- Editor's Note: Want to see a different product compared? Use the menu in the solid blue header above to swap a product.
Smart video doorbells have become an essential part of modern home security, transforming from simple chime replacements into sophisticated monitoring devices. Today, we're comparing two compelling options: the ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera Wired ($129.99) and the Ring Battery Doorbell ($90.24), each approaching home security with distinct advantages.
Before diving into specifics, let's understand what makes these devices "smart." Both doorbells combine HD cameras, two-way audio, motion sensors, and internet connectivity to create a complete monitoring solution. They act as your digital doorman, alerting you to visitors and potential security concerns while providing real-time video feeds to your smartphone.
The most significant difference between these models lies in their power approach. The ecobee Smart Doorbell, released in October 2023, requires hardwiring to your existing doorbell system. This ensures constant power but limits installation options. The Ring Battery Doorbell, launched in August 2024, offers more flexibility with its battery-powered design.
The power source choice affects more than just installation:
Both doorbells deliver HD video, but there are notable differences:
The viewing angle significantly impacts what you can see:
Both devices offer motion detection, but their approaches differ:
The intelligence behind these devices sets them apart:
Your existing smart home setup might influence your choice:
Both devices offer basic functionality without subscriptions, but advanced features require monthly plans:
In practical use, both devices perform well, but each has strengths:
Both devices handle outdoor conditions well:
Since its release, ecobee has:
The latest Ring model offers:
Both devices represent excellent choices in the smart doorbell category, with the decision largely coming down to your specific needs. The ecobee offers superior AI capabilities and video quality, while the Ring provides more flexibility and a lower entry price. Consider your existing smart home setup, installation preferences, and budget when making your choice.
The smart doorbell market continues to evolve, with both companies regularly releasing software updates to improve performance and add features. Whether you choose the ecobee Smart Doorbell or the Ring Battery Doorbell, you'll be getting a capable device that will help secure and monitor your home's entrance.
| ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera Wired | Ring Battery Doorbell |
|---|---|
| Power Source - Affects reliability and maintenance | |
| Hardwired only - constant power, no charging needed | Battery powered (3-4 month battery life) with optional wiring |
| Video Resolution - Determines image clarity and detail | |
| 1080p HDR - better handling of bright/dark areas | 1080p standard - good clarity but less dynamic range |
| Field of View - Impacts what you can see at your door | |
| 175° vertical - superior package visibility | 150° x 150° - good overall coverage but may miss close packages |
| Night Vision - Critical for nighttime security | |
| Standard black/white night vision | Color night vision - better subject identification |
| Smart Home Integration - Affects ecosystem compatibility | |
| Works with Alexa, HomeKit, Yale, August | Alexa only, deep Ring ecosystem integration |
| Motion Detection - Influences alert accuracy | |
| Advanced AI with radar verification and computer vision | Basic PIR sensors with customizable zones |
| Weather Resistance - Determines durability | |
| IP65 rated, -13°F to 113°F operating range | Weather resistant (rating not specified) |
| Price - Initial investment | |
| $129.99 - premium pricing | $90.24 - more affordable entry point |
| Installation Requirements - Impacts setup complexity | |
| Professional installation may be needed, requires existing wiring | DIY-friendly, no wiring required |
| Storage Options - Affects video retention | |
| 30-day cloud storage with subscription | Up to 180 days with Ring Protect subscription |
| Package Detection - Important for delivery monitoring | |
| Advanced AI-powered detection included | Basic detection requires subscription |
The ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera Wired offers better video quality and AI features, while the Ring Battery Doorbell provides more flexible installation options and lower cost. The better choice depends on whether you prioritize advanced features or installation flexibility.
The ecobee Smart Doorbell has superior HDR video quality for handling bright and dark areas, while the Ring Battery Doorbell offers color night vision. Both provide 1080p resolution, but ecobee's HDR gives it an edge in challenging lighting conditions.
The ecobee Smart Doorbell requires existing doorbell wiring. The Ring Battery Doorbell can work with or without wiring, making it more versatile for homes without existing doorbell circuits.
The ecobee Smart Doorbell features advanced AI with radar verification and computer vision, providing more accurate detection than the Ring Battery Doorbell's basic PIR sensor system.
Ring offers more affordable basic plans starting around $3/month, while ecobee's plans start higher but include professional monitoring. Both doorbells require subscriptions for advanced features.
The ecobee Smart Doorbell works with Alexa, HomeKit, Yale, and August systems. The Ring Battery Doorbell only works with Alexa but integrates deeply with other Ring products.
The Ring Battery Doorbell typically lasts 3-4 months between charges, depending on usage and settings. The ecobee Smart Doorbell doesn't use batteries as it's hardwired.
The ecobee Smart Doorbell has better package detection with its 175° vertical field of view and included AI detection. The Ring Battery Doorbell offers package detection but requires a subscription.
Both are weather resistant, but the ecobee Smart Doorbell has a verified IP65 rating and specified temperature range (-13°F to 113°F). The Ring Battery Doorbell is weather resistant but doesn't specify ratings.
The Ring Battery Doorbell is easier to install since it's battery-powered and doesn't require wiring. The ecobee Smart Doorbell may need professional installation if you don't have existing doorbell wiring.
Neither doorbell works without Wi-Fi. Both the ecobee Smart Doorbell and Ring Battery Doorbell require internet connection for core features and notifications.
The Ring Battery Doorbell at $90.24 is more affordable than the ecobee Smart Doorbell at $129.99, making Ring the better choice for budget-conscious buyers.
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: ecobee.com - forums.macrumors.com - androidpolice.com - youtube.com - bgemarketplace.com - ecobee.com - abt.com - acwholesalers.com - adiglobaldistribution.pr - investors.generac.com - wave-electronics.com - blueirissoftware.com - pcrichard.com - marketplace.ladwp.com - ae-en.ring.com - batteries4pro.com - de-de.ring.com - de-de.ring.com - careyscommunications.com
