In our family, there’s always one Christmas gift that becomes “The Gift of the Year”. Typically, its one item that multiple people get, to which we “loving” call the item, “The Gift of the Year”. This year, however, one gift stole the spotlight, leaving everyone else jealous. This year’s true “Gift of the Year” was Ring’s Video Doorbell. Who wouldn’t want a doorbell that you can answer from anywhere in the world with your smartphone, tablet, or Windows 10 computer? Ever heard of a doorbell that will alert you when there’s motion at your front door? The picture of the doorbell used in today’s graphic is an actual photo of the doorbell at my front door. It’s generated such interest that I felt it warranted it’s own Finish Line Blog post. If you’re in the market for a 21st century doorbell, look no further than Ring.
Ring Video Doorbell is pretty much what it sounds like. It’s a doorbell for your home with an included high definition video camera. You’re able to see who is at the door, and can initiate a two-way conversation with them with the use of a smartphone or tablet. Before we go any further, I’ll point out that the person at the door can’t see you on your phone! It’s a two-way conversation, not a two-way video conversation. To use it, you’ll need wireless Internet with a signal that will reach the location of the doorbell, and a free app for your device (that will connect with the doorbell). The Ring app is compatible with iPhone, iPad, Mac, Android phones and tablets, and any Windows 10 Computer or Tablet. Ring Video Doorbell will alert you via the app that the doorbell has been rung, or that motion has been detected near the doorbell. The camera has a 180 degree field of view, and the range that indicates motion can be adjusted if things like garbage trucks going down the road set it off. The doorbell can be hardwired to use the electrical connection from your existing doorbell, or you can use the on board battery that lasts anywhere from 6-12 months before needing to be recharged with the provided power cord. Ring includes everything you’ll need for installation including the mounting bracket, drill bit, and screws to attach the doorbell to your home. All told, it probably took me fifteen or twenty minutes to connect the doorbell to our Internet, set up the app, and install the doorbell on the house. It’s a pretty easy “do-it-yourself” project.
To me, the beauty of the Ring Video Doorbell is I’m alerted that someone is at the door wherever I am. As long as my phone is on, I can see who is at the door, and begin a conversation if I so desire from anywhere in the world. By the way, I should mention that the only “ring” you’ll hear is the one coming from your device. There is no audible sound in the home. You can purchase a Chime for around $30 which plugs into any outlet and delivers a chime in the home. I really like the security aspect of the doorbell, as you’re never truly away from home. The camera automatically utilizes night vision settings if necessary, and if there’s ever a case of a crime being committed, I can easily send the video to the police. Not to the crime extent, but we’ve already been able to prove that a package hadn’t been delivered though the tracking information insisted it had been. There was no alert of motion at the time that the package was “delivered”. Because there was no package and no video showing the delivery, the shipping company had to fulfill our delivery a second time. Another scenario where this doorbell comes in handy: If you’re of “advanced age” (or have a relative who is), the Ring Video Doorbell would be a welcome gift for them if they don’t move as quickly as they used to. I’m happy with the video and audio quality, and would recommend the doorbell to anyone. Before you ask, no, I’m not a paid spokesman for Ring!
What’s always the first thing to consider when making a purchase? The price, of course. Ring Video Doorbells retail for right around $200. It’s available at Lowe’s, Home Depot, Bed Bath and Beyond, Walmart, Amazon.com, and many others. There are four finishes available: Satin Nickel, Polished Brass, Venetian Bronze, or Antique Brass. To learn more, visit ring.com. If you ever “Ring My Bell”, I’ll know you were there!