. Plan for several weeks of learning and configuration time.
Does OpenNMS integrate with other IT management tools?
OpenNMS offers extensive integration capabilities through its REST API, supporting connections with ticketing systems like Jira, messaging platforms, and visualization tools like Grafana. The platform can also integrate with configuration management systems and other network tools through various protocols and APIs.
Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: two-minute review
The days of traditional ‘analog’ doorbells connected via wires to an internal chime are fast coming to an end. Increasingly, people are turning to video doorbells, which will send an alert to your mobile phone when someone comes to the door. They will even act as an intercom so you can talk to whoever is there whether you are in the house, walking the dog or sitting on a beach.
Like its predecessor, the Blink Video Doorbell doesn’t come with its own indoor chime. Instead, you can pair it with a Blink Mini 2 camera (sold separately) or connect via the Alexa app on your phone to a Fire Stick or Amazon Echo Show. This will allow you to see who is at the front door on your TV screen/multimedia display or you can get a voice message via your Amazon Echo Dot when someone presses the doorbell.
Alternatively, it may be possible to connect existing doorbell wiring from the Blink Video Doorbell to a legacy indoor chime providing its rated between 16 and 24 volts. Batteries are required for use whether you use existing doorbell wiring or not.
The Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) uses three AA lithium batteries (Image credit: Chris Price)
What I like about Blink devices is just how easy they are to add to an existing system. I’ve already got several Blink cameras around the house so adding one more was simply a case of scanning the QR code on the back of the device and adding it to the home set up. However, if you’ve never installed a Blink camera before you will need to download the app (Android or iPhone) as well as connect the sync module provided to your broadband router (this acts as a hub for up to 10 Blink security devices).
Unfortunately, as the one supplied isn’t compatible with local storage via a connected USB flash drive, you will need to pay a monthly subscription for storing video footage and accessing the latest features – see subscription options below.
When it comes to mounting the video doorbell on the door there are two options. You can either use the standard flat mount or a wedge mount if you are placing it on a door architrave. As I was replacing the previous Blink video doorbell (Gen 1) I was hoping I could re-use the mount from that one to save time on installation. However, that wasn’t possible because this unit is a slightly different size.
Instead I used the black mount provided for the black video doorbell supplied by the manufacturer (a white version with white mount is also available). At least I didn’t have to screw two new holes in the wood as they’re positioned in the same place on the mount as the previous version.
Installing the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) is very straightforward, particularly if you already have other Blink devices at home (Image credit: Chris Price)
Once installed, controlling the camera is simply a case of using the Blink app. One of the main differences between this model and its predecessor is the camera’s lens, in particular the aspect ratio. Whereas the previous model offered a more conventional 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio with 1080p resolution, the new video doorbell boats a square 1:1 aspect ratio with improved 1440p resolution.
It also offers a larger field of vision (150 degrees horizontal and 150 degrees vertical) compared to 135 degrees horizontal and just 80 degrees vertical on the previous model. The result is that not only is it possible to get a head-to-toe image of someone coming to the door, you can also view the ground – handy to see any deliveries that have been left outside your front door.
The in-app setup process is very simple (Image credit: Chris Price)
Certainly the 1:1 aspect ratio does take a little bit of getting used to, especially the square shape on the Blink home page next to all of the other more conventional widescreen cameras. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that, because the field of view is so much bigger than its predecessor you will need to reduce the device’s sensitivity, especially if you are paying for the Blink subscription with AI-powered Smart Detection.
Otherwise, you may well record every person and vehicle that goes past your house as well as those who come to the door. Not only will this severely reduce the lifespan of the batteries, it is also highly annoying to get pointless alerts every few minutes.
Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: subscription options
There are two different subscription plans available depending on the number of Blink devices you own, and which features you require.
Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: price and availability
List price $69.99 / £59.99 (about AU$110)
Launched August 2025 with Sync Module
Currently available in UK and US (not Australia)
With its second-generation video doorbell, Blink has managed to maintain the same $69.99 / £59.99 price point as the original video doorbell (you can now buy the earlier model for under £30 on Amazon in the UK without the sync module). Really, it’s exceptional value for money, much cheaper than a Ring video doorbell device, despite the two companies sharing Amazon ownership.
However, it's not available in Australia at the time of writing, and it’s worth bearing in mind that if you want to benefit from the full functionality of the device, including the ability to store video clips, you will need to pay for a subscription costing from $3 / £2.50 a month. That’s because - unlike the first video doorbell which incorporated a sync module with the option of adding local storage – it’s not the case with the second-generation model.
