The Ring Video Doorbell Pro is the second generation product that addresses several shortcomings from the initial product.
Like the previous generation, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro replaces your current doorbell. Unlike the older generation, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro must replace your current hardwired doorbell. This will not add a doorbell where there is no wiring. Since the Ring Doorbell Pro is a higher end device, I can only guess that battery power wasn’t feasible. This one needs an electrical connection from the house. An understandable shortcoming.
Software
You can access the Ring Video Doorbell Pro with your Apple iOS or Android smartphone. There is a web portal that can be used to access archived video but cannot be sued for settings.
Ring offers cloud storage starting at a $30 annual subscription fee. That’s a good price for a cloud storage plan with this much history. A subscription allows you to go back up to six months.
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro iOS or Android app is used to setup the camera. It’s reasonably easy. A typical setup where you press the button on the device, connect to the SSID that it’s transmitting and set it up with the app.
There is a motion detection function which has a lot of adjustment options within the app. There are greater customization options with motion detection zones versus the older Ring Video Doorbell. Set up the motion detection zones wherever it is needed. This is a concept adopted by most higher end home security cameras. It’s a great help in reducing false motion alerts. Just watch zones where valid activity takes place versus let’s say a tree branch.
As expected, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro is a dual purpose device. It’s a home security camera as well as a standard doorbell. Someone rings the bell and you get to see and talk to them. There’s two-way audio which allows you to hold a conversation with the person at the door. It’s especially nice when you aren’t home.
Connectivity
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro connects via 802.11 b/g/n. This new generation supports the 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies. Dual-band support is a welcome feature however I question the applicability on an outdoor camera. You see, the 5 GHz frequency is great for short distances. It gives a great speed boost. Get past about 50 feet and go through a few walls and you are better off with the old 2.4 GFz frequency. It’s something to experiment with as your mileage will vary depending upon your unique situation.
Hardware
Unlike the older generation of the Ring Video Doorbell, this one requires electricity. It needs to be hardwired to your door. No batteries.
There is a power box called the Pro Power Kit that gets installed within the chime found inside the house. Be sure to follow the instructions. You need to feel somewhat comfortable working with electricity. I put the complexity at replacing an AC outlet. Be sure to turn off the power at the fuse box before embarking on this project and if you don’t feel comfortable, call an electrician.
There is a security screw that should prevent easy theft of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro.
When someone rings the bell, you receive a loud alert on your phone. That’s great as long as your phone is nearby. If not, Ring offers an accessory called the Ring Chime which plugs into an AC outlet and rings when the doorbell is pressed. The Ring Chime runs on 2.4 GHz only. We wrote a detailed article to help make the decision as to if the Chime accessory is necessary.
The Ring Video Doorbell has a built-in speaker and microphone that will scare the heck out of the person that is ringing the doorbell. It’s almost worth getting this camera just to record the reaction of the person ringing the bell.
There isn’t any on-board storage. You will need to use the cloud plan if there’s a need to go back and review some activity. For the cloud storage to work effectively, you need a strong signal and access to bandwidth. Ring recommends 2 Mbps upload speed for live viewing.
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro return a very clear image. It produces video at 1080p HD resolution which is currently about as good as home security cameras get. This camera provides a 160 degree wide angle lens which strangely is 20 degrees less than the first generation. However, very little fish eye effect. I suppose the smaller wide angle has something to do with that. Infrared LEDs provide night vision.
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro is small. These measure 4.5 x 1.85 x 0.80 inches. The doorbell can be used outdoors and has an operating range of -5 to +120 degrees Fahrenheit. That should cover most of the extremes throughout the globe.
Mounts
It’s a doorbell and that’s where this mounts. The Ring Video Doorbell comes with a mounting plate that attaches to any flat surface. The device is attached using screws and a special screwdriver they provide. There’s also a drill bit in case new holes need to be drilled.
Fun and Different
Ring has a warranty clause where they will provide a replacement if your Ring Video Doorbell is stolen. The anti-theft screws included require a special screwdriver to remove it. Ring is banking on a thief not walking around with a toolbox. I guess they haven’t been to New Jersey.
Summary
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro is an improvement over the first generation. A better camera is always a good thing. Ideally, a battery operated option would be nice because not everyone has a hardwire doorbell nor are they comfortable being a do it yourself electrician. However, if you’re good with the installation requirements, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro is a good addition to your home security arsenal.
Quick Specs:
| Video Quality | Field of View | Cloud Support | SD Support | Night Vision | Mobile/Web App | Alerts | Outdoor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1920x1080 | 160 Degrees | Yes, $30/year | No | Yes | Yes/Yes | Yes | Yes |
Manufacturer Link: Ring