Looking for a Ring Doorbell cam to enhance your home security system? If yes, read on; this comprehensive buying guide is for you.
In today’s connected world, home security has become a top priority. Smart video doorbells are at the forefront of this evolution, and among the leaders in this category is Ring. Doorbell cameras from Ring stand out for their innovation, reliability, and robust feature sets.
These cameras use the latest and most advanced features and technology, representing the pinnacle of Ring’s engineering. Additionally, they blend cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design to deliver unparalleled home security.
Top 4 Ring Doorbell Cam
1. Like-New Ring Wired Doorbell Plus (Video Doorbell Pro)
Key Features
- Upgraded, 1080p HD wired video doorbell
- Two-Way Talk and Quick Replies
- Advanced Motion Detection
- Built-in Alexa Greetings
The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus is the best Ring doorbell cam. It is a robust upgrade for homeowners seeking enhanced security and seamless smart home integration.
The selling point of this camera is its video quality. It delivers crisp 1080p HD video with HDR, ensuring clear visuals in various lighting conditions, including color night vision for low-light scenarios.
Furthermore, the doorbell features advanced motion detection with customizable zones. This feature allows users to focus on specific areas and reduce false alerts. Its hardwired installation ensures continuous power, eliminating the need for battery replacements, and it integrates smoothly with Amazon Alexa for voice control and smart home automation.
While it excels in Alexa integration, compatibility with other smart home ecosystems like Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit is limited. The device also includes a pre-roll feature, capturing footage seconds before motion is detected, providing a more comprehensive view of events at your doorstep.
Pros
- Clear video quality
- Reliable performance
- User-friendly features
- Effective security enhancements
Cons
- It requires existing doorbell wiring for installation, which may not be suitable for all homes
2. Ring Battery Doorbell Plus (newest model) | Head-to-Toe HD+ Video
Key Features
- Head-to-Toe HD+ Video
- Motion detection
- Privacy zones
- Color Night Vision
- Two-way talk
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus (Newest Model) stands out as a significant upgrade in the Ring lineup, especially with its new Head-to-Toe HD+ Video feature.
This innovation provides a taller field of view so you can see your visitors from head to toe and monitor packages left on the doorstep with greater clarity. The improved 1536p HD+ resolution delivers crisp, detailed images both during the day and at night, while enhanced motion detection ensures timely alerts.
For added convenience, the setup process remains straightforward thanks to the included rechargeable battery pack. Additionally, this doorbell cam integrates smoothly with the Ring app, offering customizable motion zones and real-time video streaming. The device is also compatible with Alexa, enabling convenient voice commands and announcements through Echo devices.
Another impressive feature of this model is its battery life. It has been noticeably improved, lasting several weeks on a single charge depending on usage. Additionally, the quick-release battery makes recharging hassle-free.
To top it all off, this doorbell cam features a new vertical video format that is particularly beneficial for narrow porches and apartment doors, solving a major limitation of previous models.
Pros
- Robust performance
- Long battery life
- Easy to install
- Customizable motion zones
- Integrates smoothly with the Ring app
Cons
- Ring Protect subscription is required for video recording and review
3. Ring Battery Doorbell with Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus (Black)
Key Features
- Live View & Two-Way Talk
- Head-to-Toe Video
- Person + Package Alerts
- 1080p HD camera
Next, we have the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus. This security camera stands out as a top-tier wireless video doorbell, offering a comprehensive 150° x 150° field of view that delivers a true head-to-toe perspective.
This expansive coverage ensures that users can clearly see visitors and packages left at their doorstep. The camera also boasts a high-resolution 1536p HD video quality, complemented by color night vision and HDR capabilities, providing crisp and clear footage both day and night.
Regarding ease of use, this doorbell is built with user convenience in mind. Its installation is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for renters or those without existing doorbell wiring. Additionally, it is easy to operate, even for beginners.
