Key Points:
- Our choice for the #1 Best Overall Ring Doorbell on Earth today is the Ring Video Doorbell 4
- Modern doorbells are sophisticated gadgets that work in tandem with a host of smart devices.
- In addition to providing security, a quality doorbell should have a reliable way of storing data.
Doorbells have a long history dating back to the early 19th century. However, modern doorbells, unlike their historical predecessors, are not simple gadgets. A doorbell today serves as the first security system in a home or office. These sophisticated gadgets not only help you know who’s knocking on the door or is around your premises, but are also equipped with the technology you need to keep your home safe from burglars. While the Ring Brand from Amazon is a recent entry in the home security industry (the brand was founded in 2012), it has made a name for itself by marketing top-notch products and more than ably competes with older brands. When shopping for a doorbell today, you have many Ring products to choose from. To help you buy the best products, we have compiled the following list of the 5 best Ring doorbells on Earth today. Here are our top picks for the best Ring doorbells.
- Best Overall: Ring Video Doorbell 4
- Best Resolution: Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
- Best Design: Ring Video Doorbell Elite
- Best for User-Friendliness: Ring Video Doorbell 3
- Best Small-Sized: Ring Video Doorbell Wired
Best Overall: Ring Video Doorbell 4
- Features video previews (4s, color)
- Camera resolution: 1080p
- Supports both 5.0GHz and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Voice control enabled with Alexa
The Ring Video Doorbell 4 is a smart home security tool that combines a doorbell’s functionality with high-definition video and two-way voice communication, making it our choice for the #1 Best Overall Ring Doorbell. Thanks to its outstanding functionality, it’s a great addition to any home’s security system.
It comes fitted with a Full HD 1080p Video camera to help you monitor your doorstep with greater precision thanks to the crisp and detailed video footage it records. In addition, the doorbell’s Motion Sensing technology tracks movement on your property and instantly sends alerts to your smartphone. With the Ring Video Doorbell 4, you’re not just watching the doorstep but the entire porch, thanks to its adjustable motion zones that allow it to turn. Further, the infrared night vision feature ensures clear visibility even in low-light conditions, providing 24/7 monitoring.
Using the Dual-Wave Audio app, you can hear and speak to visitors thanks to the built-in microphone and speaker that enables two-way audio conversation. For this doorbell, you could choose between wired or battery-powered options. Among other significant features, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 has an IP65 weather resistance rating which means that it is dust and water-resistant. For its outstanding features, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 is our top-ranked Ring doorbell on Earth today. Check out the Ring Video Doorbell 4 on Amazon today.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-quality 1080p HD video | Limited to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity |
| Advanced motion detection | Relatively large physical size |
| Two-way audio communication | Limited field of view compared to some models |
| Flexible power options |
Best Resolution: Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
- In the box: 1 x Ring doorbell, 1 x Ring chime
- Camera resolution: 1536 pixels
- Voice control with Alexa
- Features smart motion detection
For homeowners who demand the highest resolution picture quality, the doorbell to choose is the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2. Where other high-ranking doorbells boast a 1080p resolution, this gadget stands head and shoulders above them with its 1536p HD video resolution and better night vision.
In addition, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 has other awesome features. It comes with a 3D Motion Detection radar technology that provides precise notifications and fewer false alarms. The doorbell also works with Amazon’s Alexa, which helps you personalize the automatic voice responses you give to guests, enabling you to greet them or give them instructions even when you’re not home. Further, it has two Wi-Fi bands, both 2.4GHz and 5GHz, which provide a dependable and stable connection for trouble-free video streaming. However, for its quality features, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is a rather expensive product with a starting price of $309.98. Check out the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 on Amazon.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-definition video quality | Requires existing doorbell wiring |
| Accurate 3D motion detection | Subscription required for advanced features |
| Customizable motion zones | Relatively high price point compared to other models |
| Dual-band Wi-Fi for stable connectivity | No battery-powered option |
| Two-way audio for real-time communication |
Alexa integration for voice control and convenience.
Best Design: Ring Video Doorbell Elite
- Voice control with Alexa
- Features smart motion detection with automatic alerts
- Camera resolution: 1080 pixels
- Features Infra Red
The Ring Video Doorbell Elite is an innovative home security system that combines convenience with outstanding technology. This is a very aesthetic product thanks to its svelte style, but that doesn’t detract from its remarkable features. The doorbell comes equipped with 1080p HD video, enabling you to survey your surroundings with utmost clarity. Moreover, it has infrared night vision, which ensures that intruders are visible to you even in the dark.
