Ring Video Doorbell is the easiest way you can enhance your home security. Just finding the ring video doorbell that is suitable for your needs is the problem. Well, in this buyer’s guide, I will help you to sort the unique circumstances of your home and select the ring video doorbell that is right for you.
The Home Checklist
There are some circumstances that you will need to consider when you are selecting your Ring Video Doorbell. that is why I have this home checklist here for you that is a listing of all the important considerations that you need to think about when you are purchasing and installing your ring doorbell. In this buyer’s guide, I will go into deep details about each of these factors, but here is just a shortlist of what you are supposed to think about.
Home Modifications:
What are the kinds of modifications you can make to your home? This mainly depends on factors like if you own a home or live in an apartment.
Power Supply:
Do you already have an existing doorbell or a separate power supply that you can wire your ring video doorbell into, or will you need to use a battery?
Cost:
All of the ring video doorbells are priced competitively for the features they have, so there should be one that will suit all your needs and budget.
Feature Set:
What are the features that are important t your individual circumstances.
Installation:
There are some ring video doorbells that are known for their easy installation and maintenance, while others may require a bit more handiness or professional installation.
Network speed:
I would recommend that you have approximately two Mb/sec downloads and one Mb/sec upload speed for you to have optimal video transmission quality, but the faster your internet is, the better.
The rest of this article will go over the available models of the ring video doorbell in relation to the home checklist above. I will also provide a list of the model’s technical specifications.
Ring Peephole Cam
If you are living in an apartment or a rented home that you live in has a peephole, then you should consider getting the Ring Peephole Cam. Ring Peephole Cam uses your own peephole, and it also utilizes features like knock sensors that create a measure of security to your home. not only that, but you will also be able to use your existing peephole.
Let’s go over the home Checklist:
Home Ownership:
This part of the home checklist will be most important for those that are considering a ring Peephole Cam.
Renters:
The ring Peephole Cam is designed specifically for renters in apartments and homes that have a peephole. The ring peephole Cam works with your existing peephole and can also be installed and uninstalled easily without damaging the door and the surrounding structures.
Homeowners:
If the front door of your home has a peephole, the ring peephole Cam is the option for you. If there is no peephole or you are looking for more features, Ring’s line of Video Doorbells is offering you more for your money.
Power Supply:
The Ring Peephole Cam is powered by a single removable, rechargeable battery. You just have to put the Peephole Cam up, charge it, and go. That said, going with this option will require you to recharge the device every few months depending on the usage, meaning that it will be offline for a few hours.
Cost:
The cost of rings Peephole Cam is equivalent to the Ring Video Doorbell 2, and as a suite of features comparable to the Ring Video Doorbell 2 but is specially tailored for neighbors in condos, apartments, and homes that have a peephole.
Feature Set:
If you are considering getting the ring Peephole Cam, here are some of the most practical features of the device:
Features of Ring Peephole Cam
- 1024p HD Resolution image: You get the chance to see who is at your door before you open it.
- Mobile Alerts: By using the free Ring App, you are able to get mobile alerts that enable you to know when someone is at your door front.
- Impact Sensor: When visitors are not ringing your doorbell, you don’t have to worry about it. The Peephole Cams impact sensor enables it to sense a knock on the door as good as a ring.
- Live View and Two-way audio: By this, you are able to talk to your visitors before you open the door, and it can also scare away thieves even if you are not at home.
- Customizable Privacy Settings: You can put your neighbor’s worries to rest with privacy zones tat ensure that your neighbor’s door is private.
| Peephole Cam | |
| Camera Resolution | 1080p HD |
| Field of View | 155 degrees horizontal, 90 degrees vertical |
| Power Supply | Quick Release Battery Pack |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz Wireless 802.11 B/G/N |
| Connection Speed | Requires a minimum upload speed of 1Mbps, but 2 Mbps is recommended for optimal performance |
| Audio Specs | Two way audio with noise cancellation |
| System Requirements | iOS 9.3x or later, Android 5.0 or later |
| Size | Indoors: 2.3 x 4.4 x 1.2 inches Outdoor: 1.9 x 3.8 x 0.8 inches |
Installation:
You can install Peephole Cam in a couple of minutes. You just have to unscrew and remove the existing peephole on your door, connect the front and the rear section of the door view, Cam, through the door, insert the rechargeable battery, snap the cover in its place, and it’s ready to go.
