How to Buy the Right Ring Doorbell for You

Your Guide to buying the best ring doorbell

Overview

The Ring Doorbell is an innovative home security device that allows you to see who is at your door from anywhere in the world. By connecting to your home Wi-Fi network, you can easily monitor and answer your doorbell from your smartphone. This buying guide will provide an overview of the features and benefits of the Ring Doorbell, as well as tips on choosing the right Ring Doorbell for your home security needs.

Key features

  1. Video Quality: Consider the video quality of a Ring Doorbell. This will depend on the resolution, field of view, and night vision capabilities.
  2. Compatibility: Make sure the Ring Doorbell you choose is compatible with your existing home security system.
  3. Installation: Consider the installation process for the Ring Doorbell. It should be easy to install and set up, with minimal tools required.
  4. Battery Life: Look at the battery life of your Ring Doorbell. If you plan to use it without a wired connection, make sure the battery will last long enough between recharges.
  5. Connectivity: Consider the connectivity of the Ring Doorbell. It should have a reliable Wi-Fi connection to send notifications and video to your device.
  6. Price: The price of the Ring Doorbell should also be taken into account. There are several models and prices available, so make sure to choose one that fits your budget.
  7. Features: Look at the features that come with your Ring Doorbell. Many models come with additional features such as motion and sound detection, two-way audio, and more.

See the most popular ring doorbell on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • 24/7 Surveillance - Ring doorbells are equipped with motion sensors and cameras that offer 24/7 monitoring and recording capabilities.
  • Two-Way Audio - All Ring doorbells come with built-in speakers and microphones, allowing two-way conversations with visitors.
  • Customizable Notifications - Users can customize notifications sent to their mobile device for motion detected, doorbell rings, etc.
  • Easy Setup - Ring doorbells are quick and easy to set up, with most requiring only a few simple steps.
  • Wide Range of Products - Ring offers a wide range of products to fit any home security need, from doorbells to security cameras.
  • Compatible with Smart Home Automation - Ring doorbells are compatible with various smart home automation systems, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
  • Free Cloud Storage - Ring doorbells come with free cloud storage, allowing for easy access and review of recorded footage.

Cons

  • Price: Ring Doorbells can be expensive, ranging from $99-$499 depending on the model and features.
  • Installation: You may need a professional to install your Ring Doorbell, depending on the model you buy.
  • Power Source: Depending on your model, you may need to wire the Ring Doorbell to an existing power source, or purchase a separate power source.
  • Wireless Range: The range of your wireless connection may affect how well your Ring Doorbell receives and sends signals.
  • Size: Some models of Ring Doorbells are quite bulky, and may not fit in some doorways.
  • Motion Detection: Depending on the model you purchase, you may have limited motion detection capabilities.
  • Video Quality: Your video quality may be affected by the resolution and frame rate of your Ring Doorbell.
  • Update Frequency: Your Ring Doorbell may require regular firmware updates to stay up to date.

Best alternatives

  1. Nest Hello - A video doorbell from Google's Nest product line, with facial recognition and two-way talk.
  2. Skybell HD - A sleek, slim design with customizable motion sensors and night vision.
  3. August Doorbell Cam Pro - A doorbell with an extended field of view and instant motion detection.
  4. Arlo Video Doorbell - A weather-resistant doorbell from Arlo, with motion and two-way audio.
  5. RemoBell S - A budget-friendly doorbell with motion and sound detection and night vision.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Two-Way Audio Adapter - An adapter that allows owners to communicate with visitors through their doorbell's two-way audio.
  • Motion Detection Sensors - Sensors that detect movement in front of the doorbell and alert users.
  • Power Supply Kit - A kit that includes a power adapter, mounting base, and screws for mounting the doorbell.
  • Surveillance Camera - An optional camera that allows users to monitor their home from their smartphone.
  • Chime - An optional chime that connects to the doorbell and plays a notification when the doorbell is rung.

Common questions

  1. What are the benefits of a ring doorbell?
    The main benefits of a Ring Doorbell are that it allows you to monitor activity around your front door, whether you’re at home or away. It also offers motion detection, two-way audio, HD video, night vision, and mobile notifications so that you can stay connected and alerted to any activity in your front yard.
  2. What kind of security features does the Ring Doorbell have?
    The Ring Doorbell is equipped with several security features, such as two-way audio, motion detection, and mobile notifications. It also has an auto-arm/disarm feature that allows you to set the alarm on your system remotely, without having to be physically present. Additionally, the doorbell is equipped with HD video and night vision, so you can always keep an eye on what’s going on outside your home.
  3. What type of warranties are available with a Ring Doorbell?
    Ring offers a 1-year limited warranty on its products. This covers any defects in materials and workmanship for the duration of the warranty period. Additionally, Ring offers a 60-day money back guarantee, so if you are not satisfied with your purchase, you can return it and get a full refund.
  4. Are there any subscription plans available with the Ring Doorbell?
    Yes, there are several subscription plans available with the Ring Doorbell. These include the Basic Plan, which includes cloud storage for your videos and pictures for up to 60 days; the Protect Plus Plan, which includes cloud storage for up to 60 days, as well as professional monitoring and access to advanced features; and the Elite Plan, which includes all of the features of the Protect Plus Plan, as well as cellular backup and an extended warranty.
  5. How much does a Ring Doorbell cost?
    The cost of a Ring Doorbell varies depending on the model and features you choose. The base models start at around $99, and the more advanced models can cost up to $350.

Trivia

The Ring Video Doorbell has become an unexpected champion of wildlife conservation. In 2019, Ring users captured numerous videos of wild animals visiting their homes, from wild turkeys in California to a bear in the Netherlands. The company also partnered with the National Park Service to launch a special-edition Ring Video Doorbell, with a portion of proceeds going towards park conservation projects. This is a great way for customers to help support wildlife conservation while also enjoying the benefits of the Ring Video Doorbell. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.