In the world of smart homes, Ring doorbells have long been the gold standard for what a video doorbell should be. There are few competitors that offer high quality video and easy two-way communication. Depending on your perspective, Ring has a product line that has many of the same benefits. This can make choosing the best one for your home a bit difficult. The good news is that whichever one you choose, you'll find out why Ring is one of the most popular smart home security products on the market today. So which one to choose?
ContentsRing Video DoorbellRing Video Doorbell 2Ring Video Doorbell Projudas camRing Video Doorbell EliteConclusionThe original Video Doorbell is proof that just because a product isn't new doesn't mean it should go away. Offering quick and easy setup in five minutes or less, image quality remains exceptional. This battery-powered option is perfect for homeowners (condos and townhouses, too!) who just want the basics. By the basics, we mean instant notification when visitors arrive or depart. And you'll see all of your visitors in "crystal clear" 720p HD video. You can also talk to arriving visitors or delivery people via a two-way communication system.
The Ring 2 also steps it up a notch with Alexa support. This makes it easy to see live activity at any time by simply asking Alexa to show you the live view. A removable battery makes it easy to recharge and/or swap out with additional batteries that cost around $20 or less on Amazon. The only potential downside to the Ring 2 is a slightly smaller field of view at 160 degrees compared to the original Ring's 180 degrees. Simply put, Ring 2 is the best choice for any owner who wants the best of everything Ring has to offer without the sticker shock.
When you add the word "Pro" to a consumer product, you expect it to deliver. Luckily, the Ring Pro does it in spades. Instead, the Pro connects to existing doorbell wiring and stays powered up the entire time. This allows the 1080p camera with infrared to continuously monitor the area around your front door with a full 160 degree field of view.
Extras like motion-activated alerts and two-way talk are included, as is support for connecting to Alexa for voice commands. Due to wiring, installation can take up to 15 minutes depending on your comfort level. Another “Pro” feature is support for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connections. While the original Ring and Ring 2 only support 2.4GHz, the addition of 5GHz ensures that you'll receive a stronger signal for alerts. Ultimately, the Pro is perfect for anyone who wants a more video doorbell with a more modern design. It's even recommended for anyone who doesn't want to worry about swapping batteries
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Even if the peephole cam the name doesn't convince you, the product certainly could. Unlike the rest of its sister products, the Peephole Cam attaches to a door instead of the area around the door frame. This not only provides similar 1080p video recording, but adds entirely new features. You can continue to see, hear and speak to visitors at your door from anywhere in the world, but you can also see them through the peephole during check-in.
Setup takes less than five minutes and offers the same instant alerts as the rest of Ring's product line. Support for Alexa and voice commands is available, as is adjustable motion detection. A delivery is coming? The Peehole Cam will send alerts when someone approaches your door. Instead of watching the video on your device, you can choose to watch through the peephole. For anyone who lives in an apartment or condo, the Peephole Cam is the best option for an extra level of security.
Like the Pro, the Ring Elite offers a slim design that blends perfectly with wall decor. The full suite of "Pro" features is available, including 1080p video, night vision, live video view, and four interchangeable faceplates. Unless your primary focus is a professional-grade, wired in-wall smart doorbell, you may not need the Elite. Almost identical functionality to the Pro at half the cost makes it an easy decision. Ultimately, the Elite is the best choice for anyone who wants what the slimmest Ring Video Doorbell offers and doesn't mind paying a premium to get it.
No matter how you slice it, there's a Ring Video Doorbell for every budget level. With a little know-how or the help of a neighbor, installation is super easy on all counts. Ultimately, if you want a stronger Wi-Fi signal or care about looks as much as functionality, the Pro or Elite are the better choices. If you want it to "work", the original ring or ring 2 are the best options.
