Whether you have just moved in or you simply want to improve your home security, a video doorbell is a fantastic investment. It allows you to communicate with the person at the entrance while you are inside of your home.
We often use our Ring Video Doorbell as a way for the kids to let us know when they are home from school and we’ll open up the doors remotely for them to make it easier than finding the hidden key (you’ll never find it…).
There is a wide variety of products in the market, but the leading brand seems to be Ring, it lacks some features but Amazon bought the company so it’s easy to trust they’ll be around for a while.
Consequently, we looked at their offers and found the Ring Video Doorbell 3 to be a product that offers the best price to quality ratio. It’s the logical next step from the Ring Doorbell 2 but it’s not a groundbreaking advancement on previous models. I’d call this…incremental.
Below, we’ll discuss the highlighting features and whether or not there are any downsides. Let’s get started to see if this is the video doorbell for your needs and preferences.
Ring Video Doorbell 3 Review
Coming from a well-recognized brand, we are pretty happy to see that this video doorbell is made according to the latest industry standards with enhanced Wi-Fi and improved motion detection. It can be configured to work with Echo Show 5 and is compatible with Alexa.
The design itself is aesthetically pleasing and modern. Most importantly, setting this system up is straightforward and takes only a few minutes. With that in mind, let’s discuss who would benefit the most from a product such as the Ring Video Doorbell 3.
Who Is This Product For?
The versatility of this home security system makes it a great investment for anyone who wants to monitor the activity at their entrance even while away from their home. Compared to products such as the Ring Video Doorbell 1 and other competitors, its main advantage is improved motion detection, as well as the introduction of audio and video privacy zones.
In addition to being beginner-friendly and really easy to set up and use, it is available at an affordable price, which makes it a fantastic buy for everyone who wants added convenience and security for their home.
What’s Included?
It all depends on the set that you go for. The first option is the classic Ring Video Doorbell 3, which includes the doorbell itself, a removable battery pack, security sticker, corner mount, USB charging cable, and installation tools.
The second option, which is the somewhat pricier option, includes Echo Show 5 along with the aforementioned items. On top of all that, there is a detailed manual that features all the necessary instructions on setting up and getting the most out of this product.
Overview of Features
First and foremost, we want to discuss the design of this product. It is set at 5.1″ x 2.1″ x 1.1″ in size and offers connectivity of 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi. Similar to other video doorbells, it can either be connected to a transformer to ensure continuous battery charging, or it can be put to work with an already existing doorbell system.
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 is weather-resistant and can operate at temperatures between -5 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
As for the wiring requirements, the setup needs to be at 8-24 VAC with a maximum of 40 VA. The difference between this model and the Doorbell 2 is that it features privacy and audio zones.
You will enjoy improved motion detection and have a more enjoyable experience monitoring and talking with the person standing at your entrance. Additionally, the fact that it supports 2.4 and 5 GHz contributes to its versatility.
As mentioned above, this product can be controlled through Amazon Alexa as long as it is connected to a compatible device. Once this product is installed and set through the Ring app, you will receive mobile notifications on any movement that takes place. Not only that, but you will be able to see, hear, and talk to them even if you are outside of your home.
If you are willing to spend a bit more money, you can get the Ring Protect plan, which consists of regular activities plus the ability to record and save videos/conversations for up to 60 days. Finally, there is a one-year limited warranty that covers any built-in defects.
The only issue that we have is the fact that the cover case feels cheap. Still, for the given price and the fact that it streams in HD 1080p, we think the Ring Video Doorbell 3 is a fantastic buy.
How to Use the Ring Doorbell 3
As a beginner-friendly product, the setup process is straightforward.
- The first step is to insert the removable/rechargeable battery pack.
- Once you have done that, you should install the Ring app on your mobile phone and connect the doorbell to it.
- The third and final step is to wire or screw it to an existing doorbell system or a transformer if you want to ensure continuous charging.
For any further instructions, make sure to check out the detailed user guide that comes with this product.
Pros
- Affordable price for good value
- Easy to set up and use
- Real-time video and audio
- Enhanced motion detection – 5 to 15 foot range
- Compatible with Alexa (Alexa Show for full Video) – ‘Alexa, show me the front door’
- 1-year warranty for complete peace of mind
- 5 Ghz WiFi frequency for better connection
Cons
- Cheap cover case that may break if handled roughly
- Still no real AI which would be a nice to have
Alternatives
If you aren’t a fan of Ring products, we have just the right substitute for you. It has everything you need in a video doorbell.
Arlo Essential Video Doorbell
Highlighted by 180-degree motion detection, it offers HD video and two-way audio. In addition to that, you have the ability to respond in real-time or through pre-recorded messages.
Unlike most of its competitors, it offers HDR night-time visuals, which means that you will be able to control who is in front of your house no matter what time of day it is. On top of all that, there is an Arlo Secure plan that you can subscribe to to get instant notifications on any movement.
Wrap Up
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 is a product that we can’t say a lot against. It is highlighted by a sleek, modern design and offers users the ability to communicate with people at their entrance through real-time audio. At the end of the day, the decision is all yours and depends on your budget and needs, but if what you are looking for is an improved home security system, this product is the way to go!
Slava is a man of mystery and no-one seems to know exactly where he is at any point in time. When he isn't enjoying writing about all things audio and technical he can be found researching his next project of interest. The man never rests.