There’s something reassuring about the classic “ding-dong” of a wired door chime. In a world full of smart devices and wireless gadgets, a traditional wired doorbell system stands out for its rock-solid reliability, consistent power, and the peace of mind it offers. You don’t have to worry about batteries dying or Wi-Fi signals dropping right when an important visitor arrives.
If you’re looking to upgrade your home’s entry notification or are setting up a new build, finding the best wired door chimes can make a real difference. They’re a fantastic blend of old-school dependability and modern aesthetic, fitting seamlessly into any home décor. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one?
We’ve done the legwork for you! We’ve rounded up five excellent wired doorbell chimes, from simple mechanical units to advanced video doorbells that integrate with your existing wiring. Let’s dive in and find the perfect chime unit for your front door (and back, too!).
1. Newhouse Hardware White 2-Note Wired Mechanical Door Bell
This Newhouse Hardware wired mechanical doorbell is a fantastic choice if you’re seeking a simple, reliable, and classic chime without any fuss. Its clean, unobtrusive white design means it’ll blend perfectly with almost any home improvement project, whether your style is modern or more traditional. It’s the ideal replacement for an aging system or a solid foundation for new construction, offering that familiar, comforting sound every time someone visits.
- MODERN & UNOBTRUSIVE: Clean white design enhances home improvement projects and works with both modern and traditional home décor styles.
- GREAT FOR REPLACEMENT OR NEW BUILDS: This door chime is ideal for upgrading older systems or finishing out new home construction. A reliable finishing touch for every home improvement project.
- 2 DISTINCT CHIME NOTES: Classic 2-note “ding-dong” for the front door and a 1-note “ding” for the back or side door. You’ll always know which entrance is being used with this wired doorbell chime. 85dB loudness.
- INSTALLATION: Includes mounting screws inside the cover. A 16V/10VA or 16V/30VA transformer, push button and bell wire (not included) will complete your wired doorbell system. For chime, transformer and push button kits, search for models CKIT1, CKIT1X, CKIT6, CKIT7 or CKIT8.
- TROUBLESHOOTING: See the “TROUBLESHOOTING” section below or visit our website for troubleshooting tips.
Pros:
– Classic, dependable mechanical sound
– Distinguishes between front and back/side doors
– Unobtrusive and versatile design
– Easy installation for a basic wired setup
– Good loudness at 85dB
Cons:
– Requires separate purchase of transformer, push button, and bell wire
– No advanced smart features
User Impressions: Customers love its straightforward functionality and clear sound. Many appreciate it as a reliable, no-frills replacement for older doorbell systems, praising its easy installation and classic “ding-dong” tone.
2. Ring Wired Doorbell Pro – Best-in-class with cutting-edge…
Alright, if you’re ready to bring your wired doorbell system into the 21st century, the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro is an absolute game-changer. While it’s a full-on video doorbell, it hardwires into your existing doorbell wiring, providing constant power and integrating with your internal chime if you wish. This isn’t just about hearing a chime; it’s about seeing, speaking, and protecting. With Head-to-Toe HD+ Video and advanced motion detection, you’ll know exactly what’s happening at your front door, even checking on package deliveries. It truly delivers peace of mind.
- Premium wired video doorbell with Head-to-Toe HD+ Video, Two-Way Talk with Audio+, 3D Motion Detection, built-in Alexa Greetings (an exclusive Ring Protect Plan subscription feature), and customizable privacy settings.
- See more of who stops by and check in on package deliveries down low with improved 1536p Head-to-Toe HD+ Video.
- Know when someone’s in your front yard with advanced motion settings and get more accurate real-time alerts in the Ring app.
- Pinpoint motion and distance with 3D Motion Detection and Bird’s Eye View, an aerial view to track motion around your home plus map out your detection to only get alerts about specific areas with Bird’s Eye Zones.
- Speak to visitors when you can’t get to the door with built-in Alexa Greetings, an exclusive feature with a Ring Protect Plan subscription.
- Hardwire Wired Doorbell Pro to your existing doorbell wiring and doorbell chime inside using the included tool kit for around-the-clock power and peace of mind.
- With a Ring Protect Plan (subscription sold separately), record all your videos, review what you missed for up to 180 days, and share videos and photos.
- Pair with select Alexa-enabled devices to enable announcements and two-way talk for convenient in-home monitoring. With a Ring Protect plan (subscription sold separately), Alexa can also make voice announcements and automatically show live video feed on an Echo Show, Fire TV, or Fire Tablet when your Ring doorbell detects a person or package.
