Unexpected visitors can be troublesome, especially if they arrive at your place at late hours. Advancements in modern smart doorbells are making it easier than ever to remotely see who’s there, without having to leave your couch.
This head-to-head video doorbell review is going to compare the Ring doorbell: Ring 3 vs. vs. Ring 3 Plus vs. Ring 2 vs. Ring Pro vs. Ring.
So without further ado, let’s dive in.
Ring 3 vs. Ring 2 vs. Ring Pro vs. Ring 1 Comparison
Below, we’re going to talk through gradual specifics for each Ring doorbell, but first let’s take a summary look at each model, which can help guide your decision and research.
Best-of-the-Best from Ring
Ring 3
The Ring 3 represents cream-of-the-crop from Ring. This doorbell was released in April 2020 and has advacned motion detection, advanced Privary modes, and a “Near Motion” feature that allows you to prioritize motion within 5-15′ of the the camera. If you opt for the Ring 3 Plus model, you’ll get everything from the 3 as well as the Preroll feature. Preroll records up to 4 seconds of activity before motion is even detected.Check PriceBest Price vs. Performance Ring
Ring 2
The Ring 2 strikes a great balance of both performance and price. Like the Ring 1, it’s a simple install and doesn’t even require doorbell wiring (though it is an option if you prefer). It includes a number of faceplate options and improved resolution (1080p) over the original Ring.Check PriceBest Overall Ring Doorbell
Ring Pro
The Ring Pro is the fully hard wired version. It requires wiring into a doorbell system, so the install is a bit more complex. However, once installed it has customized motion sensors, advanced motion detection, and 4 paintable faceplates. It also works with both 2.4 & 5 GHz networks (ring 1 and 2 only support 2.4 GHz).Check PriceBest Budget Ring Doorbell
Ring
The original Ring 1 is the oldest version of the Ring. It doesn’t include faceplates and only supports 720 resolution. However, it’s also the least expensive, has the widest field of view, and is a great overall value. It has all the core features that most consumers want in a video doorbell at a fair price point.Check PriceDesign
At first glance, many of the Ring models look pretty much the same. However, it’s the small details that make the difference.
Ring Doorbell Comparison Chart
Specs | Ring 3 Plus | Ring 3 | Ring Pro | Ring 2 | Ring |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Resolution | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 720p |
Power | Battery or Hardwired | Battery or Hardwired | Hardwired | Battery or Hardwired | Battery or Hardwired |
Field of View | 160° horizontal, 84° vertical | 160° horizontal, 84° vertical | 160° horizontal, 90° vertical | 160° horizontal, 90° vertical | 180° horizontal, 110° vertical |
Avg. Install Tile | 5 minutes | 5 minutes | 15 minutes | 5 minutes | 5 minutes |
Dimensions | 5.1" x 2.4" x 1.1" | 5.1" x 2.4" x 1.1" | 4.5" x 1.8" x 0.8" | 5.0" x 2.5" x 1.0" | 4.9" x 2.4" x 0.87" |
Wifi | 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz | 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz | 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz | 2.4 GHz | 2.4 GHz |
Video | On-Demand | On-Demand | On-Demand | On-Demand | On-Demand |
Audio | Two-Way | Two-Way | Two-Way | Two-Way | Two-Way |
Alerts | Advanced>Pre-Roll | Yes | No | No | No |
Faceplates | Yes; 2 included | Yes; 2 included | Yes; 4 included | Yes; 2 included | No |
Alexa Compatible | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Rechargable Battery | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Ring 3
The Ring 3 is Ring’s newest video doorbell, released April 2020. It has 1080p video resolution, two-way talk, smart push notifications activated by motion or sound, and Alexa compatibility.
It features a quick-release battery pack for easier install or you can still opt for the hardwired install using existing doorbell wiring.
Ring 3 comes with two removable faceplates (Satin Nickel or Venetian Broze) for varying aesthetics.
What’s new with Ring 3?
Between Ring 2 vs. Ring 3, the biggest differences are summarized in four new features on the Ring 3. These features include:
- Improved motion detection
- Privacy zones
- Audio privacy
- Dual-band wifi connectivity (2.4 or 5.0 GHz)
The advanced motion detection boils down to a new “near motion” feature. This feature helps to isolate motion that is most important, ie: nearest to the camera.
The “near motion” zone only alerts you about motion in areas of 5′-15′ in from of your home, which helps to limit unnecessary motion alerts.
Ring 3 Plus
The one difference between the Ring 3 and the Ring 3 Plus is a new feature called Preroll.
What is Preroll?
Preroll allows you to see the first 4 seconds of video footage before motion was detected. It can help to see what led up to the activity in question.
Besides Preroll, the Ring 3 and Ring 3 Plus are identical.
