Ring Wired Doorbell Pro Review
The Future of Doorbells
Updated Apr 7, 2023
By Eric Patterson
Share this article
4.6/5Smart Home by Design’s Verdict - The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro (formerly Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2) is a game-changer in the realm of home security and convenience. This state-of-the-art video doorbell not only enhances the security of your home but also adds a level of convenience that is unmatched in the market. With its cutting-edge features, sleek design, and user-friendly interface, it's poised to become a staple in modern smart homes.
PROS
✅ Head-to-Toe HD+ Video: Provides a full, clear view of visitors with enhanced resolution.
✅ 3D Motion Detection and Radar: Offers precise motion tracking and distance measurement.
✅ Built-in Alexa Greetings: Automates visitor interaction when you're not available.
✅ Easy Installation: Designed for straightforward setup and integration.
✅ Dual-Band Wi-Fi Connectivity: Ensures reliable and fast internet connection.
✅ Color Night Vision: Enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.
CONS
❌ Subscription for Additional Features: Full access to video recording history and advanced features requires a Ring Protect Plan subscription..
❌ May Require Existing Doorbell Wiring: Installation could be challenging for homes without existing doorbell infrastructure.
-
◦ Full-Frame Clarity: Captures head-to-toe HD+ video, ensuring detailed and comprehensive footage of visitors at your doorstep.
◦ Advanced Motion Technology: Employs 3D motion detection and radar to accurately track and record movement, offering precise alert and monitoring capabilities.
◦ Automated Visitor Interaction: Includes built-in Alexa Greetings, allowing for automatic responses and interactions with visitors, enhancing convenience and security.
◦ Simplified Setup Process: Designed for easy installation, facilitating quick and hassle-free integration into your home security system.
◦ Enhanced Connectivity: Supports dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring a stable and reliable connection for uninterrupted video streaming and alerts.
◦ Superior Night Vision: Features color night vision, allowing for clear and vibrant video footage even in low light conditions.
◦ Subscription-Based Enhancements: While basic functionality is robust, a subscription unlocks additional features, offering an expanded security experience.
-
◦ Comprehensive Entryway Surveillance: Ideal for capturing clear video of all visitors, ensuring no detail is missed from head to toe.
◦ Precision Motion Tracking: Perfect for properties with specific areas of interest or concern, using advanced radar for accurate motion detection and alerts.
◦ Automated Home Security: Suitable for users who appreciate the convenience of smart responses to visitors, even when they are not home.
◦ Seamless Smart Home Integration: Easily integrates with the wider Ring ecosystem and other smart home devices, creating a cohesive and controlled security setup.
◦ High-Quality Night Monitoring: Excellent for maintaining visibility and security around the clock, especially in environments with limited lighting.
◦ Reliable Connectivity: Ensures consistent operation and accessibility, particularly important in areas with varying Wi-Fi strength.
-
What sets the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 apart from other smart doorbells?
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 distinguishes itself with 1536p HD Head-to-Toe video, 3D Motion Detection, and Bird’s Eye View tracking, providing more detailed and comprehensive surveillance capabilities. These features, combined with enhanced dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity, color night vision, and two-way talk with audio+, make it one of the most advanced doorbells in the Ring lineup.
Does the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 require professional installation?
While professional installation is not mandatory, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 requires hardwiring to your existing doorbell system for power. Homeowners comfortable with DIY electrical projects may be able to install it themselves using the detailed instructions provided. However, if you are unsure about dealing with electrical wiring, it’s recommended to hire a professional.
Can I use the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 without a subscription?
Yes, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 offers live view and real-time notifications without a subscription. However, to access video recording, sharing, and reviewing past interactions, a Ring Protect Plan subscription is needed. Without this subscription, these features will not be available.
How does 3D Motion Detection work, and what advantage does it offer?
3D Motion Detection utilizes radar technology to precisely detect motion within a specified distance and angle from the doorbell. This allows for more accurate motion alerts and reduces false notifications by focusing on the movement that matters most. The Bird’s Eye View feature complements this by providing an aerial map perspective of where and how motion occurred on your property.
What improvements does the 1536p HD Head-to-Toe video bring?
