10 Best Doorbell Chimes

54.67% of users selected Ring Chime, 33.33% selected NuTone LA11WH, 2.67% selected GE Wireless Doorbell, 6.67% selected NuTone LA126WH and 2.67% selected Heath Zenith SL-2735. Every month we analyze your answers and change our rating.

What is a doorbell chime? A small, hand-held device that emits sound from musical notes or prerecorded messages [1]. When someone presses your doorbell button outside of the house, it triggers a switch to send an electrical current through the wire and out to the chime inside. 

The best part about having a doorbell chime? You have options! Doorbells come in different styles – wired or wireless – and each offers their own pros and cons depending on what you need for your home setup. Unbelievably, easy installation with no wiring required makes this product great if you’re looking for simplicity as well as affordability (wireless) but remember, there are still low-cost models that require basic wiring skills too.

There are many benefits of having a doorbell chime in your home:

• Knowing when someone is at your door without having to constantly check, which can save you time and energy;
• Hearing the doorbell from any room in your house, so you can answer it quickly no matter where you are;
• Being alerted if there is an unexpected visitor or intruder at your door;
• Having a sense of security and peace of mind knowing that you will be alerted anytime someone is at your door;

It’s that time of year when many people start to think about their home and what they want to do in it. One important question is – “What type of doorbell chime should I get? With so many different types on the market?” – it can be hard to know which one will best suit your needs. That’s why home design and security experts created this guide. 

Below you’ll find a list of 5 options, along with pros and cons for each, as well as answers to some common questions like “What does a doorbell chime do?”

Ring Chime Wi-Fi-Enabled Speaker

Plug this Ring Chime into any standard power outlet and get instant alerts anywhere in your home. It’s that easy.

Ring Chime is compatible with Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Pro, and Stick Up Cam, so you can keep an eye on your home from anywhere. With the free Ring app, you can adjust the volume directly from your phone. In addition, if you need to take a break from all the alerts, just enable Do Not Disturb mode.

The Ring Chime Wi-Fi-Enabled Speaker is a great way to get alerts anywhere in your home. It’s easy to set up and compatible with Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Pro, and Stick Up Cam. Plus, you can adjust the volume directly from the free Ring app.

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Broan-NuTone LA11WH Door Chime

The chime also wires to a 16V transformer, so you don’t have to worry about changing batteries. It’s the perfect size for any home, and it has a timeless white textured finish that will match any decor. The ideal size for any home, this wired door chime measures 2.38 x 8.13 x 5.5 inches.

This wired doorbell features two chimes – one for the front door and one for the back/second door – so you’ll always know which visitor is at your home. The white receiver has also a timeless textured finish.

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GE Wireless Doorbell Kit

Choose from four different volume options and eight different melodies to find the perfect sound for your home. This kit comes with a 150-foot range receiver and two push buttons that use CR2032 batteries. Installation is easy, so you can get started right away.

Plus, with eight different melodies to choose from, you’re sure to find one that suits your taste. Installation is easy – just screw the pushbuttons into place and you’re ready to go!

With this GE Wireless Doorbell Kit, you can easily install a new doorbell in minutes. There’s no need to run wires! The system features four different volume options and eight different melodies, so you can find the perfect sound for your home. Plus, the stylish satin nickel design will complement any decor.

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Heath Zenith SL-2735 35/M Wired Door Chime

The white receiver features a timeless textured finish that will match any decor, while the plug-in door chime measures 2.25 x 8 x 6 inches. The chime wires to a 16V transformer for the uninterrupted service and to remove the worry of batteries dying.

The white receiver features a timeless textured finish that will match any decor, while the plug-in door chime measures 2.25 x 8 x 6 inches. The chime wires to a 16V transformer for the uninterrupted service and to remove the worry of batteries dying.

This Broan-NuTone doorbell chime is perfect for a large home. It has two chimes and a timeless white textured finish. Plus, it’s budget-friendly!

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Broan-NuTone LA126WH Doorbell Chime

The two-note melody lets your guests know when they’ve reached the front entrance, while the one-note melody indicates the rear entrance. With a one-year warranty, the SL-2735 chime is sure to give you years of enjoyment.

