Smart home technology: Ring doorbell vs. Blink camera
Quick Verdict
Both are good options for home security, with Ring offering more features and integration, while Blink provides longer battery life and local storage.
- Ring offers both wired and wireless options, while Blink is completely wireless.
- Blink provides local storage options, unlike Ring.
- Ring has better integration with Amazon Alexa and offers some Google Assistant integration, while Blink primarily works with Alexa.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Ring doorbell | Blink camera |
|---|---|---|
| Video Resolution | Up to 1080p HD; Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2: 1536 x 1536 | 1080p HD |
| Field of View | Typically around 160 degrees; Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2: 150-degree horizontal and 150-degree vertical | 110-degree field of view (Blink Outdoor), some cameras have 143-degree field of view |
| Night Vision Capability | Infrared night vision; some models offer color night vision | Infrared (IR) night vision, capturing black and white images in low-light conditions. Uses an 850nm IR LED light. |
| Motion Detection Sensitivity | Adjustable, range up to 30 feet; some models offer person detection | Passive Infrared (PIR) or Pixel Difference Analysis (PDA). Adjustable sensitivity in the Blink app. Detects motion best from 7 to 19 feet away and can respond to motion at 30 feet. |
| Two-Way Audio Quality | Built-in microphone and speaker for two-way communication; clear audio quality with no distortion | Enables real-time communication through the camera's speakers and microphone. |
| Cloud Storage Options & Fees | Requires Ring Protect plan; plans start at around $5 per month; live feed and real-time notifications without a plan | Basic plan: $3/month or $30/year for one camera. Plus plan: $10/month or $100/year for unlimited cameras. Both plans include 60 days of cloud storage. |
| Local Storage Option | No local storage options | Available using a USB drive with the Sync Module 2 or a microSD card with the Sync Module XR. Allows saving clips directly to a USB drive or a MicroSD card. |
| Battery Life (if wireless) | 6 to 12 months, depending on usage, settings, and environmental conditions | AA 1.5 volt Lithium non-rechargeable batteries. Blink Outdoor should last for up to two years. |
| Wired or Wireless Connectivity | Both wireless (battery-powered) and wired installation options | Completely wireless and battery-powered. |
| Integration with Smart Home Ecosystems (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | Integrates with Amazon Alexa; Google Assistant integration may require third-party apps | Works with Amazon Alexa. |
| Mobile App Features and User Interface | Monitor home, receive real-time alerts, view live HD video, communicate with visitors, customizable motion zones, smart light control, user-friendly with tools like dark mode and a dashboard to manage devices | Blink Home Monitor app allows users to view live footage, adjust settings, and receive motion alerts. |
| Installation Difficulty | Generally easy, especially for battery-powered models; hardwiring requires more effort | Designed for easy, DIY installation. |
Overall Comparison
Video: Both 1080p HD; Battery: Blink wins; Storage: Blink offers local storage; Integration: Ring has broader smart home integration
Pros and Cons
Ring Doorbell
Pros:
- Clear video during the day
- Effective night vision
- Generally clear and effective two-way audio
- User-friendly mobile app
- Can deter package theft and unwanted activity
- Good integration with Amazon Alexa
- Cloud storage allows recording and reviewing videos
Cons:
- Requires a Ring Protect subscription for cloud storage
- Some models may have softer video quality at night
- Occasional connectivity issues or lag reported
- Shorter battery life reported with frequent use
- Google Assistant integration may require third-party apps
Blink camera
Pros:
- Easy, DIY installation
- Clear two-way audio communication with minimal lag
- Seamless integration with Alexa
- Offers both cloud and local storage options
- Motion-activated video recording
- Extended live view
- Ability to store, share, or download video
Cons:
- Cloud storage requires a monthly fee
- Weak signal strengths between Blink devices and the Wi-Fi network can increase battery consumption
- Person detection is only available with a subscription
User Experiences and Feedback
Ring Doorbell
What Users Love
- Easy installation (especially battery-powered models)
- Clear two-way audio
- User-friendly app
- Effective at deterring theft
Common Complaints
- Connectivity issues
- Lag in video stream
- Shorter battery life than expected
- Cloud storage requires subscription
Value Perception
- Cloud storage is valuable for recording and reviewing videos
- Motion detection accuracy varies by model
User Recommendations
- Two-way audio is generally clear and effective.
- The Ring app is generally user-friendly.
- Ring doorbell can deter package theft and unwanted activity.
Blink camera
What Users Love
- Easy to use app
- Sensitive to movement
- Clear video in areas of complete darkness
- Effective in deterring crime
Common Complaints
- Heavy usage or extreme weather conditions can impact battery life
- Motion detection depends on the size of the heat source and the amount of movement
Value Perception
- Battery life can last up to two years with normal usage
- Blink had one of the easiest setups we've found for a DIY/MIY home security system
User Recommendations
- The two-way audio is a standout feature allowing for clear communication through the camera with minimal lag.
- Community-wide networks really help deter crime since criminals.
- Blink products work seamlessly with Alexa.