Ring 2
As mentioned above, the Ring 2 doorbell has a similar design. It sports a minimalist style and color scheme, making it ideal for the modern home.
It includes two interchangeable face plates and can be recharged without moving the device.
Ring Pro
The Ring Pro is smaller and sleeker than the previous versions, comes with four interchangeable faceplates, and provides extra customization for motion alerts.
In addition, the Ring Pro connects to existing doorbell wiring, so you don’t have to charge a battery.
Original Ring
The original Ring doorbell has a sleek design, featuring customized motion sensors, a big button and a built-in camera with infrared night vision.
Compared to other products in this category, it’s noticeably smaller and less intrusive. It comes in three finishes, including satin nickel, Venetian bronze, and antique brass.
The camera lens is about half inch and will likely go unnoticed by most visitors. The case components are largely plastic, but the overall built is sturdy and feels durable.
RELATED – Ring Alarm Review (DIY security system)
Size & Dimensions
All four Ring doorbells are relatively small and will blend in seamlessly with your home design.
- Ring 3 / Ring 3 Plus: 5.1″ x 2.4″ x 1.1″
- Ring 2: 5.0″ x 2.5″ x 1.0″
- Ring Pro: 4.5″ x 1.8″ x 0.8″
- Original Ring: 4.9″ x 2.4″ x 0.87″
Setup & Installation
Ring’s video doorbells are easy to set up and use. The Ring Pro is hardwired, while the other three models can be powered by either a removable and rechargeable lithium-ion battery or traditional doorbell wiring.
It shouldn’t take you more than 5 minutes to install a battery-powered Ring camera, and 15 minutes to hardwire the Ring Pro or the Ring 3 / 3 Plus.
Wiring is a bit trickier to set up and requires a 24V transformer, which is included in the box.
That being said, Ring has a variety of helpful tools and illustrations to make install quick and easy for DIYers.
Ring + The Smart Home
All Ring devices are designed for smart homes and allow for voice control. They work with Alexa and IFTTT, but you’ll need to download and install the Ring app to control the doorbell.
When someone is at your door, you’ll get a push alert on your smartphone or tablet.
From here, you need to open the app, watch the video footage, and then either lock or unlock the door. You can also talk to the person behind your door through the app.
Alexa will let you know when someone has rung your doorbell, but you need the Ring app to lock or unlock the door.
What’s Inside the Box?
To our surprise, Ring’s doorbells came with everything we needed to install them.
The box contains the actual doorbell, screwdriver and screws, wire extensions, drill bit, and a relay that connects to your doorbell chime. There are also several faceplates included, depending on which model you choose.
Ring 3, Ring 3 Plus, & Ring 2
The Ring 3, Ring 3 Plus, and Ring 2 doorbells come with basically the same parts and accessories.
In the box, you’ll get:
- Ring Video Doorbell
- USB charging cable
- Wedge and corner kits
- Adapter plate
- 2 Faceplates
- Quick-release battery
- Mounting bracket
- Security sticker
- Instruction manual
- Tools and screws
- Diode (for wired installation only)
The Ring Pro
Ring’s Pro model comes with all of the above plus:
- Chime
- 24V transformer
- 2 faceplates
- Retrofit plate
As long as you have some basic DIY experience, you shouldn’t need any help to set up the system. Ring also provides step-by-step instructions, which makes everything a lot easier.
The Original Ring
The original Ring doorbell comes with just the basics:
- Ring Video Doorbell
- Instructions manual
- Tools and screws
- Diode
- USB charging cable
- Mounting bracket
- Security sticker
The Ring App
As mentioned earlier, it’s necessary to install and set up the Ring app. First, you must sign up for a user account.
Ring offers three options:
Free Account
A standard free account, which includes:
- Motion-activated notifications
- Live footage
- Theft protection
- Two-way talk
Basic Account
A basic account ($3 / month or $30 / year), which is available for one device and includes the above features plus:
- Video saving and sharing capabilities
- 30-day video history
Plus Account
A Plus account ($10 / month or $100 / year), which covers the entire home and offers all of the features of a basic account plus:
- Extended warranty
- 10% discount on all Ring products
Regardless of which plan you choose, you’ll get a two-year limited warranty. The membership can be canceled anytime.
All Ring video doorbells include a free 30-day trial of the Basic Plan.
App Features
Once your account is up and running, you can start using the Ring app. It’s compatible with both Android and iOS devices and has a user-friendly interface.
Depending on your device and membership plan, you may use the app to:
- Check the battery life
- Enable / disable motion and ring alerts
- View linked chimes
- Talk with your guests
- Watch the doorbells’ footage
- Create a motion schedule
- Adjust motion sensitivity
- See all the recent activity
- Add other users
- Watch back video recorded
- Change the chime sound
- Check the system status, Wifi signal, voltage, and more
- Set up motion zones
There is also a motion snooze button that allows you to turn off motion alerts for 15 minutes to two hours. This feature comes in handy when you’re expecting several guests or throwing a party.
