Choosing the right alarm system is crucial for home security, and with numerous options available, making an informed decision can be challenging. DIY home security systems have surged in popularity, offering flexibility and affordability. Among the top contenders in this space are the Ring Alarm systems. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into two leading options: the Ring Alarm Pro and the Ring Alarm (2nd Generation), to help you determine which system best suits your needs.
Both Ring Alarm systems are designed for easy setup and user-friendly operation, providing a robust layer of security for your home. They offer customizable features and a range of compatible accessories, but cater to slightly different needs and budgets. Understanding their key differences is essential for selecting the ideal alarm system for your peace of mind.
The Ring Alarm Pro stands out as the most comprehensive DIY home security system from Ring. It’s designed to be easy to set up and use, allows for extensive customization with a wide array of add-ons, and comes with affordable monitoring plans, starting at $20 per month or $200 per year. A significant feature of the Ring Alarm Pro is its built-in Eero Wi-Fi 6 router, which can replace your existing router or create a mesh network to enhance your Wi-Fi speed. This integrated router also provides backup internet access through a cellular connection (as part of a Ring Home Premium plan), ensuring connectivity even during power or internet outages.
The Ring Alarm (2nd Generation), on the other hand, is a more streamlined and cost-effective alternative. If you already have a reliable Wi-Fi network and don’t require the advanced router features or backup internet, the original Ring Alarm system is an excellent choice. It delivers almost the same level of security and ease of use as the Pro version but at a lower price point, typically saving you between $50 to $100 depending on the starter kit. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking effective home security without the extra cost of integrated networking features.
Key Features and Performance Comparison
When comparing alarm systems, several factors come into play, including siren loudness, monitoring options, and smart home integration. Both Ring Alarm systems excel in many areas, but there are notable differences.
Siren Loudness: Ring Alarm systems are known for having loud sirens, crucial for deterring intruders and alerting neighbors. Interestingly, the original Ring Alarm system boasts a slightly louder siren at 113 dB compared to the Ring Alarm Pro’s 104 dB, which ties with the Abode system for second loudest in tests. Both are significantly loud enough to be effective, but the original Ring Alarm has a slight edge in decibel level.
Monitoring and Customer Service: Ring stands out by offering both 24/7 professional monitoring and 24/7 customer service, accessible via phone. This comprehensive support is a significant advantage over competitors like SimpliSafe and Abode, which have more limited customer service hours. The continuous availability of support and monitoring provides users with enhanced peace of mind, knowing help is always available if needed.
Response Time and Reliability: In terms of performance, both Ring systems are highly responsive. They send smartphone alerts within just 4 seconds of an alarm being triggered, with email alerts also available. Users can customize the siren duration from 0 to 180 seconds. A notable feature is the “customizable police response” option, which allows users to verify the alarm before dispatching police, reducing false alarms. Furthermore, if an alarm is dismissed within 30 seconds, the monitoring service will not initiate a call, offering added control and convenience.
Monitoring Plans: Ring offers optional but highly recommended monitoring plans. While self-monitoring is possible with smartphone notifications, a Ring Home plan is necessary to arm and disarm the system via the app. Professional monitoring is an affordable add-on, starting at $10 per month, which is competitive compared to other providers. Both plans include cellular backup and 180 days of video storage for connected cameras. The premium Ring Home Premium plan ($20 per month) adds features like 24/7 video recording for select wired cameras, 24/7 internet backup, Ring Edge for local video storage, and Eero Secure for enhanced network security.
Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Ring Alarm Pro Advantage
A key differentiator between the two systems is the integrated Eero Wi-Fi 6 router in the Ring Alarm Pro. This feature offers several benefits, particularly for users looking to upgrade their home network or needing reliable backup internet.
Integrated Eero Router: The Ring Alarm Pro base station functions as both a security system hub and a high-performance Wi-Fi 6 router. It can replace your existing router or create a mesh network using additional Eero 6 Extenders to improve Wi-Fi coverage, especially in larger homes or areas with weak signal. Eero claims coverage of 1,500 square feet and support for up to 75 connected devices. Real-world tests have shown speeds exceeding promised rates, reaching up to 900 Mbps.