To help you avoid additional power connections, the Ring Video doorbell Elite employs PoE (power over Ethernet) for both power and data. Further, this is a hardy product that can operate effectively in harsh weather conditions, including temperatures as high as 48 degrees centigrade. Plus, to help you monitor your surroundings with ease, this doorbell has a 160-degree horizontal and 90-degree vertical field of view. The doorbell is also compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows 10 devices. Check out the Ring Video Doorbell Elite on Amazon.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Crisp and clear 1080p HD video | Requires professional installation |
| Power over Ethernet for reliable connection | Higher price point compared to other models |
| Two-way audio for real-time communication | Limited field of view compared to some competitors |
| Customizable motion detection | |
| Seamless integration with other Ring devices | |
| Sleek and modern design |
Best for User-Friendliness: Ring Video Doorbell 3
- 1080p HD resolution video doorbell
- Playback from your tablet, smartphone, or PC
- Enhanced motion detection, better privacy zones, increased audio privacy, and 5.0 or 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
- Mobile push notifications when doorbell is pressed or motion sensors are triggered
- Wireless model features rechargeable battery pack
- Easy setup with mounting tools included
When you want to improve your home’s convenience and security, the Ring Video Doorbell 3 is a wonderful ally. Courtesy of its 1080p video resolution, this user-friendly doorbell produces crisp videos. In addition, it also enables you to communicate with anyone at your door in real time from anywhere, thanks to the built-in microphone and speaker.
Further, to keep you informed of any visits or suspicious behavior, the device uses sophisticated motion sensors to detect activity and provide prompt notifications to your mobile device. You can watch your front entrance day and night thanks to the infrared night vision technology, which enables visibility even in dim lighting. By setting up separate monitoring regions, you may cut down on false alarms and concentrate on the things that matter to you the most.
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 integrates well with other smart home gadgets like Amazon Alexa and, with a price tag of $149.99 for the base model, this is a reasonably priced gadget. In addition to its good resolution, other notable features of this doorbell include its 180 degrees horizontal and 90 degrees vertical fields of view, its rechargeable power source battery packs, and its weather resistance. Further, unlike some doorbells, the Ring Video Doorbell 3 is a user-friendly product that can be installed easily. Check out the Ring Video Doorbell 3 on Amazon.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clear HD video and two-way audio | Requires a strong Wi-Fi connection |
| Motion detection with customizable zones | No continuous recording feature |
| Easy installation and setup | |
| Works well with other smart home devices |
Best Small-Sized: Ring Video Doorbell Wired
- In the box: 1 x Ring doorbell, 1 x Ring Chime
- Camera resolution: 1080 pixels
- Features night vision
- Voice control with Alexa
Measuring 3.98 x 1.81 x 0.88 inches, the Ring Video Doorbell Wired is a stylish and small product that has exceptional features. Despite its minute size when compared to some gigantic products in the market, this doorbell comes with 1080p resolution and its picture quality is never in doubt.
The Ring Video Doorbell Wired comes with advanced motion detection that can be adjusted to offer surveillance in multiple areas. In addition, the doorbell’s infrared night vision ensures sight even in dimly lit areas and hence offers 24/7 monitoring. Some of its outstanding features include an 11.2 Energy Source existing transformer (16-24 VAC, 40VA maximum, 50/60Hz) and 90 degrees vertical and 155 degrees horizontal fields of view. The doorbell supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity. Plus, the Ring Video Doorbell Wired could work as your assistant when you’re away thanks to its built-in Amazon Alexa microphone and speaker that enables you to hold real-time chats with visitors. The gadget is also easy to install. Check out the Ring Video Doorbell Wired on Amazon.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| HD video quality for clear visuals | Requires existing doorbell wiring |
| Two-way audio for real-time communication | Easy installation with a wired setup |
| Customizable motion detection | Limited field of view compared to some other brands |
| Easy installation with wired setup | Requires a subscription for advanced features and cloud storage |
| Seamless integration with Amazon Alexa |
How to Pick the Best Ring Doorbell: Step by Step
From our review above, you can see that Ring doorbells vary greatly and, when buying, there are some crucial factors to consider, including:
- Cost
- Ease of Installation
- Compatibility with other home security systems
- Camera resolution
- Motion detection
- Field of view
- Night vision
- Data storage
Let’s look at these features closely.
Cost
Ring doorbells vary substantially in price and you need to decide how much you’re willing to spend. While there are Ring doorbells that cost as little as $70, you’ll also find others that cost over $300. Before settling for a specific doorbell, look at the specs that make it more expensive than the other gadgets. As you’ll find out, pricey gadgets have superior capabilities (such as plenty of smart features) and are usually worth the price. Subsequently, when you remember that you’re installing a doorbell to safeguard your property and loved ones, the cost might not be a deterrent.