What’s more, this Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus is a robust outdoor security solution that combines powerful illumination with smart surveillance. Equipped with two 2000-lumen LED floodlights and a 1080p HD camera featuring color night vision, it effectively deters intruders and captures detailed footage.
Other essential features included are customizable motion zones, a 105dB siren, and two-way talk functionality, all controllable via the Ring app.
Pros
- Reliable performance
- Quick and straightforward to install
- Integration with Alexa and the broader Ring ecosystem
- Comprehensive home security setup
Cons
- The video quality, particularly at night, has muted colors and reduced clarity
4. Ring Outdoor Cam Plus — Wide-Angle 2K Video with Ring Vision
Key Features
- Wide-Angle 2K Video
- Ring Vision
- Full-color night vision
- Mount-Anywhere Versatility
- Live View & Two-Way Talk
The Ring Outdoor Cam Plus delivers an impressive balance of performance, convenience, and security for homeowners seeking a reliable outdoor surveillance solution.
Its standout feature is the wide-angle 2K video resolution. It offers exceptional clarity and a broader field of view compared to standard 1080p cameras. Besides, the upgraded Ring Vision technology enhances low-light performance, ensuring that footage remains sharp and color-accurate even during nighttime.
Regarding construction, the camera’s weather-resistant build and sleek, low-profile design make it suitable for a variety of outdoor setups.
To complement the solid construction, this doorbell comes with a flexible battery-powered configuration that eliminates the need for complicated wiring. As a result, you can easily install it on walls, eaves, or fences, and the included mounting hardware allows for versatile positioning to monitor entryways, driveways, or backyards.
Functionally, the camera integrates seamlessly with the Ring app, offering real-time alerts, customizable motion zones, and two-way audio to deter unwanted visitors. The live view function is highly responsive, and the app’s intuitive interface makes managing multiple Ring devices effortless.
Above all, the 2K resolution proves especially useful for zooming in on faces or license plates without significant loss of detail.
Pros
- High-resolution 2K wide-angle video
- Night vision with Ring Vision technology
- Easy, wire-free installation
- Real-time motion alerts and two-way talk via Ring app
- Customizable motion zones
Cons
- Key features locked behind a subscription (Ring Protect)
- Dependent on a strong and stable Wi-Fi signal
Why Ring Doorbell Cam?
Whether you’re looking to deter porch pirates, check on visitors, or simply feel more secure at home, the Ring Doorbell Cam is the most comprehensive and intelligent choice on the market. It offers:
1. Video Surveillance at Your Door
With live video feed, you get to see who’s at your door from anywhere using the Ring app.
2. Motion-activated recording
Furthermore, these doorbells automatically record when motion is detected and have two-way audio that lets you talk to visitors or delivery drivers from your phone.
3. Crime & Package Theft Deterrence
The visible presence of a Ring cam deters porch pirates and burglars.
4. Smart Home Integration
Ring doorbell cams allow smart home integration. They work with Amazon Alexa and other smart home systems. Additionally, they integrate with smart locks, lights, and other devices for automated security routines.
5. Cloud Storage and Alerts
The Ring Protect Plans offer video history, cloud storage, and rich notifications. The customizable motion zones included help reduce unnecessary alerts
6. Neighborhood Features
Last but not least, Ring doorbell cams feature a Neighbors app that lets users share footage and get crime & safety alerts from nearby Ring users.
Types of Video Doorbells
The two primary types of video doorbells are battery-powered models and wired models. Each type offers distinct advantages depending on your living situation and preferences.
1. Battery-Powered Models
Battery-powered doorbells are designed with convenience and flexibility in mind. These models are particularly ideal for renters or homeowners who lack existing doorbell wiring. Since they don’t require any connection to a home’s electrical system, installation is straightforward and can be done easily with just a screwdriver and a mounting bracket.
Advantages:
- Easy DIY installation: No electrical knowledge or professional help is needed.
