Ring has become a household name in home security, largely due to its extensive range of video doorbells. With numerous models available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting your smart home journey. This article dives into a detailed comparison of two of Ring’s entry-level yet popular options: the standard Ring Video Doorbell (both Wired and Battery versions) and the upgraded Ring Video Doorbell Plus (again, in Wired and Battery variants).
While both the Ring Video Doorbell and Ring Video Doorbell Plus offer core functionalities like motion alerts, two-way talk, and night vision, there are key distinctions that could sway your decision. The price difference is noticeable, with the Ring Video Doorbell ranging from $49.99 to $99.00 depending on the wiring option, while the Ring Video Doorbell Plus models are consistently priced at $149.99. Understanding these differences in features and value is crucial to making an informed choice for your home security needs.
To simplify this comparison, we’ll refer to the basic Ring Video Doorbell models as simply ‘Ring’ and the enhanced Ring Video Doorbell Plus models as ‘Ring Plus’. While Ring Plus naturally boasts more advanced features, the affordability of the standard Ring Video Doorbell makes it a compelling option. Our aim is to provide a clear, side-by-side comparison, helping you determine which model provides the best value and security for your specific requirements. Let’s explore the similarities and differences to unravel which Ring doorbell best suits your home.
Ring Doorbell vs. Ring Doorbell Plus: Key Similarities
If you’re debating between the Ring and Ring Plus, you’ll be pleased to know they share a solid foundation of features. Both models are built by Ring, a leader in the video doorbell industry, ensuring a degree of quality and reliability across the board. No matter which you choose, you can expect these shared functionalities:
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Reliability and Build Quality: Ring products are known for their durability. Both the Ring and Ring Plus doorbells feel substantial and are designed to withstand various weather conditions. During testing, both models proved to be stable and free of significant technical issues.
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Wired and Wireless Options: Flexibility in installation is a key advantage. Both the Ring and Ring Plus are available in both wired and battery-powered versions. This choice allows you to select the installation method that best fits your home’s existing setup and your comfort level with wiring.
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Easy DIY Installation: Ring prioritizes user-friendliness, and installation is no exception. Both doorbells are designed for straightforward DIY installation. While wired versions involve some basic wiring, Ring provides clear, step-by-step instructions and video guides. Setting up either doorbell is achievable within an hour for most users.
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Customizable Motion Detection: Motion detection is a core security feature in both models. You can customize motion zones to focus on specific areas you want to monitor, such as your porch, and set privacy zones to exclude areas from triggering alerts, like a busy sidewalk. This customization minimizes unwanted notifications and focuses on relevant activity.
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Ring App Integration: Both doorbells are seamlessly controlled through the Ring app, available for both iOS and Android. The app allows you to view live feeds, review recorded video, adjust settings, and receive alerts, providing control and monitoring from anywhere.
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1080p HD Video Quality: High-definition video is standard with both doorbells. Both Ring and Ring Plus capture video in 1080p HD, providing clear and detailed footage. This resolution is sufficient for easily recognizing faces and objects on your doorstep, whether viewing live or recorded video.
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Wide Field of View: A wide field of view is essential for comprehensive porch monitoring. The Ring doorbells offer a near-maximum field of view. The Ring Plus (wired) leads with 160 degrees, followed closely by the Ring Video Doorbell at 155 degrees, and the Ring Plus (battery) at 150 degrees. While slight differences exist, the coverage is broadly similar and excellent in both models.
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Reliable Night Vision: Night vision is critical for 24/7 security. Both Ring and Ring Plus are equipped with night vision capabilities, ensuring visibility even in low-light conditions. While daytime clarity is generally superior, night vision on both models is effective enough to identify individuals and events at night.
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Two-Way Talk: Two-way communication is a standard feature in modern video doorbells and present in both Ring models. Using the Ring app, you can speak to visitors at your door remotely, whether you’re home or away. This feature is convenient for managing deliveries or deterring unwanted visitors.
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Cloud Recording (Subscription Required): Neither doorbell offers local video storage. Both rely on cloud storage for recorded footage, which requires a Ring Protect subscription. However, Ring’s cloud storage plans are reasonably priced, starting at $4.99 per month, providing access to recorded videos for up to 180 days.
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Competitive Pricing: Both the Ring and Ring Plus are positioned as reasonably priced options within the video doorbell market. While Ring is more budget-friendly, both offer a good set of features for their respective price points, making them accessible home security solutions.
Differences Between Ring and Ring Plus
Despite their similarities, the Ring and Ring Plus do have notable differences that impact performance and user experience. These distinctions might be crucial factors in your decision-making process:
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Size and Design: The Ring Video Doorbell is noticeably bulkier than the Ring Plus. While size doesn’t affect functionality, the slimmer profile of the Ring Plus can be more aesthetically pleasing and less obtrusive on your doorframe. If you prefer a more discreet doorbell, the Ring Plus has an edge.