The 1536p HD Head-to-Toe video ensures that you can see more than just a person’s face at your door; you can see them in full, from head to toe. This higher resolution and expanded vertical field of view make it easier to identify visitors, packages left at your door, and any other details that might be missed with a narrower frame.
Is the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 weather-resistant?
Yes, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is built to withstand various weather conditions, making it suitable for outdoor use in most climates. It’s designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -5°F to 120°F (-20.5°C to 48.5°C).
Can this doorbell integrate with smart home systems?
Absolutely. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 integrates seamlessly with a variety of smart home devices, particularly those within the Amazon Alexa ecosystem. This allows for voice commands and the ability to link the doorbell with other smart home devices for a more integrated home security system.
What are the privacy and security features of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2?
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 includes several privacy and security features, such as customizable privacy zones, end-to-end video encryption, and two-factor authentication for your Ring account. These features help ensure that your data is secure and that you have control over what is recorded and who has access to your videos.
What happens during a Wi-Fi or power outage?
During a power outage, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 will not function as it relies on a hardwired connection for power. In the case of a Wi-Fi outage, it cannot send live video or alerts to your device. Once power and Wi-Fi are restored, it will resume normal operations.
Does the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 offer local video storage?
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 does not support local video storage. Video footage is stored in the cloud with a Ring Protect Plan subscription, allowing you to access recorded events from anywhere via the Ring app.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Video Resolution |
1536p HD Video |
|
Motion Detection Technology
|
3D Motion Detection with radar |
| Field of View |
160° H |
| Audio | Two-way audio with noise cancellation |
| Night Vision |
Color night vision |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi |
| Power Source | Hardwired |
| Weather Resistance | Weather-resistant design |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Compatible with Amazon Alexa |
| Dimensions | Approximately 4.49 in. x 1.9 in. x 0.87 in. |
| Operating Conditions | Between -5°F and 120°F (-20°C to 48°C) |
| Color Options | Multiple color options available |
| Installation Requirements | Existing doorbell wiring for power |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
| Included Accessories | Installation tools and hardware, user manual, security sticker |
Introduction to the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
In an era where the safety and security of our homes have taken center stage in our lives, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 emerges not just as a product but as a guardian of our peace of mind. This innovative device transcends the traditional boundaries of a doorbell, transforming it into a pivotal element of home security. It's not merely an incremental upgrade to its predecessor, but a significant leap forward, incorporating groundbreaking advancements in video clarity, motion detection technology, and smart home integration.
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 distinguishes itself by offering a comprehensive package that addresses the myriad security concerns of the modern homeowner. In this review, we delve deep into the nuances of its features, design, and overall performance. We aim to unpack the layers of technology and user-centric design that make this device stand out in the crowded field of smart home products.
What sets the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 apart is its keen focus on not just functionality but also user experience. It combines high-end technology with intuitive usage, making advanced home security accessible to everyone. Whether you're tech-savvy or new to smart home devices, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is designed to integrate seamlessly into your life.
Moreover, in this review, we will explore how this device fits into the broader context of smart home ecosystems. It's not just a standalone product; it's a key player in the network of devices that make up the intelligent homes of today. From its compatibility with other smart devices to its role in the overall safety and convenience of your home, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is more than just a doorbell—it's a commitment to a safer, smarter home.
As we progress through this review, we will highlight the innovative features that make the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 a game-changer. From its enhanced video capabilities that leave no detail unnoticed to its sophisticated motion detection that guards your doorstep, this device offers a level of security and convenience that was once the realm of futuristic fantasy but is now an accessible reality. Join us as we explore why the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is not just
Design and Build Quality
Sleek and Modern Appearance
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is a masterpiece of modern design, exuding elegance and sophistication that elevates the aesthetic of any home exterior. This device is available in a variety of color options, offering homeowners the flexibility to choose a look that best complements their home's style and character. The doorbell's slim and sleek profile is a product of thoughtful engineering, designed not only for visual appeal but also for universal fit. This versatility is crucial, as it ensures that the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 can be easily mounted on any door frame, regardless of the architectural style or era of the home.
