Smart video doorbells have become essential for modern home security, offering far more than just a way to know when someone's at the door. Today, we'll compare two popular options from Ring: the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro ($249) and the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus ($179.99), helping you understand which might work best for your needs.
Before diving into the specifics, let's understand what makes these devices "smart." Modern video doorbells combine HD cameras, two-way audio, motion sensors, and internet connectivity to create a complete front-door security solution. They can alert you when someone approaches, allow remote conversation with visitors, and record important events.
The key technological advances since these models' releases (Wired Pro in March 2021, Battery Plus in early 2023) include improved motion detection algorithms, better low-light performance, and more sophisticated integration with smart home systems.
The most significant distinction between these models lies in their power approach. The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro requires constant connection to your home's electrical system through existing doorbell wiring (16-24 VAC). This permanent power source enables several advantages:
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus runs on a rechargeable battery pack, typically lasting 6-8 weeks depending on usage. While this means periodic maintenance, it offers:
Installation of the Wired Pro requires:
The process involves turning off power, removing the old doorbell, connecting the Pro Power Kit V2 (included), and mounting the new doorbell. While not overly complex, some homeowners might prefer professional installation.
The Battery Plus installation is remarkably straightforward:
Both doorbells offer 1536p HD video resolution, but there are subtle differences:
Wired Pro:
Battery Plus:
The Wired Pro's constant power enables more sophisticated motion detection:
The Battery Plus offers:
Both models work within Ring's ecosystem and support:
The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro adds:
Initial Investment:
Additional Costs:
Based on extensive testing and user feedback:
Wired Pro Excellence:
Battery Plus Strengths:
Choose the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro if:
Choose the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus if:
Both devices provide excellent security and convenience features, but they target different user needs. The Wired Pro represents Ring's premium offering with better overall performance, while the Battery Plus offers greater flexibility and value.
Since their respective launches, both models have received regular firmware updates improving:
The newer Battery Plus incorporates lessons learned from the Wired Pro's development, particularly in power management and video processing efficiency.
For most users, the decision will come down to installation requirements and budget. If you have existing doorbell wiring and prioritize performance, the Wired Pro's superior capabilities justify its higher price. If you need flexibility or simpler installation, the Battery Plus offers excellent value and comparable core features.
Remember that both options can be part of a larger Ring security ecosystem, working with other cameras, alarms, and smart home devices. Consider your broader home security plans when making your choice.
| Ring Wired Doorbell Pro | Ring Battery Doorbell Plus |
|---|---|
| Price - Initial Investment Cost | |
| $249 (+ potential installation costs) | $179.99 |
| Power Source - Affects reliability and maintenance | |
| Hardwired (16-24 VAC, constant power) | Rechargeable battery (6-8 weeks per charge) |
| Video Resolution - Determines image clarity | |
| 1536p HD with HDR (more consistent quality) | 1536p HD (variable frame rates to save battery) |
| Field of View - How much area you can monitor | |
| 160° horizontal and vertical | 150° horizontal and vertical |
| Night Vision - Critical for low-light monitoring | |
| Advanced color and IR with dedicated illuminators | Standard color and IR (less consistent) |
| Motion Detection - Affects alert accuracy | |
| 3D Motion Detection with radar sensing | Standard motion detection with customizable zones |
| Installation Requirements - Consider skill level needed | |
| Existing doorbell wiring required, moderate skill | No wiring needed, simple DIY installation |
| Response Time - How quickly you get notifications | |
| 1-2 seconds (faster due to constant power) | 2-4 seconds (varies with battery level) |
| Operating Temperature - Environmental durability | |
| -5°F to 120°F (-20°C to 50°C) | -5°F to 120°F (-20°C to 50°C) |
| Additional Features - Extra capabilities | |
| Pre-roll video, Bird's Eye View, Quick Replies | Quick Replies, Basic motion zones |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity - Network requirements | |
| Dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz | 2.4GHz only |
| Warranty Coverage - Peace of mind | |
| 1 year limited with theft protection | 1 year limited with theft protection |
The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro ($249) offers superior performance with faster response times and better video quality, while the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus ($179.99) provides more installation flexibility and better value. The Wired Pro is better if you have existing doorbell wiring and want premium features.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus requires no electrical work and can be installed DIY in 15 minutes. The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro needs existing doorbell wiring and many homeowners opt for professional installation.
The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro has superior night vision with dedicated IR illuminators and more consistent color night vision due to constant power. The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus offers good but less consistent night vision performance.
Both models can display video feeds on smart TVs and streaming devices through Alexa integration. The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro offers faster response times and better video quality for home theater display, while the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus has slightly more latency.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus typically lasts 6-8 weeks per charge with normal use. Battery life varies based on motion events, live view usage, and temperature. The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro doesn't require charging as it's hardwired.
Both offer 1536p HD resolution, but the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro provides more consistent frame rates and better HDR processing due to constant power. The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus adjusts video quality to conserve battery.
The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro works with most existing mechanical and digital chimes. The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus requires a separate Ring Chime unit for indoor notification unless hardwired.
Both models operate in temperatures from -5°F to 120°F, but the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro performs more reliably in cold weather due to constant power. The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus may have reduced battery life in extreme cold.
Both the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro and Ring Battery Doorbell Plus require a Ring Protect subscription ($3-10/month) for video recording and advanced features, though basic live view and notifications work without a subscription.
The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro features advanced 3D Motion Detection with radar sensing for more accurate alerts. The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus uses standard motion detection with customizable zones.
Both the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro and Ring Battery Doorbell Plus support unlimited shared users and can be viewed on multiple smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart displays simultaneously.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus is ideal for apartments due to its no-wiring-required installation and portable nature. The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro may not be suitable unless the apartment has existing doorbell wiring.
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: bestbuy.com - surveillance-video.com - youtube.com - security.org - de-de.ring.com - ring.com - target.com - bestbuy.com - abt.com - blackwiredesigns.com - youtube.com - ring.com - samsung.com - ring.com - tomsguide.com - se-en.ring.com - consumerreports.org - linkdhome.com - se-en.ring.com - ae-en.ring.com - wave-electronics.com - bestbuy.com - pcrichard.com - verizon.com - androidpolice.com - sa-en.ring.com - ring.com