You won't be able to store videos recorded by the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) on the Sync Module Core (Image credit: Chris Price)
Instead of the Sync Module 2, the second-generation Blink video doorbell features the more basic Sync Module Core. Personally, I find that a little bit cheeky, but then at least the monthly subscription fees are cheaper than most of the rivals (Ring subscription plans start at $4.99 / £4.99 a month).
In addition to unlimited cloud video storage, the Blink subscription package includes Blink Moments which stitches together multiple events from multiple cameras into one video. Then there’s AI-Powered Smart Detection which tells you whether the camera has captured a person coming to the door/walking past your house, or a vehicle in your driveway/driving along the road. To reduce the amount of footage captured, which can be quite overwhelming, we recommend reducing the device’s sensitivity and also editing the ‘motion zones’ (areas of the frame that are active or private).
Value score: 4/5
Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: design
Easy-to-install mounting bracket
Chunky design
Available in white or black
Blink cameras are renowned for being some of the most compact and lightweight devices on the market. However, the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) is a little bit of an exception. Tipping the scales at 4oz/113g, it’s both heavier than the first-generation model (3.2oz/91g) and also a little thicker too at 1.44in/36.6mm compared to 1inch/27mm.
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The Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) is a little bulkier than its predecessor (Image credit: Chris Price)
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The Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) is a little bulkier than its predecessor (Image credit: Chris Price)
The main reason for this, of course, is that the new model incorporates space for three AA lithium batteries whereas the original model featured just two batteries. In turn, this means that battery life is much longer though it’s unlikely to be as long as the two-year lifespan that Blink’s marketing suggests.
Like its predecessor, two colour options are available (white or black) and there are two types of mount – one for placing flat on the door frame and another for mounting on a door architrave. Using the standard mount with the screws provided, it only takes around five minutes to install wirelessly, although if you are connecting to existing doorbell wiring the process is much longer. Since there's no built-in chime, you'll need to connect it to Alexa devices or buy a Blink Mini 2 camera to hear the doorbell indoors.
It only took around five minutes to install the doorbell with the included mount (Image credit: Chris Price)
Looks-wise, the second-generation model is a little different from its predecessor with a larger oval shaped button in the middle, compared to the round button on the first generation model. Recording is also more subtle with a small blue light on the top right indicating when video is being captured, rather than the area around the central button becoming illuminated in blue.
When the button in the centre is pushed by a visitor, it illuminates white and a message is sent to the connected phone telling you ‘someone is at the door’. As with the first-generation model, the doorbell sits inside a bracket but can be removed for changing batteries etc. by inserting a small metal ‘key’ in the base. It is also rated IP-65 weather resistant which offers greater protection against the elements than the previous model which was only IP-54 rated.
Design score: 4/5
Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: performance
Good image quality (especially in Best mode)
Stable video connection
Overly sensitive camera
There’s no question that when it comes to performance Blink has upped its game with this second gen model. The first one was certainly OK, but not as good as some of the admittedly more expensive video doorbells from companies such as Ring. However, in nearly every respect, the Gen 2 model offers better performance than its predecessor.
Not only does it have a wider field of horizontal view (150 degrees compared to 135 degrees for the first model), it also offers a 150-degrees vertical field of view for a perfectly square 1:1 aspect ratio image. At first I thought that was a bit odd, but having used it for a little while it’s incredibly useful. Not only can you see an entire head-to-toe image of someone at the door you can also see if a parcel has been left on your doorstep.
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The new square aspect ratio makes it easier to see both visitors and packages (Image credit: Chris Price)
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The new square aspect ratio makes it easier to see both visitors and packages (Image credit: Chris Price)
Whereas the previous model offered 1080p video resolution, the second-generation model boasts improved 1440p video resolution. Three video quality settings are on board (Best, Standard, and Saver). I settled on Best as it’s good to be able to see details more clearly although this will obviously reduce battery life. The second-generation model also offers improved night vision.
Of course, it’s not all good news. The downside of the camera lens being much bigger is that it also collects much more footage – too much. Blink cameras are known for being sensitive anyway and this latest model is no exception.
