Ring Spotlight Cam Plus Review

Illuminating Security Camera Insights

Updated Jul 6, 2023

By Eric Patterson

Founder and Editor Eric Patterson

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4.3/5

Smart Home by Design’s Verdict - The Ring Spotlight Cam Plus emerges as a versatile and powerful tool in the realm of outdoor security cameras. With its high-definition video capture, integrated spotlights, and advanced motion detection capabilities, this camera offers homeowners a robust solution for monitoring their property. The Spotlight Cam Plus is designed to provide a comprehensive security setup that combines illumination, surveillance, and interactive features, making it a compelling option for those looking to upgrade their home security system.

PROS

✅ Enhanced Motion Detection: Offers precise detection with customizable motion zones.

✅ Integrated Spotlights: Provides added security and visibility with built-in spotlights.

✅ Two-way Talk: Enables clear communication with visitors or intruders.

✅ Versatile Power Options: Available in wired, battery, and solar-powered models to suit different needs.

✅ Smart Alerts: Sends intelligent notifications to distinguish between people, cars, and animals.

✅ Easy Installation: Designed for simple setup, with all necessary tools included.

CONS

❌ Subscription for Extra Features: Access to additional video storage and features requires a Ring Protect Plan.

❌ Limited Field of View: Slightly narrower compared to some competitors.

❌ No Continuous Recording: Only records clips triggered by motion or live view requests.

  • ◦ 1080p HD Video and Live View: Delivers crisp, clear video footage, allowing you to monitor your property in real-time or review recorded clips with excellent detail and clarity.

    ◦ Built-in LED Spotlights: Features powerful LED spotlights that can be motion-activated or controlled manually, providing enhanced visibility at night and deterring unwanted visitors.

    ◦ Advanced Motion Detection: Equipped with customizable motion zones, this camera sends you alerts when movement is detected in specified areas, reducing false alarms and focusing on the areas that matter most.

    ◦ Two-Way Audio: Includes a built-in microphone and speakers, enabling you to communicate with visitors or intruders from anywhere using the Ring app.

    ◦ Siren Alarm: Comes with a remotely activated siren that can be used to scare off potential intruders, adding an extra layer of security.

    ◦ Weather-Resistant Design: Designed to withstand the elements, ensuring reliable operation in various outdoor conditions.

    ◦ Easy Installation: Available in both wired and battery-powered versions to suit different installation needs and preferences, with a straightforward setup process.

    ◦ Ring App Compatibility: Fully integrates with the Ring app, allowing for seamless control and monitoring of your home security alongside other Ring devices.

  • ◦ Perimeter Security: Ideal for securing the perimeter of your property, including front yards, backyards, driveways, and side entrances, by providing both surveillance and visible deterrence.

    ◦ Deterrence of Unwanted Visitors: The spotlight and siren features make it effective at deterring trespassers and potential burglars, enhancing overall home security.

    ◦ Nighttime Security: With its built-in LED spotlights and high-quality night vision, it’s particularly useful for improving visibility and recording quality in low-light conditions.

    ◦ Remote Property Monitoring: Suitable for homeowners who want to keep an eye on their property while away, with live view capabilities and instant alerts to mobile devices.

    ◦ Enhancing Safety: The spotlights can also provide safety lighting for navigating outdoor areas at night, reducing the risk of accidents on your property.

    ◦ Smart Home Integration: For individuals looking to build or expand a smart home system, this camera integrates well with other Ring products and select smart home devices for a more cohesive and convenient security setup.

  • Can I control the spotlights independently from the camera, and how bright are they?

    Yes, the spotlights can be controlled independently via the Ring app. You can manually turn them on or off, set them to trigger with motion, or schedule them. The LED spotlights are designed to be very bright, providing ample illumination for security and visibility.

    What are the specific benefits of each power option (wired, battery, solar), and how do I choose the best one for my needs?