- Flexible placement: Can be mounted virtually anywhere within Wi-Fi range.
- Non-permanent: Ideal for renters, as they can be removed without damaging the property.
Disadvantages:
- Battery maintenance: Requires periodic recharging or battery replacement.
- Possible downtime: If the battery dies and isn’t recharged promptly, the doorbell becomes inoperable.
2. Wired Models
Wired doorbells, on the other hand, connect directly to your home’s existing doorbell wiring, providing continuous power without the need for battery maintenance.
These doorbells are an excellent option for homeowners who already have doorbell wiring in place and are looking for a more permanent and maintenance-free solution.
Advantages:
- Always powered: With continuous power, there is no need to worry about recharging or replacing batteries.
- Reliable performance: Wired doorbells typically have a more stable connection and functionality.
- Cleaner installation: No external battery pack or charging cable required.
Disadvantages:
- Requires existing wiring: If your home isn’t pre-wired, installation can be complex.
- May need professional installation: If rewiring or electrical work is necessary, you will need to seek help from a professional.
Criteria for Choosing a Ring Doorbell Cam
When choosing the best Ring Doorbell Cam, consider the following factors before settling for any particular model:
1. Video Quality
First and foremost, video quality plays a crucial role. Look for a Ring Doorbell cam that offers high-resolution video, ideally 1080p or better. The higher the resolution, the clearer the detail the camera will capture. This helps improve both live viewing and recorded footage quality.
2. Field of View
Secondly, the field of view is important. A wider viewing angle allows the camera to cover more area, which is particularly useful for spotting visitors, packages, or potential intruders from various angles. Some models offer vertical field of view enhancements specifically designed to better see packages left at your doorstep.
3. Power Source
Power source is another critical consideration. Ring offers both battery-powered and hardwired options. Battery-powered models are easier to install and more flexible in placement, while hardwired versions provide continuous power and don’t require regular charging, making them more convenient in the long term.
4. Smart Home Integration
Additionally, consider the Ring doorbell cam’s smart home integration capabilities. If you already use Amazon Alexa, Ring products generally offer seamless compatibility, allowing you to view footage on Echo Show devices or receive voice alerts. Integration with other smart home systems or third-party devices might also be important if you use platforms like Google Home or Apple HomeKit, though compatibility may be limited.
5. Subscription Costs
Subscription cost should also influence your decision. While Ring Doorbell Cams function without a plan, many features like cloud video storage, advanced motion detection, and video history require a Ring Protect subscription. Evaluate whether you’re comfortable with ongoing fees to access the full range of services.
6. Motion Detection and Customization
Next, consider motion detection and customization. The best Ring doorbell security system offers customizable motion zones and advanced alerts to reduce unnecessary notifications. Some Ring models include radar or 3D motion detection, which can improve accuracy and reduce false alerts.
7. Installation Requirements
Lastly, assess the installation requirements and design. The best Ring doorbell cam should fit well with your door frame and exterior style. Some models are bulkier than others, and you’ll want one that suits your aesthetic preferences and space constraints. Easy installation and the inclusion of necessary tools or mounting kits also make a big difference, especially for DIY users.
FAQs: Top 4 Ring Doorbell Cam
1. How long does the battery last on battery-powered models?
Battery life typically ranges from 2 to 6 months, depending on usage and environmental conditions.
2. Can I use Ring without a subscription?
Yes, but without a Ring Protect Plan, you won’t be able to record or review footage—only live view and notifications are available.
3. Do Ring cameras offer night vision?
Yes. All Ring doorbells come with infrared night vision. Some models also include color night vision.
Final Words
Hopefully, you have found this post insightful and of great help. When making your selection, keep in mind key factors such as video quality, power source, smart home compatibility, and subscription requirements for video storage play a huge role in determining which Ring doorbell cam you get. With the right choice, the doorbell cam will significantly enhance your home security and give you peace of mind.