Ring doorbells have revolutionized home security by combining video doorbell functionality with convenient smart features and connectivity. As a leader in the video doorbell space, Ring offers several excellent models to meet various needs and budgets. In this expert guide, we reveal the 5 best Ring doorbells available based on video resolution, features, design, ease of use and more.
A Brief History of Doorbells
Doorbells have an intriguing history dating back to the early 1800s. The first electric doorbell was patented in 1831 by Joseph Henry, utilizing electromagnets to activate a bell. Over the next hundred plus years, wired doorbells with push buttons became commonplace.
It wasn‘t until the late 20th century that wireless doorbells emerged, freeing homeowners from complicated wiring. But even these were quite simple—just a basic button and chime.
The modern video doorbell like Ring’s models represents an incredible evolution, integrating high tech security and connectivity into a device used since the 1800s. With built-in cameras, motion sensors, WiFi connectivity and smart integrations, today‘s doorbells are on the cutting edge.
An Introduction to Ring Video Doorbells
Founded in 2012, Ring quickly became an industry leader in the home security camera and video doorbell market after being acquired by Amazon in 2018. They offer a wide variety of video doorbell models to suit needs and budgets.
All Ring doorbells provide the core functionality of a traditional doorbell along with HD video streaming, motion activated alerts, night vision and two-way talk features. Higher priced options add higher resolution video, smarter motion detection, better WiFi connectivity and more advanced features. Many integrate with Alexa and other smart home ecosystems.
Now let’s reveal the 5 best options available today across various categories:
Best Overall: Ring Video Doorbell 4
With crisp 1080p video, smart motion alerts, easy installation and a very reasonable price point, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 is the best overall option for most homeowners.
It captures video in a 1536p resolution, resulting in a sharp and vivid picture. The motion detection feature can differentiate between people and other sources of movement, while adjustable zones ensure you only get alerts that matter.
Setup is quick whether you hard wire it or use the removable, rechargeable battery. It connects reliably via dual-band WiFi and works with Alexa for convenient voice control.
For comprehensive front door security that won‘t break the bank, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 hits the sweet spot.
Best Resolution: Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 with Ring Chime Pro
With an ultra sharp 1536p resolution and advanced 3D motion tracking, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 captures more detail and minimizes false alerts.
The enhanced camera captures color night vision, while Noise Cancelation isolates audio clearly. Alexa Greetings provide custom voice responses when you‘re away.
While priced higher than other options, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 delivers best-in-class video and smart features to satisfy homeowners seeking a premium solution. The investment pays dividends in enhanced security and control.
Best Design: Ring Video Doorbell Elite
The Ring Video Doorbell Elite combines sleek aesthetics with robust functionality.
Rather than running on battery power, it leverages the existing doorbell wiring for continuous power and PoE (Power over Ethernet) connection. This results in reliable performance without ever needing to recharge a battery.
It captures 1080 HD video with a wide field of view. The svelte design mounts flush on the wall for a clean, integrated look.
For homeowners seeking a video doorbell that blends seamlessly into their home‘s aesthetics, the Ring Video Doorbell Elite is ideal. The clever design hides the technical elements while enabling outstanding security.
Best for User-Friendliness: Ring Video Doorbell 3
Ring makes it easy with the user-friendly Video Doorbell 3 model.
It comes packed with features like 1080p HD video, advanced motion detection, night vision and noise canceling audio—while costing roughly $100.
You can power it via the removable rechargeable battery or existing doorbell wiring for flexibility. The setup takes minutes even if you have no electrical or WiFi experience. It connects to 2.4 & 5GHz networks for reliable connectivity.
For those seeking the smartest features made simple, the Ring Video Doorbell 3 removes complexity and just works. The price makes it among the most budget friendly options too.
Best Small-Sized: Ring Video Doorbell Wired
Ring Video Doorbell Wired with Ring Chime
The Ring Video Doorbell Wired lives up to its name as a smart doorbell designed specifically for existing wired setups.
It comes in a petite size— nearly 40% smaller than previous models—to fit in more spaces while packing full-featured functionality.
Crisp 1080p video, custom motion zones, night vision and Two-Way Talk all provide comprehensive monitoring and communication.
For homeowners with wired doorbells seeking an easy upgrade, the Ring Video Doorbell Wired installs in minutes while taking up less space and continuing to leverage the existing wiring.
Key Features To Compare
When choosing your Ring doorbell, there are a few key factors worth comparing:
Video Quality: Resolution, night vision capability, wide field of view and HDR are specs that determine how clearly you can see visitors and activity outside your door. 1080p is good, while 1536p or 2K resolution is even better.
