Wyze Video Doorbell v2 (WVDWDV2), wired, with Chime Controller

Wired only, with a Chime Controller in the box

The listing's item model number is WVDWDV2, which matches the SKU Wyze uses for the Wyze Video Doorbell v2 sold as Doorbell + Chime Controller. Wyze's FAQ says plainly that the v2 is hardwired and does not use batteries, and the listing title adds that existing doorbell wiring is required.

Wyze's box list and Quick Start Guide agree: the doorbell, a Wyze Doorbell Chime Controller, a wall plate, a 30 degree wedge, three wire caps, two extension wires, two long and two short screws, two wall anchors and the guide. Wyze's FAQ says the v2 does not come with a chime; the controller works with your existing in-house chime.

The Quick Start Guide says the Chime Controller must be installed before the doorbell is used, and that failing to install it may void the warranty. Wyze's FAQ recommends installing it even when the in-house chime is broken.

Power: 16-24V AC, and why 16V 10VA is marginal

Wyze and the listing both give the power requirement as 16 to 24V AC at 10VA or more. Wyze's setup guide says an existing wired mechanical doorbell is required, with a circuit of at least 16 to 24V and 10VA output, and that an existing in-house mechanical chime is also required, though it does not have to work.

Wyze adds its own caution: a 16V 10VA transformer sits at the low end of the supported range, and wire age and wiring conditions can affect how well it powers the doorbell or rings the chime. Wyze asks you to check your transformer and wiring before buying.

The Quick Start Guide says the micro USB port on the back of the doorbell should not be used as a power source, and that removing that port's rubber cover may void the warranty.

Chimes Wyze says will not work

Wyze's chime compatibility check lists several setups as not compatible. A battery-powered chime will not work. Wyze also rules out integrated chime systems with a 110V input, and warns not to alter such a system without a licence or permit.

Chime terminals labelled Computer or COM point to a chip-controlled chime, which Wyze also rules out. So are chimes that strike repeatedly over a long ring. Wyze says the v2 works with most mechanical chimes but that some custom, vintage and high-end kits may not be compatible.

For owners of the original Wyze Video Doorbell, Wyze's FAQ says to remove the old device and its fuse wire before installing the v2, or the chime may not ring. The original Wyze Chime does not work with the v2.

Video, recording and what needs Cam Plus

Wyze's tech specs give 2K at 2048 by 1536, 20 frames per second by day and 15 at night, and a field of view of 135 degrees horizontal, 103 vertical and 166.8 diagonal, from a 1/2.8 inch starlight sensor with six 940nm infrared lights. Wyze says the wired power allows three to six seconds of pre-roll on motion events.

A microSD slot takes cards up to 256GB in FAT32 for 24/7 continuous local recording; the card is sold separately. Without a subscription, Wyze's FAQ says the doorbell saves 12-second clips on a button press and snapshots for other events. Full-length event videos and the voice prompt need Cam Plus or Cam Protect, per Wyze's product page.

Wi-Fi, weather and mounting

Wyze lists Wi-Fi as 2.4GHz 802.11 b/g/n only, and its setup guide has you select a 2.4 GHz network. Phone support is Android 9.0 or later and iOS 15.0 or later. Integrations named are Alexa, Google Assistant and IFTTT.

Wyze gives an IP65 weather rating and an operating range of -4 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. Wyze recommends mounting about 4.3 feet, or 1.2 metres, from the ground, and says the back plate screw slots are about 3 inches apart centre to centre with roughly half an inch of tolerance.

Wyze lists the body as 4.3 by 1.7 by 0.9 inches. The listing's product dimensions read 2.9 by 1.4 by 4.7 inches, a different set of figures; use Wyze's measurement when checking the space beside your door.

Installation and warranty

The Quick Start Guide says installation needs basic electrical wiring knowledge, that outside North America it must be done by a licensed electrician, and that you should consult an electrician if local codes prohibit self-installation or you are uncomfortable with wiring. It also says to turn off power first; follow the guide itself or an electrician for the wiring.

The Quick Start Guide and Wyze's tech specs give a one-year limited warranty. Wyze's product page says buying on wyze.com adds an 18-month extended warranty, which applies to that store rather than this listing. The warranty conditions noted above, fitting the Chime Controller and leaving the USB port cover on, are worth keeping in mind.