Ring Video Doorbell 3
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 is the most versatile brand and the start of enhanced security around your entire home. When you have the Ring Video Doorbell 3, you will always be connected to your home so you can keep a close eye on your property and answer the door from any place. It also has enhanced resolution and a huge array of features that enable it to be the most suitable for most home security situations.
Let’s go over the home checklist:
Home Ownership:
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 is an excellent choice if you are a homeowner.
Renters:
If you have rented your home, depending on the renter’s agreement and the configuration of the home and the front door, getting a Ring Video Doorbell 3 is for you.
Homeowners:
If you already own your own home, you have broader options that make the Ring Video Doorbell 3 easy to recommend. It is easy to put together and install and has a variety of power options, and for its lower price can be the first part of eventual home security and a smart home suite.
Power Supply:
The ring video doorbell 3 offers you three different power options depending on your home configuration and the amount of DIY you would want to do during installation.
Battery Power:
Battery power is the simplest power option that is available for Ring Video Doorbell 3. In simple terms, you put the doorbell up, charge it and go. That being said, going with this option will require that you occasionally recharge the device, meaning that it will be offline for a few hours if you don’t have a second back up battery that is sold separately.
Wired:
If you already have an existing doorbell, you can wire the Ring Video Doorbell 3 into the existing doorbell wiring. This means that you don’t have to usually have to recharge the device.
Transformer:
You have the option to also wire the Video Doorbell 3 into a low voltage transformer. This removes the need to charge the device, but it may need a bit of handiness as you drill into the wall to install the transformer.
Cost:
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 is a little bit costlier than the original Ring Video Doorbell, but it comes with a more powerful array of features that include 1080HD video, night vision, and adjustable motion.
Feature Set:
If you are considering getting the Ring Video Doorbell 3, the following are some of the features that are most practical to the device.
Features of Ring Video Doorbell 3
- 1080 HD Resolution image: Enables you to see who is at your door before you even open it.
- Mobile Alerts: When you use the free Ring app, you get mobile alerts that let you know when there is someone at your doorstep.
- Adjustable Motion Detection: Visitors don’t have to Ring the bell for them to start the video process, and porch pirates are also caught when they trigger the recording of the device. This is available with a separate Ring protect plan.
- Live View and Two-way audio: You can talk to your visitors before you open the door and even scare away thieves even when you are not in your me.
- Night Vision: This is built for the unwanted visitors that skulk around in the dark.
| Ring Video Doorbell 3 | |
| Camera Resolution | 1080p HD |
| Field of View | 160 degrees horizontal |
| Power Supply | Three Options: Quick Release Battery Pack Wired into existing wiring Transformer |
| Connectivity | 2.4 GHz or 5 GHZ Wireless 802.11 B/G/N |
| Connection Speed | High Speed Internet |
| Audio Specs | Two way audio with noise cancellation |
| System Requirements | iOS 9.3x or later, Android 5.0 or later |
| Size | 5.1 in. x 2.4 in. x 1.1 in. (128 mm x 62 mm x 28 mm) |
Installation:
The best about the installation of Ring Video Doorbell 3 is that it is incredibly easy to install when you compare it to the array of security features that are offered by the device. All you have to do is run the Ring Video Doorbell 3 off its own quick-release battery pack or some DIY, then hook it into a transformer or an existing doorbell.
Ring Video Doorbell
The original Ring Video Doorbell provides an excellent array of features though at a competitive price. Here is the home checklist.
Home Ownership:
The original Ring Video Doorbell is a good choice regardless of your living situation.
Renters:
If you have rented your home, you may be having a clause in your lease agreement that keeps you from opening up a wall or drilling holes to install other more complicated models of doorbells. That would make the Ring Video Doorbell a more difficult product to recommend because it requires drilling of holes in the wall. You definitely want to avoid anything that may void or damage your deposit. You may consider Ring Peephole instead.
