Choosing Between Ring's Wired and Battery Video Doorbells: A Complete Guide

When it comes to protecting your home's entrance and managing visitors, Ring's video doorbells have become increasingly popular options. Today, we'll compare two of their current models: the Ring Video Doorbell Wired at $69.99 and the newer Ring Battery Doorbell at $90.24, helping you understand which might better suit your needs.

Understanding Video Doorbell Evolution

Video doorbells have transformed from simple notification devices into sophisticated home security tools. Released in January 2021, the Ring Video Doorbell Wired represented Ring's effort to provide a more affordable, streamlined option for homes with existing doorbell wiring. The Ring Battery Doorbell, launched in September 2023, brought improvements in viewing angle and installation flexibility, though at a higher price point.

Installation and Power: A Critical Decision Point

Wired Installation

The Ring Video Doorbell Wired requires connecting to your home's existing doorbell wiring (8-24 VAC). While this might sound daunting, it typically takes about 15-20 minutes if you're replacing an existing doorbell. However, if you're not comfortable with electrical work, you'll need an electrician, adding to the total cost.

Battery-Powered Flexibility

The Ring Battery Doorbell shines in installation flexibility. Its rechargeable battery pack means you can mount it anywhere without worrying about wiring. The battery typically lasts 2-6 months, depending on usage and weather conditions. When it's time to charge, the quick-release mechanism makes it simple to remove the battery without taking down the entire unit.

Performance Deep Dive

Video Quality and Viewing Angles

Both doorbells offer 1080p HD video, but there are important differences:

• The Wired model provides a 155° horizontal view with a 90° vertical field. This works well for most entryways but might miss packages placed close to the door.
• The Battery model features a 150° x 150° head-to-toe view, which proves especially useful for package monitoring and full-height visitor viewing.

Response Times and Reliability

Here's where the wired connection shows its advantage. The Wired doorbell maintains constant power, resulting in:

• Near-instant wake-up when motion is detected
• More reliable notification delivery
• Consistent video quality

The Battery version must balance performance with power conservation, which can mean:

• Slightly delayed wake-up times
• Potential missed motion events when battery is low
• Minor video quality adjustments to preserve battery life

Motion Detection and Notifications

Both models feature customizable motion zones and advanced detection algorithms, but they implement them differently:

• The Wired model offers more precise motion detection due to consistent power availability
• The Battery version includes improved package detection algorithms, leveraging its wider vertical viewing angle

Smart Home Integration and Features

Both doorbells work with Alexa devices and the Ring app, offering:

• Live view access
• Two-way talk
• Motion alerts
• Custom motion zones

However, some features work better on the Wired model due to its constant power supply, such as:

• Pre-roll video capture (showing what happened before motion was detected)
• More frequent motion checks
• Quick responses to live view requests

Cost Considerations

Initial Purchase

• Ring Video Doorbell Wired: $69.99
• Ring Battery Doorbell: $90.24

Additional Costs

Both require a Ring Protect subscription for video recording:

• Basic: $3.99/month or $39.99/year
• Plus: $10/month or $100/year (includes extended warranties and additional features)

The Battery model may require:

• Replacement battery every 2-3 years ($20-30)
• Optional second battery ($30) for continuous coverage during charging

Long-Term Ownership Experience

Maintenance Requirements

The Wired doorbell needs minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. The Battery model requires:

• Regular battery charging (every 2-6 months)
• More frequent cleaning as the larger housing can collect more dust
• Battery replacement every few years

Weather Considerations

Both models operate in temperatures from -5°F to 120°F (-20.5°C to 48.5°C), but battery life significantly decreases in extreme temperatures. The Wired model maintains more consistent performance across temperature ranges.

How to Make Your Decision

Choose the Wired Model If:

• You have existing doorbell wiring
• Want the lowest total cost of ownership
• Prefer minimal maintenance
• Need the fastest response times
• Value consistent performance

Choose the Battery Model If:

• Your home lacks doorbell wiring
• You're renting or may move
• Want DIY installation
• Need better package visibility
• Prefer flexibility in placement

Final Thoughts

For most homes with existing doorbell wiring, the Ring Video Doorbell Wired offers the best value and performance. Its lower price, consistent power supply, and minimal maintenance requirements make it an excellent choice for long-term use.

However, the Ring Battery Doorbell serves an important niche, providing high-quality video doorbell functionality to homes without existing wiring or those needing installation flexibility. Its improved head-to-toe viewing angle and package detection features might also make it worth the extra cost for some users, even if they have existing wiring.

Remember that both options require a Ring Protect subscription to access recorded video and advanced features, so factor this into your long-term cost calculations. Whichever model you choose, both represent significant improvements over traditional doorbells and offer valuable security and convenience features for modern homes.

Ring Video Doorbell Wired Deals and Prices

Ring Battery Doorbell Video Doorbell Deals and Prices