Today we're comparing two popular smart doorbells: the Ring Battery Doorbell ($59.99) and the Arlo Essential Wired Doorbell ($129.99). With porch pirates and package deliveries becoming increasingly common, these devices have evolved from novelties to essential home security tools.
Smart doorbells have come a long way since Ring pioneered the category in 2013. Today's devices pack impressive tech into compact packages, offering HD video, sophisticated motion detection, and smart home integration. The key innovation has been the improvement in video quality and artificial intelligence - modern doorbells can distinguish between people, packages, and animals, drastically reducing false alerts.
The fundamental choice between battery and wired installation remains a crucial decision point. Let's explore how these two approaches compare in real-world use.
The Ring Battery Doorbell exemplifies modern battery-powered convenience. Installation takes about 15 minutes - just mount the bracket, attach the doorbell, and connect to WiFi through the Ring app. Having installed several of these, I appreciate how Ring has refined the process with each generation. The included angle adapters help achieve optimal positioning, which is crucial for motion detection.
In contrast, the Arlo Essential Wired requires hardwiring to your existing doorbell system. While this means a more involved installation (and potentially an electrician), it provides constant power and integrates with your existing doorbell chime. The wiring requirements are standard: 16-24V AC power with a 10VA transformer, which most modern homes have.
Both doorbells offer impressive video quality, but their approaches differ:
Ring Battery:
Arlo Essential:
The Arlo's square aspect ratio and wider field of view make it particularly good at showing packages left on your doorstep. In testing, I've found this makes a noticeable difference in real-world use. However, the Ring's HDR capability provides better image quality in challenging lighting conditions, like bright backlighting during sunset.
Both devices have evolved significantly in their AI capabilities since release. The Ring Battery Doorbell uses advanced motion detection algorithms that can distinguish between people and objects. Its "Quick Replies" feature lets you set pre-recorded responses, useful when you can't answer immediately.
The Arlo brings some unique capabilities:
One particularly clever feature of the Arlo is its full-duplex audio system, allowing natural two-way conversations without the walkie-talkie style back-and-forth of earlier video doorbells.
Both devices work better with paid subscriptions, but basic functionality remains available without them:
Ring Protect Plans:
Arlo Secure:
The Ring Battery Doorbell's battery life varies significantly based on usage and settings. In moderate use, expect 3-6 months between charges. The quick-release battery makes charging convenient, and you can purchase a spare battery ($29.99) for uninterrupted coverage.
The Arlo's hardwired connection eliminates battery concerns but brings its own considerations:
Both doorbells have evolved their smart home compatibility:
Ring:
Arlo:
Having tested both devices extensively, here's what matters after the initial setup excitement wears off:
Ring Battery advantages:
Arlo Essential benefits:
Choose the Ring Battery Doorbell if:
Choose the Arlo Essential Wired if:
Both companies regularly update their devices' software, adding features and improving performance. Ring has particularly impressed with their commitment to backward compatibility, ensuring older devices receive new features where hardware allows.
The video doorbell market continues to evolve, with AI capabilities becoming increasingly sophisticated. Both Ring and Arlo are at the forefront of these developments, making either choice a solid investment in home security.
Remember, the best doorbell is the one that fits your specific needs and installation situation. The Ring's flexibility and lower price point make it an excellent choice for many users, while the Arlo's superior field of view and constant power connection offer advantages for those with existing doorbell wiring.
| Ring Battery Doorbell | Arlo Essential Wired |
|---|---|
| Price - Initial Investment | |
| $59.99 (excellent value for basic features) | $129.99 (premium features justify cost) |
| Installation Type - Affects placement flexibility and maintenance | |
| Battery-powered, completely wireless installation | Requires hardwiring to existing doorbell system |
| Video Resolution - Determines image clarity and detail | |
| 1536p HD resolution, 150° field of view | 1536x1536 resolution, 180° diagonal view |
| Night Vision - Critical for after-dark security | |
| Color night vision with IR illumination | High-powered IR LEDs (850nm) |
| Power Source - Impacts reliability and maintenance | |
| Rechargeable battery (3-6 months per charge) | Continuous power from doorbell wiring |
| Smart Home Integration - Affects ecosystem compatibility | |
| Native Alexa, works with Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit compatible |
| Subscription Costs - Required for advanced features | |
| Ring Protect: $3.99/mo basic, $10/mo plus | Arlo Secure: $3.99/mo single cam, $12.99/mo unlimited |
| Motion Detection - Important for security monitoring | |
| Advanced motion detection with customizable zones | 110° horizontal detection angle, AI-powered detection |
| Audio Features - Crucial for visitor interaction | |
| Two-way audio with noise cancellation | Full-duplex two-way audio |
| Weather Resistance - Determines durability | |
| -20.5°C to 50°C operating range | -20°C to 45°C operating range |
| Special Features - Additional value considerations | |
| Quick Release Battery Pack, Package Alerts | Built-in siren, Direct-to-mobile video calls |
| Video Storage - Affects long-term usefulness | |
| Up to 180 days with subscription | 30 days with subscription |
The Ring Battery Doorbell and Arlo Essential Wired both offer 1536p resolution, but the Arlo's 1:1 aspect ratio and 180° viewing angle provides better coverage for packages and full-height viewing of visitors.
The Ring Battery Doorbell can be installed anywhere without wiring, while the Arlo Essential Wired requires existing doorbell wiring. This makes the Ring more flexible for renters or homes without doorbell wiring.
Both offer infrared night vision, but the Ring Battery Doorbell includes color night vision, which can be helpful for identifying visitors and packages in low light conditions.
Yes, both doorbells can display video feeds on smart TVs and home theater displays through their respective apps or through Alexa/Google integration. The Arlo Essential Wired offers slightly faster response times due to its constant power connection.
Ring Protect starts at $3.99/month for basic features, while Arlo Secure also starts at $3.99/month. Both offer premium tiers with additional features around $10-13/month.
The Ring Battery Doorbell offers customizable motion zones with advanced detection, while the Arlo Essential Wired provides AI-powered detection with a 110° detection angle. Both are effective, but Arlo's hardwired connection provides more consistent detection.
The Ring Battery Doorbell's battery typically lasts 3-6 months depending on usage and settings. Cold weather can reduce battery life significantly.
The Arlo Essential Wired works with Apple HomeKit, while the Ring Battery Doorbell does not offer native HomeKit support.
The Arlo Essential Wired has superior package monitoring due to its 180° viewing angle and 1:1 aspect ratio, making it easier to see packages left on the ground.
Both doorbells operate in sub-zero temperatures, but the Arlo Essential Wired tends to perform better in extreme cold since it's not reliant on battery power.
At $59.99, the Ring Battery Doorbell offers excellent value for basic features, while the $129.99 Arlo Essential Wired justifies its higher price with superior viewing angles and constant power connection.
Both doorbells support multiple devices through their apps and can stream to smart displays, phones, tablets, and computers. The Arlo offers slightly more platform compatibility options.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: pcrichard.com - marketplace.ladwp.com - ae-en.ring.com - batteries4pro.com - de-de.ring.com - de-de.ring.com - careyscommunications.com - safehome.org - arlo.com - arlo.com - bestbuy.com - arlo.com - wasserstein-home.com - arlo.com - arlo.com - prnewswire.com - telquestintl.com
