Ring Doorbell - Smart Video Doorbell To Monitor Your Door

Ring doorbell and ring video doorbell have attracted a lot of attention in recent years.

You most likely have friends or family members who swear by them. But what’s the big deal? Is it truly worth the effort? You’re not sure if you want to spend the money?

I believe that most people buy video doorbells as a novelty at first. It isn’t until you have one that you realize how vital they are. This is especially true if you value your home’s safety and security.

Table of Contents

What Is a Ring Doorbell?

The doorbell from Ring is a compact rectangular gadget with a camera, microphone, and motion sensors. It connects to your Wi-Fi and monitors what’s going on outside your door.

The device detects motion and alerts you when it detects a person or when the doorbell is pressed. It protects you from package thieves, allows you to accept deliveries even when you’re not at home, and gives you peace of mind while you’re away because you can always check on what’s going on via a live feed.

Ring is not the only firm that sells smart doorbells. However, the corporation remains one of the most well-known and fairly priced solutions.

Ring Doorbell Features

Without subscribing to a subscription, the basic capabilities include two-way audio, motion-activated alerts, and a live feed accessible via the Ring app. When someone rings your doorbell or approaches too closely, you’ll receive a notification and can view the live-streaming video to see what’s going on.

The camera on the smart doorbell provides a clear picture of everything and everyone at your door. You may use the app to monitor visitors and motion at any time of day or night. The device’s night vision does not degrade because it employs infrared technology.

The motion sensors included into the Ring video doorbell detect movement up to 30 feet away.

You also receive two-way audio so you can talk freely without revealing the fact that you might not be at home.

You may also adjust the motion detection reach, which is useful if you live on a busy street with a lot of car and pedestrian traffic.

You may limit their reach by selecting specified zones, so you don’t get swamped with warnings every time someone walks their dog on the sidewalk.

The free option that comes with no subscription also includes theft prevention.

This implies that if your device is stolen, Ring will replace it.

However, there are a few boxes that must be checked before it will do so.

You must tell the firm within 15 days of the theft, and once the company has verified your police report, you should receive a replacement device that is the same make and model as the original one you had.

Ring does specify in its policy that if any deception is discovered, the service would be denied.

Battery or Hardwired: What Do You Prefer?

Many Ring doorbell versions include a rechargeable internal battery. The doorbell’s battery must be removed and charged using a micro-USB cable. The Ring app notifies you when the battery is low and when it is time to charge it. Battery life typically lasts months, so you don’t have to worry about it being a recurring issue.

The disadvantage of going with the battery option is that the doorbell will clearly not work while the battery is charged. You can avoid this by purchasing an extra battery and swapping the two when necessary. These types are ideal if you wish to utilize them in a region that has never had a traditional doorbell.

The good news is that Ring now produces hardwired devices that use existing doorbell wiring.

You won’t have to worry about needing to recharge a battery with these.

Installing a Ring Doorbell

Installing a Ring video doorbell is simple, and Ring assists you every step of the way by providing setup guidelines and tutorials for each device.

The films are short and straightforward, so even non-handy persons with no DIY experience can keep up.

All of the extras are also included to make installation easy.

Only a drill and the equipment needed to remove your existing doorbell, if you have one, are not included.

Ring even includes the drill bit needed to create the four anchor holes in the wall.

You can place the device on your wall using the screws provided.

If you’re installing it in a brick or concrete wall, the drill will come in helpful.

If that’s not the case, you might be able to get by without it.

If you don’t have a drill or aren’t able or allowed to drill holes on the land, the Ring No-Drill Mount is an option.

It’s a Ring Video Doorbell mounting plate that allows you to mount the gadget without drilling holes.

Because the video doorbell requires Internet access, you’ll need a wireless network to set it up.

To finish the process, download the Ring app and follow the on-screen instructions. The Ring app is available for both iOS and Android. The app is free and provides a live video feed of what’s outside your door.

It’s worth noting that you don’t need an existing doorbell to install a Ring one, so don’t let that dissuade you from purchasing one.

How Does the Ring Video Doorbell Work?

The doorbell connects to your Wi-Fi network after installation. That link, among other things, allows it to send video to the Ring app. When the device detects motion, it records a video and uploads it to the app. You can use the app and watch all of the videos as long as you have an Internet connection.

