We may earn money when you buy through our links.
Home | Home Security | Ring FAQ
By John Carlsen
Jan 16, 2024
10 min read
SafeWise experts have years of firsthand experience testing the products we recommend. Learn how we test and review.
Ring Alarm is a bare-bones home security system that delivers protection at an affordable price. If you want to add extras like cameras or security lighting, the up-front equipment price gets steeper—but the $20 a month Ring Protect Pro monitoring fee is hard to beat.
In the UK? Check out our Ring UK review.
SafeWise recommends
Ring Alarm 8-piece kit (2nd gen)
$249.99
No contract
Professionally- or self-monitored
Works with Alexa
*Amazon.com price as of post date.Read full disclaimer.
Video: Ring FAQs
Subscribe to our YouTube channel and learn how to protect your home, loved ones, and belongings.
General questions
Does Ring work without Wi-Fi?
It depends on the Ring product.
- Ring video doorbells still work as normal doorbells if you hardwire them to your existing doorbell or have a Ring Chime accessory. You can’t watch video, get notifications, or talk to visitors without Wi-Fi.
- Ring Alarm security systems function normally as long as you have a Ring Protect Plus subscription, which comes with a cellular backup in case your Wi-Fi goes down.
- Ring Smart Lights still activate when they detect motion, but you can’t control them or get push notifications without a Wi-Fi connection.
- Ring security cameras do not work without Wi-Fi.
Does Amazon own Ring?
Yes. Amazon acquired Ring in 2018 for $1 billion. Amazon has also purchased other smart device companies like Blink and Eero.
Does Shaq own Ring?
Shaquille O’Neal isn’t just a famous basketball player—he was also an early investor in Ring. He often appears in commercials for Ring products.
How long is Ring’s warranty?
Ring products have a one-year warranty. Active subscribers to Ring Protect Plus get a lifetime warranty on Ring devices.
What is the Ring Pet Tag?
Ring released the Ring Pet Tag in late 2023. It's a tag for your pet's collar that comes with a unique QR code. If your fur baby scampers off, anyone who finds them can help get them safely home by scanning the QR code on the tag (note: this is not a GPS tracker). The code reveals your pet's profile, which includes things like their name, owner, and how to contact you. It also gives you real-time alerts if someone scans the code and sends out an SOS on the Ring Neighbors app so helpful souls can be on the lookout for your roving Rover.
Ring Protect subscription
Image: Ring
Do I need a Ring Protect plan?
No, you can still use the following Ring features without a subscription:
- Live video feeds
- Camera motion detection notifications
- Two-way talk between Ring cameras and the Ring mobile app
If you subscribe, you’ll get more features:
- Access the Home and Away Modes feature
- Ability to store, save, and share video recordings (Basic and Plus)
- Photo snapshots throughout the day (Basic and Plus)
- Professional monitoring for Ring Alarm (Plus)
- Extended warranties on your Ring devices (Plus)
- 10% discount on some products in Ring’s online store (Plus)
How much does Ring Protect cost?
Ring Protect Basic costs $3.99 a month or $39.99 a year for one device. Ring Protect Pro costs $20 a month or $200 a year but covers every Ring device in your house and offers professional monitoring. If you have cameras in multiple residences, you will need an additional Ring Protectsubscription for each location.
Monthly cost | Yearly cost | Video | Professional monitoring | Recommended add-ons | See Ring Alarm devices | |
| Free | $0.00/mo. | $0.00/yr. |
|
| Amazon Alexa | View on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protect Basic | $3.99/mo. | $39.99/yr. |
|
| Ring cameras | View on Amazon |
| Protect Plus | $10.00/mo. | $100.00/yr. |
|
| Environmental sensors, Motion detectors, Ring cameras | View on Amazon |
| Protect Pro | $20.00/mo. | $200.00/yr. |
|
| Environmental sensors, Motion detectors, Ring cameras | View on Amazon |
Amazon.com price as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer.
Does Ring require a contract?
No, you can cancel your subscription anytime without fees.
How long does Ring save videos?
Ring stores videos for 60 days before deleting them to make room for new recordings. Plan to download any videos you want to save before then.
Can the Ring doorbell record longer than 30 seconds?
Ring’s battery-powered doorbells and cameras don’t record videos over 30 seconds long, but hardwired Ring cameras can record up to 60 seconds of video.
How many Ring cameras can you have?
Ring user accounts support an unlimited number of Ring cameras with or without a subscription.
Can Ring record video locally?