Homeowners:
If you are a homeowner, your options are much broader, and this makes the original Ring Video Doorbell has the perfect starter kit. It is easy to put together and install and comes at a low price and can be the first part of your home security and automation suite.
Power Supply:
The Ring Video Doorbell has three different power options depending on your home and the amount of DIY you would want to do during installation.
Battery Power:
This is the simplest power option that is available for the Ring Video Doorbell. All you have to do is to put up the doorbell, charge it and go. Going with this option will require that you recharge the device occasionally, meaning that if you don’t have an extra battery, there are times that it will be offline for a few hours.
Wired:
If you have an existing doorbell, you can wire the Ring Video Doorbell into the wiring of the existing doorbell; this means that you will not have to recharge the device.
Transformer:
The final one is you have the option to wire the Video Doorbell into a low voltage transformer. This removes the need to charge the device, but it may require a bit of handiness when you drill into the wall to install the transformer.
Low voltage systems like the Ring Video Doorbell need low voltage for them to operate than the typical power source supplies. If the power source is your walls output of 120 volts, a low voltage transformer can drop the voltage to 12 or 24 volts.
Cost:
If you are operating on a tight budget, the original Ring Video Doorbell is good for you. It is our most affordable video doorbell, but it also has a powerful array of features.
Feature Set:
If you are considering getting the Ring Video Doorbell, the following lists some of the most practical features of this device.
Features of Ring Video Doorbell
- 720p Resolution image: Get to see who is at the door before you can open it.
- Mobile Alerts: When you use the free Ring app, you get mobile alerts that let you know if there is someone at your front door.
- Motion Detection: Your visitors don’t have to Ring the bell for the video recording process to start. The Ring Video Doorbell starts to record people when the triggers the motion detection.
- Live View and Two-way audio: You can get to talk to your visitors before you open the door, even if you are not at home.
- Night Vision: You get to keep an eye on your home even at night.
Ring Video Doorbell | |
| Camera Resolution | 720p HD |
| Field of View | 180 degrees horizontal, 140 degrees vertical. |
| Power Supply | Three Options: Quick Release Battery Pack Wired into existing wiring Transformer |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz Wireless 802.11 B/G/N |
| Connection Speed | Requires a minimum upload speed of 1Mbps, but 2 Mbps is recommended for optimal performance |
| Audio Specs | Two way audio with noise cancellation |
| System Requirements | iOS 9.3x or later, Android 5.0 or later |
| Size | 4.98 x 2.43 x0.87 inches |
Installation:
The original Ring Video Doorbell has the easiest installation process of any of the products; you only need to charge it, put it up, and you are ready to go. For those that are a bit handier or have an existing doorbell wiring, you can get rid of the whole recharging thing with a bit of sweat and DIY.
Ring Video Doorbell Pro
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro is a hardwired video doorbell that has advanced security features and a sleek design. Here is the home checklist.
Home Ownership:
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro requires hardwiring into an already existing power supply, and this makes it impractical for some renters.
Renters:
If you have rented your home, your landlord may not allow you to open up a wall or even drill holes for you to install complicated doorbell models. This means that the Ring Video Doorbell Pro is not the right for renters as it requires that it is wired into an existing power supply. Though if your landlord does allow you to do the installation, then you may find that the power of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro is right for you.
Homeowners:
If you already own your own home, then you have much broader options. That makes the Ring Video Doorbell Pro a perfect video doorbell for homeowners that are looking to get a powerful array of features without having to deal with the hustle of rechargeable batteries. This takes a bit of DIY knowledge or a professional installer, but it is the perfect centerpiece for home security and automation suite.
Power Supply:
This Ring Video Doorbell Pro requires a Pro Power Kit for it to function, and the device must be installed before the doorbell can be installed. You may also avoid any potential power problems by installing a hardwired transformer kit. Though this may require a bit of DIY skills or a professional installer, it doesn’t mean that you never have to worry about a battery running out of power on the Ring Video Doorbell Pro.
