Ring Doorbells Are the Latest in Smart Home Devices

by Team HomeServe Top Tips and Lists   Know Your Equipment  

Smart home devices are getting more intelligent by the day. When my husband came home with a Ring Video Doorbell – I was excited to know that I’d be able to see who's at the door and find out what they want — from the comfort of my office (which is 30 miles away.) What a didn’t realize was how much easier my life would become with my latest smart home device.

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Home security systems have recently received a smart overhaul. Described as "caller ID for the front door," the Ring Video Doorbell is a top contender for retrofitting your entryway with a doorbell camera.

What should I know about these Ring Video Doorbells?

While the different models vary in features and power source, all Ring Video Doorbells will send notifications to your devices whenever someone presses your doorbell or triggers the motion sensors. You can even speak to visitors in real-time through your device.

While convenient, these doorbells can also stop crime in its tracks and allow you to monitor your home from anywhere in the world. In fact, Ring partnered with the Los Angeles and Newark Police Departments to determine that neighborhoods equipped with Ring experienced a 50% reduction in home burglaries.

Plus, the easy installation doesn't require a professional team, so you can start monitoring your front door ASAP. Prices vary by model:

  • Video Doorbell: $99.99
  • Video Doorbell 2: $199.00
  • Video Doorbell Pro: $249.00
  • Video Doorbell Elite: $499.00

You can also pair your video doorbell with other Ring home security devices, including cameras, lights, alarms and full system packages.

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What do the reviews say?

Wirecutter named Ring the best video doorbell for the majority of homeowners, citing its fast alerts, high-quality recordings, adjustable motion sensitivity and affordable plans as some of the top benefits. After analyzing Ring's customer service, value, equipment, features, technology and ease of use, SafeHome.org gave it a score of 9.2 out of 10. And there's more: The Ring Doorbell Pro earned the PC Mag Editor's Choice for video doorbells, securing an excellent 4 out of 5 rating.

Do other smart doorbells compete?

While a top choice, Ring doorbells are obviously not the only smart devices of their kind. Other doorbells that get high reviews from PC Mag.com include SkyBell HD, August Doorbell Cam Pro and Nest Hello. Wirecutter named the Nest doorbell as its upgrade pick, namely because it has more bells and whistles on the home-security front, though these may not be necessary for simply watching your front door.

While your smart doorbell can alert you to unwanted guests, it can't alert you to home system breakdowns.

That’s why it’s always a smart move to be prepared with a home warranty plan. See how plans from TotalHome Warranty by HomeServe can help with the costs of covered appliance and home system repairs and replacements. 

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