Ring Video Doorbells: A Quick Guide
Ring’s lineup is known for its sleek styling, straightforward installation, and stellar mobile app experience. Over the years the company has refreshed its catalog, adding cutting‑edge models and pulling older ones from the market, making the choice for your front‑door companion a bit perplexing.
From Budget‑Friendly to Premium Security
- Ring Doorbell Wired – The original hardwired option: 60 USD.
- Ring Battery Doorbell Pro – A high‑end 8‑month battery life, 230 USD.
- Ring Battery Doorbell Plus – Mid‑range, up to 8 months, 180 USD.
- Ring Doorbell Pro 2 – Hardwired, 250 USD.
- Ring Doorbell Elite – Premium, 350 USD.
Key Specs for Each Model
Ring Doorbell Wired
- Power: 10‑24 VAC (≈ 40 VA).
- Motion: Customizable zones.
- Resolution: 1080p HD.
- Connectivity: 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n.
- Field of view: 155° horizontal, 90° vertical.
Ring Battery Doorbell Pro
- Power: 8‑24 VAC (5 VA) or 24‑Vdc 420 mA/500 mA.
- Motion: Customizable zones, Bird’s Eye Zones.
- Resolution: 1536p HD+.
- Connectivity: 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz (802.11 b/g/n/ax).
- Field of view: 150° horizontal, 150° vertical.
- Dimensions: 5.1″ × 2.4″ × 1.1″.
Ring Battery Doorbell Plus
- Power: 8‑24 VAC (40 VA max).
- Motion: Customizable zones.
- Resolution: 1536p HD+.
- Connectivity: 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n).
- Field of view: 150° horizontal, 150° vertical.
- Dimensions: 5.1″ × 2.4″ × 1.1″.
Ring Doorbell Pro 2
- Power: 16‑24 VAC (≈ 30 VA).
- Motion: Customizable zones.
- Resolution: 1080p HD.
- Connectivity: 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz (802.11 b/g/n/ac).
- Field of view: 150° horizontal, 150° vertical.
- Dimensions: 4.49″ × 1.9″ × 0.87″.
Ring Doorbell Elite
- Power: Cannot run off a doorbell transformer.
- Motion: Customizable zones.
- Resolution: 1080p HD.
- Connectivity: 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz (802.11 b/g/n).
- Field of view: 160° horizontal, 90° vertical.
- Dimensions: 4.80″ × 2.75″ × 2.17″.
Why Ring Still Stands Out
Ring’s dedication to design, ease of use, and app sophistication ensures that whether you’re on a tight budget or seeking top‑tier surveillance, there’s a model that fits your entryway. With the table above, you can instantly compare the options and decide which doorbell best complements your security mindset.
Ring Video Doorbell Wired
The Ring Video Doorbell Wired: A Budget‑Friendly Choice
The Ring Video Doorbell Wired is priced at just $60. However, its wired design limits compatibility, requiring a small amount of wiring to install.
What Do You Lose When You Choose Wired Over Pro?
Faceplate Variety – The Doorbell Pro offers four interchangeable faceplates, while the Wired model comes only in classic black (additional faceplates can be purchased separately).
Wireless Band Compatibility – The Pro supports 5 GHz connectivity; the Wired model drops this higher‑frequency option.
What You Keep
- HD video and two‑way audio
- Motion detection and alert notifications
- Alexa functionality
The Wired doorbell connects directly to your existing chime, ensuring no change in sound.
Bottom Line
For the price, the Ring Video Doorbell Wired delivers all the core features you expect from a Ring doorbell. If you prefer more faceplate choices, 5 GHz Wi‑Fi, and a more straightforward installation that preserves your current chime, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro is the better option.
Read our in‑depth Ring Video Doorbell Wired review.
Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 Review
The latest Ring Pro 2 marks a clear departure from the earlier Doorbell and Doorbell 3 models. Designed to integrate directly into your existing doorbell wiring, it offers no battery option, which limits placement but eliminates battery replacement concerns.
b>Alexa Compatibility and Smart Display Visibility
With Alexa functionality, you can view the live feed directly from an Amazon Echo Show, streamlining video access.
b>Enhanced Dual‑Band Connectivity
The Pro 2 supports dual‑band operation, allowing you to run the doorbell on the 5 GHz Wi‑Fi band for a stronger signal.