Cost:
Just like any other piece of installed security gear, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro costs more than the original Ring Video Doorbell or the Ring Video Doorbell 2, but it has a more powerful array of features that include 1080HD video, night vision, and adjustable motion detection and a sleek design with four customizable faceplates that match your front door and your style.
Features of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro
- 1080 HD Resolution image: This enables you to see who is at the doorstep before you open it.
- Motion-activated Alerts: When you use the free Ring App, you will get free mobile alerts that let you know when someone is at the door front.
- Live View and Two-way audio: You get the opportunity to talk to your visitors before you open the door, and you can also scare away thieves even if you are not around.
- Night Vision: This helps you see the unwanted visitors tat skulk around at night.
- Ultra-Slim Design
- Four Interchangeable Faceplates
Video Doorbell Pro | |
| Camera Resolution | 1080p HD |
| Field of View | 160 degrees horizontal, 100 degrees vertical |
| Power Supply | Wired only |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz or 5 GHz Wireless 802.11 B/G/N |
| Connection Speed | Requires a minimum upload speed of 1Mbps, but 2 Mbps is recommended for optimal performance |
| Audio Specs | Two way audio with noise cancellation |
| System Requirements | iOS 9.3x or later, Android 5.0 or later |
| Size | 4.5 x 1.85 x 0.80 inches |
Installation:
The installation of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro takes a few more steps than the original Ring Video Doorbell or the Ring Video Doorbell 3. This is because it requires being hooked into a power supply and takes a bit of DIY acumen to set up properly.
Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus is the next generation to be produced by Ring Video Doorbells. In addition to just having new video features like Near Zone functionality, the Video Doorbell 3 also boasts dual-band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, better screw strength, improved energy efficiency, and advanced motion detection.
Let’s go over the home checklist.
Home Ownership:
Just like the original Ring Video Doorbell and the Ring Video Doorbell 2, the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus can be simply mounted while running on battery power or hardwired into an existing doorbell or power supply.
Renters:
If you rent where you are staying, the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus is a little bit more expensive than the original Ring Video Doorbell, but the security that it offers is worth the investment for many renters. If you would prefer to get a more economical route, then the original Ring Video Doorbell or the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus can offer the good security you need at a lower price.
Homeowners:
If you own your home and you are looking for a simple install while you still get a product that has security features, then the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus is your best bet. It can be powered off a transformer, an existing doorbell, or on its own battery while boasting new security features like Pre-Roll, advanced motion detection, and dual-band connectivity.
Power Supply:
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus offers different power options, and this depends on your home and the amount of DIY you want to do during installation.
Battery Power:
Battery power is the simplest power option that is available for the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus. You only have to put the doorbell up, charge it and go. Going with this option, you will have to occasionally recharge the device, and if you don’t have an extra battery, it means it’s going to be offline for a few hours.
Transformer:
You now have the option to wire the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus into a low voltage transformer. This removes the need to charge the device, but it may require a bit of handiness when you drill into the wall to install the transformer.
Cost:
Just like any other piece of premium installed security gear, the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus is more expensive compared to the original Ring Video Doorbell or the Ring Video Doorbell 3. But it has powerful features that include 1080HD video, night vision, the re-Roll feature, and customizable motion.
Features of the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus
- 1080 HD Resolution image: This enables you to monitor your door front.
- Motion-activated Alerts: When you use the free Ring app, you get mobile alerts that enable you to know when someone is at the door front.
- Adjustable and Near Motion Zone Detection: Your visitors don’t have to Ring the bell for the video to start the process and porch pirates to be caught. The device recording is triggered when they come close, and it comes with a separate Ring Protect Plan.
- Live View and Two-way audio: You are able to talk to your visitors before you open your door and scare away any thieves that come even when you are not at home.
- Infrared Night Vision: This helps you to see the unwanted visitors that come at night.
- Privacy Zones: Enables you to preserve neighbor privacy while retaining your security capabilities.
