The Qubo Video Doorbell Pro is a smart home device designed to enhance home security. Priced at ₹7,990, this device from the Hero Group boasts impressive features like 2K video quality, two-way audio communication, motion alerts, and support for voice assistants, all encapsulated in a design that aligns well with Indian households. The installation process was efficient, the accompanying app functioned reliably, and notifications arrived promptly, allowing users to connect with delivery personnel and occasional door-to-door salespeople. While it has some drawbacks, such as needing improved night vision and better Wi-Fi stability, the Qubo Video Doorbell Pro represents a significant and valuable improvement in residential security.
Highlights
Installation & First Impressions
Unpacking the device revealed a solid build quality. The doorbell features a slim, low-profile faceplate. The necessary mounting hardware, including a plate, screws, anchors, and a wedge mount, was provided. For optimal camera alignment on a slightly off-axis entrance, the wedge mount proved effective.
The Wi-Fi setup through the Qubo app was simple: scan a QR code, select the Wi-Fi network, input the password, and the device connected seamlessly.
The physical doorbell button features a satisfying tactile press, which is preferable to less sturdy touch-sensitive options found in earlier models from other brands. The Pro variant also boasts an IP66 weather-resistance rating, providing reassurance against the Indian monsoon and dust.
Upon pressing the button, a notification popped up on the phone instantly, showcasing a live video feed (speed details will follow). The camera’s field of view is wide, with specifications mentioning approximately a 134.6° diagonal lens angle.
Daily Use: Video & Audio Quality
Daytime video: The clarity is sufficiently sharp for typical interactions, allowing recognition of visitors and visibility of packages. The “2K” specification aligns well with the market segment. The broad field of view lets users see visitors alongside parts of the porch, useful for spotting deliveries.
Night/low-light video: The device has an infrared LED for “night vision.” Tests conducted around 10 pm under standard porch lighting allowed for facial recognition, though detail quality lessened in dim conditions. A dedicated porch light could enhance visibility if the entryway lacks sufficient lighting.
Audio/Two-way talk: The Pro features a compact speaker with echo cancellation. Experiences with the app showed good audio clarity during conversations with visitors, minimal delays, and clear communication from the user’s side. Background noises were occasionally picked up, but echo cancellation worked reasonably well.
Notifications & Latency: When the doorbell button is pressed, users receive a phone notification, open the app, and view the live feed. Testing on a home network showed a latency of about 1.5-2 seconds from pressing to seeing the live image, which is acceptable for most users. However, using 4G mobile data outdoors increased the delay to around 4-5 seconds. Additionally, motion alerts often activated for passersby, and in some instances, notifications arrived slightly after the doorbell chime.
Smart Features & App Experience
The app provides features like live viewing, a visitor log, and remote two-way communication. The device is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, adding to its smart functionality. Configuring Alexa for doorbell notifications worked seamlessly, enhancing the smart home experience.
A noteworthy feature is the ability to define motion zones within the camera’s field of view. This function allows users to focus on specific areas, reducing false triggers from passing cars or moving tree branches.
Moreover, the unit includes a micro-SD card slot, offering an alternative to expensive cloud storage options. For budget-conscious households in India, this feature represents a significant advantage.
