Product Review: Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus (2nd Gen)
Introduction
The Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus (2nd Gen) is a wireless video doorbell designed for easy installation and enhanced home security. It boasts advanced features like 1536p HD video, improved motion detection, and dual power options. With the rise in smart home technology, this product aims to blend functionality and convenience. Let’s dive into the details of its performance and usability.
Product Information
- Brand: Ring
- Model: Battery Video Doorbell Plus (2nd Gen)
- Video Resolution: 1536p HD
- Field of View: 150° horizontal, 150° vertical
- Power Options: Rechargeable battery pack or hardwired connection
- Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)
- Smart Features: Motion detection, customizable motion zones, night vision, two-way audio
- Subscription: Optional Ring Protect Plan for cloud video storage and advanced notifications
Review
Design and Installation
The Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus features a sleek and modern design that blends seamlessly with most door frames. Its compact form ensures it doesn’t obstruct the entryway while maintaining an aesthetic appeal. The wireless setup makes installation straightforward—perfect for renters or homeowners who prefer not to drill or alter existing door frames. For those seeking a more permanent solution, the device supports hardwiring to an existing doorbell system, providing continuous power and bypassing the need for battery recharges.
Installation takes roughly 15-30 minutes, and the provided step-by-step instructions in the Ring app make the process user-friendly, even for those with minimal technical experience. The inclusion of multiple faceplate color options ensures the device complements various home styles.
Video Quality
The 1536p HD resolution is one of the standout features of this doorbell, providing crisp and detailed video footage. This level of clarity ensures you can easily recognize visitors’ faces, even from a distance. The square video format is a practical enhancement, offering a full head-to-toe view of visitors and packages left at your doorstep.
The enhanced color night vision is another significant improvement over its predecessors. Unlike traditional black-and-white night vision, this feature maintains color accuracy in low-light settings, ensuring clearer footage in dimly lit areas. This capability is particularly valuable for users who want round-the-clock monitoring.
Performance
The Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus excels in performance, thanks to its responsive motion detection. The customizable motion zones allow users to focus on specific areas, minimizing false alerts caused by passing cars or pedestrians. The ability to adjust motion sensitivity ensures the doorbell caters to various environmental conditions and user preferences.
Dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) ensures a stable and reliable connection, reducing lag and buffering when accessing live video feeds. This feature is especially beneficial for homes with multiple smart devices sharing the network. The two-way audio is clear and effective, allowing seamless communication with visitors or delivery personnel. There is minimal lag, making conversations natural and uninterrupted.
Battery Life
The rechargeable battery pack is designed for convenience, offering a lifespan of several weeks to a few months, depending on activity levels and usage settings. Heavy usage, such as frequent live video access and high motion sensitivity, may reduce battery life. For users seeking a maintenance-free option, hardwiring the device is an excellent alternative, ensuring uninterrupted operation without the need for recharging.
Smart Features
The doorbell integrates seamlessly with the Ring app, providing users with complete control over its features. From viewing live feeds and receiving instant notifications to reviewing recorded footage, the app ensures a smooth and intuitive user experience. The optional Ring Protect Plan enhances functionality by enabling cloud storage for recorded videos, advanced motion alerts, and snapshot captures.
Additionally, the device is compatible with popular smart home ecosystems, including Amazon Alexa. Users can integrate the doorbell with Echo devices, enabling voice commands and live video streaming on compatible screens. This integration adds another layer of convenience, particularly for those already invested in smart home technology.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-resolution 1536p HD video with a unique square format for a comprehensive view
- Dual power options (rechargeable battery or hardwired) for flexibility
- Customizable motion zones to reduce false alerts
- Enhanced color night vision for superior low-light performance
- Seamless integration with the Ring app and smart home ecosystems
- Durable and weather-resistant design for long-lasting performance
Cons:
- Subscription required for advanced features such as video storage and advanced alerts
- Battery life can vary significantly depending on usage and environmental conditions
- Higher price point compared to similar products from competitors
- Dependency on a stable Wi-Fi connection for optimal performance
Conclusion
The Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus (2nd Gen) stands out as a top-tier option for anyone looking to upgrade their home security system. Its combination of high-resolution video, flexible power options, and smart features ensures a robust and reliable performance. The customizable motion detection and advanced night vision make it suitable for various environments, from urban settings to suburban homes.
While the initial investment may be higher than some alternatives, the comprehensive feature set and seamless app integration justify the cost. The optional subscription plan further enhances its utility, offering peace of mind through secure cloud storage and advanced alerts. For those committed to building a smart and secure home, the Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus (2nd Gen) is an investment that delivers both convenience and security.
With its innovative features and user-friendly design, this video doorbell is well-suited to meet the needs of modern homeowners. Whether you prioritize ease of installation, advanced monitoring capabilities, or seamless integration with other smart devices, the Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus is a standout choice in the smart home market.