How we rank products

Every ranking on this site is calculated, not hand-picked. Here is the whole method.

1. Specs come from the manufacturer

We enter only figures the manufacturer publishes and link the page we used under every product. If a figure isn't published we show "Not listed" instead of guessing.

2. Each spec is scaled from 0 to 1

Each criterion has a fixed reference range, from a "weakest reasonable" value to a "best in class" value (for example IP54 to IP67 for outdoor cameras). A product's figure is placed on that range and clamped between 0 and 1, so scores stay meaningful as products are added. Yes/no features count as 1 or 0. The ranges are listed below.

3. Weights decide what matters most

Each category lists its criteria and weights on the page. The score is the weighted average, multiplied by 10:

score = 10 × Σ(weight × scaled value) ÷ Σ(weight)

4. How missing data is scored

If a spec isn't published (for example an IP rating, which Ring doesn't publish for its cameras), the product scores at the lowest value any product in that category actually published, so an unpublished figure never outranks a published one. The page marks each such cell with an asterisk. Yes/no features that aren't stated count as no. Nothing is ever scored at the category average.

5. Prices and ratings switch on automatically

When our retailer feeds supply a current price or customer rating for at least 60% of products in a category, two more criteria join the formula: Price / value (20%) and Customer rating (15%, discounted when there are few reviews). Until then we show "Check price" and never estimate a price.

6. What the score can't tell you

Specs don't capture image quality in practice, app reliability, detection accuracy, Wi-Fi range or service. Battery life is each maker's own claim, measured in ways it chooses; we note the basis where it's stated. Resolution classes, security-rating tiers, counted power options and unit conversions (days to months) are labelled computed. Field of view is published as horizontal by some makers and diagonal by others; we use the figure given and note the basis, so compare like with like. ANSI/BHMA grades (1 to 3) and AAA-style letter ratings are different standards; we quote each maker's wording. We don't rank on subscription prices, but where a maker says a feature needs a paid plan, we quote it on the product. Use the score to shortlist, then read the pros, cons and sources. When we add hands-on testing notes, we label them clearly.

7. Money never changes the order

We earn affiliate commissions from some retailers. Commission rates are not an input to the formula, and no brand can pay for placement. See our affiliate disclosure.

Criteria by category

Video Doorbells

• Resolution class: 20% · range 1 → 3
• Field of view: 10% · range 130 → 180 °
• Color night vision: 15% · yes/no
• HDR: 5% · yes/no
• Local recording: 20% · yes/no
• Power options: 10% · range 1 → 3
• Weather rating (IP): 10% · range 54 → 66
• Battery life: 10% · range 2 → 6 months

Outdoor Security Cameras

• Resolution class: 20% · range 1 → 3
• Field of view: 10% · range 90 → 180 °
• Color night vision: 15% · yes/no
• HDR: 5% · yes/no
• Local recording: 15% · yes/no
• Power options: 10% · range 1 → 3
• Weather rating (IP): 10% · range 54 → 67
• Battery life: 5% · range 2 → 18 months
• Two-way audio: 5% · yes/no
• Built-in spotlight or floodlight: 5% · yes/no

Smart Locks

• Fingerprint reader: 15% · yes/no
• Keypad / access codes: 15% · yes/no
• NFC / wallet key: 10% · yes/no
• Wi-Fi without buying a bridge: 15% · yes/no
• Matter: 10% · yes/no
• Auto-lock: 10% · yes/no
• Security rating tier: 15% · range 1 → 3
• Battery life: 10% · range 3 → 12 months