No, Ring cameras can't save footage directly to the device. Ring cameras send video directly to the cloud storage server. If you're interested in local storage, see how Blink cameras compare to Ring's.
How much internet speed do I need to use a Ring system?
According to Ring, you need upload speeds of at least 2 Mbps per device. So if you have four devices, you need an upload speed of 8 Mbps—and that's on top of requirements for any other devices connected to your home network.
Don't know your internet speed?
Download this free internet speed test on the App Store or Google Play.
Need more speed? Check out the fastest internet providers for 2023.
Compare the fastest home internet providers
Carrier | Plan | Monthly price | Best for | Max advertised speeds | Learn more |
| Gig-speed internet | $50/mo.* | Fast download speeds | Up to 3,000 Mbps | View plans | |
| 1 Gig Fiber internet | $64.99/mo.** | Fast upload speeds | 940/880 Mbps | View plans | |
| Gigablast | $99.99/mo. | Working from home | 1Gbps | View plans |
Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer. Exclusions may apply.
*With Xfinity Mobile Unlimited phone line. Requires compatible gateway.
**Limited time offer with autopay and any existing Verizon mobile plan.
Ring doorbells and security cameras
Image: Ring
How does the Ring doorbell work?
We've moved our FAQ on Ring's doorbells and cameras to a separate page. Learn more in our article on how Ring doorbell works.
Can Ring cameras be hacked?
Technically yes, though unlikely. Read our article "Can Ring Cameras Be Hacked" for more info about end-to-end encryption and other security precautions.
Ring Alarm security system
Image: Ring
How does Ring security work?
Thesecurity systemsends an alert to your phone whenever it detects activity. Arming the system determines which types of alerts you get. If you have a Ring Protect Plus plan with professional monitoring, the monitoring center calls the police after checking for false alarms.
Does Ring Alarm require professional monitoring?
No, you can self-monitor your Ring Alarm system without paying for a monthly subscription. With self-monitoring, it’s up to you to call the police during an emergency.
Does Ring monitoring call the police?
Yes, Ring Protect Plus’ professional monitoring center contacts the police if there’s an alarm.
What do I do if my Ring security system has a false alarm?
Any time the alarm goes off, Ring’s monitoring center calls you (and your emergency contacts) with an automated message to verify the alarm. You’ll need to provide a verbal password to cancel the alarm.
Ring recommends saving the monitoring station’s phone number (+1-833-209-2159) in your contact list under “Ring Alarm” so you can respond more quickly (have your emergency contacts do the same).
If no one cancels thefalse alarm, the monitoring station contacts the police. Most police departments charge a fine if you have a certain number of false alarms in a calendar year.
Who monitors Ring security systems?
Ring operates its own monitoring center.
Video: Ring Alarm vs. Ring Pro | What changed?
Subscribe to our YouTube channel and learn how to protect your home, loved ones and, belongings.
What is “home mode” on Ring Alarm?
Home mode allows you to arm the alarm system while you’re at home. To prevent false alarms, motion sensors inside your house won’t trigger an alarm if you move around. But the alarm still goes off if someone opens a door or window. This mode is useful at night when the whole family’s asleep at home.
Do I own or lease a Ring security system?
You own the equipment.
Can I take my Ring Alarm with me when I move?
Yes. Because you own the equipment, you don’t have to ask permission to move it to a different house. You will need to change the address on your account if you have professional monitoring. This tells the monitoring center where to send help during an alarm.
Is Ring’s service transferable?
Yes, Ring customer support can help you transfer devices to a different Ring account. There’s no contract for service plans like Ring Protect, so the new user can sign up for service whenever they’re ready.
What sensors does Ring Alarm have?
Ring Alarmsupports the following sensors:
- Contact sensorstrigger an alarm when a burglar opens a door or window to enter your home.
- Motion detectorstrigger an alarm when there’s movement in your home while you’re away.
- Flood and freeze sensorshelp you prevent water damage in your home.
- Panic buttonstrigger an immediate alarm when you push them.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide listeners detect sounds of your smoke and CO sensors going off. These indirectly detect hazards in tandem with your existing detectors.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms directly detect hazards in your home. This is a third-party sensor that doesn’t work with professional monitoring.
Can Ring Alarm detect gas leaks, smoke, and carbon monoxide?
Ring Alarm can detect smoke and carbon monoxide, as long as you have the correct sensors. Ring Alarm doesn’t detect gas leaks.
Does Ring Alarm sound a siren when there’s an intruder?
Yes, there’s a siren in the base station and keypad. You can also buy additional keypads and standalone sirens for other parts of your home.