Pros:
– Exceptional video quality (1536p HD+ with head-to-toe view)
– Advanced motion detection (3D Motion, Bird’s Eye View)
– Two-Way Talk with Audio+
– Integrates with existing wired doorbell chimes for a traditional alert
– Alexa Greetings for automated responses
– Constant power means no battery worries
– Comprehensive smart home integration
Cons:
– Requires a Ring Protect Plan for full features (video recording, Alexa Greetings)
– Higher price point than basic chimes
– Installation might be more complex for some due to smart features
User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the clear video, advanced motion sensing, and how it dramatically boosts home security. The ability to hardwire it means constant power, which is a huge plus for reliability, even if a subscription is needed to unlock its full potential.
3. Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door Chime, White
Another strong contender from Newhouse Hardware, the CHM2 offers that classic “ding-dong” experience in a sleek, modern package. This chime unit is designed for simple integration into your existing doorbell system, providing distinct sounds for your front door and a secondary entrance. Its smooth white finish and vented cover aren’t just for looks; they help the sound carry beautifully throughout your home. It’s a reliable choice for those who appreciate straightforward functionality and clean design.
- TWO SOUNDS: Classic two-note “Ding Dong” sound for the front door button and has an additional connection with a separate “Dong” for the rear or side door.
- DIMENSIONS: Cover: 9” W x 5” L Base: 7-1/8” W x 4-5/8” L
- COMPATIBILITY: Use with a 16-volt/10 VA or 16-volt/15 VA transformer (not included) when connecting to a regular doorbell. Search “16TR” or “3TRAN” for a compatible transformer.
- QUALITY: Doorbell chime maintains a smooth white modern finish and vented cover to allow the sound to carry better. Easy to install to your doorbell button and doorbell transformer. 2 year limited warranty.
- PLEASE NOTE: This item does not include the doorbell button or the transformer. Search “CKIT2” for a door chime, transformer and door button set.
Pros:
– Clear, classic two-note and one-note sounds
– Modern, smooth white finish
– Vented cover for improved sound projection
– Easy to install for a basic wired setup
– 2-year limited warranty
Cons:
– Transformer and doorbell button not included
– No smart features or video
– Requires 16-volt transformer, common but something to check
User Impressions: Customers frequently commend its clear sound and the ability to differentiate between doors. It’s often chosen for its clean look and straightforward installation, proving to be a reliable and aesthetically pleasing choice for a wired doorbell.
4. Newhouse Hardware CHM3D Door Chime, White
The Newhouse Hardware CHM3D offers another excellent option for a classic wired door chime, distinguishing itself with a slightly different aesthetic and troubleshooting insights. Like its siblings, it provides the familiar two-note “ding-dong” for the front door and a single “dong” for a secondary entrance, ensuring you always know where your visitor is. Its textured white finish provides a subtle design touch, making it a stylish yet functional addition to your home’s entry system. This model also thoughtfully addresses potential compatibility questions, even mentioning video doorbells.
- TWO SOUNDS: Classic two-note “Ding Dong” sound for the front door button and has an additional connection with a separate “Dong” for the rear or side door.
- DIMENSIONS: Cover: 8. 25” L x 5. 5” W Base: 6. 63” L x 4. 75” W
- COMPATIBILITY: Use with a 16-volt/10 VA or 16-volt/15 VA transformer (not included) when connecting to a regular doorbell. Search “16TR” or “3TRAN” for a compatible transformer.
- QUALITY: Doorbell chime maintains a textured white modern finish. Easy to install to your doorbell button and doorbell transformer. Backed by a 2-year limited warranty.
- PLEASE NOTE: If you would like to hear the sounds of the chime, please see the video that is with the images on the left hand side of this item page.
- PLEASE NOTE: Customers have mentioned that our wired chimes such as this one work with video doorbells such as ring, but we cannot guarantee this.
- PLEASE NOTE: If the chime is not working properly, the issue may or may not be with the chime. The issue could be with the doorbell button, transformer or the wiring. There are troubleshooting steps in the manual as well as on our website.
Pros:
– Classic two-note and one-note sounds
– Textured white modern finish
– Easy installation with existing doorbell wiring
– 2-year limited warranty
– Helpful notes on compatibility (e.g., with video doorbells) and troubleshooting guidance
Cons:
– Transformer and doorbell button not included
– No smart features
– Compatibility with video doorbells is mentioned but not guaranteed
User Impressions: Users appreciate the clear, distinct chime tones and the slightly textured finish that adds a touch of elegance. The clear troubleshooting tips and acknowledgment of video doorbell compatibility are also seen as valuable additions, making installation and problem-solving easier.