Power: Doorbells powered by battery offer flexible, wireless installation while wired models have continuous power. Some higher end models even have PoE (Power over Ethernet) eliminating the need for wires and battery swaps altogether.
Motion Sensing: Basic motion sensors will pick up activity whereas more advanced models have fine tuned 3D sensing, customizable zones for smarter alerts and human differentiation to reduce false alarms.
Connectivity: Basic doorbells only connect via 2.4Ghz WiFi which is prone to interference. Having dual band 2.4 & 5Ghz connectivity results in a stronger and more reliable signal.
Audio Quality: Clear two-way communication allows you to hear and speak with visitors. Noise cancelation isolates the voices and amplifies audio fidelity for easier conversations.
Smart Features: Integrations with Alexa, Google Assistant and other platforms allow for convenient voice control. Some even offer Alexa Greetings where Amazon‘s assistant can respond to guests when you‘re away!
By comparing products across these aspects, you‘ll discover the right Ring doorbell matching your budget and needs!
How To Choose The Best Ring Doorbell
Choosing the right Ring doorbell amongst the different models comes down to a few key considerations:
Intended Use Case: Do you want basic front door monitoring or whole home perimeter security? This determines if you need one doorbell or multiple cameras.
Features: Decide which features are essential like high resolution video, smart motion sensing, etc. and which you can live without. Match a doorbell with the must-have capabilities.
Power Source: A wired doorbell is powered continuously whereas a wireless, battery-powered version needs periodic charging. If adapting existing wiring is difficult, wireless makes installation faster.
WiFi Connectivity: 2.4Ghz WiFi alone may lose signal so opt for dual band 2.4 & 5Ghz connectivity for uninterrupted streaming.
Price: Ring doorbell prices span from $60 to $500. Have a budget in mind and find the best match of features and value. Going too cheap could mean missing key security capabilities.
Ease of Installation: If adapting existing wiring is challenging or you want flexibility in placement, choose a wireless model for easiest DIY installation. Some require professional wiring for optimal setup.
By carefully weighing these elements against your home needs, you‘ll discover the perfect Ring doorbell!
Owning & Using A Ring Doorbell: The Experience
Installing and owning a Ring doorbell dramatically simplifies monitoring your home‘s security. Rather than having to peer out windows or crack open doors, you‘ll receive instant alerts with video footage whenever the doorbell is pressed or motion is detected.
You‘re able to communicate clearly using two-way talk with visitors after screening them visually. And integrated smart features enable conveniences like using Alexa voice commands to view the camera feed.
Trouble free operation does require keeping batteries charged or wiring connections intact. Placement is also important for an unobstructed view without direct sunlight glaring on the camera. But overall, Ring doorbells are designed for effortless operation and seamless integration into your household. They bring peace of mind knowing your property stays protected.
Ring Doorbell: FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Ring doorbells:
What models are available?
Ring sells corded, battery powered and PoE (Power over Ethernet) video doorbell models ranging from economical to premium tiers.
Do they record video?
Yes, when motion is detected or the doorbell pressed, video clips are recorded either locally with an SD card or in the cloud with a Ring Protect subscription.
How difficult is installation?
Basic wireless models with removable batteries can be installed in under 20 minutes without any tools. Hardwired versions take 30-60 minutes but don‘t require charging batteries.
Can Ring integrate with smart home devices?
Yes, Ring has integrations with Alexa, Google Assistant and various smart home platforms. This enables features like viewing the doorbell camera feed on smart displays.
Do I need to pay for cloud storage?
Ring offers cloud storage of video recordings with their Ring Protect plans starting at $3 per month. Local storage via MicroSD card is also available on select models.
Final Verdict: Which Is The Right Ring Doorbell For You?
For most homeowners, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 hits the ideal balance of exceptional video quality, smart motion alerts and simple installation at an affordable price point.
However, if money is no object and you demand the absolute best video and high tech features, step up to the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2.
For easy adaptation into existing doorbell wiring while taking up very little space, choose the petite Ring Video Doorbell Wired.
At the end of the day, all Ring models represent a monumental upgrade over traditional doorbells. Integrating convenient smart functionality with HD security cameras and connectivity, they provide whole new levels of insight and protection for your home.
Once you determine the right match of capabilities, price and ease of use, installing a Ring doorbell delivers immense peace of mind through upgraded understanding and control of your property‘s security.