Does Ring Alarm work if the power goes out?
Yes, Ring Alarm’s base station has a battery backup that lasts for 24 hours if the power goes out. If you have a Ring Protect subscription, the base station contacts the monitoring center using AT&T’s cellular network in case you lose your internet connection during the same power outage.
Do I need a landline phone to use Ring Alarm?
No landline needed. Ring Alarm uses broadband internet and cellular connections to communicate with the monitoring center.
Do I need an alarm permit for my Ring Alarm?
It depends on where you live. Many cities require an alarm permit (including a small annual fee), but you’ll need to contact your local police department to see if you need a permit.
Is Ring Alarm easy for children to use?
Probably. Most older children and teens shouldn’t have problems putting in a pin code to disarm the system when they get home from school. It’s up to you to decide if your child is mature enough to use the control panel.
How do I get a Ring sign for my yard or stickers for my windows?
Ring sells yard signs and stickers separately from its security systems. All of Ring’s doorbells and security cameras come with a sticker.
Can I get a discount on my homeowners insurance?
Yes, you can get aninsurance discountby downloading an alarm certificate from your Ring account settings as long as you have professional monitoring. You can send or print a copy for your insurance agent.
Ring Smart Lights
Image: Ring
Do Ring Smart Lights have a camera?
No, Ring Smart Lighting products do not have cameras. Some Ring security cameras have spotlights and floodlights, but these aren’t part of the Ring Smart Lighting product line.
Why do I need a Ring Bridge?
Ring Smart Lighting products communicate directly with the Ring Bridge to function. It’s a bridge device that connects to your Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control the lights with the Ring mobile app.
How long do Ring smart lights last?
The batteries in a Ring smart light last about a year before you need to change them.
Ringsmart lightsuse LEDs that you can’t replace when they burn out, but they should last for many years before you have to replace the unit (Ring doesn’t give an exact timeline).
Ring mobile apps
Image: Ring
What can I do with the Ring app?
You can do the following tasks in the Ring app:
- View video recordings
- Use two-way audio to speak to people near cameras
- Adjust device settings
- Set up users
- Sign up for a subscription
Can you set up a Ring doorbell on two phones?
Yes, you can share your Ring smart home with multiple users. Each additional user needs a separate Ring account with a unique email address.
What is Neighbors by Ring?
Neighbors is a social network on an app where Ring users share videos, get alerts, and report crimes to the police.
Do I need a Ring doorbell to use the Neighbors app?
No, you can use the Neighbors app without buying Ring products, but you still need a Ring account.
Video: Ring's Police Partnership Controversy
Subscribe to ourYoutube channel and learn how to protect your home, loved ones, and belongings.
Police partnerships
Ring has been alleged of controversial practices surrounding its partnerships with US law enforcement agencies on many occasions, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation's calls to Ring to end police partnerships with over 1,300 agencies.
While it's made recent strides toward improvement, in the interest of awareness, we've highlighted a few concerns so you can make your own judgements about choosing and using Ring equipment.
Good news
In July 2021, Ring released its end-to-end encryption feature on wired cameras, including doorbell cameras. When users use this feature, Ring and Amazon cannot access those video feeds (much less provide footage to police). Watch our video to learn how to set up Ring's end-to-end encryption.
Previously, on June 3, 2021, Ring announced that police and fire departments that would like to use Ring footage must make a public request in the Neighbors app. This step is intended to help increase transparency around how Ring footage is used.
This came after Amazon's June 10, 2020 announcement that it was putting a one-year moratorium on police use of its facial recognition platform: Rekognition.
Bad news
Neighbors by Ring
- During 2020 protests surrounding police actions, CNET reported that many people were using the Ring Neighbors app to track police activity. On the flip side, the Neighbors app raises privacy concerns because citizen-shared information can funnel to law enforcement (including protest videos that police might use to identify protesters).
- Many police departments partner with Ring to see posts on Neighbors and can request resident footage. Law enforcement officials cannot see a video without approval from the resident whose camera recorded it. Users can choose to not to share videos and can deny video requests. This hasn't stopped Amazon fromgiving tips to police about how to obtain this footage by encouraging people to download the Neighbors app.
- In 2018, Ring considered a feature that activated cameras automatically in the vicinity of a 911 call but ultimately scrapped the idea.
Police and city promotion of Ring products
According to documents obtained by Motherboard in August 2019, Ring requires cities to subsidize and advertise Ring productsas part of rebate and giveaway programs for Ring products. At the time of publishing, Motherboard reported at least 14 American cities with these programs but estimated there were likely more using public funds for the same purpose.
