Ring Video Doorbell Bundles & Accessories

The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd generation) is an upgraded version of the original Ring Video Doorbell and includes several enhanced features to provide homeowners with improved security and convenience. The most significant upgrade is in picture quality – the second generation Ring doorbell offers crisper 1080p HD video compared to the first generation's 720p capability. Additionally, the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd gen) offers a broader horizontal field-of-view at 160° in contrast to the Ring Video Doorbell (1st gen)'s 180°. While the vertical view is slightly more focused at 90° as opposed to the latter's 160°, this improvement on the second gen Ring doorbell helps reduce potential blind spots.

The Benefits of a Ring Video Doorbell

1. User-Friendly Installation: Setting up the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) is designed to be straightforward, enabling users to install it without technical expertise or professional assistance. Unlike the Ring Video Doorbell (wired) model that needs to be hardwired into your home, the 2nd Gen model does not need additional wiring.

2. Accessible pricing: The Ring Video Doorbell provides good quality video and features at an affordable price point, making it an attractive option for homeowners seeking enhanced security without a hefty investment.

3. Advanced motion detection: The "near" motion zone functionality, detecting motion in close proximity, is a unique feature that can be particularly useful for homes with limited outdoor space.

4. Broad ecosystem: The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd gen) can be connected to other Ring devices, such as security cameras, alarms, and smart lighting. This ecosystem allows you to create a comprehensive security system that can be controlled and monitored from a single app.

5. Feature-rich app: The Ring app allows you to receive alerts, view live and recorded footage, communicate with visitors, and manage other connected devices from anywhere.

Design & Main Features

Design

The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) looks similar to the original, but it's an improved video doorbell and a bit wider at 5 x 2.4 x 1.1 inches. The lower part of the device has a silver covering with a big button in the center. The top section, where the camera is, has a shiny black finish. There's also a version with a dark bronze finish. Unlike the more expensive Ring video doorbells, the 2nd gen model cannot have its parts replaced. Additionally, it does not have a removable battery, so you will need to dismount the doorbell when its battery runs out.

HD Video Quality

The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd gen) combines high-definition 1080p video quality with a broad 155-degree horizontal field of view and a 90-degree vertical field of view. This pairing ensures clear and detailed visuals, letting you see faces, items, and actions with sharpness. The HD resolution helps you recognize visitors, track deliveries, and watch movements near your door with ease. The doorbell's wide field of view captures the entire entrance, eliminating blind spots and offering a complete view of activities from different angles.

If you want video recording, you will need a Ring Protect subscription, which grants you access to at least 30 days of stored video history in the cloud.

Advanced Motion Detection

Like other Ring devices, the 2nd generation doorbell camera also comes with Advanced Motion Detection. For Ring doorbells, this feature is automatically turned on when you set up a new device. It helps the device tell the difference between different types of motion, like people, objects, or animals. When the device detects motion, you'll get a notification on your Ring app, and it will start recording. If you turn it off, you might lose some features like being able to set Customizable Motion Zones, trimming recordings, and the accuracy of detection.

Customizable Motion Zones is crucial in motion management in the Ring ecosystem. This feature allows you to concentrate on specific areas you want your Ring device to monitor. By defining these zones, you can reduce false motion alerts, such as those triggered by passing cars or distant tree movements. In the Ring app's Motion Settings, you can easily adjust and edit your video doorbell's motion zones to refine its performance according to your preferences.

Two-Way Talk

The battery-powered video doorbell comes with a two-way talk feature and quick replies. With two-way talk, you can have a conversation with whoever is at your door, whether you're at home or away. This means you can talk to visitors, delivery people, or anyone else, directly through the Ring app on your phone or tablet. It's like having a virtual conversation at your front door.

Quick replies add an extra layer of convenience. If you're unable to have a live conversation, you can use pre-recorded responses to interact with visitors. These quick replies are ready-made messages that you can choose from to respond promptly without having to type anything. It's especially handy when you're busy or want to give a quick response without missing out on communicating with those at your door.

Color Night Vision

Unlike the pricier Video Doorbell Pro and Video Doorbell Elite, the cheaper 2nd generation model does not have color night vision. Instead, its infrared night vision automatically kicks in when it's fully dark. This produces soft, black-and-white images that might appear blurry when the subject is too far away from the camera. However, the camera doorbell can switch to full-color mode at night if there's sufficient ambient light.

Smart Home Integrations

The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd gen) is compatible with Amazon Alexa-enabled devices. This allows you to use voice commands to check the live feed from your doorbell camera on devices like Echo Show or Echo Spot. You can also receive notifications when someone rings the doorbell or when motion is detected, all through your Alexa device.

It can also be connected to the SmartThings hub using the SmartThings App, IFTTT, or the Homebridge platform.

Security & Privacy Control

The Ring Video Doorbell 2nd generation places a strong emphasis on ensuring your security and privacy are under your control. With customizable settings and features, you can shape the level of security that suits your preferences.

The Control Center offers a hub to view, manage, and personalize essential security settings. From here, you can adjust motion detection, fine-tune alerts, and define your privacy zones to safeguard areas you don't want to monitor.

Staying connected to your community is part of the security strategy. Real-time crime and safety alerts from neighbors and local public safety agencies help keep you informed about incidents in your vicinity.

For added protection, you can consider subscribing to Ring Protect plans. This service offers benefits such as extended video storage, more detailed alerts, and the ability to link cameras to your Ring Alarm system. It empowers you to keep an eye on what matters and retain footage for up to 180 days.