Modern Slim Design and Faceplate Choices
Its sleek new look blends more seamlessly into your décor. Four faceplate options are available: Satin Nickel, Pearl White, Venetian, and Satin Black.
Upgrade in Performance Specs
- Camera: 1536p HD+ with a 150‑degree field of view in both horizontal and vertical directions.
- 3D Motion Detection with Bird’s Eye View: Leverages radar to pinpoint exact locations on a map where visitors have been near your front door.
Bottom Line
The Pro 2’s advanced features make it the top choice if you’re willing to invest in a higher price point. The only caveat is if you lack existing doorbell wiring; in that case, weigh installation costs and consider the base Doorbell or Doorbell 3 instead.
Read our in‑depth Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 review
Ring Video Doorbell Elite
Elite Doorbell Overview
Main Differences from the Pro Edition
- Ultra-slim doorbell design – Even narrower than the Pro version.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) enabled – Relies on an Ethernet cable for energy instead of traditional wiring.
Installation Flexibility
The PoE approach offers more placement options. If you can run an Ethernet cable to the doorbell, you can install it in locations that lack the standard doorbell wiring.
Cost‑to‑Benefit Assessment
- Higher price point – The Elite costs twice as much as comparable alternatives.
- Reliability advantage – The PoE connection delivers a more dependable installation.
- Verdict: Unless your existing doorbell already features Ethernet, the Elite will be more expensive but also more versatile.
Where to Buy
Available on Amazon for convenient purchase.
Ring Battery Doorbell Plus
Ring Battery Doorbell Plus: A Seamless Wireless Security Upgrade
For homeowners who prefer a hassle‑free installation, the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus delivers a streamlined setup. Simply pack a couple of batteries, mount the doorbell, and you’ll be connected to a high‑definition video feed that outshines most alternatives in the Ring lineup.
Key Features at a Glance
- 1536p HD+ resolution – offers crystal‑clear, head‑to‑toe coverage of the front entrance.
- Motion alerts and customizable settings for real‑time notifications.
- Quick‑release battery pack for effortless maintenance.
- Full compatibility with Alexa and the Ring smartphone app.
Price Worth Investment
Although this premium model sits higher on Ring’s price scale, the $180 investment guarantees a robust video doorbell experience that captures every moment beyond the threshold.
Bottom Line
The Battery Doorbell Plus stands out as a top‑tier video doorbell that captures a complete front‑door view with a head‑to‑toe aspect ratio. Its straightforward installation demonstrates why this Ring offering remains a popular choice among homeowners seeking wireless video doorbell convenience.
Ring Battery Doorbell Pro
bRing Battery Doorbell Pro: A Battery‑Powered Standout
Ring’s latest battery‑powered doorbell packs high‑end features while staying free of wiring. Priced at $230, it’s arguably the top video doorbell that runs on batteries.
Impressive Visuals
- 1536 p HDR resolution delivers sharp, color‑rich images.
- 150‑degree wide angle lets you spot packages at the drop‑off point and still capture taller visitors without cropping.
Bird’s Eye Zones Integration
- First battery‑powered model that works with Bird’s Eye Zones.
- Provides an aerial overview and detailed motion graphics on how intruders approach the front door.
- Enhances security with a feature the market has not yet offered for battery‑powered doorbells.
Installation Flexibility
- Convenient battery install eliminates the need for wiring.
- Option to hardwire the unit if battery changes become tiresome.
Bottom Line
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro rivals most wired video doorbells in performance, yet it offers a handy battery‑powered setup. Ideal for homeowners seeking the pinnacle of security without the hassle of wiring.
Get Yours on Amazon
Accessories
Ring’s accessory lineup expands doorbell functionality
Key additions include:
- Chime / Chime Pro – Indoor speaker for entryway notifications.
- Solar panel (2020 Doorbell) – Powers the battery when sunny.
- Plug‑in adapter – Allows a wired doorbell in lieu of the wireless option.