5. Craftmade CTPW-W Designer Pewter Tubes Door Chime, White…
For those who want to blend classic functionality with a touch of designer flair, the Craftmade CTPW-W is an excellent choice among the best wired door chimes. This unit moves beyond the typical box design, featuring attractive pewter tubes that not only look sophisticated but also produce a beautiful, resonant sound. It’s a statement piece that doubles as a reliable wired doorbell, ensuring your home greets visitors with both style and clear audio. Perfect for adding a bit of elegance to your entryway.
- DESIGNER CHIME DIMENSIONS: 8.38″ High x 7″ Wide x 2.25″ Long, Weight 1.98lbs
- SOUND: 2 Notes on Front Door, 1 Note on Second Door
- INSTALLATION: Vertical Hanging Position; Must Use at Least 18 Gauge Wire Everywhere (from Button to Chime, Transformer to Chime, and Chime to Chime if Wiring More than One), and Must Use a 16 Volt Transformer, UL Approved for INDOOR Locations
- DETAILS: White Finish
Pros:
– Unique designer aesthetic with pewter tubes
– Classic 2-note/1-note sound distinction
– Produces a resonant, pleasant chime sound
– UL Approved for indoor use, ensuring safety
– Adds a touch of elegance to any décor
Cons:
– Specific wiring requirements (18 gauge wire, 16V transformer)
– Might be larger than basic box chimes
– No smart features
User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight the beautiful, resonant sound produced by the tubes, saying it sounds much richer than typical chimes. The elegant design is also a major draw, making it a favorite for those who want their doorbell to be a decorative element.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Wired Door Chimes
Q1: Why should I choose a wired door chime over a wireless one?
A: Wired door chimes offer unparalleled reliability because they draw constant power from your home’s electrical system, meaning no batteries to change and no dropped signals. They’re typically more durable and offer a classic, consistent sound that many homeowners prefer. They’re also less susceptible to interference from other wireless devices.
Q2: Do wired door chimes require a transformer?
A: Yes, almost all wired door chimes require a low-voltage transformer to step down your home’s main electrical power (usually 120V) to a safe voltage (typically 16V) for the chime unit and doorbell button. The transformer is usually installed near your breaker box or in a utility closet.
Q3: Can I use a smart video doorbell (like Ring) with my existing wired chime?
A: Many smart video doorbells are designed to integrate with your existing wired doorbell system and use your home’s traditional chime. Products like the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro explicitly state they can be hardwired and used with your existing chime. However, always check the specific product’s compatibility before purchasing.
Q4: How do I troubleshoot if my wired door chime isn’t working?
A: Start by checking the basics:
* Power: Is the circuit breaker to your transformer on?
* Transformer: Is the transformer working? You can test its voltage with a multimeter.
* Wiring: Check for any loose or broken wires at the chime, button, and transformer.
* Doorbell Button: The button itself can go bad. Try bypassing it by touching the two wires together at the button; if the chime rings, the button is faulty.
* Chime Unit: If all else fails, the chime unit itself might be defective.
Q5: Is it difficult to install a wired door chime?
A: For a basic wired chime, installation is generally straightforward if you have existing wiring. It involves connecting low-voltage wires from your transformer to the chime unit and the doorbell button. If you’re replacing an old chime, it’s often a simple swap. However, if you’re installing a completely new system or dealing with complex smart features, professional installation might be advisable. Always turn off power at the breaker before working with wiring.
Q6: What’s the difference between a 1-note and a 2-note chime?
A: A 1-note chime produces a single “ding” sound. A 2-note chime typically produces a “ding-dong” sound. Many wired door chimes offer connections for multiple doors, providing a distinct 2-note sound for the front door and a 1-note sound for a back or side door. This way, you instantly know which entrance your visitor is at without having to check.
Q7: Can I replace a wired chime with a wireless one without rewiring?
A: Yes, you can. You would simply disconnect the old wired chime and either cap off the wires or install a resistor to complete the circuit if your doorbell button requires it. Then, you’d install the wireless doorbell system independently. However, you’d lose the reliability of a continuously powered system.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the best wired door chimes really comes down to balancing classic reliability with the features you need. Whether you’re a fan of the simple, satisfying “ding-dong” of a mechanical chime or you’re ready to embrace the advanced security of a wired video doorbell, there’s a perfect option out there for your home. These five picks offer a great starting point, combining quality, design, and dependability. Invest in a wired chime today for consistent alerts and a touch of traditional charm that truly stands the test of time!