Ring, ring! Is someone at your door? With the Heath Zenith SL-2735 35/M Wired Door Chime, you’ll never have to guess again. This sleek, modern door chime features a white finish molded cover and two-note melodies – one for the front entrance and one for the rear.

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The Buyer’s Guide

Main Features:

Wired vs. Wireless Design

1) Wired doorbells offer a more reliable connection and are less susceptible to interference than wireless models. However, they also require professional installation. Also, wired doorbell chimes are often more expensive than wireless doorbells. On the other hand, a wireless design is generally less expensive and easier to install. However, they may experience some interference from household appliances or electronic devices such as microwaves and cordless phones. 

According to best speakers for metal review, if your home doesn’t already have wired speakers installed on its walls (or you don’t want to deal with wiring), then a wireless model will be the right choice for you.

2) Wireless doorbells are easier to install but can experience interference from other electronic devices in your home. Wireless doorbells are also more portable. Wireless doorbells are easier to install, but may not be as reliable. They can also be more susceptible to interference from other electronic devices in your home. 

For most homes that are newly built or recently renovated, we recommend purchasing a wireless system – especially since it’s usually cheaper!

Both wired and wireless models typically come with a range of up to 100 feet, so you should be able to cover most of your home’s exterior with the signal.

The best way to choose between wired and wireless is to consider how easy you think it will be to install the doorbell and whether you need a more reliable connection.

If you have an existing wired system, it might make sense to stick with that and use a wireless chime extender instead. This will give you all the benefits of a wireless model without having to do any rewiring.

Installation

Before anything else, it is important to know if you need a hard-wired doorbell chime or not. Most people would think that the installation of a wireless one will be easier but this isn’t actually true. Those who already have an existing wired system for their front doors should opt first for a plug-and-play type because they are typically compatible with other systems out there.  If you don’t have one, it is best to install a hard-wired doorbell chime.

The next question that you might ask yourself is where to place your new doorbell chime. The answer really depends on the type of chime that you will be getting and how much space you have in your home. 

For example, if you are using a wireless plug-and-play system, then all you need to do is find an outlet near your front door and plug it in. 

However, if you are getting a traditional wired model, then the process becomes more complicated because there are many different types of bells with different shapes and sizes. You will also need to determine the height of the bell so that people can hear it when they are outside.

Smart Technology

When it comes to the best doorbell chime, there are many options. There is such a wide range of prices and features when you start looking for your new doorbell system:

Another very important feature that can be found in both types of chimes is sound customization. You should know before purchasing an expensive device if its hardware will let you modify how loud or quiet it rings — especially depending on where in your home the speaker sits. If not, then this may also mean that any future modifications won’t work as well as they could with correct installation either. 

Adjusting the volume so that you can hear it ringing from anywhere in your home is a huge bonus.

Many people are turning to smart doorbells as their go-to choice for security reasons. These devices come equipped with cameras that allow you to see and speak with the person at your door, whether you’re home or not. If you have packages delivered, this would give you the peace of mind of knowing who left them on your porch and being able to ask them to leave them there next time. 

Power Source

Both wired and wireless models can be battery-powered or plugged into an electrical outlet.

Battery-operated doorbells usually have a shorter operating life than those that are plugged in.

Some doorbells come with a built-in transformer, which eliminates the need for a separate transformer box. If you’re replacing an existing wired doorbell, make sure the new model has a built-in transformer, too.

Wired doorbells are powered by low voltage so there’s no risk of shock. 

If the only problem is a broken chime or ringer, you may be able to fix it without replacing the entire system. Doorbell transformers can fail and require replacement in some cases.

For example, if your wired doorbell isn’t working even though its transformer has a power supply, try swapping out that component first before buying an entirely new one. Replacing a transformer is often less expensive than installing a complete wireless unit — and can solve many wiring issues at once rather than requiring multiple fixes for various components on different circuits throughout the home. 

When shopping for smart locks, make sure they work with other brands’ existing systems, not just the company that manufactured them.

One downside to these newest generations is their lack of compatibility across different brands in terms of installation and usage. Make sure before you buy one that it will work properly with your current setup. 