Another cool thing is that you can choose from 20 chime sounds.
Camera Performance
Performance between these four models really comes down to what exactly you’re looking for in a video doorbell system.
We’ve already covered some of the specs and features. Moving forward, let’s focus on the overall performance.
NOTE: With all Ring models, your live-streaming experience will depend on the network speed and strength.
Ring 3 / Ring 3 Plus
The Ring 3 and Ring 3 Plus doorbell cams record video at 1080p in HD, so you’ll get a clear head-on view of your visitors. It has a 160° horizontal field of view and 84° vertical range.
As added bonuses, the Ring 3 also has advanced motion detection with adjustable motion zones and the new “near motion” feature that helps to limit excessive notifications.
The Ring 3 Plus has Preroll which captures the first 4 seconds of video before motion is even detected.
Ring 2
The Ring 2 records video at 1080p in HD, just like the Ring 3 models. It is also equipped with infrared LEDs, which allows you to see in the low-lit environments as well. It has a 160° field of view horizontally and 90° range vertically. (slightly greater range than the Ring 3 models).
Ring Pro
Ring’s Pro model records in 1080p HD, just like the 2 and 3.
The camera’s 160° field-of-view allows you to see the porch and driveway, which comes in handy when you’re not home. In addition, you can specify which areas will trigger motion alerts to help limit unnecessary notifications.
What are the extra features on the Ring Pro?
The Ring Pro has a speaker, a microphone, built-in motion sensors, and infrared LEDs offering up to 30 feet of night vision. When someone presses the doorbell button, the LED ring surrounding it glows blue.
The primary difference between this model and the original Ring or Ring 2 is that it uses both video analysis and infrared for motion detection, which helps eliminate false positives.
Original Ring
The original Ring doorbell records footage at 720p resolution and can capture a 180° horizontal field of view. The vertical field of view is 110 degrees. Expect reliable motion detection, decent quality footage, and good Wi-Fi connectivity.
NOTE: All Ring video doorbells feature night vision and motion detection.
Optional Accessories
In addition to video doorbells, Ring offers hardwired and wire-free HD security cameras with advanced motion sensors, LED spotlights, and multiple power options.
Depending on your needs, you may use the following accessories along with your Ring video doorbell:
- Solar Charger (compatible with the original Ring doorbell and the Ring Video Doorbell 2)
- Corner Kit (compatible with the Ring Video Doorbell 2, the original Ring, and the Ring Pro)
- Interchangeable Faceplate (compatible with the Ring Video Doorbell 2)
- Quick Release Battery Pack (compatible with the original Ring and the Ring Video Doorbell 2)
- Chime (works with all Ring devices)
- Wedge kits (available for all four Ring video doorbells)
- Plug-in adapter (works with the Ring Pro)
Audio Capabilities
We tested the Ring 2 and found the audio performance to be acceptable. The sound was good, with a brief, but reasonable delay.
The Ring Pro can even capture audio recordings of passersby.
Compatibility
Ring’s video doorbells work with both mobile and desktop devices. You can choose to receive alerts on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
This is a huge plus, considering that most home security systems are only compatible with mobile devices.
Battery Life
According to Ring, batteries should hold their charge for six to 12 months. Our first test of the Ring 2 was delayed by 8 months. In preparation for that test we charged that battery so it was ready for us.
Unfortunately, we got busy with other projects and it was 8 months before we were able to return to it. However, we were astonished that the battery was still charged. In fact, it was at 95%.
Ring batteries do seem to be made of pretty stern stuff and hold their charge for a long long time.
What about the Ring Pro?
The Ring Pro doorbell is hardwired, so it doesn’t require a battery.
Key Features & Tech
Many Ring doorbells share similar features, with slight differences in overall performance and capabilities.
