Blink Doorbell vs. Ring: Which Smart Video Doorbell Is Best for You?

As the demand for smart home technology continues to rise, homeowners are looking for the best options to ensure their homes are protected. Enter the Blink and Ring Video Doorbells, two of Amazon’s most popular options in the smart home niche.

With features like remote communication and live video streaming, these video doorbells can provide unparalleled security and convenience. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the features of both products to help you decide which video doorbell is best for you.

We’ll compare the design, installation, and pricing of the Ring and Blink Video Doorbells to help you make an informed decision.

Keep reading to learn more about the features and benefits of these two smart doorbells and to decide which one is right for you.

Blink Smart Video Doorbell Camera Review

The Blink Smart Video Doorbell Camera is one of the most popular home security systems on the market today. Released in October 2021, this camera system has taken the home security market by storm with its combination of affordability, ease of use, and Advanced Motion Detection algorithm that can detect and alert homeowners to any potential criminal activity.

Design-wise, the Blink Video Doorbell is small, sleek, and unobtrusive with its white body and black faceplate. It has a 140° field of view, which means it can cover vast areas with high-quality video footage. It also has a two-way audio system so homeowners can have a conversation with whoever is at their door. The Blink Video Doorbell is also weatherproof, making it a great choice for outdoor use.

One of the most remarkable features of the Blink Video Doorbell is the Blink secure score. This score is based on a combination of factors including motion detection accuracy, secure home automation capabilities, and more. With a SecureScore of 9.2 out of 10, Blink is one of the highest-rated security systems on the market.

For those looking to expand their system, the Blink offers a suite of compatible devices, from additional cameras to motion sensors and more. Plus, the Blink Video Doorbell is compatible with Amazon’s Alexa, so homeowners can monitor their cameras from anywhere.

Comparing the Blink Video Doorbell to the Ring Video Doorbell, both offer great features and value. However, Ring has the edge when it comes to building quality and available features. Ring also offers a suite of compatible devices that can be used to expand the home security system.

In the end, both Blink and Ring offer excellent home security camera systems. Homeowners interested in purchasing a security system should weigh their options and find the best system that makes sense for their home and budget.

Pros of Blink Doorbell Cameras

• Cheaper camera models than Ring
• Long Battery Life
• Local Video Storage included
• Motion Detection

Cons of Blink Doorbell Cameras

• Limited features
• Not compatible with many smart home platforms
• Not many wired power options

The Blink Smart Video Doorbell Camera is a great choice for homeowners who want a reliable and affordable video doorbell without needing to commit to an ongoing subscription.

It offers a range of customization options, including a variety of motion detection zones, adjustable camera sensitivity, and night vision sensitivity.

Additionally, it has tight integration with Amazon Alexa and is IP65-rated, meaning it is resistant to the elements. Furthermore, it offers 1080p HD video recording with a wide field of view, 2-way voice communication, and a built-in alarm siren.

However, it does not offer on-demand live view without the optional Blink Video Module, nor does it support Google Home or Apple HomeKit devices.

Ring Video Doorbell Camera Review

The Ring Video Doorbell Camera is a top-of-the-line home security system by Ring. This security camera offers homeowners a comprehensive solution to monitor their homes and property.

The camera features 1080p HD recording during the day and infrared HD after dark. It also features a 155-degree horizontal field of view, and a 90-degree vertical field of view and captures still images at a 640 x 360 resolution.

The camera is equipped with two-way audio, motion detection, and activity zones so homeowners can customize motion alerts.

The camera also has integration with Amazon Alexa, giving homeowners the ability to control their security system using voice commands.

Additionally, the camera comes with a Ring Protect subscription plan, starting at $3/month for one device or $10/month for an entire household.

Overall, the Ring Video Doorbell Camera provides homeowners with a reliable and secure system for monitoring their homes.

It is a great choice for those looking for an advanced home security system that offers a wide range of features, such as smart device integrations, artificial intelligence, and professional monitoring.

With its wide field of view, two-way audio, and Amazon Alexa integration, the Ring Video Doorbell Camera is an excellent investment for any homeowner looking to increase their home security.

Pros of Ring Doorbell Cameras

• Offers many advanced features
• Human alerts
• Rechargeable batteries
• High quality and huge camera
• Can be professionally monitored
• Alexa compatible
• Up to 30 days of rolling saved video footage (for as low as $3/month)

Cons of Ring Doorbell Cameras

• More expensive than Blink
• Short Battery Life
• No video storage is included in the free plan; only paid plans
• Local monitoring is not available
• Pricey

Blink Doorbell vs. Ring: What are the differences between Blink and Ring doorbells?