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Night Vision Technology & Lighting: While both offer night vision, Ring Plus enhances nighttime clarity with built-in LED lighting. This dedicated lighting on the Ring Plus typically results in brighter and clearer night vision footage compared to the standard Ring Video Doorbell, which utilizes color night vision. For superior nighttime visuals, Ring Plus is the better choice.
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Motion Detection Sensitivity: Although both are advertised with Advanced Motion Detection and customizable zones, real-world testing suggests Ring Plus has a more refined motion detection system. Some users have reported the standard Ring Video Doorbell being less consistent in motion detection, occasionally lagging or missing events, whereas Ring Plus tends to be more responsive and accurate.
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Alert Customization: Ring Plus offers richer alert customization options. Beyond basic motion alerts, Ring Plus can provide “smart” alerts that differentiate between types of motion events, such as person detection or package detection (depending on the specific Plus model and subscription). This advanced alerting provides more context and reduces the need to check every notification.
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Cost Disparity: The most significant difference is price. The standard Ring Video Doorbell is considerably more affordable, especially the wired version. The Ring Plus models command a higher price due to their enhanced features. The price difference is a major consideration, especially for budget-conscious buyers.
Ring vs. Ring Plus: Cost Breakdown
Understanding the cost implications is key to choosing between Ring and Ring Plus. Here’s a breakdown of the retail prices for different models:
| Model | Retail Price |
|---|---|
| Video Doorbell Wired | $49.99 |
| Video Doorbell (Battery) | $99.99 |
| Video Doorbell Plus Wired | $149.99 |
| Video Doorbell Plus Battery | $149.99 |
As you can see, the wired Ring Video Doorbell is the most budget-friendly entry point into Ring’s ecosystem. The Ring Plus models are consistently priced higher, reflecting their upgraded features. The additional cost of the Ring Plus buys you:
- A slimmer design
- Potentially sharper night vision with LED lighting
- More advanced motion detection and alert features
Beyond the initial purchase price, consider the optional Ring Protect subscription. While you can self-monitor with either doorbell and receive live alerts, cloud recording for reviewing past events requires a subscription. Ring Protect plans start at $4.99 per month for a single camera, which is a recurring cost to factor in.
How They Work
Both Ring doorbells function similarly as part of a broader home security approach. They are primarily designed to monitor your front door area. When motion is detected or the doorbell is pressed, they send an alert to your smartphone, allowing you to see and speak to visitors remotely.
It’s important to recognize that a video doorbell alone isn’t a complete security system. It primarily focuses on the front door and doesn’t offer comprehensive protection against other entry points like windows or back doors. While they are excellent for deterring porch pirates and monitoring deliveries, for whole-house security, consider integrating a Ring doorbell with a more comprehensive system like Ring Alarm. Ring Alarm provides sensors for doors and windows, and professional monitoring options, offering a more robust security solution.
Are Video Doorbells Worth the Cost?
Investing in a video doorbell, whether it’s a Ring or Ring Plus, is generally considered a worthwhile home security upgrade. The ability to see and speak to visitors remotely adds a layer of security and convenience. Video doorbells act as a deterrent to potential burglars, help manage package deliveries, and provide peace of mind by allowing you to monitor your porch area from anywhere.
Starting with a video doorbell is a practical first step in home security, even if you plan to expand to a more comprehensive system later. They offer immediate benefits in terms of front door security and are relatively easy to install and use.
Ring Doorbell vs. Ring Plus: So Which is Better for You?
For most users seeking enhanced features and performance, the Ring Plus is the better choice. The improved night vision due to LED lighting, potentially more reliable motion detection, and slimmer design justify the higher price for those who prioritize these upgrades. If your budget allows, the Ring Plus offers a more refined user experience and potentially better security.
However, the standard Ring Video Doorbell remains a highly capable and valuable option, especially the wired version. If budget is a primary concern, or if you are simply looking for a basic, reliable video doorbell without advanced features, the Ring Video Doorbell delivers core functionalities effectively at a lower cost. It’s a significant upgrade over no video doorbell at all and provides essential front door monitoring.
Ultimately, the “better” doorbell depends on your individual needs and budget. Both the Ring and Ring Plus are solid contenders. Consider what features are most important to you and how much you’re willing to invest in your home security. Ring’s 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to try either model risk-free and determine which best fits your needs. If you’re still exploring options, consider researching other top-rated doorbell cameras to ensure you find the perfect fit for your home.
Expert Opinion
“From a law enforcement perspective, I am now expecting to see doorbell video footage on most of our calls for service. They are so common now that one of the first things I instruct officers to do is canvas the area looking for doorbells and video cameras. Most of the time, the officers can find some type of video footage of the suspect. As a police officer, I see countless videos of possible suspects walking up to someone’s door, looking at the doorbell camera, and then walking away without attempting to do anything. Doorbell cameras are a great way to easily deter crimes.”
Joshua Lee, Active-duty Police Sergeant