Installation Process

With Existing Doorbell Wiring

1. Charge the built-in battery

Make sure to fully charge the built-in battery by connecting it to a USB power source using the provided orange cable. When only one of the two LEDs on the battery is lit, you'll know it's fully charged. For more details on charging your Ring battery, refer to the provided information.

2. Set up your Ring Doorbell near your WiFi router

In the Ring app, choose "Set Up a Device" and follow the prompts provided in the app.

3. Test it

After the setup, press the button on the front of your Ring Doorbell to view the camera's video in the Ring app.

4. Install your Ring Doorbell

For optimal results, position the doorbell about four feet (1.2 meters) above the ground. If you're connecting to existing doorbell wiring that's higher than four feet and you want to adjust the angle for a better view, you can purchase a Wedge Kit from ring.com/accessories.

5. Remove your existing doorbell

If you're connecting to existing doorbell wires, turn off power at the breaker. If you're unsure which breaker controls the doorbell, you can turn off the master breaker for your home or seek assistance from an electrician. Once the power is off, take off the doorbell button from the wall and disconnect the wires. Note that your Ring Doorbell is compatible with doorbell systems supplying 8 to 24 VAC, 50/60Hz, 5VA to 40VA. Be cautious when working with electrical wires during installation, and consult a licensed electrician if needed.

6. Mark the screw holes

Use the bracket as a guide to mark the locations for the four corner holes.

6a. Install wall anchors (optional)

If you're installing the doorbell on stucco, brick, or concrete, you'll need to install wall anchors. Take four wall anchors from Bag A and mark the drill holes on the wall using your Ring Doorbell as a template. Use a 1/4" masonry drill bit to create the holes and insert the wall anchors.

7. Install the mounting bracket

If you're connecting to existing doorbell wires, feed the wires through the hole in the mounting bracket first. Use a Philips head screwdriver to drive the mounting screws into the wall (or anchors, if used) until they're flush with the mounting bracket.

8. Connect the wires

Attach the wires from the wall to the screws on the back of your Ring Doorbell. The order of the wires doesn't matter. If connecting to a doorbell transformer, add a 25 ohm, 50 W wire-wound resistor in series with one of the doorbell wires for protection.

9. Attach your Ring Doorbell to the mounting bracket

Slide the slot on the back of your Ring Doorbell onto the tab near the top of the mounting bracket. Then, pivot the Doorbell down to sit flush on its bracket.

10. Secure the doorbell

Make sure to use only the included short security screws to secure the doorbell to the bracket. Tighten them using the star-shaped end of the provided screwdriver.

11. Restore power

Turn the power back on at the breaker. It might take a moment for your Ring Doorbell to power up. You'll know it's ready when it lights up and provides voice prompts.

Battery Life & Recharging Options

Unlike the Ring wired version, which is connected to a continuous power source, the 2nd gen Ring Video Doorbell is equipped with a built-in rechargeable battery designed to provide extended operation. With typical usage conditions, which could be around 3-5 events per day, the battery can last anywhere from 6 to 12 months before needing a recharge.

To recharge, you can use a common micro-USB cable, such as the orange one provided in your Ring package. Simply connect it to any USB power source, whether it's a USB port or a wall outlet, to start the charging process. The time it takes for your Ring Video Doorbell 2 to fully charge can vary, typically ranging from around 5 to 10 hours, depending on whether you're using a USB port or a wall outlet.

Tips for Optimizing the Battery Life

Here are some practical tips to optimize the battery life of your Ring Video Doorbell (2nd generation):

1. Motion sensitivity adjustment: Fine-tune the motion sensitivity settings in the Ring app. Lower sensitivity can reduce unnecessary triggers and conserve battery life.

2. Customize motion zones: Define specific areas for motion detection using Motion Zones. By excluding high-traffic areas, you can minimize false alerts and save battery power.

3. Limit notifications: Adjust notification settings from the Ring doorbell options to receive alerts only for events that matter most to you. This can help reduce the frequency of motion events and extend battery life.

4. Adjust live view usage: Minimize the use of Live View, as streaming video in real-time can consume battery power. Use it only when necessary.

5. Wi-Fi signal strength: Ensure a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection for your doorbell. Weak signals can cause the doorbell to use more power to maintain connectivity.

6. Weather protection: Place your doorbell in a location where it is shielded from extreme weather conditions. Excessive heat or cold can impact battery performance.

7. Regular device check: Periodically inspect your doorbell for any obstructions or issues that might affect its operation. A malfunctioning doorbell can drain the battery quickly.

8. Charging routine: Regularly charge the battery when it approaches low levels rather than allowing it to completely drain. This can help maintain consistent performance.

Popular Accessories for Ring Video Doorbell 2nd Gen

Let's check some of the essential video doorbell accessories for your Ring device.

Wasserstein Solar Charger for Ring Video Doorbell 1 (2nd Generation, 2020 Release)

Designed to provide continuous charging to your doorbell, operating at 5V with a power output of 0.6W. It offers a convenient and sustainable solution to ensure that your Ring Video Doorbell remains operational without worrying about battery depletion. Utilizing solar energy, you can extend the time between manual recharges and lessen the downtime. It has a simple micro USB cable connection to the back of the doorbell to eliminate messy cables or hardwired installation.

Power Supply Adapter for Ring Video Doorbell 2 by Wasserstein

The power supply adapter connects your Ring Video Doorbell to a constant power source using a 1.5m long cable. This enables your video doorbell to operate continuously without the need to dismount it to recharge its battery.