Smart doorbells are one of the most popular home tech upgrades—but the price tags can be intimidating. Luckily, if you have an old smartphone sitting around, you can repurpose it into a DIY smart doorbell that costs next to nothing and still delivers key features like motion detection, live video, and even two-way audio.
Here’s how to build your own budget smart doorbell using just your old phone, some free apps, and a bit of creative mounting.
Why Use an Old Phone?
Old smartphones come equipped with:
-
A built-in camera and microphone
-
Wi-Fi capability
-
A touchscreen interface
-
Power via USB
That’s basically all the hardware you need for a basic smart doorbell. Instead of buying a new device, you’re saving money and giving your tech a second life.
Step-by-Step: Turn Your Old Phone Into a Smart Doorbell
Step 1: Choose the Right App
Several free apps can turn your smartphone into a live-streaming, motion-detecting, two-way communication device.
Here are a few solid options:
AlfredCamera
-
Free version includes motion detection, live video, and two-way audio
-
Available on Android and iOS
-
Use one phone as the camera, another as the viewer
Manything (iOS only)
-
Offers motion detection and cloud recording
-
Simple setup and control from another phone
IP Webcam (Android only)
-
Turns your phone into an IP camera you can view from any browser
-
Highly customizable settings
-
Great for users who want more control
Presence
-
Cross-platform support
-
Motion detection with video alerts and remote live viewing
Choose the app that matches your phone’s operating system and your needs.
Step 2: Prepare the Phone
-
Perform a factory reset (optional but recommended)
-
Install your chosen app
-
Connect to your home Wi-Fi
-
Set the screen timeout to “never” or the longest duration
-
Disable all unnecessary notifications to avoid interruptions
-
Enable auto-start for the app if the phone supports it
Step 3: Mount the Phone Securely
Mounting is key. Your phone needs to be:
-
Stable
-
Facing your entryway
-
Sheltered from weather if outside
Mounting ideas:
-
Use a weatherproof phone case and mount it with adhesive strips or brackets
-
Place the phone behind a window near your front door
-
Mount it under a covered porch for rain protection
-
Consider a basic plastic enclosure with a cutout for the lens
If you’re placing it outdoors, make sure the phone is protected from heat, cold, and rain. You can also use an indoor setup if you have a window with a clear view of your front door.
Step 4: Power and Connectivity
Keep your old phone plugged in using a long USB cable and a power adapter. For best results, use a smart outlet or timer plug to reboot the phone daily to avoid app crashes or connection issues.
Step 5: Set Up Notifications and Viewing
Once everything is installed and in place:
-
Test motion detection
-
Set notification preferences
-
Check how the video looks in different lighting conditions
-
Make sure you can view the feed remotely on your current phone
With most apps, you’ll get a push notification when motion is detected. You can then view the video feed live or check a saved recording.
Add-On Upgrades (Still Budget-Friendly)
If you want to enhance your DIY smart doorbell:
-
Pair it with a smart speaker like Google Nest Hub to view the feed with voice commands
-
Add a smart light that turns on when motion is detected
-
Use IFTTT to automate actions when your phone detects movement
These extras are optional, but they bring your setup closer to a full smart home ecosystem.
Smart Security Without the Price Tag
With a little ingenuity and minimal investment, you can turn your unused smartphone into a smart doorbell that covers the basics: video, alerts, and even communication. It’s a great way to upgrade your home security without breaking the bank—or adding another pricey gadget to your ecosystem.
So before you buy that $200 doorbell camera, ask yourself: is there an old phone in your drawer ready for a second life?