- Dual-band connectivity: Connect to a 2.5 GH or 5 GHz network to enable visual clarity or data savings.
| Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus | |
| Camera Resolution | 1080p HD |
| Field of View | 160 degrees horizontal, 100 degrees vertical |
| Power Supply | Rechargable, Quick release battery pack Can be hardwired to an existing doorbell system or transformer with 8-24 VAC, 40VA max, 50/60Hz for continuous charging. |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz or 5 GHz Wireless 802.11 B/G/N |
| Connection Speed | High Speed Internet |
| Audio Specs | Two way audio with noise cancellation |
| System Requirements | iOS 9.3x or later, Android 5.0 or later |
| Size | 5.1 in. x 2.4 in. x 1.1 in. (128 mm x 62 mm x 28 mm) |
Installation:
The good news about installing the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus is that it is easy compared to the array of security features the device has. You just run the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus off its own quick-release battery pack, or with some simple DIY, then hook it into a transformer or an existing doorbell.
Ring Video Doorbell Elite
The Ring Video Doorbell Elite is a professional-grade flush-mounted smart doorbell that is hardwired with power over Ethernet. Here is the home checklist.
Home Ownership:
The Ring Video Doorbell Elite needs hardwiring into an already existing power supply, drilling holes into the walls, and professional installation.
Renters:
If you have rented your home, you may not have permission to drill holes or do the electrical work that the Ring Video Doorbell Elite requires. This makes the Ring Video Doorbell Elite become impractical for most renters as it requires being wired into an existing power supply as well as professional installation.
Homeowners:
If you own your own home, the options you have are much broader than what makes the Ring Video Doorbell Elite the perfect video doorbell. Though it takes some DIY knowledge or a professional installer, it is the best centerpiece for home security and smart home system when combined with other Ring products.
Power Supply:
The Ring Video Doorbell Elite is run by power over Ethernet. It is the same hardwired connection that gives you a completely reliable video service that also gives you reliable power. This means that you don’t have to worry about your battery running out, and you get the best fastest video relay available.
Cost:
Just like any other piece of premium installed gear, the Ring Video Doorbell Elite is more expensive than the Ring Video Doorbell Pro, but it has a powerful array of features that include 1080HD video, night vision, and customizable motion detection zones, it is also ultra-slim, installed design, it has four customizable faceplates, power over Ethernet.
Features of the Ring Video Doorbell Elite
- 1080 HD Resolution image: This enables you to monitor who is at your door.
- Motion-activated Alerts: When you use the free Ring app, you get mobile alerts that let you know when someone is at the door.
- Adjustable Motion Detection: Your visitors don’t have to Ring the bell to start the video process.
- Live View and Two-way audio:
- you can talk to your visitors before you open the door and also scare away visitors.
- Infrared Night Vision: This helps to know if there are unwanted visitors at night.
- Ultra-Slim Design
- Four Interchangeable Faceplates
- Power over Ethernet
| Video Doorbell Elite | |
| Camera Resolution | 1080p HD |
| Field of View | 160 degrees horizontal, 100 degrees vertical |
| Power Supply | Power over Ethernet |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz or 5 GHz Wireless 802.11 B/G/N |
| Connection Speed | Requires a minimum upload speed of 1Mbps, but 2 Mbps is recommended for optimal performance |
| Audio Specs | Two way audio with noise cancellation |
| System Requirements | iOS 9.3x or later, Android 5.0 or later |
| Size | 4.7 x 2.75 x 0.43 inches (when flush mounted) |
Installation:
The installation of the Ring Video Doorbell Elite will require some DIY skills or professional installation because it requires being hooked into a power supply and the running of an Ethernet cable.
Benefits of Ring Video Doorbell Cameras
here are some of the benefits of having a video doorbell camera in your home. It mostly intersects between the benefits of a doorbell and a security camera on top of the benefits of an intercom.
Deter Theft & Crime:
The camera is there to help in deterring theft or crime, but it is not as big of a deterrent as an outright, standard bullet camera that is seen in banks and stores. There are some criminals that might not even recognize or realize the camera is there in the first place. However, the video doorbell security camera should inform you when they are at your doorstep and capture their faces.