    Each power option offers different benefits: Wired provides continuous power without the need for battery changes; Battery allows for easier installation without needing access to electrical wiring, ideal for locations without nearby power sources; Solar uses a solar panel to keep the battery charged, reducing the need for battery replacements. Choose based on installation location, power accessibility, and maintenance preference.

    How does the advanced motion detection work, and can it reduce false alarms?

    The advanced motion detection utilizes customizable motion zones and sensitivity settings to precisely detect movement in designated areas. By focusing on specific zones and adjusting sensitivity, it can significantly reduce false alarms caused by pets, cars, or other non-relevant movements.

    Is the two-way talk feature clear and delay-free? How does it perform in noisy environments?

    The two-way talk feature is designed for clear, real-time communication with noise cancellation to reduce background noise. Performance in noisy environments is generally good, though it can vary based on Wi-Fi strength and the noise level.

    How long does the battery last on the battery-powered model, and how do I know when to recharge it?

    Battery life varies based on usage, settings, and temperature but typically lasts several months. The Ring app provides battery level notifications and alerts when it’s time to recharge the battery.

    Can the Spotlight Cam Plus integrate with any smart home systems outside of Amazon Alexa?

    While designed for seamless integration with Amazon Alexa for voice commands and smart home routines, integration with other smart home systems may be limited. Check compatibility with your existing smart home ecosystem before purchase.

    Does the camera offer any local storage options, or is cloud storage the only option?

    Video footage is stored in the cloud with a Ring Protect Plan subscription. There is no local storage option for the Spotlight Cam Plus, making the subscription necessary for accessing recorded videos.

    What happens if my Wi-Fi connection is lost? Will the camera still record and save videos?

    The camera requires a stable Wi-Fi connection for live streaming, recording, and saving videos to the cloud. If the connection is lost, it won’t be able to record or save videos until Wi-Fi is restored.

    Are the installation tools and hardware suitable for all types of exterior walls?

    The included installation tools and hardware are designed to fit most standard exterior walls. For special cases, such as particularly hard or delicate surfaces, additional hardware may be needed.

    What is the procedure for activating the siren, and can it be triggered automatically?

    The siren can be activated manually through the Ring app. Currently, it does not support automatic triggering based on motion detection or other criteria to prevent false alarms and ensure it's used appropriately.

    How effective is the night vision in completely dark environments, and do the spotlights need to be on for it to work?

    The night vision is effective in low-light to completely dark environments, providing clear black and white video. The spotlights enhance visibility and can provide color video at night but are not necessary for the night vision feature to work.

    In case of a power outage, what happens to the wired and solar models?

    For wired models, the camera will not function during a power outage. Solar models rely on battery backup, so as long as the battery is charged, the camera can continue to operate. Considering an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) for wired models or ensuring the battery is fully charged for solar models is advisable.

Specifications

Specification Details
Video Resolution
1080p HD Video
Motion Detection Technology

Advanced with customizable zones

Field of View

140°

Audio Two-way audio with noise cancellation
Night Vision
Yes, with built-in spotlights for enhanced visibility
Wi-Fi Connectivity 2.4 GHz
Power Source Wired, Battery, Solar (depending on model)
Weather Resistance Weather-resistant for outdoor use
Smart Home Compatibility Compatible with Amazon Alexa
Dimensions Varies by model
Operating Conditions Suitable for -5°F to 120°F (-20°C to 48°C)
Color Options Available in black and white
Installation Requirements DIY or professional recommended for hardwired models
Warranty 1-year limited warranty

Come back later for our comprehensive review.

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I'm Eric, the founder of Smart Home by Design. Coming from a strong leadership background at GameStop, I discovered my true calling in bridging the gap between technology and everyday convenience, sparking my venture into the smart home industry. These experiences ignited my passion for smart technology and led me to create a company that focuses on enhancing people's lives through innovative smart home solutions. At Smart Home by Design, we do more than just install devices; we integrate technology into homes in ways that are meaningful and user-friendly, making your home smarter and your life easier.

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