Security cameras are becoming popular thanks to the readily available wireless and compact alternatives that users can buy and install themselves. With the majority of these options, there is barely any additional cost that you have to put in apart from the camera itself, allowing you to get the best options within your range. On top of that, you can also pair these cameras with your own personal network and customize their options based on your requirements. This allows you to create your own security system without relying on any 3rd party service for monitoring and surveillance.
In recent years, security cameras have become more accessible and affordable, thanks to technological advances and wireless connectivity. There are many types of security cameras available in the market such as Smart Wi-Fi cameras, Mini Cameras, indoor/outdoor CCTV cameras, and much more. However, picking up the best options amongst so many available choices can be a difficult task as each camera offers a handful of exciting, and sometimes exclusive features. So, we are here to offer you a detailed analysis and comparison between the 2 most popular security cameras available right now.
Ring is one of the brands which revolutionized security cameras by offering a wide range of options within an affordable price range, without compromising on the quality or the performance of these devices. As of right now, there are around 9 different camera models available from Ring along with multiple options available for a video doorbell. So, we will be comparing the Ring Doorbell 2 with the Ring Pro to see the benefits if you choose the latter. We will also talk more about the core specifications later on in our features comparison section so make sure you check it out.
Overview of Ring Doorbell 2
The Ring Doorbell 2 is a versatile smart home security device designed to elevate the safety and convenience of homeowners. It offers a range of features aimed at enhancing home security and providing users with greater control over their property.
One notable aspect of the Ring Doorbell 2 is its pricing model which includes both, a one-time purchase price & subscription plans that are completely optional. The initial purchase covers the cost of the doorbell device itself along with the necessary mounting hardware and accessories. Additionally, Ring offers subscription plans for users who want access to advanced features such as cloud storage for recorded footage, customizable motion zones, and professional monitoring services.
Pros
- Easy to install, requiring minimal technical expertise.
- Provides clear HD video quality for monitoring and surveillance.
- Offers convenient two-way audio communication with visitors.
- Integrates seamlessly with other smart home devices and platforms.
- Offers flexibility with both battery-powered and hardwired installation options.
- Optional cloud storage subscription plans provide added convenience for accessing and storing recorded footage.
- Acts as a deterrent to potential intruders and enhances home security.
Cons
- Continuous video recording requires a subscription to Ring’s cloud storage service.
- Limited field of view compared to some other security cameras.
- Relies on a stable Wi-Fi connection for optimal performance.
- The battery may require frequent recharging, depending on usage and settings.
- Some users may have privacy concerns regarding the collection and storage of video footage on cloud servers.
Overview of Ring Doorbell Pro
The Ring Pro is a highly advanced option designed for home security, offering many extra features and seamless integration to ensure safety and convenience for homeowners. Its pricing model also follows a standard structure seen across Ring’s product line, comprising a one-time purchase price for the doorbell device alongside necessary mounting hardware and accessories.
One of the best features of the Ring Pro is its sleek and modern appearance, designed to seamlessly complement contemporary home exteriors. Beyond aesthetics, the Ring Pro boasts advanced motion detection capabilities, affording users greater control over sensitivity settings and customizable motion zones to reduce false alerts and enhance overall accuracy. With 1080p HD video quality, the Ring Pro delivers crisp and clear images of its surroundings, ensuring that users can easily discern details and identify visitors.
Pros
- Sleek and modern design enhances the aesthetic appeal of homes.
- Advanced motion detection with customizable zones reduces false alerts.
- High-definition video quality provides clear images of the surroundings.
- Dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity ensures reliable and fast data transfer.
- Hardwired power ensures uninterrupted operation without the need for battery recharging.
- Seamless integration with smart home systems enhances convenience and control.
- Optional subscription plans offer access to advanced features and services.
Cons
- Higher initial purchase price compared to battery-powered models.
- Hardwired installation may require professional assistance for some users.
- Continuous video recording and access to advanced features require a subscription to Ring’s cloud storage service.
- Reliance on stable Wi-Fi connectivity for optimal performance.
- Limited field of view compared to some other security cameras.
- Privacy concerns regarding the collection and storage of video footage on cloud servers.
Ring Doorbell 2 vs Ring Doorbell Pro: Features Comparison
Now that you have a basic idea about what these 2 models have to offer as well as some of the advantages and limitations of each option, you should be able to make a decision. However, if you are buying a security camera or a video doorbell for the first time, there are a few things you need to carefully check before you make the final choice.