Audio Video Quality

The audio and video quality of the Ring and Blink doorbells are both quite similar, yet there are a few notable differences.

The Blink Video Doorbell delivers 1080p HD recording during the day and infrared HD after dark, at up to 30fps, with a 135° horizontal field of view and an 80° vertical one.

It also takes still images at a 640×360 resolution. On the other hand, the Ring Video Doorbell wired offers the same 1080p HD recording and infrared HD after dark, but at a higher frame rate of 155° horizontal view and 90° vertical which allows it to capture a wider shot.

Additionally, both doorbells have two-way audio, notifications when someone is at the door, activity zones to customize motion alerts, and integration with Amazon Alexa.

All in all, the Ring Video Doorbell gives users a wider recording view and better integration with other Ring devices, while the Blink Video Doorbell is an excellent budget option.

Installation

Installing a Blink or Ring video doorbell is a simple, straightforward process that can be completed in under an hour. First, affix a plastic plate to the door frame with two screws, then clip the Blink doorbell to it.

For the Ring doorbell, professional installation is also available. Both systems come with detailed installation instructions, and setup is easy and intuitive.

Additionally, each company provides how-to videos to help ensure a smooth installation and setup process.

Once your doorbell is set up, you will be notified whenever someone rings it or when there is motion detected. This feature is prompt and accurate, although there is a brief delay between detection and the live feed appearing on your phone.

With the Blink doorbell, you can’t pull up a live feed without first receiving a motion alert or buzzer press, but you can snap a mid-res photo every hour to check in on your entryway.

If you buy the Blink Sync Module 2, you can view the live feed and access other features such as local storage.

Overall, installing a Blink or Ring video doorbell is easy and intuitive, and both have similar features and options that make them great choices for a smart home security system.

Motion detection

When it comes to motion detection, both the Blink video doorbell and the Ring Video Doorbell offer motion detection and two-way talk.

They both have activity zones where you can customize your motion alerts, however, Ring has Advanced motion detection that allows you to map the area in the camera field of view where you want to get alerted if there is motion.

This feature is not available with the Blink doorbell. Additionally, Ring cameras are equipped with artificial intelligence that helps in better screening out false positives.

This feature is not available in Blink cameras. Therefore, Ring doorbells have a clear edge over Blink doorbells when it comes to motion detection and other advanced features.

Battery life

When it comes to battery life, a key difference between Blink and Ring doorbells is the length of the battery life. Blink doorbells have a battery life of up to two years, while Ring doorbells are estimated to last about six to twelve months with normal use.

However, it’s important to note that these figures are only an estimate and can vary depending on factors such as temperature, settings, and how often the camera is used.

Blink doorbells are a great option if you need security cameras without spending a lot of money, as they offer a longer battery life without the need for recharging.

On the other hand, Ring doorbells offer more options, as well as professional monitoring and advanced artificial intelligence features. Battery life should be a key consideration when deciding which doorbell is right for your home.

Alerts

Both Blink and Ring doorbells offer motion alerts that notify users when motion is detected in the area surrounding the doorbell. However, the alerts differ in terms of customization and accuracy.

The Ring doorbells offer customizable alert zones and allow users to choose which areas to monitor and receive alerts for. This helps reduce false alarms and allows users to focus on what matters most.

Blink doorbells, on the other hand, offer more detailed alert customization, allowing users to set sensitivity levels and choose which types of events they’d like to receive alerts for.

Additionally, the Blink doorbells can detect packages, people, and animals, ensuring that users are always aware of their home’s activity.

In terms of accuracy, the Ring doorbells tend to be more reliable, thanks to the customizable alert zones, while the Blink doorbells are more detailed in their alerts, allowing users to customize the motion sensitivity.

Mobile app

When comparing the mobile apps for Blink and Ring doorbells, a few key differences emerge. The Ring-Always Home mobile app has a better rating on the app store, with 4.1/5 on the Apple store and 4/5 on the Google Play Store, compared to Blink’s 3.3/5 on the App Store and 4/5 on the Google Play Store.

Ring also offers advanced features such as artificial intelligence, smart device integrations, etc., while Blink does not. In addition, Ring provides both self-monitoring and professional monitoring security cameras, while Blink offers only self-monitoring.

Finally, Ring cameras are compatible with Alexa and IFTTT, while Blink is not. Ultimately, both mobile apps are user-friendly and essential to the success of connected devices like security cameras.

Subscription plans

When it comes to subscription plans, the main difference between Blink and Ring is that Blink does not offer a subscription plan and Ring does.

Blink offers a free plan, but if you want more video storage than what the free plan allows (up to 120 minutes), you’ll need to buy the Sync Module 2 and use a USB flash drive to save your clips to it and avoid paying for a subscription.