The attention to detail in the design extends to its seamless integration with your home’s façade. It's not just a doorbell; it's a statement piece that enhances the front of your home, blending security with style. The modern lines and minimalist design language ensure that it stands out for its elegance, yet integrates unobtrusively with the home's overall look.
Durable and Weather-resistant
When it comes to durability, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is built like a fortress. It's not just designed to be a part of your home; it's designed to protect it. This robustness is particularly evident in its ability to withstand a wide range of weather conditions. Whether it's the scorching heat of summer, the relentless rains of the monsoon, or the biting cold of winter, this doorbell is engineered to endure. The durable materials and weather-resistant construction ensure that it remains operational and reliable, no matter what the weather throws at it.
This resilience is key to the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2’s long-term performance. It’s not merely a gadget that you install and forget; it’s a dependable guard, always on duty. The build quality speaks volumes about its longevity. Investing in the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 means investing in a product that will serve you year after year, maintaining its performance and appearance. This enduring reliability is a testament to the commitment to quality that Ring has infused into every aspect of this doorbell's design and construction.
In summary, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2’s design and build quality are a harmonious blend of aesthetics, functionality, and durability. Its sleek appearance enhances your home’s exterior, while its robust build ensures it stands the test of time and elements. This combination of style and substance makes it not just a smart choice for today but a wise investment for the future.
Innovative Motion Detection
Moving beyond conventional capabilities, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 introduces a leap in motion detection technology with its advanced 3D motion detection and radar system. This innovative feature propels the device far ahead of standard doorbells. It allows for precise motion tracking and sophisticated distance measurement, providing homeowners with more accurate and meaningful alerts.
This technology excels in differentiating between a passing car, a roaming pet, and a person approaching the door, significantly reducing false alarms that are common with less advanced systems. The precision and intelligence of this motion detection ensure that homeowners are alerted only to significant events, enhancing the overall security and efficiency of the system.
The radar technology, in particular, adds an extra layer of depth to motion detection. By accurately gauging the distance of moving objects, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 offers a smarter and more context-aware security solution. This advancement in motion detection technology reflects a deep understanding of the practical challenges homeowners face in monitoring their front doors and driveways.
In conclusion, the advanced features of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, from its unparalleled video quality to its state-of-the-art motion detection, represent a significant step forward in home security technology. These features not only provide enhanced security and peace of mind but also set a new standard in the smart home device industry. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is more than just a doorbell; it's a sophisticated security solution that integrates the latest technological advancements to keep homes safe and homeowners informed
User Experience and App Interface
Intuitive App Control
The user experience of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is greatly enhanced by the accompanying Ring app, which stands as a paragon of user-friendly design. This app is a central hub, offering users seamless control and easy access to their doorbell camera. Its intuitive interface is thoughtfully designed to accommodate users of all technical proficiencies. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or new to smart home devices, the app's straightforward layout and clear instructions make navigation and operation a breeze.
One of the app's most lauded features is its streamlined access to live views. This allows users to monitor their front door in real-time, providing an immediate sense of security and awareness. The app also elegantly organizes recorded footage, making it simple to review past events. This functionality is invaluable for those moments when you need to look back at a day's activities or review an incident. Moreover, the ease with which users can adjust system settings – from managing video quality to setting up alerts – underscores the app's commitment to an accessible and stress-free user experience.
Customization and Flexibility
The Ring app for the Video Doorbell Pro 2 shines in its ability to offer extensive customization options, catering to the unique needs and preferences of each user. This flexibility is a cornerstone of the app’s design, enabling users to personalize their doorbell camera to fit their specific lifestyle and security requirements.
Users have the ability to finely tune motion zones, a feature particularly useful for those living in busy neighborhoods or near public spaces. By setting these zones, homeowners can ensure that they receive alerts that are relevant to their security and avoid unnecessary notifications. The app also allows for the customization of notification types – whether you prefer a push notification to your phone, an alert to your smart home device, or a combination of both, the control is in your hands.
Another aspect of this customization is the scheduling feature, which is especially beneficial for people with regular routines. Users can set their doorbell camera to be more sensitive during times when they're away from home and less so when they're likely to be present. This level of customization not only enhances the overall user experience but also optimizes the doorbell's effectiveness as a security tool.