Ring 3 / 3 Plus Video Doorbell
- Preroll records the first 4 seconds of video before activity is recorded (3 Plus version only)
- Advanced motion detection with “Near Motion” (priority alerts for motion 5′-15′ away from the camera)
- Privacy mode
- Audio privacy
- Field of view: 160° horizontal; 84° vertical
- 1080p HD video capture
- Infrared night vision
- Live view
- Two-way audio with noise cancellation
- Smart home integration
- Quick-release rechargeable battery
- Multiple power options (battery, solar, and hardwire)
- On-demand video
- Works with existing doorbell
- 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
- 2 interchangeable faceplates
Ring 2 Video Doorbell
- 160° field of view
- 1080p HD video capture
- Infrared night vision
- Live view
- Two-way audio with noise cancellation
- Smart home integration
- Adjustable motion detection
- Quick-release rechargeable battery
- Multiple power options (battery, solar, and hardwire)
- On-demand video
- Works with existing doorbell
- 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
- 2 interchangeable faceplates
Ring Pro Video Doorbell
- 160-degree field of view
- 1080p HD video capture
- Infrared night vision
- Live view
- High video quality
- Two-way communication
- Smart home integration
- Advanced motion detection
- Two-way talk with noise cancellation
- Customizable motion detection
- On-demand streaming
- Hardwired using a 24V transformer
- 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
- 4 interchangeable faceplates
Ring Video Doorbell (original)
- 180° field of view
- 720p HD video capture
- Infrared night vision
- Live view
- Two-way talk with noise cancellation
- Adjustable motion detection
- Customized motion sensors
- Multiple power options (battery, solar, and hardwire)
- Video sharing capabilities
- Camera previews in the app
- Works with existing doorbell
- Compatible with Alexa
- 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
All Ring doorbells are weather resistant and come with a two-year warranty. You’ll also get lifetime theft protection, meaning that if someone steals your device, Ring will replace it for free.
What’s the Best Bang for the Buck?
Choosing a quality video doorbell ultimately comes down to your preferences. If you live in a quiet area with low crime rates, you can go for a basic model.
A cutting-edge video doorbell, such as the Ring Pro, will give you complete control over the security of your home.
After reviewing each device, we’ve highlighted the most popular Ring video doorbells under different categories:
Best for Refined Reliability: Ring 3
The Ring 3 or Ring 3 Plus are good options if you want fewer notifications and advanced motion activity when you need it most. It has 1080p video resolution and advanced motion detection with custom motion zones. It also can be wired into an existing doorbell location (for continuous power) or you can use the quick-release battery pack (for convenient power).
Best Performance: Ring Pro
The Ring Pro is only slightly more expensive than the Ring 2 doorbell, but comes packed with cutting-edge features. It’s available in four different finishes, offers great video quality, and sports a sleek design. Furthermore, it has built-in customizable motion sensors, which allows you to set up and adjust motion zones from your smartphone.
Best Overall Value: Original Ring
The original Ring doorbell has made it to the top of our list for its overall value. It has similar features as the Ring Doorbell 2 and the Ring Pro, but at half the price. This model fits into any home, featuring instant alerts, voice control, video sharing, and multiple power options.
Which Ring doorbell should you buy?
Still undecided? The truth is that all of these Ring devices offer good value for money and share similar features. Choosing one over another depends on what exactly you’re looking for.
Ring 3
We would recommend the Ring 3 video doorbell to people who:
- Want reliability and the best bells-and-whistles — If you’re looking for top-of-the-line Ring doorbell with the most reliable performance, the advancements in the Ring 3 are likely worth the added cost. Advanced motion detection, privacy zones, “near Motion” features are great additions and really help you to further customize the camera. Get alerts for the most important motion and skip the rest.
Click here to check the Ring 3 or Ring 3 Plus doorbell price.
Ring 3 Plus
We would recommend the Ring 3 Plus video doorbell if:
- The Preroll feature is critically important — This ability to capture activity before motion or sound is even detected can help to paint the picture of what was going on before the activity happened.
Ring 2
We would recommend the Ring 2 video doorbell to people who:
- Want a balance of performance and convenience — The Ring 2 is ideal for those who don’t want to go through the hassle of installing or replacing the wiring needed for a video doorbell. It comes with two faceplates and provides improved video quality compared to Ring 1.
Click here to check the Ring 2 doorbell price.
Ring Pro
We would recommend the Ring Pro video doorbell to those who:
- Want high performance and customizable features — The Ring Pro is the only exclusively hardwired version. Ring Pro also has a number of customizable motion sensors (similar to some of the features now offered by the Ring 3). Although it’s a bit trickier to install, it shouldn’t take you more than 15 minutes to get it up and running.
Click here to check the Ring Video Doorbell Pro price.
Ring 1
We would recommend the original Ring video doorbell to those who:
- Want a quality yet affordable video doorbell — The original Ring doorbell is value priced, so it fits into any budget. It’s not the most bleeding edge video doorbell, but it’s way better than nothing at all.
Click here to check the Ring Video Doorbell price.
Which One Is Right for You?
Now you have it — a complete guide to the most popular Ring video doorbells. From here, you can use this information to choose a device that fits your home security needs and your budget.
Got a question or need further help to decide which Ring device is right for you? Let us know in the comment section below and we’ll be happy to answer!
Easy to Setup, Easy to Use
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Summary
The Ring video doorbells are an easy way to add security and peace of mind to your smart home ecosystem. Whether you go with the Ring 1, Ring 2, Ring Pro, or Ring 3, all offer good video quality, a setup that’s pretty easy, and make using them as simple as picking up your phone. They are a good addition to most homes.