Ring installation
Is Ring installation free?
Yes, but you have to install the equipment yourself. Ring offers optional installation services through Amazon Home Services and OnTech Smart Services.
How long does it take to install Ring doorbells and security cameras?
Most battery-powered Ring doorbells and cameras take about five to ten minutes to install with a screwdriver. You usually need to drill a few small holes for mounting. A hardwired installation takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
How long does it take to install the Ring Alarm security system?
Depending on the number of sensors you have, it takes around 30 to 60 minutes to install a Ring Alarm security system.
Can I install a Ring Alarm in my apartment?
Yes, but you should check with your property manager first to explain what you’re doing and see if it’s OK.
Smart home compatibility
Check out our Ring equipment and compatibility guide to learn more.
Does Ring work with Z-Wave devices?
Yes, Ring Alarm has a built-in Z-Wave radio, but third-party devices do not work with Ring’s professional monitoring service.
Ring Alarm should work with most Z-Wave devices. Still, it’s a good idea to check the company’s lists of compatible devices and locks compatible with Ring Alarm before you purchase additional Z-Wave equipment for your system.
Does Ring work with Alexa?
Yes, you can control Ring devices using Amazon Alexa’s voice commands. You can answer Ring doorbell notifications on any Amazon Echo, and you can view video feeds on any Echo Show device. Check out our video on how to connect Ring to Alexa.
Does Ring work with Google Assistant?
Not currently. Ring appears to have dropped Google Assistant* support as of late 2019. There was no official announcement, so it’s possible support will come back. But don’t hold your breath because Amazon and Google historically don’t play well together.
Does Ring integrate with other smart home platforms and devices?
You can use Ring with If This Then That (IFTTT), a task automation platform that lets you control devices from a variety of smart home platforms and software services.
Compare the best home security systems
Brand | Best for | Monthly cost | Starter equipment price | Contract required | Smart home compatibility | Learn more | Read review |
| Best professional security | $29.99/mo. | $599.00 | No * | Amazon, Google, Z-Wave | View packages | Read review | |
| Best DIY security | $19.99/mo. | $245.00 | No | Amazon, | View packages | Read review | |
| Most trusted security brand | $28.99/mo. | $0.00 | Yes | Amazon, Google, Z-Wave | View Packages | Read review | |
| Budget pick | $20.00/mo. | $199.99 | No | Amazon, Google, Z-Wave | View on Amazon | Read review | |
| Quality DIY pick | $34.99/mo. | $129.00 | No † | Amazon, Google, Z-Wave | View packages | Read review | |
| Most gadgets | $9.99/mo. | $99.99 | No | Amazon, | View packages | Read review | |
| Best sensors | $24.99/mo. | $199.99 | No | Amazon, Google, Apple | View Packages | Read review | |
| Best customer rating | $17.99/mo. | Quote required | No * | Amazon, | View Packages | Read review |
Amazon.com price as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer.
Full ADT disclaimer
*Product prices and availability are accurate as of post date and are subject to change.
*Amazon.com price as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Readfull disclaimer.
Related articles on SafeWise
Disclaimers
*Product prices and availability are accurate as of post date and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.
Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided “as is” and is subject to change or removal at any time.
Written by
John Carlsen
John is a technology journalist specializing in smart home devices, security cameras, and home security systems. He has over a decade of experience researching, testing, and reviewing the latest tech—he was the Smart Home Editor for Top Ten Reviews and wrote for ASecureLife before joining SafeWise as a Staff Writer in 2020.John holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism emphasis from Utah Valley University. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, photography, cooking, and starting countless DIY projects he has yet to complete.
Recent Articles
By
06/06/2024
If you find yourself in an emergency, a medical alert necklace can contact trained professionals...
By
06/05/2024
See which medical alert system is the best to keep you and your loved one...
By
06/05/2024
Best Apartment Security Systems
These renter-friendly apartment security systems help keep you safe and require less commitment than your...
By
06/05/2024
Best DIY Home Security Systems of 2024
SimpliSafe is the best DIY home security system because it's cost-efficient, effective, and easy to...
Stay Safe!
Subscribe to SafeWise for updates on safety news, product releases, and deals!
By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy | Cookies Settings
Terms of Service | Privacy Policy | How We Rank and Review | *SafeWise has conducted impartial research to recommend products. This is not a guarantee. Each individual’s unique needs should be considered when deciding on chosen products.© 2024 SafeWise. All rights reserved.
Back To Top