As the requirements of each buyer are slightly different, it is possible that one option might turn out to be immensely more beneficial for you compared to the other. You can easily decide that based on our detailed features comparison provided here. In this section, we will talk about some of the most important aspects of a video doorbell camera and what both of these models offer in each regard. This will let you prioritize the features that you need the most and make the right decision.
1. Installation
Some video doorbells are battery-powered and wireless, which means you don’t need to connect them to any existing wiring, making the installation a lot easier in comparison. Others are hardwired, which means you need to connect them to your existing doorbell wiring or use a plug-in adapter to power the device. Though hardwired video doorbells are more reliable and consistent, they may require professional installation to avoid power issues.
Ring Doorbell 2 is a battery-powered, wireless video doorbell that can be installed in minutes with the included mounting bracket and hardware. Ring Doorbell Pro is a hardwired video doorbell that requires a transformer and a compatible chime. Ring Doorbell Pro also comes with a retrofit kit that allows you to use your existing doorbell hole without drilling new holes.
2. Video Quality
Video quality depends on many factors such as resolution, frame rate, HDR, and color which ultimately determine the end result quality. Higher resolution means more pixels and sharper images, but it also increases the bandwidth requirement of the footage. The same goes with a higher frame rate as it introduces smoother motion and less blur by capturing more frames per second. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro both offer 1080p HD video with live view, which means you can see and speak to visitors in real-time from your phone or tablet. Ring Doorbell Pro also offers color night vision, meaning you can see colors even in low-light conditions. On top of that, Ring Doorbell Pro has HDR support that automatically adjusts based on different lighting situations to provide a more balanced and vivid video.
3. Field of View
The field of view determines how much of your front door area you can see on the video feed. A wider field of view means you can see more of your surroundings, but it may also distort the image or create a fisheye effect. Alternatively, a narrower field of view means you can see less of your surroundings, but it usually provides a more natural and accurate image. Field of view is important for monitoring your front door area and detecting any activity or motion. Ring Doorbell 2 has a field of view of around 160 degrees horizontal and 90 degrees vertical, which means it can cover a large area of your front door. On the other hand, Ring Doorbell Pro has a field of view of 150 degrees horizontal and 90 degrees vertical, which means it can cover a slightly smaller area of your front door, but with less distortion and more clarity.
4. Motion Detection
Motion detection is yet another critical aspect of security cameras and it depends on factors such as sensor type, coverage zone, etc. Motion detection sensors are built-in sensors that detect motion, such as PIR or radar. The Coverage zone for these sensors is simply the area you can customize to trigger motion alerts. Motion detection is important for security and convenience, as it lets you know who is at your door and what they are doing. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro both offer motion detection with customizable motion zones and real-time notifications.
Ring Doorbell 2 uses a PIR sensor, which detects heat and motion, but it may also trigger false alerts from animals or cars as it cannot differentiate between different types of motion. But, Ring Doorbell Pro uses a radar sensor, which detects distance and angle, and it also offers 3D motion detection and bird’s eye view, exclusive Ring Protect subscription features. 3D motion detection allows you to set a specific distance and angle for motion alerts whereas the bird’s eye view provides an aerial map of the motion events. Ring Doorbell Pro also offers package alerts, which notify you when a package is detected within a specified zone, another exclusive Ring Protect subscription feature.
5. Night Vision
Night vision capabilities of a video doorbell camera depend on factors such as infrared LEDs, spotlights, and type of night vision. Night vision is important for security and visibility, as it allows you to see who is at your door and what they are doing at night. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro both offer night vision with infrared LEDs, which means they can see in the dark without emitting any visible light. Ring Doorbell Pro also offers color night vision, which means it can see in full color even in low-light conditions, as long as there is some ambient light available. Ring Doorbell Pro also has a built-in spotlight, which means it can illuminate the area in front of your door with bright white light, deterring intruders or unwanted visitors.
6. Audio
Audio depends on factors such as microphone, speaker, and two-way talk. There is a built-in microphone inside all video doorbells that can capture sound from your door, such as voices or surrounding noises. It also has a speaker that can transmit your voice to your camera, allowing you to directly speak to the visitor. Ring Doorbell 2l and Ring Doorbell Pro both offer audio with microphone, speaker, and two-way talk, which means you can have clear and crisp sound quality and communication with your visitors. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro also offer quick replies, which are pre-selected messages that you can use to ask visitors to leave a message or follow instructions, such as “Please leave the package outside” or “We’ll be right there”. Quick replies are useful when you are busy or unavailable to answer the door.
Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro also offer Alexa greetings, which are automated responses that Alexa can provide to your visitors, such as greeting them, taking messages, or providing specific instructions on where to leave packages. Alexa greetings are exclusive Ring Protect subscription features that require a Ring Video Doorbell Pro or Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2. Learn more about Alexa greetings.
7. Smart Home Integration
Smart Home Integration refers to how the video doorbell camera works with other smart home devices and platforms, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and more. Smart home integration depends on factors such as compatibility, functionality, and convenience. Smart home integration is very important for added convenience and customization of the security system, as it allows you to use your video doorbell camera with other smart home devices and platforms.
Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro both offer smart home integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and more. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro are compatible with Alexa, which means you can use your voice to control your video doorbell camera, such as asking Alexa to show you the live view, answer the door, or turn on the spotlight. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro are also compatible with Google Assistant, which means you can use your voice to control your video doorbell camera, such as asking Google to show you the live view, answer the door, or turn on the spotlight.
Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro are also compatible with IFTTT, which means you can use the web to create your applets and automate your video doorbell camera with other smart home devices and platforms, such as turning on the lights when motion is detected, or sending an email when someone rings the doorbell.
8. Mobile App Connectivity
This refers to how the video doorbell camera connects and communicates with your phone or tablet, using the mobile app. Mobile app connectivity depends on factors such as Wi-Fi, cellular, or landline backup, battery life, and data usage. Wi-Fi, cellular, or landline backup allows the video doorbell camera to use different connectivity options to send and receive data, such as video, audio, or alerts.
Mobile app connectivity is important for the overall reliability of the system, as it allows you to access and use your video doorbell camera from anywhere, and stay in touch with your security cameras at all times. Since Ring Doorbell 2 is a wireless option, it uses Wi-Fi connectivity and offers up to 2 Mbps upload and download speed with an approximate coverage area of about 250 feet. Whereas, the same for Ring Doorbell Pro is up to 5 Mbps for download speed and the coverage is also slightly better.
9. Operating Conditions and Weather Resistance
Operating conditions and weather resistance depend on factors such as operating temperature range, IP rating, and durability. Operating temperature range means the minimum and maximum temperatures that the video doorbell camera can function in. IP rating means the level of protection that the video doorbell camera has against dust and water ingress.
Operating conditions and weather resistance must be checked to get an idea about the durability of the video doorbell as they ensure your video doorbell camera can work and last in various climates and seasons. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro both offer operating conditions and weather resistance with operating temperature ranges of -5°F to 120°F and IPX5 ratings, which means they can resist dust and water jets from any direction.
10. Subscription Plans and Pricing
Subscription plans and pricing depend on factors such as device cost, monthly or annual fee, video storage, video sharing, advanced features, and discounts. Device cost means the initial purchase price of the video doorbell camera. There can be added monthly or annual fee that you need to make to access certain features and services of the video doorbell camera. Subscription plans and pricing are important for affordability and value, as they determine how much you pay and what you get for your video doorbell camera.
Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro both offer subscription plans and pricing with different options and benefits. Ring Doorbell 2 has a device cost of $99.99, while Ring Doorbell Pro has a device cost of around $249.99. Both Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro offer free basic features, such as live view, two-way talk, motion alerts, and quick replies, without any subscription plan. However, if you want to access more features and services, such as video storage, video sharing, advanced features, and discounts, you need to subscribe to one of the Ring Protect plans.
11. Power Source
The power source of a video doorbell camera is yet another important feature as it shows how the video doorbell camera gets the power to operate. Power source depends on factors such as battery, hardwiring, solar, and power usage. The power source is important for convenience and performance, as it determines how often and how easily you need to maintain and charge your video doorbell camera, as well as how well it works and lasts. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro have different power sources and requirements since this is one of the major differences between the devices. Ring Doorbell 2 is a battery-powered wireless video doorbell that uses a removable battery pack that can last up to 6 months, depending on usage. You can easily check the battery level on the Ring app and you can recharge the battery pack using a micro-USB cable which is included with the package. You can also buy an additional battery pack or a solar charger accessory to extend the battery life of your Ring Doorbell.