If you’re stuck somewhere without Wi-Fi, you may still watch videos you’ve missed in the app’s History area.

For your convenience, everything is dated and time-stamped.

Additionally, you can observe whether the doorbell detected motion or a human.

What Is the Ring Doorbell App?

To finish the video doorbell installation, you must first download the Ring app.

After that, you may use it to monitor battery life and watch recorded videos.

The Ring app also lets you register several smart doorbells and connect other Ring security accessories, such as cameras and lighting.

You may also use the Ring app’s Linked Devices function to connect your Ring devices for more security.

You may also use its Neighbors feature, which keeps you up to date on what’s going on in your neighborhood.

It notifies you of a fire or power outage, a missing pet, and even nearby crimes.

The app allows you to tailor the settings to your preferences.

You may, for example, toggle motion alerts on and off and check the status of the doorbell.

You can even view neighborly shared footage.

Ring Video Compatibility With Smart Home Hubs

Because Ring is an Amazon subsidiary, it has excellent integration with Amazon’s smart assistant Alexa.

You can even instruct the virtual assistant to greet visitors at the door.

However, Ring devices are also compatible with Google Assistant.

If you can’t afford Google’s costly Nest Hello video doorbell and have a lot of Google smart devices, you may acquire the Ring doorbell and be confident that it will work flawlessly with Google Home and Google Assistant.

It should be noted that Ring does not support Apple HomeKit.

Price of a Ring Doorbell and Available Subscription Options

Ring has a large assortment of doorbells in various pricing ranges, ranging from $64.99 to $349.99.

The more expensive models obviously have more complex functions, but the firm has a doorbell for every budget and demand.

Whatever your budget, Ring has a video doorbell for you.

Furthermore, these prices are not set in stone because Ring frequently reduces its products.

Ring offers three subscription programs that supplement the basic functions shared by all Ring doorbells. The Basic Plan, Plus Plan, and Pro Plan are all reasonably priced in their own right. You can pay monthly or annually, and if you choose the latter, you will receive a discount.

The first will set you back $3 per month or $30 per year, the second will set you back $10 per month or $100 per year, and the third will set you back $20 per month or $200 per year.

You may access, download, and preserve recorded video history for up to 60 days with the Basic Plan, and you can even share it. In addition, once you receive an alert, it snaps a picture and sends it to you via the app.

You may view activity snapshots between notifications and even enable People Only mode, which prevents you from being notified every time a squirrel approaches your device.

You also receive Rich Notifications, which allow you to bypass opening the Ring app by including a snapshot preview in the notice anytime something triggers an alarm.

The Plus Plan includes the Basic Plan features as well as extended warranties on all Ring devices registered at the same address and a 10% discount on future Ring or Amazon purchases.

And, unlike the Basic Plan, which only permits video recording for one doorbell or camera, the Plus Plan allows video recording for all of your home’s devices.

Everything discussed thus far is included in the Pro Plan, plus a few extras to make the purchase worthwhile.

One of the finest benefits is the 24/7 professional monitoring for your Ring Alarm.

That implies that whenever a security danger is detected, a request for real-time emergency responders will be sent, so if there’s a break-in while you’re away, you can rest easy, and much more so if you’re at home.

A subscription is not required.

If you do not want to purchase it, you can still utilize the video doorbell.

However, if you have a little more, it’s worth thinking about.

The Ring Video Doorbell: Worth It or Not?

You may make a significant improvement in your home’s security by installing a smart doorbell.

Whether you’re at home or not, you’ll always know who is at your front door.

Ring’s several solutions are a wonderful method to boost the security of your house while doing the bare minimum.

If you can afford it, a Ring smart doorbell is well worth the investment.

If a Ring doorbell isn’t for you, there are plenty other solutions to explore.

Are Ring Doorbells Wireless?

Wired and wireless Video Doorbells are available from Ring.

The Ring Doorbell 1, 2, and 3 are all powered by rechargeable batteries, but they can also be connected to your existing doorbell wiring if you choose.

Hardwiring is required for the Ring Video Doorbell Pro and Ring Video Doorbell Elite.