Range

Most doorbells have an operating range of around 50-100 feet [2]. However, factors like the construction of your home and the materials used in your wiring can affect this range. 

If your front door is far away from any of your rooms, then you should opt for a loud and long-range doorbell to make sure that they can hear it in all areas of your home. Also, consider where trees or tall buildings may be blocking the sound if they will not let it reach every area in which someone might need to use it. 

To ensure that everyone at home hears the ring tone of your newly installed bell, try installing several different chimes throughout your property until they all emit clear tones without any muffling sounds caused by furniture or walls.

Similarly, if many walls separate different rooms in your home – like with apartments that share common wall space – then consider buying a more powerful wireless model instead of one that has wires attached between each chime unit. This will allow you to place even more bells around for better coverage throughout areas separated by brick or drywall without having any risk of them not producing clear tones due to dead spots within their signal range (like when they cannot transmit across gaps).

Materials

You should also consider the materials in your home when buying a doorbell. For example, traditional brass or copper wiring can offer poor conductivity for electrical signals – meaning that it may not be able to transmit across distances as well as modern metal wiring. 

If you have a solid copper doorbell and your house is very large or rugged, then it may be best to install an electrical wire all the way from the front of your home to wherever you want people inside to hear.

The Noise Level

One of the most important considerations when selecting a doorbell chime is the noise level. You don’t want a bell that is so loud it will wake up the baby or disturb your guests, but you also need one that is audible from outside. Most doorbells have adjustable volume levels, so be sure to test out different settings before making your final decision.

The height of the sound and its tone are also factors to consider when choosing a doorbell chime. Some people prefer a high-pitched ding-dong while others might find that too jarring. There are many different sounds to choose from, so take some time to listen to them all before deciding on which one is right for you.

For homes with multiple floors, you will need to buy one that has an adjustable volume control. This is because sound travels upwards more easily than downwards – so if you are standing on the ground floor and someone presses their chime from above, then it might be difficult to hear them clearly.

Sound Options

Doorbell chimes come with a variety of sounds, including classic melodies, animal noises, and modern tones. Some models even allow you to create custom sound combinations. 

Some doorbells come with different sounds that can be used to indicate the type of visitor at your front door – for example, a standard door chime might sound like a single note, while a more modern digital model could emit various bird songs, melodies, or even voice recordings. 

If you have pets in your home and are constantly being interrupted by their barks or meows when someone rings the bell, then you may want to look for an animal-friendly chime that will not disturb them as much. Several models on the market feature low-pitched tones that are gentle on animals’ hearing but still audible enough for people to hear from inside the house. 

Additional Features:

• • LCD screen. Many doorbells come with backlit LCD screens that show the visitor’s name, number, or picture. This can be especially helpful if you have a lot of guests and want to know who is at your front door without having to go downstairs;
  • Remote control. Some models even allow you to answer the door remotely from your phone or computer – so if you are out of town or busy in another part of the house, you can still greet your guests in person;
  • Motion sensors. Some doorbells come with motion sensors that will trigger an alert on your phone whenever someone approaches your home. This can be a great way to keep an eye on things when you’re away and make sure no one is trying to break in;
  • Battery backup. If the power goes out, then you don’t want to be stuck without a working doorbell just because it needs electricity. Look for models that come with battery backups so they will operate even in the event of an outage;
  • Night light. Some doorbells come with a night light that will turn on whenever someone rings the bell, making it much easier to see who is outside in the dark.

A doorbell is an electrical device, after all, which means that it will require a certain minimum voltage to send out its signal. If your home uses non-conductive metals for wiring then the sound may not be able to travel through them as well without any risk of damage due to excess heat or electricity input. 

Door chimes are also susceptible to interference from other wireless devices. For example, most homes now use Wi-Fi routers and cordless phones – both of which emit radio waves in similar ranges as common doorbells. 

This can cause major problems with being unable to hear the ring tone if they occur within range because their signals could effectively drown yours out by overwhelming them with static noise. 

To combat this issue, look for a doorbell chime that uses its own separate signal network. For example, some models use Bluetooth technology to connect their ring tones directly with your phone instead of using other wireless signals like Wi-Fi or radio waves. This will ensure that they do not interfere with any existing connections within your home and allow them to send out clear tones without lag time between the presses of the bell button outside and when you actually hear it inside.