Ring Doorbell Pro is a hardwired, wired video doorbell that requires a transformer to power the device. Depending on your region, you may or may not receive the transformer along with the doorbell. You need to connect the Ring Doorbell Pro to your existing doorbell wiring or use a plug-in adapter. The transformer needs to have a voltage of 16-24 VAC and a power input of 30 VA or higher. You also need to install a Pro Power Kit inside your chime to regulate the power and protect your Ring Doorbell Pro.
12. Connectivity
Connectivity depends on factors such as Wi-Fi speed, Wi-Fi range, Wi-Fi band, and Wi-Fi protocol. Wi-Fi speed means the minimum and maximum upload and download speeds that the video doorbell camera needs and supports for optimal performance whereas the Wi-Fi range means the distance and obstacles that the video doorbell camera can overcome to maintain a stable and strong Wi-Fi connection.
Connectivity is very important as it determines how fast your video doorbell camera can stream and record video, as well as communicate with other devices. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro have slightly different connectivity features and specifications. Ring Doorbell 2 has a Wi-Fi speed of 2 Mbps upload and 2 Mbps download with a Wi-Fi range of 250 feet. Ring Doorbell Pro has slightly upgraded these specifications with the Wi-Fi speed of 2 mbps upload and 5 mbps download along with an extended Wi-Fi range of 300 feet. Ring Doorbell 2 Pro also has a dual-band Wi-Fi antenna, which means it can automatically switch between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to optimize the Wi-Fi connection.
13. Price
The price of a video doorbell camera mainly depends on factors such as features, quality, design, and customer service. Price is usually the deciding factor for most buyers as it determines how much you spend and what you get for your video doorbell camera. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro have different prices and values. Ring Doorbell 2 has a base price of $99.99, while Ring Doorbell Pro has a base price of $249.99. Ring Doorbell 2 offers basic features, such as 1080p HD video, PIR motion detection, infrared night vision, two-way talk, and Alexa integration, as well as a wireless and battery-powered design, and a 1-year limited warranty.
Ring Doorbell Pro, on the other hand, offers many advanced features, such as 1080p HD video with HDR and color night vision, radar motion detection with 3D and bird’s eye view, 2-way talk with quick replies and Alexa greetings, and Alexa and Google Assistant integration, as well as a wired installation, and a 1-year limited warranty.
14. Warranty
Warranty coverage also has some aspects that change for both of these devices such as duration, coverage, exclusions, and service. The warranty duration is the period of time that the warranty is valid starting from the date of purchase. But, the warranty coverage is a more important aspect as it means the scope and extent of the warranty, such as what parts, repairs, or replacements are included. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro both offer warranties with different durations and terms. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro both come with a 1-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
However, if you subscribe to Ring Protect Plus or Pro, you can get an extended warranty that covers your devices for as long as you maintain your subscription. Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Doorbell Pro also come with a theft protection plan that covers your devices in case they are stolen. If you provide a police report within 15 days of the theft, Ring will replace your device for free.
Let us quickly recap what we have learned about Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Pro with the help of the following table. By comparing both options side-by-side, you can easily tell which options are more beneficial for your needs. It will also help you visualize your priorities with the video camera and what both of these options offer regarding each aspect.
Ring Doorbell 2 Vs Ring Doorbell Pro: Comparison Table
| Factors | Ring Doorbell 2 | Ring Doorbell Pro |
| Installation | Battery-powered and wireless, easy to install with the included mounting bracket and hardware | Hardwired and wired, requires a transformer and a compatible chime, comes with a retrofit kit and a Pro Power Kit |
| Video Quality | 1080p HD video with live view, infrared night vision | 1080p HD video with live view, HDR, color night vision, and spotlight |
| Field of View | 160 degrees horizontal and 90 degrees vertical | 150 degrees horizontal and 90 degrees vertical |
| Motion Detection | PIR sensor, customizable motion zones and sensitivity scale | Radar sensor, 3D motion detection and bird’s eye view (Ring Protect subscription features), package alerts (Ring Protect subscription feature) |
| Night Vision | Infrared LEDs | Infrared LEDs, color night vision, spotlight |
| Audio | Microphone, speaker, two-way talk, quick replies | Microphone, speaker, two-way talk, quick replies, Alexa greetings (Ring Protect subscription feature) |
| Smart Home Integration | Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and other Ring devices | Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and other Ring devices |
| Mobile App Connectivity | Wifi speed of 2 Mbps upload and 2 Mbps download, wifi range of 250 feet | Wifi speed of 2 Mbps upload and 5 Mbps download, wifi range of 300 feet |
| Operating Conditions and Weather Resistance | Operating temperature range of -5°F to 120°F, IPX5 rating, durable plastic and metal materials | Operating temperature range of -5°F to 120°F, IPX5 rating, durable plastic and metal materials |
| Subscription Plans and Pricing | Device cost of $99.99, optional Ring Protect plans starting from $3 per month or $30 per year per device | Device cost of $249.99, optional Ring Protect plans starting from $3 per month or $30 per year per device |
| Power Source | Removable, rechargeable battery pack that can last up to 6 months, optional additional battery pack or solar charger accessory | Hardwiring to existing doorbell wiring or plug-in adapter, transformer with voltage of 16-24 VAC and power of 30 VA or higher, no battery or solar option |
| Price | $99.99 | $249.99 |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty, extended warranty with Ring Protect Plus or Pro, theft protection plan | 1-year limited warranty, extended warranty with Ring Protect Plus or Pro, theft protection plan |
Ring Doorbell 2 vs Ring Doorbell Pro: Which is Best?