Monitor Activity:
Ring Video Doorbells also help to monitor the activity of people around your home and the door front, also the front yard activities by simple surveillance and motion detection. Even at night, they enable the night vision IR technology, and you will be able to catch neighborhood kids playing or when people let their dogs poop in your yard.
Create a Safe Environment:
Ring Video Doorbells also help in giving you peace of mind due to the convenience and crime deterrence. This is practical because it enables you to know if there are some wanted and unwanted guests at your doorstep.
Ring Video Doorbell Buying Guide
There are several things that you should keep in mind when selecting a Ring Video Doorbell for you. You should have a checklist of the important considerations you should think about when you purchase and install the Ring Doorbell. Here are the important considerations to ensure that you get the right Ring Video Doorbell model.
Cost:
When you are buying anything, you should naturally have a cost to value analysis; when you set your budget, you should be able to get satisfied with the level of Ring doorbell you can get for the money you have, or you are willing to spend. You should keep in mind that all of these Video Doorbells are competitively priced to fit the needs and the budgets of the various buyers.
Home Modifications:
You should consider the ways you can modify your home. If you cannot modify your home, then you need to get a removable doorbell cam with a battery since you cannot hardwire it to your home’s electricity. But if you own your own home, you have the option to drill and put the wiring for your doorbell to keep it powered up.
Feature Set:
Nearly all of the Ring Video Doorbells have the basic feature set of having a two-way talk, Wi-Fi camera, and doorbell plus motion detection. They just vary in terms of power supply and other expanded features like the ability to record, the ability to send recordings to the cloud, how long the battery lasts, the footage resolution, the size of the lens, and so forth.
Installation:
Some of the cameras are easy to install than others. Those that need doorbell wiring will naturally need more than basic DIY installation experience, like hiring an electrician to install them. There are others that only need mounting, and they can easily be dismounted when needed to recharge the battery.
Network Speed:
The speed of your home should do at least 1mbps for upload and 2mbps for download for it to allow live streaming and cloud computing. This will ensure optimal transmission and good video recording quality.
Ring Doorbell FAQs
Do I need a Ring Protect Plan?
No, you don’t need the Ring Protect Plan; you can still use the following Ring features without a subscription.
- Live video feeds
- Camera motion detection notifications
- Two-way talk between Ring cameras and the Ring mobile App.
- Though if you subscribe, you get access to more features.
- The ability to save and share video recordings, for basic and Plus.
- Photo snapshots throughout the day for basic and plus.
- Professional monitoring for Ring alarm, for Plus.
- Extended warranties on your ring devices, for Plus.
- 10% discount on some of the products in Ring’s online store, for Plus.
How much does Ring Protect cost?
Ring Protect Basic costs $3 a month or $30 a year for one device. Ring Protect Plus costs $10 a month or $100 a year, but it will cover every ring device you have in the house. If you have cameras in multiple residences, then you will need an additional Ring Protect subscription.
How long does Ring save videos?
Ring stores videos for 60 days before they are deleted to make room for the new recordings. You should download any videos that you want to save before then.
Can you hack the Ring doorbell?
There is no internet-connected device that is immune to hacking. Regardless of that, you can reduce the likelihood of hacking by following these security practices.
- Secure your Wi-Fi networks by changing the default names and passwords.
- Set passwords that are strong and enable two-factor authentication on the Ring account.
- Supply these security standards to all of your smart home accounts that you use, especially if they are linked to Ring.
What sensors does Ring Alarm have?
- Contact sensors that trigger the alarm when a burglar opens the door or window to enter the home.
- Motion detectors that trigger the alarm when there is movement in your home when you are away.
- Flood and freeze sensors help to prevent any water damage in your home.
- Panic buttons trigger an immediate alarm when they are pushed.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide listeners that detect sounds of your smoke and carbon dioxide sensors going off detect the hazard in tandem with your existing detectors.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms directly detect hazards in your home, and they are third-party sensors that don’t work with professional monitoring.