Table: Comparison of Doorbell Chime Indicators

This table compares various indicators of doorbell chimes, including voltage, sound volume, number of chime tones, and dimensions.

Indicator	Description	Range
Voltage	The electrical voltage required to power the doorbell chime.	16V – 24V
Sound Volume	The loudness of the doorbell chime’s sound.	75 dB – 95 dB
Number of Chime Tones	The number of different chime tones available on the doorbell chime.	2 – 10
Dimensions	The physical size of the doorbell chime.	2″ x 4″ x 1″ – 6″ x 8″ x 2″

This table provides a comparison of the most important indicators to consider when choosing a doorbell chime. The voltage range is important to ensure that the doorbell chime can be powered by your existing wiring. The sound volume is a personal preference but should be loud enough to be heard throughout your home. The number of chime tones provides variety and allows you to choose a tone that suits your style. Finally, the dimensions of the doorbell chime will be important if you have limited space for installation.

FAQ

What is a doorbell chime?

A doorbell chime, also known as a push button or buzzer, is the part of your home’s entry system that helps alert everyone in the household when someone has pressed or rung the bell. These components are typically installed on a wall near an outside entrance and can be activated from inside by pressing either a switch located above it or simply pushing down on its top.

Chimes for homes come in two different types – digital and mechanical. Digital chimes tend to operate more quietly than their traditional counterparts since they don’t use gears. 

However, they sometimes use more electricity than mechanical chimes. The last type of doorbell chime is the one that uses sound waves to alert those inside your home that someone has rung the bell or pushed it.

However, because there isn’t any physical movement with this type of mechanism, you will need to purchase new batteries every so often instead of winding them like you would with a mechanical chime. 

Which is the best doorbell chime?

The best doorbell chimes are not one-size-fits-all. It depends on your needs and taste. The different options can be overwhelming (and confusing), but when you break down each product, there is usually a single feature that stands out above the rest in terms of quality or design. Take into consideration features like price point, ease of installation, warranty length, and customer service availability before making your decision to purchase any particular model.

Do you need Wi-Fi for a wireless doorbell?

No, you do not need Wi-Fi for a wireless doorbell. They work on battery power and can last up to two years depending on the type of batteries used, so if your home already has one that works just fine!

I have an apartment with no outside electricity near my front door. Can I use a doorbell chime?

It depends. Some models are slightly larger than others because they require more battery power to amplify sound at longer distances from the chime unit itself. If you think it will fit without overcrowding your existing door hardware then yes!

You may want to measure first though. Mounting options vary by model but make sure you check before you buy! 

The most popular way to mount doorbell chimes is with the included adhesive strip, which can be used on most surfaces. If you don’t want any holes drilled in your exterior walls (or just aren’t handy), many models also come with a keyhole mounting plate that can easily be screwed into place.

Do video doorbells work with other smart-home devices?

Video doorbells are available as add-on components in many home security systems, but they generally don’t operate on their own and must be linked to a system hub. However, they usually communicate with other system elements such as doors, alarms, and lights [3].

Most video doorbells work with Amazon’s Echo and Google’s Home smart speakers. These devices can be used to arm and disarm the security system, turn on lights, open garage doors, and more.

Some doorbell cameras also have a two-way talk feature that allows you to speak with the person at your door without being there. This is a great feature for those who want to keep an eye on their property while they’re away orjust check in on their kids or pet.

Can smart doorbells be hacked?

For hackers, smart doorbells with the wrong security may provide a means of breaking into your home network [4]. However, if you have a smart doorbell with the right security features enabled, it will be difficult for hackers to gain access.  Follow the instructions that come with your smart doorbell to ensure you are using the right security settings.

If you have a Ring Video Doorbell, for example, make sure to enable Two-Factor Authentication (TFA) in order to protect your account from unauthorized access. TFA requires an additional verification step after username and password login. This can be done by either receiving a text message or a phone call with a one-time code.

Another good way to protect your home network is by using a strong Wi-Fi password. The longer and more complex your password is, the harder it will be for hackers to guess it.