Though the better alternative for you may vary based on your needs, we will recommend going with the Ring Doorbell Pro as it is a more advanced option and offers many exciting features that you will miss out on with the Ring Doorbell 2. You will get the benefit of a hardwired video doorbell, making it almost impossible to lose power, considering the primary power source of your home is also reliable. On top of that, it also has a higher video quality with a built-in dual band antenna so that you can use your router’s 2.4 GHz as well as 5 GHz network for data transfer. So for a long term service, the Ring Doorbell Pro might be the ideal option for you. However, keep in mind that the installation is a bit difficult for this model and you are better off getting it done by a professional to avoid any mishap.
Ring Doorbell 2 Vs Ring Doorbell Pro – FAQs
Ans: The Ring Pro offers several advanced features such as customizable motion zones, higher video resolution, and a slimmer design compared to the standard Ring Doorbell. If you prioritize these features and are willing to invest in a higher-priced option for enhanced performance and aesthetics, then the Ring Pro may be worth it for you. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with basic features, the standard Ring Doorbell or other alternatives might be more suitable.
Ans: The monthly subscription cost for Ring Pro varies on the specific subscription plan you are choosing. Ring offers several subscription plans, including the Ring Protect Basic and Ring Protect Plus plans. The Ring Protect Basic plan typically costs around $3 per month per device or $30 per year per device. The Ring Protect Plus plan, which covers an unlimited number of devices at one location, costs around $10 per month or $100 per year. These prices may vary based on promotions and regional differences.
Ans: The Ring Doorbell 2 is powered by a rechargeable battery pack. The battery life of the Ring Doorbell 2 depends on various factors such as usage, motion detection settings, Wi-Fi signal strength, and environmental conditions. On average, the battery of the Ring Doorbell 2 can last anywhere from one to three months before needing to be recharged. However, this estimate may vary and users may experience longer or shorter battery life depending on their specific usage patterns and settings.
Ans: The Ring Doorbell 2 does not continuously record video footage by default. Instead, it utilizes motion-activated recording, which means it starts recording when motion is detected in its field of view. Users receive notifications on their smartphones or other connected devices when motion is detected, and they can access and review the recorded footage through the Ring app. However, users can subscribe to Ring’s cloud storage service to enable continuous recording and access to recorded footage.
Ans: Yes, the Ring Doorbell Pro can function without a traditional mechanical chime. The Ring Doorbell Pro is designed to work with or without an existing mechanical chime in your home. If you do not have an existing chime, Ring offers the Ring Chime or Ring Chime Pro as optional accessories. These devices serve as Wi-Fi-enabled chimes that can be plugged into any standard power outlet, allowing you to hear doorbell alerts throughout your home. However, if you prefer not to use a chime at all, you can still receive alerts and notifications on your smartphone or other connected devices through the Ring app.
Conclusion
We hope you now have a clear idea about Ring Doorbell 2 and Ring Pro video doorbell as we have provided a detailed analysis of both options in our guide today. Here, you will find brief information about both models and a detailed features comparison section where we have carefully compared both models based on some critical aspects of a security camera. You can also refer to our FAQ section to clear any doubt about either of these video camera models. If you have any other doubts, you can reach us via the comment section, and we will try to resolve them as soon as possible.
