Shopping for a Ring Doorbell can feel like scrolling an endless buffet of specs—1080p vs. 1536p, battery vs. hard-wired, radar, 3D Motion… you name it. I install Ring Doorbells every day, so let me cut through the noise and help you choose the model that fits your tech comfort, phone, home wiring, and budget.
Table of Contents
- Start With You
- Simple Choices for Low-Tech Users
- Power Users & Smart-Home Fans
- Phone Compatibility
- Battery vs. Hardwired (and hidden transformer costs)
- Home Type Matters
- Do You Need an Angle Mount?
- What Features Do You Actually Need?
- My Top Recommendations
- Still Unsure? Get Free Advice
- Quick-Fire FAQ
Start With You — What Kind of User Are You?
Every Ring model records video and sends alerts. The right one depends on how comfortable you are with apps and wiring, what phone you own, and whether you’d rather recharge a battery or never think about power again.
Not Super Tech-Savvy? Here’s What You’ll Like
Keep It Simple
If you just want to see who’s at the door and talk back, stick with the Battery Doorbell Plus. It sets up with a screwdriver, lasts up to five months per charge, and the app walks you through every step.
Ideal Options for Older Adults or Low-Tech Users
For grandparents or anyone who’d rather not tinker, the Battery Doorbell Plus offers HD video, motion alerts, and larger on-screen buttons. Pair it with Ring Chime so you still hear a classic doorbell sound inside.
Are You a Power User or Tech Enthusiast?
Love automation? Want head-to-toe video and 3D Motion zones? Go with the Wired Doorbell Pro or Video Doorbell Elite. Both record in 1536p HDR, support Alexa Greetings, and integrate with smart locks and routines.
Smart-Home Integrations
These models work with Amazon Alexa, IFTTT, and smart locks like Schlage Encode. You can tell Alexa to “show Front Door” or auto-lock the door when no one’s detected
Most of my work comes from referrals. Once I help one homeowner on a street, I usually end up helping a few more nearby. That’s why I created this blog — to share helpful tips and let you know I’m here if you need me.
Phone Compatibility — What Kind of Smartphone Do You Have?
Older Phones (iPhone 8 / Galaxy S8 or earlier)
High-res live view may lag on older hardware. Stick to HD-only models like the Battery Doorbell Plus for smoother loading.
Newer Phones (iPhone 11 and up / Pixel 6 and up)
Your phone can handle 1536p video and advanced features like Bird’s-Eye View—go for the Battery Doorbell Pro or Wired Doorbell Pro.
Battery vs. Hardwired — What’s Easier for You?
Battery models are quick to install and don’t need an electrician. You’ll recharge them every 2–5 months.
Hardwired models provide continuous power and a sleek look, but they require existing doorbell wiring (16–24 VAC).
A Quick Heads-Up on Hardwired Models
Some top models need a doorbell transformer upgrade. Most older homes only supply 10 VAC, while the Wired Doorbell Pro needs 24 VAC. Expect to pay ~$30 for the transformer and extra time for installation.
Where You Live Matters Too
Apartments & Condos
If your HOA doesn’t allow wall drilling, go with the Peephole Cam or Battery Doorbell Plus. Easy to install and no wiring required.
Houses with Existing Doorbell Wiring
If your chime already works, you’re good to go. Upgrade to a Wired Doorbell Pro for a sleek look and zero charging.
Do You Need an Angle Mount?
If your doorbell will sit on a side wall or faces a weird direction, you might need an angle kit to capture a better view of visitors and packages.
Types of Angle Mounts
Angle mounts come in horizontal (left/right) or vertical (up/down) designs. Some Ring models include a basic kit, others don’t. You can buy them on Amazon or Ring’s website.
When You Might Need One
If you can’t see the bottom of your doorstep (for packages)
- If faces are cut off due to a high mount
- If your wall angles the doorbell away from the front path
If you’re adding an angle mount to an existing install, you’ll probably need to drill new holes.
What Features Do You Actually Need?
Do you just want to see who’s at the door? Or do you need smart-home integration, package detection, and two-way talk? Don’t overpay for features you’ll never use.
My Honest Advice — What I Recommend Most Often
- Quick setup: Battery Doorbell Plus
- Smart-home setups: Wired Doorbell Pro
- Apartments & condos: Peephole Cam
- Top-tier battery option: Battery Doorbell Pro
- Wired homes with modern needs: Wired Doorbell Pro
Still Not Sure? Text Me a Photo of Your Door
Send me a quick photo of your doorframe and let me know your phone model. I’ll give you a recommendation within 24 hours—no charge.
Ready to get started or need help with installation? Visit www.ringdoorbellinstallationguy.com to book now.
Anywhere from 2 weeks to 5 months depending on motion and weather. Cold temps and high activity shorten battery life.
Yes, they’re weather-sealed. Heavy rain might blur video briefly, but no damage will occur.
Yes, use the Shared Users feature in the Ring app to invite trusted contacts.
Most newer models do. Check the specs to confirm before buying.
Author Bio – Dave, Ring Expert
I’m Dave, an independent installer based in Orange County, California. As the owner of Ring Doorbell Installation Guy, I specialize in Ring devices including cameras, doorbells, alarm systems, and transformers. With over a decade of hands-on experience, I provide dependable solutions that keep homes and businesses protected.
