The Ring Video Doorbell Wired: A Comprehensive Review
The Ring Video Doorbell Wired is a sleek and affordable entry into the world of smart doorbells. At first glance, it might seem like a simple, no-frills option, but there's more to this doorbell than meets the eye. In this review, I'll delve into the features, installation process, and overall performance of this device, offering my insights and opinions along the way.
A Compact Design, A Big Impact
One thing that immediately stands out is the doorbell's compact size. At 3.9 by 1.8 by 0.8 inches (HWD), it's significantly smaller than its competitors like the Ring Video Doorbell Pro and the Ezviz DB1C. This makes it an ideal choice for those with limited space or a preference for a more discreet design. The matte black finish with a glossy black face gives it a modern and elegant look, and the Ring logo at the bottom adds a touch of sophistication.
Installation: Easy, But Not For Everyone
Installing the Video Doorbell Wired is relatively straightforward, but it does require some basic knowledge of low-voltage doorbell wiring. If you're not comfortable with this, it might be best to seek professional help. I found the process to be fairly simple, involving turning off the power, connecting the wires, and securing the doorbell to the door frame. However, if you're new to Ring devices, the initial setup can be a bit confusing. The app instructions could be clearer, and I found myself referring to the quick start card for guidance.
Features: A Solid Offering
The doorbell comes equipped with a 1080p camera, a microphone, and a round call button with an LED ring. The camera offers black-and-white night vision and a 155-degree horizontal field of view, ensuring you can see who's at your door even in low-light conditions. The motion detection and People Only Mode features work well, and the two-way talk function is a nice touch for quick communication.
One thing that many people don't realize is the importance of the Ring Protect subscription. While the doorbell offers a lot of free features, such as live video, motion alerts, and two-way talk, the ability to view and share recorded video, capture snapshots, and use the People Only Mode feature requires a subscription. The Basic plan costs $3 per month or $30 per year, while the Plus plan offers more comprehensive coverage for $10 per month or $100 per year.
Performance: Impressive, But With Some Caveats
In terms of performance, the Video Doorbell Wired delivered solid results. The daytime video was sharp and colorful, while the black-and-white night vision showed good contrast and uniform lighting. There was some barrel distortion, but this is a common issue with doorbell cameras and doesn't significantly impact the overall image quality. The motion detection was responsive, and the alerts arrived promptly. However, I did find that the sensitivity settings needed some tweaking to avoid false alerts.
Integration: Alexa and IFTTT, But Not Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant
The doorbell works seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, allowing you to control it using voice commands. It also integrates with numerous smart home devices via IFTTT applets. However, it's worth noting that it doesn't support Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant, which might be a deal-breaker for some users.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice, But With Some Trade-Offs
Overall, the Ring Video Doorbell Wired is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and compact smart doorbell. It offers a range of features and performs well, but it does come with some trade-offs. The lack of support for Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant, as well as the need for a Ring Protect subscription, might be off-putting to some. However, for those who are comfortable with the setup process and don't require integration with other smart home platforms, this doorbell is a great option. Personally, I think it's a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their home security without breaking the bank.