On the other hand, Ring does not offer any video storage for free and requires a subscription plan called Ring Protect to access the Activity History. The Ring Protect subscription plan costs $3 a month per device or $10 a month for unlimited Ring devices.

Smart home integration

When it comes to smart home integration, the Ring and Blink video doorbells have a lot of similarities. Both doorbells are easy to install and can be connected wired or wirelessly without any major DIY work.

Weatherproofing

The Blink Video Doorbell and the Ring Video Doorbell both have weatherproofing features that make them suitable for outdoor use. The Blink Video Doorbell is rated to be IP65 waterproof, meaning it is protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction, as well as protected against dust.

The Ring Video Doorbell, on the other hand, is rated to be IPX5 waterproof, which offers protection from low-pressure water jets from any direction, but is not dustproof.

Both doorbells have tempered glass protection and can handle temperatures from -5°F to 120°F. In terms of design, the Blink Video Doorbell is slightly slimmer and narrower than Ring’s option, while the Ring is bulkier but has more color options.

Video storage

Blink and Ring doorbells differ in terms of video storage in several ways. Blink offers up to 120 minutes of free saved video footage, while Ring does not offer any free saved video storage.

Blink caps storage capacity at 120 minutes, while Ring offers up to 60 days of video storage with the Ring Plus subscription package.

Blink also offers the option to buy a Blink sync module and use a USB drive to save footage, whereas Ring does not have an option for local SD card storage.

Ring offers a more versatile device selection, but they require a mandatory monthly fee while Blink has one-time local storage costs.

Professional Monitoring

When it comes to professional monitoring features, Blink and Ring doorbells offer different options. With Blink, you are limited to self-monitoring, meaning you will have to log in to the app to view the live stream or recorded video when motion is detected.

Ring, however, offers professional monitoring, which means that its partner monitoring center can call the police on your behalf in case of a security breach.

This monitoring applies to the Ring Alarm and Ring Alarm Pro security systems, but not to cameras and doorbells. This can be helpful for those who want extra protection for their homes and want someone else to take charge of their security system.

Additionally, Ring offers a Stick Up Cam with a solar power option, so you won’t have to spend money on extra electricity or batteries. Ultimately, if you are looking for professional monitoring, Ring is a clear choice.

Blink vs Ring Doorbell: Pricing & Availability

There are currently six Ring Video Doorbells on the market. The Ring Protect subscription will set you back $3.99 per month, or $39.99 per year.

• Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen)
• Ring Video Doorbell 3 – quick-release rechargeable battery and dual-band WiFi.
• Ring Video Doorbell 4 – has a quick-release rechargeable battery, dual-band WiFi, and color pre-roll.
• Ring Video Doorbell Pro 90 degrees vertical motion detection, and dual-band WiFi but needs to be hardwired.
• Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 – 1536p HD video resolution, 3D motion detection, 150 degrees vertical motion detection, and dual-band WiFi, but needs to be hardwired.
• Ring Video Doorbell Wired – the budget-friendly option; adds 90 degrees vertical motion detection, but needs to be hardwired.
• Blink Doorbell– Blink currently only has one video doorbell available, which is currently on Amazon

Blink Doorbell vs Ring Doorbell 4 Camera Features Comparison Table

The Blink and Ring Doorbell 4 cameras both offer an easy installation, no contract required, and remote connectivity through phones. The main differences between the two doorbell cameras come down to the features they offer.

Overall, it comes down to the user’s preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a reliable doorbell camera on a budget, Blink is a great option. However, if you need more advanced features, the Ring Doorbell will be a better choice.

Which video doorbell is better, Blink or Ring?

Blink and Ring are two of the top smart video doorbells available on the market, so it’s important to know what makes them different and whether you should invest in one over the other.

Design-wise, the Ring Video Doorbell is slightly bulkier than the Blink Video Doorbell, but offers a wider range of color options. The Blink Video Doorbell is slimmer and narrower but only comes in Black and White.

Both can be installed wired or wirelessly, but the Ring has a built-in rechargeable battery while the Blink uses two AA batteries.

In terms of video recording quality, both offer 1080p HD recording during the day and infrared HD after dark, but the Ring shoots footage at up to 30fps while the Blink records at a maximum of 15fps.

Depending on the features that are most important to you, either the Ring or Blink Video Doorbell could be the better choice.

FAQs

Are Blink and Ring doorbells compatible with other home automation systems?

Yes, Blink and Ring doorbells are compatible with other home automation systems. Both systems offer integration with Alexa, IFTTT, and other popular platforms like Google Home, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, and more.