Even with privacy zones set up, I found it necessary to dial the sensitivity right down to avoid false alerts (Image credit: Chris Price)
With motion sensitivity set to five, I found the camera was recording around 100 events a day, most of them of people walking their dog past the house or delivery vans going by. Even with the ‘privacy zones’ set up to block out the extremes of the frame (including areas of sky) the camera was still extremely active. In the end it was necessary to reduce sensitivity to just two out of 10 so it only captured people actually coming to the door.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning the sync module. Whereas the previous model included the Sync Module 2 with a USB socket so you could insert a USB flash drive for storing video clips, this model comes with the Sync Module Core without local storage. Essentially this means if you want to store video clips you will need to pay a subscription of at least $3 / £2.50 a month.
Performance score: 4.5/5
Should you buy the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core?
Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) score card
Attribute
Notes
Score
Value
This video doorbell represents pretty good value for money. Even the monthly subscription charge for premium features is around half the price of some devices.
4/5
Design
Available in black or white, the Blink doorbell is a much bulkier model than its predecessor. It is accompanied by a small sync module which connects to your router.
4/5
Performance
Although the motion sensor is a little overly-sensitive, performance is very good indeed particularly the 1:1 aspect ratio for ‘head-to-toe’ video capture.
4.5/5
Overall
When it comes to performance Blink have upped their game with improved quality images and longer battery life. Just a shame the supplied sync module can’t be used for storing clips.
4.5/5
Buy it if
You already have a Blink camera
The software makes it easy to use the video doorbell as part of a Blink home security system comprising indoor and outdoor cameras.
You want a wide viewing angle
One of the main benefits of the latest Blink camera is the head-to-toe viewing angle so you can see whoever comes to the door and the parcels that are left on the doorstep.
Don't buy it if
You need a separate chime indoors
The Blink doesn’t come with a chime so you will need to turn up the volume of the device or rely on either a separate Blink camera or connect to Alexa-enabled device.
You don’t want to buy expensive batteries
With this model you will need to buy three expensive Lithium AA batteries. Blink claims up to two years’ battery life but it’s likely to be a lot shorter.
Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core: also consider
Product
Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module
Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 1) and Sync Module
Yale Smart Video Doorbell and Doorbell Chime
Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus
Subscription price
From £2.50 a month
From £2.50 a month
From £3.50 a month
From £4.99 a month
Viewing angle
150 degrees horizontal
135 degrees horizontal
154 degrees horizontal
150 degrees horizontal
Network connection
Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)
Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)
Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)
Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)
Audio
Two-way audio
Two-way audio
Two-way audio
Two-way audio
Video
1440p Full HD resolution
1080p Full HD resolution
1080p Full HD resolution
1536p Full HD resolution
Power
Battery
Battery
Mains or battery
Battery
Hardware price
£59 (with Sync Module Core)
£59 (with Sync Module 2)
£129 (video doorbell), £29 (chime)
£129 (video doorbell), £139 (with basic chime)
If you're not sure whether the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core are the right combo for you, here are two other options to consider.
Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus
Amazon-owned Ring has firmly established itself as the ‘go to’ company for video doorbells. It offers several models including this wire-free model which also features a head-to-toe view.
A solidly built video doorbell, the Yale device offers good image and sound quality. However, streaming recorded content and speaking to people at the door can be a little slow.
How I tested the Blink Video Doorbell (Gen 2) and Sync Module Core
I used the doorbell every day for 10 days
I installed it myself
The doorbell was set up on the front door facing towards the road
To test a video doorbell properly you need to use it as part of your home system. Fortunately, I already have other Blink cameras so adding another one was particularly straightforward. But even if I didn’t then downloading the app would have been easy enough.
Installation takes around 15 minutes or so, requiring a screw driver to attach the mount to the door frame before positioning the camera in place. It’s roughly the same size as the previous one, in terms of length and width, so thankfully I didn’t have to worry about unsightly screw holes all over the door frame.
The new Blink Video Doorbell is roughly the same height and width as its predecessor, so I didn't have to worry about messy screw holes when I upgraded (Image credit: Chris Price)
During the period of testing, I really began to appreciate the device’s head-to-toe viewing. I get a lot of deliveries, so being able to see if they have been left on the doorstep when I’m out is handy. Another bonus is the additional power that having another AA battery brings.
Whereas the previous model relied on two lithium AA batteries that had to be changed every three months, this one has three. However, I think it’s extremely unlikely these will last two years as Blink claims in its marketing blurb. I’m pretty sure I’ll be changing the batteries again in six months time given how sensitive the camera’s motion sensor is!.
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