Home security is big business. However, people with limited technical knowledge worry that upgrading their home to the latest digital security will be expensive and challenging. I’ve covered many Reolink products, and today I have the chance to tackle the newest item from Ring. The Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro is a fantastic device that takes this impressive company to the next level. Yet, it isn’t without its drawbacks, as you must have a subscription service, and there is no Micro SD slot. Accordingly, you must use Cloud storage to maximise potential.
This may be a deal breaker if you are on a budget. However, you pay for what you get and with 3 subscription options available, there is something for everyone. I went for the 30-day free trial to see how I got on. I’m impressed with the excellent UI, easy to master system, and the reliable nature of the product. However, I’m not sure I’d enjoy paying for it when Reolink offer a free service with very similar elements.
This is a conundrum that many people will have to solve. Where this device excels from other cameras and doorbell products is the quality, excellent customer service, and amazing picture quality. Additionally, the ability to react to visitors in real time was a big bonus.
What’s in the box of the Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro?
- The box is compact, interesting, and robust. Additionally, it is recyclable.
- The Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro is a discreet device. I like the colourway and the streamlined appearance. Furthermore, it can easily be wired and mounted to any surface.
- A power cable and adapters are provided to power the doorbell.
- The mounting kit is a joy to use.
- Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
Having a wired-only product can feel a little restrictive. I prefer this approach as you never have to worry about batteries or charging the product. Moreover, you can connect the device with a PoE cable for a high-reliability option. Furthermore, you can wire this into existing doorbell wiring if you don’t fancy changing too much from a previous Ring product. As such, this is a relatively easy-to-install product.
High-quality footage is a must. We have all seen those grainy images that appear to have been taken using a potato. Thankfully, theRing Wired Video Doorbell Pro has an impressive 4K resolution and 10x digital zoom to capture every fine detail. Alongside this, there is Low-Light Sight for near perfect nighttime vision. This is important as other cameras suffer in low light and poor conditions.
If you live in a high footfall area, you won’t want your doorbell notifying you every 3 seconds. Luckily, the 3D motion detection is super-accurate and can be tailored to your needs. You can mark out areas that you want covered, and the doorbell will ignore the rest. This mapping creates highly secure locations and removes the unwanted noise.
Finally, 2-way audio helps you to communicate with whoever visits your property. We’ve all had that moment where an important parcel is about to be delivered. You can’t afford for it to be taken away, so this handy feature allows you to talk to the delivery person.
Usability.
The Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro is an incredibly easy-to-use product. The combination of a streamlined design and an impressive app ensures that you are always in control. Additionally, it is compatible with Alexa. This will be a win for many digital homes. Despite this huge positive, I would have liked to see Google Assistant included in this list. Sadly, this wasn’t to be, and lovers of digital tech will have to stick with Alexa for a streamlined platform.
Setting the doorbell up was a breeze. Inexperienced users may wish to seek advice, but technically competent individuals will have the doorbell mounted and working in no time at all. I sat somewhere in the middle and easily fitted it and had it powered in under an hour. The app takes a little longer to master, but this wasn’t an issue. Handy know-how guides talk you through the basics, and a little trial and error goes a long way.
Build quality.
The Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro has a professional and pleasant finish. I like the Satin Nickel aluminium faceplate and the clear and sizeable lens. The rectangular design may be considered dated, but it is simple, clean, and easy to work with. Moreover, it isn’t too big, and it won’t look out of place on a classic or modern building.
This device is IP65 rated for normal weather conditions. Additionally, it is dust-tight to prevent unwanted damage to internal components. Despite its impressive rating, I wouldn’t want to expose it to continual water. Consequently, having it slightly covered will aid longevity.
Is the Ring Wired Video Doorbell Pro worth it?
This latest generation Ring product is more expensive than its predecessors. However, it ups the ante. The resolution is double the previous model, and the build quality is market-leading. Furthermore, the AI tech for mapping and the 2-way audio were great. I’m not sold on the subscription service, but you get a lot of support and an impressive app if you subscribe. Accordingly, this is a fantastic product with a generational leap in performance measures and camera quality. Furthermore, it increases security and peace of mind, and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on Ring can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