Except for the Ring Doorbell Elite, which requires an Ethernet connection, all of the Ring Doorbells and Ring Cams connect to your WiFi.

When it comes to wirelessly informing you when someone is at the door, your video doorbell will be linked to the internet via your wifi.

A push notification on your phone will notify you quickly that someone is at your door.

Alexa will also chime if you have her in your home.

Finally, you can buy a cheap WiFi doorbell chime and set it wherever in your home.

In brief, it depends on the model you choose and how you connect it.

Check out their Ring Doorbell Buyer’s Guide for more information on which model to buy.

How Waterproof Is the Ring Video Doorbell?

Ring Video Doorbells aren’t technically waterproof, which means they can’t be submerged in water without being damaged. Ring Doorbells, on the other hand, are weather proof and can withstand the elements.

So, the Ring Doorbell can get wet?

This equipment would be rendered worthless if you had to remove it and bring it inside every time it rained, therefore this is a legitimate concern.

Don’t worry, that is not the case. To be clear, the Ring Doorbells are entirely waterproof and designed to be submerged in water. According to Ring, they “can survive severe winds and rainstorms.”

However, if you drop it in a pail of water, you might have a problem.

Many homes feature an awning or other form of overhanging protection, which is beneficial. However, on one of my houses that was entirely exposed with no awning, I used a Ring Doorbell. I never had any problems.

There should be no problems with snow, wind, rain, heat, or cold.

However, I cannot personally attest to extreme cold temperatures for extended periods of time. Freezing temperatures are another important worry because of the disruptive nature of some regions.

According to Ring, the operating temperatures range from -5°F to 120°F (-20°C to 50°C). When the temperature drops below freezing, the battery’s capacity to keep a charge suffers.

Extreme cold temperatures above -5°F are likely to cause the battery to fail completely.

Would You Say the Ring Doorbell Is Hard to Install?

Most Ring Doorbells are fairly simple to install for someone who can follow a few steps and connect a device to their WiFi.

Ring provides a downloadable App that walks you through the process step by step with video explanations.

Aside from a drill, they also give you with the majority of the gear needed to install your gadget (which you may not even need).

If you’re installing on wood or siding, you should be able to screw directly into the surface without the use of a drill.

Drill holes for the included anchors if you’re mounting on brick, concrete, or stucco. So, even in this circumstance, they provided you with the proper drill bit and anchors.

If you prefer to wire into an existing doorbell, you’ll need to connect two wires. It makes no difference which cable you connect to; it will operate either way. You must also attach an included diode to the terminal if you have a digital door chime. Again, for this and any other aspects, they provide video instructions as well as a paper guidebook. For most models, this is about as difficult as it gets.

The app will lead you through connecting the doorbell to your WiFi before you physically attach it.

This is the same app you’ll use to receive notifications when someone knocks on your door and to view the video feed.

If you choose the Ring Doorbell Ellite, you will almost certainly need expert installation unless you are a true do-it-yourselfer.

This is a distinct technique that will necessitate the installation of an Ethernet cable as well as a recessed installation.

Is the Ring Doorbell Worth the Cost

If you have the funds, the Ring Video Doorbells are unquestionably worthwhile.

Owning one will provide you with the peace of mind that you know exactly who is at your front door and, if your settings are adjusted, who is even in your front yard.

You can inform the Amazon driver, the pizza delivery person, or a buddy that you are running late.

The Ring also deters all types of crimes.

They are aware that video doorbells exist, so having one will usually keep them moving.

You can also see (and be alerted to) when your children enter and exit the house while you are at work.

That information can be useful in a variety of ways, lol.

Sure, you’re concerned about both your safety and your finances, but there are several low-cost choices available.

A smart home system, on the other hand, is designed to streamline all of your affairs and seamlessly link with all other gadgets.

In this scenario, security comes first.

While your opinion of value may differ depending on your budget, I believe the Ring Doorbell is well worth the money for anyone with a WiFi connection.

How to Add a Second Phone to Your Ring Account

It is simple to add additional phone to your account.

The only option that necessitates any meaningful steps is the shared user option.

Adding a Shared User

If you go this approach and have numerous Ring devices, you may specify which Ring device each individual should have access to.