What is the loudest doorbell chime?

Craftmade CL-DW Designer Loud 2 Note Door Chime for Larger Homes is one of the loudest doorbell chimes with about 80 dB of noise level [5].   It features a high-quality, heavy-gauge steel construction which will ensure durability and strength even in larger homes. It is easy to install as well so it can be mounted on the wall or ceiling within minutes.

In addition, you have the option to choose from 30 different melodies for your front porch bell chime making this one versatile choice that will fit into any type of home decor. Also, because its installation doesn’t require wiring makes it is ideal for anyone looking for a do-it-yourself project!

How do I make my doorbell louder?

If you’re looking for a louder doorbell, there are a few options available to you. You can purchase a louder doorbell chime, or if your current doorbell is battery-operated, you can buy an external battery pack to increase the volume.

Another option is to install a wired doorbell instead of using batteries. Wired doorbells usually have a higher sound output than their battery-operated counterparts. However, they also require professional installation, which can add to the cost.

Finally, another way to make your doorbell louder is by adding an amplifier to it. This will amplify the sound of your existing chime and could be a good solution if you don’t want to replace your entire system.

Is there a video doorbell that can record?

Yes, there are several doors chimes with camera features. The SimpliSafe Video Doorbell comes equipped with an HD camera and will send notifications to your phone whenever motion is detected near the door. There’s also the Ring Video Doorbell which works in conjunction with his own app on your smartphone. 

Basically, any of the wireless home security systems that have built-in cameras could be used as surveillance devices for your front or back door and may even include some form of notification when someone rings it. However, those who live in apartment buildings might not want their neighbors seeing them come and go so you’ll need to think about how visible these units would be from outside before purchasing one.

What is a doorbell transformer?

The transformer is a metal box with two terminals that are connected to the doorbell wires. It converts the typical household voltage of 110 to 120 volts to approximately 10 to 24 volts. This ensures that doorbells operate at the proper voltage level for optimum performance [6]. 

If your transformer isn’t working, you might need to replace it. You can purchase a new transformer at most home improvement stores or online.

Before replacing the transformer, however, make sure that there’s not another problem causing the doorbell not to ring. For example, if the wires are loose or disconnected from the chime, this will prevent the bell from ringing even if you have a functioning transformer. 

Replacing a doorbell transformer is a simple task and can be done by any homeowner without too much difficulty. Just make sure that you turn off the power to the house before starting!

How many decibels should a doorbell be?

The dB level of a doorbell is typically 70. Extra loud versions with levels of 80 or 90 are also available. This is especially valuable for individuals who are hard of hearing or live in apartments where the bell is situated at a great distance from their homes [7]. 

The volume of the doorbell chime is an important consideration, as you don’t want to miss visitors or deliveries just because your doorbell is too quiet. If your home’s architecture or layout creates unique sound problems (e.g., echoes), then you might need a louder-than-average doorbell.

Some people might prefer a softer ringing tone while others might like something with more of a “ding-dong” sound. There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to finding the best doorbell chime for your needs.

How long should the batteries last?

This depends on both how often they’re used and what kind of battery life you need them to have. If certain family members forget to shut off their bells when leaving home, then this could lead to more frequent bell ringing than usual. This means a shorter usage time between changes. Also, remember that sometimes the chime can be heard throughout the house even when the door is not being used, so if this is an important factor to you then choose a model with long battery life.

What kind of voltage does a doorbell need?

Most doorbells run on low-voltage wiring (typically 12 volts). This means that they can safely be installed without needing an electrician and are compatible with most home security systems. 

However, some models do require hardwiring into your home’s electrical system. If you’re not sure whether or not your current setup can accommodate a new doorbell, consult with a professional before making your purchase.

Do people steal Ring doorbells?

Ring doorbells are a great way to see who is at your door, whether you’re home or not. However, because they are visible from the street, some people may be tempted to steal them. Ring does have security features in place that make it difficult for someone to steal your ring, but there is always a risk. 

Make sure you have a strong password and enable two-factor authentication so that only you can access your account. If your ring is stolen, report it to the police and Ring immediately. They should be able to help track down your device [8].