Backup Internet: The Ring Home Premium plan for the Alarm Pro includes 24/7 internet backup via AT&T cellular connection. This is crucial during internet outages, ensuring your security system remains online and functional. While backup speeds are slower than normal broadband, they are sufficient for essential security functions like live-viewing cameras and even basic streaming. The backup includes 3 GB of data, designed for emergency use, with options to purchase additional data if needed.
Power Backup: Both systems include battery backup, but the Ring Alarm Pro offers more extended options. The base station has a built-in 24-hour battery backup, similar to SimpliSafe. However, the Ring Alarm Pro can be expanded with up to three additional power packs, each providing an extra 24 hours of power, offering significant resilience during prolonged power outages.
Hardware and Add-ons: Expanding Your Security
Both Ring Alarm systems are compatible with a wide range of accessories, allowing users to customize and expand their security setup.
Extensive Accessory Ecosystem: Ring offers a broad selection of compatible accessories, including smoke/CO listeners, water-leak sensors, glass-break sensors, and sensors for doors and windows. They also provide a larger variety of indoor, outdoor, and doorbell camera options compared to other systems. The Ring Alarm Pro also integrates the functionality of the Ring Smart Lighting Bridge, enabling wireless connection of Ring lights to your network, further enhancing home security and automation.
Service Add-ons: For enhanced security, Ring offers optional services like Alarm Guard Response, which provides eyewitness verification before emergency dispatch (available in select areas), and Ring Virtual Security Guard, a premium service offering professional monitoring of camera activity and intervention when suspicious activity is detected.
Privacy and Security Considerations
Ring has faced scrutiny regarding privacy practices. However, the company has taken steps to improve security and transparency.
Privacy Policy Improvements: Ring has implemented mandatory two-factor authentication and settings that allow users to opt out of law enforcement requests and manage linked services and users. Ring is also unique in offering end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for cameras, providing a higher level of privacy by ensuring only the user can access video content, even from subpoenas.
Ring Alarm System User Experience
Long-term users report positive experiences with Ring Alarm systems, highlighting reliability and ease of use.
User Feedback: Editor Jon Chase, a Ring customer since 2020, reports no issues with false alarms, except when forgetting to disarm the system. He notes the system’s effective response and lack of false alarm concerns, which he had experienced with previous systems.
Potential Drawbacks: Things to Consider
While Ring Alarm systems are highly rated, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider.
Subscription Plan Necessity: While smartphone notifications are free, a Ring Home plan is required to fully utilize the app for arming and disarming the system. Professional monitoring is an additional cost, although still competitively priced.
Multiple Apps: Ring Alarm Pro, with its integrated Eero router, requires the Eero app for router setup and management, in addition to the Ring app and potentially the Alexa app for smart home integration. While the Eero app is primarily for initial setup and less frequent use, managing multiple apps can be less streamlined for some users.
Limited Third-Party Integration: Ring’s smart home integration is primarily limited to Amazon Alexa and devices under the “Works with Ring” program. Users seeking broader integration with other smart home ecosystems may find Abode Smart Security Kit a more suitable alternative.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Ring Alarm System
In conclusion, both Ring Alarm systems offer excellent DIY home security, but cater to different priorities:
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Ring Alarm Pro: Ideal for users who want a comprehensive system with advanced features, including an integrated Wi-Fi 6 router, backup internet, and extended power backup. It’s perfect for larger homes, users needing to upgrade their Wi-Fi, or those prioritizing maximum connectivity and redundancy.
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Ring Alarm (2nd Generation): Best for users seeking a reliable, cost-effective security system without the need for advanced networking features. It provides excellent core security functionalities, ease of use, and a wide range of compatible accessories at a more budget-friendly price.
Ultimately, the “best” alarm system depends on your specific needs, home size, existing Wi-Fi infrastructure, and budget. By comparing alarm systems like Ring Alarm Pro and Ring Alarm (2nd Gen), you can make an informed decision and invest in the security solution that best protects your home and family.