The following are the steps for adding someone as a user:

1. Launch Ring on your smartphone or tablet.

2. Then, go to the Device Settings page.

3. Tap the Shared Users icon, then the Add User button.

4. Now is the moment to get that person’s email address.

Once you have it, input the email address and click on the Ring Doorbell icon.

5. Click the Send Invitation button.

This will then send an invitation to the other user’s email, and they can now accept your invitation by clicking the link provided.

6. When they click the link, they will be directed to create their own Ring account. The link will take them to a page where they can create their own account.

7. Once they’ve made their Ring account, have them exit the page and sign into the Ring app.

They will now be able to use your Ring Doorbell.

Can You Have Two Ring Accounts on One Phone?

Assume you have your own Ring account, but someone has granted you shared access to their Ring devices in a different location, such as a workplace or a family member’s home.

Is it possible to utilize both accounts on the same device?

Technically, you can utilize two accounts on the same device; the only disadvantage is that you may have to log out of your own account in order to access the other user’s individual account and Ring devices, and vice versa.

You will not be able to consolidate the accounts so that they can be used on the same phone.

Ring video doorbell reviews

1. Ring Video Doorbell 4: Overall winner

The Ring Video Doorbell 4 is essentially the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus with an improved battery pack and a new “fast reply” feature.

The Ring 4 costs the same as the Ring 3 Plus ($199.99), so you might as well purchase the most recent and finest version and go with the Ring 4.

The Ring 4’s Pre-Roll feature, which saves four seconds of video before action prompts the camera to record, is one of our favorites.

This is fantastic for capturing the entire event rather than just the back of a porch pirate’s head as they flee.

The Ring 4’s camera offers 1080p HD footage and greater night vision than previous Ring video doorbells, and you can alter the camera angle by using one of the included mounting wedges to tilt it left or right. A corner kit is also included with the Ring Video Doorbell 4.

You can also change the sensitivity of the motion sensor to avoid receiving constant motion-activated alerts.

2. Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation): The best value.

The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) is an unusual product. It’s a long-awaited update to the original Ring Doorbell (launched in 2014), but it’s not the Ring 2, which is no longer available.

This updated version features sharp 1080p video quality and a more refined look.

However, it still lacks a detachable battery.

Charging the battery on this Ring is a little difficult (since you have to pretty much take the whole doorbell off).

You won’t have to worry about the battery dying if you hardwire it to your old doorbell.

It also lacks the fancy Pre-Roll feature, which takes video from before motion happens and is Ring 4’s main selling point.

If you still want a Ring doorbell but are on a tight budget, those minor concessions are worth the $130 savings over the Ring 4.

But just because it’s inexpensive doesn’t mean it’s without advantages.

The Ring 2nd Gen retains all of the bells and whistles found in more expensive models, such as personalized motion zones, motion-activated alerts, and a 155o field of view.

3. Ring Video Doorbell Wired: Best for budgetsThe Ring Video Doorbell Wired is the most affordable Ring doorbell to date, costing only $59.99. The caveat is that you can only use this version if you already have doorbell wire. There is no power supply.

Despite the fact that it is not a wireless camera, it offers all of the features you would expect from a video doorbell: two-way audio, motion alerts, 1080p recording, and a Wi-Fi connection.

4. Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2: Best for style

The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is ideal for those looking for a more modest, sleeker video doorbell to greet their visitors.

The Ring Doorbell Pro 2 has a slimmer look than its bulkier siblings, resembling a normal doorbell.

However, the lack of mass is due to the absence of a battery.

That means you’ll need to hardwire it to your existing doorbell.

It offers a little greater resolution than previous Ring doorbell cameras (1536p), and it still manages to include a motion detection and two-way audio into its space-saving design.

5. Ring Peephole Cam: Best for renters

The Ring Peephole Cam is one of the Ring family’s newer doorbell cameras, and it’s created with tenants in mind.

The Peephole Cam fits right into your current peephole hole, keeping peephole functionality while adding a camera and other video doorbell perks.

It includes all of Ring’s standard doorbell features, such as two-way communication, motion detection, and a doorbell button, as well as a unique feature: an impact sensor. The sensor detects door vibrations and notifies you when someone knocks on your door, even if you are not at home.

