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A Ring video doorbell is a doorbell with a built-in camera that connects to your home Wi-Fi and the Ring app. It can notify you when someone presses the button or motion is detected, so you can view a live feed and speak with a visitor from your phone or tablet. Basic live viewing and answering alerts do not require a subscription; reviewing recorded video does.
What a Ring video doorbell does
It combines a doorbell button, camera, motion detection, Wi-Fi connectivity, and app-based alerts. When a visitor presses the button—or the camera detects motion—the device can send a notification to your mobile device. From the Ring app, you can open Live View and use two-way audio to talk with the visitor. Ring describes this as a way to see and speak with someone at the door even when you are away from home.
The doorbell relies on an existing home Wi-Fi network; it does not provide internet service. Ring says setup and use require a mobile device and the Ring app. Its support guidance lists 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi compatibility, with 5 GHz support on some devices, and says Ring devices do not work with mobile hotspots or support Bluetooth. Check the requirements for the specific model and your network before buying or installing it. Ring device compatibility and Wi-Fi requirements.
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Does it record video, and do you need a subscription?
You can view live video and answer doorbell notifications without a Ring subscription. Accessing recorded footage later requires a compatible subscription. Ring says cloud motion-event videos can be stored for up to 180 days, but the applicable plan, device, region, and account settings can affect features and retention. Treat that figure as a maximum stated by Ring, not a guarantee that every account or recording is kept that long. Ring Protect plan information.
#1 Best Overall
- Capture it all with Retinal 2K video — From wide views to tighter focus, it’s easy to see your home or business in crisp clarity with Retinal 2K.
- Zoom in up to 6x — Catch details at a distance, inspect faces, and more with up to 6x Enhanced Zoom.
- Connect to who’s there — See, hear, and speak in real time with Live View and Two-Way Talk.
- Get real-time alerts — Receive real-time notifications on your phone when motion is detected.
- Easily recharge — Simply insert the included removal tool to detach your doorbell from the wall, then recharge the built-in battery via USB-C. (Cable not included.)
Ring’s guide describes recording in response to detected motion or when Live View is activated; it does not establish ordinary video doorbells as continuously recording 24/7 devices. Some features, such as package-related alerts, may depend on the model and subscription, and availability can differ by region. How Video Doorbells Work.
How Ring doorbells are powered and installed
Power arrangements vary. Some models use a rechargeable battery, while others are designed to connect to existing doorbell wiring; installation needs therefore depend on the exact model and the home’s existing setup. A current European product page, for example, describes one built-in rechargeable battery model that can also be hardwired for continuous charging and can use an optional solar charger. That example does not mean the same charging accessories work with every Ring doorbell. Ring Battery Video Doorbell product page (UK).
Rank #2
- Capture it all with Retinal 2K video — From wide views to tighter focus, it’s easy to see your home or business in crisp clarity with Retinal 2K.
- Zoom in up to 6x — Catch details at a distance, inspect faces, and more with up to 6x Enhanced Zoom.
- Connect to who’s there — See, hear, and speak in real time with Live View and Two-Way Talk.
- Get real-time alerts — Receive real-time notifications on your phone when motion is detected.
- Easily recharge — Simply insert the included removal tool to detach your doorbell from the wall, then recharge the built-in battery via USB-C. (Cable not included.)
Ring cautions that installation and electrical requirements vary, and local building codes or laws may require permits or qualified electrical work. Use the installation instructions for the exact model and check local requirements rather than assuming all doorbells can be wired the same way.
What varies between models?
Ring doorbells share the basic idea of app-connected video and alerts, but their specifications and capabilities are not identical. Compare the exact model’s current regional product details across these factors:
Rank #3
- Capture it all with Retinal 4K video — See your home or business in the ultimate clarity with Retinal 4K.
- Zoom in up to 10x — Catch details at a distance with up to 10x Enhanced Zoom.
- See, hear and speak to visitors on camera — With Live View & Two-Way Talk with Audio+, you’ll be able to interact with who’s there in real time, right from your phone.
- Tailored detection for more exact alerts — 3D Motion Detection pinpoints motion on your property so you’ll receive more precise alerts and fewer interruptions.
- True color, even in low light — With Low-Light Sight, just a little ambient light gives you true color video. In total darkness, your camera switches to crisp black-and-white to keep details sharp.
- Power and installation: battery, existing wiring, or another model-specific arrangement.
- Video and communication: resolution, field of view, night vision, Live View, and two-way audio specifications.
- Detection and notifications: motion zones and person- or package-related features, which can vary by model and subscription.
- Recorded footage: subscription eligibility, storage terms, and feature availability in your region.
- Placement: whether the device fits your entryway and its stated weather limits.
Ring describes its video doorbells as water-resistant, not waterproof. They are intended to withstand rain and snow, but not submersion or high-pressure water. Check the product guidance for the model’s stated environmental limits. Ring guidance on how video doorbells work.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- AI-Powered Smart Detection: Advanced AI technology accurately identifies people while filtering out vehicles and animals, so you only get the alerts that matter most
- Secure Cloud Storage: Protect your recordings with AES-128 encrypted cloud storage
- Pre-Capture Recording: Cloud subscribers benefit from pre-capture functionality, ensuring the camera starts recording right at the moment motion begins - never miss a thing
- Reliable 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Connection: Optimized for 2.4GHz networks to deliver stable, uninterrupted performance. (Not compatible with 5GHz Wi-Fi.)
- Exceptional Night Vision: Equipped with four powerful infrared LEDs and an advanced image sensor, providing sharp, detailed footage even in total darkness
Rank #4
- Capture it all with Retinal 2K video — From wide views to tighter focus, it’s easy to see your home or business in crisp clarity with Retinal 2K.
- Zoom in up to 6x — Catch details at a distance, inspect faces, and more with up to 6x Enhanced Zoom.
- Connect to who’s there — See, hear, and speak in real time with Live View and Two-Way Talk.
- Get real-time alerts — Receive real-time notifications on your phone when motion is detected.
- Easily recharge — Simply insert the included removal tool to detach your doorbell from the wall, then recharge the built-in battery via USB-C. (Cable not included.)
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