Ring is also compatible with an ever-expanding selection of home security and automation products such as smart locks, smart outlets, lights, keyless entry, light dimmers, and remote garage door capability. Blink, however, is not compatible with Google Home or Apple HomeKit devices.

Are Blink and Ring doorbells weatherproof?

Yes, both Blink and Ring doorbells are weatherproof. The Blink Doorbell Cam is designed to work outdoors and can withstand rain and other elements. The Ring Doorbell cameras also have the same capability, with some models also offering the option to switch power modes and to be powered by batteries, cords, or solar power. Both brands offer easy DIY installation and remote connectivity through their respective mobile apps.

Is Blink better than Ring doorbell?

When it comes to choosing a smart video doorbell, the choice can be difficult — especially when comparing Ring and Blink doorbells. From a design perspective, the Blink Video Doorbell is slightly slimmer and narrower than Ring’s option, but Ring has more color options.

When it comes to installation, both the Ring and Blink Video Doorbells can be wired or wirelessly connected. For monitoring, the Blink Cameras offer only self-monitoring, while Ring Cameras offer both self-monitoring and professional monitoring.

Additionally, the Ring Cameras are compatible with Alexa, IFTTT, and many other smart platforms, while the Blink Cameras aren’t. The Ring Cameras also have more advanced features such as artificial intelligence, while the Blink Cameras don’t.

Overall, the Ring Video Doorbell is the better choice as it offers more advanced features such as professional monitoring, compatibility with smart platforms, and artificial intelligence.

It is also more reliable as it can be powered by batteries, cords, or solar power. Therefore, if you’re looking for a reliable video doorbell with better monitoring and advanced features, the Ring Video Doorbell is the better option.

Does Blink work as well as Ring?

When it comes to home security cameras, the debate between Blink and Ring often comes up. Both brands offer plenty of features and are easy to install, so it can be difficult to decide which works best. Let’s take a closer look at how these two security camera systems compare.

When it comes to mobile apps, both brands have user-friendly interfaces that make it easy to access live feeds and adjust settings. However, the Blink app has a simpler interface than the Ring app, as the latter supports a security system.

Their paid subscription plans are quite similar, with the same pricing structure, cloud video storage, extended warranty, and several cameras supported. The only major difference is that Ring offers more cameras that use wired power sources instead of batteries.

Both cameras are compatible with Amazon Alexa and IFTTT, but Ring can be integrated with more smart home technologies than Blink. Likewise, Ring tends to have a wider field of view and offers more selection in their camera lineup, although neither of them supports anything higher than 1080p.

At the end of the day, both Blink and Ring have their advantages and disadvantages. Blink is the more affordable option and offers local storage capability, while Ring offers more advanced technology, wider fields of view, and a wider selection of cameras. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which camera system works best for your needs.

Does Blink doorbell have a monthly fee?

Yes, Blink doorbell has a monthly fee. The Blink Subscription plan costs $3 a month per device or $10 a month for unlimited Blink devices. Alternatively, users can purchase the $35 Blink Sync Module 2 which comes with a USB stick that can save video clips locally without a subscription.

Does Blink doorbell record everything?

No, Blink Video Doorbell does not record everything. It only records clips when triggered by motion or other custom settings. It does not offer a plan with continuous recording, as some other smart cameras do. However, you can pay a monthly fee to get a 60-day rolling video clip history or you can use Sync Module 2 to get local storage.

Does amazon own ring and blink?

Yes, Amazon owns both Blink and Ring. Both companies are separate product lines owned by Amazon, meaning they have their own brand identities but benefit from Amazon’s huge resources for product development, marketing, and distribution.

Blink emerged from a semiconductor firm that took to Kickstarter for cash to launch a consumer range, while Ring was original “Doorbot,” a product that was crowd-funded and even appeared on the US business reality show Shark Tank before re-branding.

Both product lines are Alexa-enabled, allowing users to control the cameras and video doorbells through Amazon’s digital assistant.

Can Blink doorbell ring on Alexa?

Yes, the Blink Video Doorbell can ring on Alexa. For the doorbell to ring on Alexa, you must configure the Alexa app with the relevant settings.

You will need to turn on the Communication and Announcements setting, turn off the Do Not Disturb setting and turn on Motion Announcements and Doorbell Press Announcements.

Additionally, you must make sure the Doorbell Sound is set to “Page”. Once these settings are applied, your Echo device will play a chime sound when the doorbell is pressed and Alexa will announce, “Someone is at your (front/back/side) door.”

Gladys

My name is Gladys. I am a Mechanical Engineer and a Lover of Home Security Systems. This Blog is focused solely on Video Doorbells and how they can be a great addition to your Home or Apartment Security.