Ease of Installation
Doorbell costs could rise if you have to seek professional help for installation. If you choose a wireless doorbell, however, you could install it yourself as there’s no wiring required. Moreover, wireless doorbells are mobile and you could move them from one place to another with ease.
In contrast, wired doorbells might prove harder to install for people with limited knowledge of wiring. While these doorbells are pricier, they are more consistent than the wireless ones and hence more popular.
Compatibility With Other Home Security Systems
Before buying a doorbell, it’s important to consider how it will fit in with the other security systems in your home. Do you, for instance, have a home monitoring system in place? What kind of security system do you have for the windows and doors and how will the doorbell work in tandem with what you already have? Further, if you live in a smart home, think about how the doorbell will play a part in your home automation.
Camera Resolution
Doorbells are fitted with cameras to help you see the person on your porch or in the vicinity of your home. To get a clear picture of the visitor or intruder, you need a high-resolution camera and, while there are cameras with 480p resolution, you get clearer and sharper images with a 1080p resolution camera.
Motion Detection
A quality doorbell should not just enable you to see who is encroaching on your property, but should also detect motion in the designated area. Such doorbells are fitted with sensors to alert you about the presence of people, and you could even set them to monitor specific areas of the home.
Field of View
Field of view refers to the width of the camera’s coverage. Some cameras have a 90 degrees width of coverage. So they can see objects in front of them. Better cameras have a coverage width of 180 degrees. Thus, they can see objects in front and also on the sides.
Night Vision
If you’re worried about burglars during the day, you have greater reasons to worry about such intruders at night. Therefore, a good doorbell should come with a camera that lets you know what is going on at night. When a camera has night vision, you can clearly identify the person approaching your door, and this ensures that your home is safe day and night.
Data Storage
Apart from recording, a quality doorbell should have the capability to store data. You have the option of either storing such data using built-in micro-SD cards or using a cloud server. In the event of a burglary, stored data could prove priceless when dealing with law enforcement agents or insurers.
What to Know Before Buying Ring Doorbells
Doorbells perform the crucial function of keeping your property safe, but these gadgets are exposed to the extremities of the elements. Located outdoors, exposure to extreme heat or cold can affect their functionality. In fact, if you live in a location that experiences sweltering summers, exposing your doorbell to direct sunlight could make it overheat and possibly damage some of the internal components. Ideally, your ring doorbell should be located in a shaded place during such weather conditions. If you can’t get a shaded place to install your Ring doorbell, bring it indoors when the temperature rises above 40 degrees centigrade.
And if your area experiences freezing winters, be aware that temperatures below 0 degrees centigrade may make the doorbell fail to work due to battery failure. In such situations, you’re advised to move the doorbell indoors and charge the battery using a USB cord. To get the best from your Ring doorbell, it helps to monitor the weather constantly and ensure that the battery life does not get hampered by weather extremities.
Using the Best Ring Doorbell: What It’s Like
Ring is a respected brand name and one thing you can be certain about is that buying one of their doorbells is a sound investment. Using a Ring doorbell gives you peace of mind as these gadgets let you know what is going on at home regardless of where you’re in the world. The Ring doorbell can instantly send the video and other photographic evidence that it gathers to your smartphone. Moreover, Ring doorbells have plenty of smart features. For example, you can switch on the siren to scare away intruders. Plus, the evidence you gather will come in handy should you need to deal with the police or other law enforcement agencies.
Summary Table
| Model | Key Features | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Ring Video Doorbell 4 | High-quality 1080p HD video, advanced motion detection, two-way audio communication, flexible power options | Limited to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, relatively large physical size, limited field of view compared to some models |
| Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 | High-definition video quality, accurate 3D motion detection, customizable motion zones, dual-band Wi-Fi for stable connectivity, two-way audio for real-time communication | Requires existing doorbell wiring, subscription required for advanced features, relatively high price point compared to other models, no battery-powered option |
| Ring Video Doorbell Elite | Crisp and clear 1080p HD video, power over Ethernet for reliable connection, two-way audio for real-time communication, customizable motion detection, seamless integration with other Ring devices, sleek and modern design | Requires professional installation, higher price point compared to other models, limited field of view compared to some competitors |
| Ring Video Doorbell 3 | Clear HD video and two-way audio, motion detection with customizable zones, easy installation and setup, works well with other smart home devices | Requires a strong Wi-Fi connection, no continuous recording feature |
| Ring Video Doorbell Wired | HD video quality for clear visuals, two-way audio for real-time communication, customizable motion detection, easy installation with wired setup, seamless integration with Amazon Alexa | Requires existing doorbell wiring, limited field of view compared to some other brands, requires a subscription for advanced features and cloud storage |
The image featured at the top of this post is ©BrandonKleinPhoto/Shutterstock.com.