In summary, the user experience and app interface of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 are designed with the end-user in mind, providing an intuitive, flexible, and highly customizable interface. These features ensure that users can easily harness the full potential of their smart doorbell, making it a seamless and integral part of their daily lives and home security system.
Smart Home Integration and Performance
Seamless Smart Home Connectivity
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is designed not just as a standalone device but as a key player in the broader smart home ecosystem. Its ability to integrate seamlessly with various smart home platforms, especially Amazon Alexa, is a testament to its forward-thinking design. This integration allows users to enjoy a hands-free operation and a level of automation that defines the modern smart home experience. For instance, users can ask Alexa to show the front door, receive announcements when someone rings the doorbell, and even communicate with visitors through Echo devices, adding a layer of convenience and accessibility.
But the integration goes beyond mere convenience. It plays a crucial role in creating a cohesive and interconnected smart home system. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 can interact with other smart devices in the home, such as turning on lights when motion is detected or triggering other security cameras. This synergy not only enhances the functionality of individual devices but also creates a more secure, efficient, and intelligent home environment.
Reliable Performance
At the heart of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2's performance is its dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity. This feature ensures that the doorbell maintains a stable and fast internet connection, which is crucial for its functionality. The dual-band capability allows the device to switch between 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi networks based on signal strength and congestion, ensuring optimal performance at all times.
The importance of this reliable connectivity cannot be overstated. It is the backbone of real-time video streaming and instant alerts – the core functions of the video doorbell. A stable connection means that live video feeds are smooth and uninterrupted, and notifications are timely and consistent. This reliability is particularly crucial in security-related incidents where every second counts.
Moreover, the reliable performance of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 offers peace of mind to homeowners. Knowing that your front door is always being monitored effectively and that you can rely on the system to alert you to any activity, adds a sense of security that is invaluable. This consistent performance is what makes the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 not just a technological marvel but a trusted partner in home security.
In summary, the smart home integration and reliable performance of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 make it a standout device in the realm of home security. Its seamless connectivity with other smart home devices and its unwavering performance underpin its role as a central component of any smart home system, offering both convenience and confidence to its users.
Installation and Setup
Easy DIY Installation
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is designed with the homeowner in mind, especially considering the ease of its installation process. Recognizing that not every user is an expert in technical installations, Ring has crafted a product that simplifies this crucial step. The package comes complete with all the necessary tools and a comprehensive step-by-step guide, which meticulously takes the user through each phase of the installation. This approach is particularly advantageous for those who enjoy DIY projects or prefer to handle home improvements themselves.
The guide provided is detailed yet easy to follow, outlining everything from mounting the doorbell to connecting it to your home Wi-Fi network. The tools included are specifically chosen to fit the requirements of the installation, ensuring users won't need to make additional purchases or hunt for rare tools. This thoughtfulness in providing a complete installation kit underscores Ring's commitment to user convenience and accessibility.
Additionally, the design of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 itself facilitates a hassle-free installation. Its mounting process is straightforward, with clear instructions on how to secure the device to different types of surfaces. The simplicity of connecting the doorbell to your existing doorbell wiring, or setting it up as a new installation, is a key feature that makes this product approachable for users with basic DIY skills.
Professional Installation Support
Understanding that some homeowners may prefer the assurance of professional installation, Ring offers comprehensive support through a network of certified professionals. This service is particularly beneficial for those who are not comfortable with handling electrical wiring or who want to ensure that their new device is set up perfectly.
Opting for professional installation means that the device will not only be mounted securely but also integrated properly into your home's existing electrical and Wi-Fi systems. Certified professionals have the expertise to handle any unique challenges your home may present, such as unusual wiring setups or compatibility issues with existing systems. Their skills ensure that the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is installed in the most optimal location for both functionality and aesthetics.
Moreover, professional installation can provide peace of mind. Knowing that an expert has handled the setup and ensured that every component is working correctly allows homeowners to trust in the reliability and performance of their new security device from day one.
