ABOUT RING
Ring’s home security devices include its popular video doorbell system, security cameras and smart lighting. Its equipment is easy to install, and plans are available with or without professional monitoring.
Compare our top 6 home security system picks
ADT
Our pick for: Traditional systems
Monitoring: Required
DIY installation available: Yes
Starting equipment costs: $155.98 to $1,109.60
Vivint
Our pick for: Custom installation
Monitoring: Required
DIY installation available: No
Starting equipment costs: $599.99
SimpliSafe
Our pick for: Self-monitoring
Monitoring: Optional
DIY installation available: Yes
Starting equipment costs: $1.0 million
Our pick for: Value
Monitoring: Optional
DIY installation available: Yes
Starting equipment costs: $155.98 to $1,109.60
Frontpoint
Our pick for: Tech support
Monitoring: Required
DIY installation available: Yes
Starting equipment costs: $402.96 to $790.91
Vector Security
Our pick for: Smart-home automation
Monitoring: Required
DIY installation available: Yes
Starting equipment costs: $46 to $64 per month
How does Ring work?
Ring is a DIY security system that helps you protect your house, apartment or commercial business property. Ring security systems require Wi-Fi to send push notifications to your smartphone or tablet.
Video doorbells operate on battery power and use Wi-Fi to alert you when someone presses the button or when they detect motion, and contact sensors send instant mobile alerts when doors or windows open on your property. You can pair these sensors with an Alexa device and hub to add voice control capability. The sensors are also compatible with iOS and Android devices.
Most connection processes for Ring products take place through the Neighbors app, which is available for Apple and Android devices. Through Ring’s Neighbors app, you get real-time safety alerts from their local law enforcement, homeowners associations and community groups.
You can also stream video and communicate with anyone on your doorstep through two-way audio.
How much does Ring cost per month
Ring offers three monitoring options: Basic, Plus and Pro. If you opt for a Ring professional monitoring plan, you get a seven-day “practice-mode period” to get to know your new system without triggering false alarms.
- Basic: For $3.99 per month, you get video recording for one Ring doorbell or camera and access to the app for arming and disarming the system.
- Plus: For $10 per month, you get video recording for multiple Ring devices at one location, plus extra digital features through the app.
- Pro: Starting at $20 per month, this plan provides 24/7 professional alarm monitoring.
» FIND: The cheapest home security systems of 2023
Ring installation
Ring designed its security systems for DIY installation. “The Ring system was very easy to set up,” according to a reviewer in California. “I installed three ring floodlights, a doorbell and a Chime pro. I can view all sides of my house and the doorbell notifies me, even if the person doesn’t ring the bell.”
Once you unpack the equipment, all you have to do is sign up for the app and register your Ring Alarm base station. You then complete the setup by placing the sensors and motion detectors around your home or business.