Because the Peephole Cam is intended for use in residences, it incorporates privacy-zone audio and video settings to ensure that you comply with privacy rules.

It connects to your Wi-Fi network so you may receive motion sensor, impact sensor, and push notification warnings.

You may also view the live camera stream from the Peephole Cam on your smartphone.

6. Ring Video Doorbell Elite: Best for new construction

The Ring Video Doorbell Elite is Ring’s premium option, with a premium price to match.

It’s connected to your ethernet connection, so you never have to worry about it being in range of Wi-Fi.

However, because most homes do not have an ethernet wire leading to the doorbell box, the Elite is better suited for new construction.

Due to the required ethernet connection and the fact that it is flush-mounted to your outer wall, Ring suggests professional installation for this device.

The flush-mount design, on the other hand, makes it much less bulky after installation than previous Ring video doorbell variants.

FAQs

Is there a monthly fee for Ring doorbells?

Ring Protect Basic is $3.99 per month or $39.99 per year.

Ring Protect Plus offers video recording for all of your home’s doorbells and security cameras.

You will also receive an extended warranty and a 10% discount on select Ring goods on Ring.com and Amazon.com.

There are certain restrictions.

Is it worth getting a Ring doorbell?

If you have the funds, the Ring Video Doorbells are unquestionably worthwhile.

Owning one will provide you with the peace of mind that you know who is at your front door and, if your settings are adjusted, who is even in your front yard.

Is Ring doorbell Wired or wireless?

Installation/Wiring:

The Ring video doorbell is wireless, but the Ring Pro is hardwired.

Each method has advantages and disadvantages.

Wireless technology is convenient and simple to install, however hardwired equipment is more reliable and does not require battery replacement.

Does Ring require WiFi?

You can’t do it.

Ring security gadgets operate by connecting to a Wi-Fi network and communicating with a smartphone, laptop, or desktop computer.

Simply put, it is through this Wi-Fi connection that you may access the doorbell camera’s extensive security functions.

Does the ring doorbell Ring inside the house?

Battery-powered Ring Doorbells cannot ring inside on their own, but a Ring Chime or Ring Chime Pro can do so.

If your Ring Doorbell is hardwired, it should be ringing inside your home because it should be connected to the chime of your old doorbell.

Can a Ring doorbell be hacked?

The security of ring systems has frequently made news. While some have been addressed and rectified, Ring doorbell security concerns remain, especially since they are not encrypted. So, can Ring devices be compromised? They certainly can.

Is the ring doorbell 3 plus worth it?

Ring’s Video Doorbell 3 Plus is an option to consider. It works well, it’s simple to use, and I like the Pre-Roll option over the $200 Video Doorbell 3 (which is similar to the Plus but for the lack of Pre-Roll).

Does ring doorbell 3 have night vision?

If your Ring Doorbell is hardwired, it should be ringing inside your home because it should be connected to the chime of your old doorbell.

Can a Ring doorbell be hacked?

The security of ring systems has frequently made news.

While some have been addressed and rectified, Ring doorbell security concerns remain, especially since they are not encrypted.

So, can Ring devices be compromised?

They certainly can.

Why is Ring Doorbell not working?

Ring’s Video Doorbell 3 Plus is an option to consider.

It works well, it’s simple to use, and I like the Pre-Roll option over the $200 Video Doorbell 3 (which is similar to the Plus but for the lack of Pre-Roll).

Check to see if your Ring Doorbell reconnects automatically. Turn off the power to your Ring Pro for 30 seconds at the breaker box, then turn it back on.

Is there a monthly fee for Ring doorbell camera?

Ring Protect Basic is $3.99 per month or $39.99 per year.

Ring Protect Plus offers video recording for all of your home’s doorbells and security cameras. You will also receive an extended warranty and a 10% discount on select Ring goods on Ring.com and Amazon.com. There are certain restrictions.

Ring doorbell Conclusion

Ring has changed home security in recent years.

I like knowing that my loved ones don’t have to open the door for strangers.

I also enjoy almost being face to face with someone at my door, no matter where I am in the world.

Ring Doorbell – Smart Video Doorbell To Monitor Your Door