Can I add a second doorbell chime?

Yes, you can add an additional chime to your system. This will allow you to have different sounds for each doorbell or use the same sound for both. You can also choose to have the chime ring once or twice for each press of the button.

If you want to add an extra chime, but don’t want to purchase another one, there are many DIY options available as well. You can buy an additional bell and connect it yourself, or even use a kitchen timer or other device that makes noise as your new chime.

Do doorbells take batteries?

Most doorbells do not require batteries. If your doorbell runs on batteries, you will need to replace them from time to time. For example, the Ring Video Doorbell does not require batteries, as it gets its power from your home’s existing doorbell wiring. 

Consider buying one of the wireless doorbell chimes. Wireless doorbells operate like wireless speakers; they work by sending sound signals through radio waves (not including Wi-Fi). You can mount them anywhere without having to run wires through walls or ceilings. Solar-powered chimes is also a new option on the market powered entirely by solar energy, meaning you never have to change your batteries.

How can I make my doorbell chime quieter?

If you’re looking for a doorbell chime that is a little quieter, there are a few options to consider. The first option would be to purchase a plug-in doorbell chime rather than one that runs on batteries. This will help to reduce the sound level emitted from the chime. 

Another option would be to look for a digital doorbell chime. These tend to emit less sound than traditional mechanical doorbells.

Finally, if you already have a mechanical or digital doorbell chime and find that it’s too loud, there are ways to quiet it down. One way is to purchase an acoustic foam kit and attach it to the inside of your bell housing. This will help muffle the sound of the chime.

What are the different types of doorbell chimes?

There are several types of doorbell chimes available, including mechanical chimes, electronic chimes, and wireless chimes. Mechanical chimes use physical bells and hammers to create a traditional sound, while electronic chimes use speakers to play recorded sounds. Wireless chimes connect to your existing doorbell system and can be controlled through a mobile app or other smart home devices.

How do I install a doorbell chime?

The process for installing a doorbell chime can vary depending on the type of chime and your existing doorbell system. Generally, you will need to turn off the power to your doorbell, remove the old chime, and attach the new chime to the wiring. You may also need to program the chime to work with your doorbell button or connect it to your Wi-Fi network if it is a smart chime. It is recommended to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or hire a professional electrician to ensure proper installation.

Can a doorbell chime be customized?

Yes, many doorbell chimes offer customizable options, such as different sound options, volume control, and the ability to upload your own sounds or songs. Some smart doorbell chimes also allow you to customize notifications and settings through a mobile app.

Do I need a wired doorbell system for a doorbell chime?

No, there are wireless doorbell chimes available that do not require a wired system. These chimes use batteries or can be plugged into an outlet and communicate with the doorbell button through a wireless signal.

How do I troubleshoot a doorbell chime that is not working?

If your doorbell chime is not working, there could be several reasons why. First, check the power source and make sure the chime is properly connected to the wiring. If the wiring is correct, try replacing the batteries or resetting the chime. If these steps do not work, there may be a problem with the doorbell button or transformer, and it may be necessary to consult a professional electrician.

Can a doorbell chime be used with a smart home system?

Yes, many doorbell chimes are compatible with smart home systems, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. These chimes can be controlled through voice commands or mobile apps and may offer additional features, such as video monitoring or motion detection.

How do I adjust the volume of a doorbell chime?

The method for adjusting the volume of a doorbell chime can vary depending on the type of chime. Mechanical chimes usually have a volume control knob on the back or side of the unit. Electronic chimes may have a volume control button or switch. Smart chimes can be adjusted through a mobile app or voice command. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific instructions.

What is the range of a wireless doorbell chime?

The range of a wireless doorbell chime can vary depending on the model and environment. Generally, most wireless chimes have a range of 100-150 feet, but this can be affected by walls, obstacles, and other wireless signals in the area. It is important to consider the range when choosing a wireless chime and ensure it will work for your specific needs.

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Final thoughts

The guide will help you make the best decision for your home. Whether you are looking to change up an existing doorbell system or install a new one, our list can provide some great ideas for what might work best in your situation. Have any questions about these five different types of chimes? Make sure to check out the blog post FAQs section or leave a comment!

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