Whether you choose the DIY route or opt for professional installation, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is designed to accommodate your preferences. Its user-friendly installation kit makes it accessible for those who like to handle things themselves, while the option for professional installation offers an added level of convenience and assurance, ensuring that every user can experience the full benefits of this advanced security device with ease. Contact Smart Home by Design to schedule a professional installation and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your doorbell is installed correctly and functioning at its best.
Ring Protect Plan
To fully experience the array of features offered by the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, subscribing to the Ring Protect Plan is highly advisable. This subscription plan is more than just an additional service; it's a key to unlocking the device's full potential. The Ring Protect Plan significantly expands the doorbell's functionality, allowing users to access a comprehensive history of recorded videos. This feature is particularly useful for reviewing incidents or activities that occurred when you were away or unable to immediately check your app notifications.
In addition to video history, the subscription also provides enhanced features like snapshot capture and person alerts. Snapshot capture fills in the gaps between motion-triggered recordings, offering a more continuous picture of what happens at your front door. Person alerts, on the other hand, add an extra layer of intelligence to the device, enabling it to distinguish between general motion and the presence of a person. This level of detail can be crucial in both security and convenience, ensuring that you are alerted to the most relevant events.
While the subscription does entail an additional cost, the value it adds is considerable. For those who prioritize home security and want to make the most of their smart home devices, the Ring Protect Plan offers functionalities that enhance the overall experience. The ability to review missed events, download and share crucial footage, and enjoy more precise and detailed alerts can be invaluable, particularly in scenarios where security is a paramount concern.
Conclusion
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 firmly establishes itself as a frontrunner in the smart home security market. It sets itself apart with its superior video quality, innovative motion detection capabilities, and seamless integration into the smart home ecosystem. This doorbell camera is not just a product; it's a comprehensive security solution, designed to bring peace of mind and convenience to homeowners.
While prospective users should consider the subscription requirement for full functionality and the potential need for professional installation, these aspects are outweighed by the significant benefits the device offers. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is ideal for those seeking to enhance their home security, offering state-of-the-art technology combined with user-friendly operation.
Whether upgrading from a traditional doorbell or venturing into the world of smart home security for the first time, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is a compelling choice. It represents a harmonious blend of cutting-edge technology, ease of use, and thoughtful design, making it not just a doorbell, but a guardian for your home.
Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 Helpful Links
Trending in Smart Video Doorbells
4.4/5
Google Nest Doorbell Battery Review: Smart Greetings, Smarter Home
The Google Nest Doorbell (Battery) marks a significant step forward in the realm of smart home security. With its sleek design and advanced technological features, it offers not just convenience but also peace of mind. This battery-powered doorbell camera is designed for easy installation and seamless integration with Google's ecosystem, providing real-time alerts and crisp video footage directly to your smartphone. Read our review ➤
4.4/5
Google Nest Doorbell Wired Review: A Smart Addition to Your Front Door
The Google Nest Doorbell Wired is a cutting-edge smart doorbell that offers high-definition video monitoring, intelligent alerts distinguishing between people, packages, animals, and vehicles, and two-way communication, all designed to enhance home security and convenience. Its easy installation and sleek design make it an ideal addition to any modern smart home ecosystem. Read our review ➤
4.0/5
Ring Battery Doorbell Pro Review: Professional Grade, User Friendly
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro is a cutting-edge solution for homeowners seeking to enhance their home security without the complexities of wiring. This device combines the convenience of battery power with advanced features such as high-definition video, two-way talk, and customizable motion zones, ensuring that your front door is both welcoming to friends and a barrier to potential threats. Read our review ➤
4.6/5
Ring Battery Doorbell Plus Review: Plus-Size Features, Minus the Hassle
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus is a leap forward in the realm of home security devices, combining the convenience of wireless technology with advanced security features. It offers crisp HD video, superior motion detection, and easy installation, making it a versatile choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their doorbell system without the constraints of wired installation. Read our review ➤
Explore All Categories
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.
Note, when you make a purchase through the retail links in our content, our team might receive a modest commission. Smart Home by Design never takes payment for editorial reviews, promoting only those products we have personally installed and evaluated in our homes. Read more about our policies here.
Email me: eric@smarthomebydesign.com