Ring Alarm is a smart home security system that offers a range of features and benefits for a reasonable price. It is easy to install, customize, and control with the Ring app or Alexa voice commands. It also integrates well with other Ring devices, such as video doorbells and cameras, to create a comprehensive security solution for your home. Ring Alarm is worth the money if you are looking for a reliable, affordable, and flexible way to protect your home and family.
Ring Alarm is a DIY home security system that consists of a base station, a keypad, contact sensors, motion detectors, and a range extender. You can add more devices to your system, such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, flood and freeze sensors, panic buttons, and indoor and outdoor cameras. You can also connect your Ring Alarm to compatible smart locks, lights, thermostats, and other smart home devices.
Ring Alarm works with a cellular backup and battery backup, so it can still function even if your power or internet goes out. You can arm and disarm your system with the keypad, the Ring app, or your voice using Alexa. You can also monitor and control your Ring devices, receive alerts, and view live and recorded videos from the app.
How much does Ring Alarm cost?
Ring Alarm has two pricing options: a 5-piece kit and a 14-piece kit. The 5-piece kit includes a base station, a keypad, one contact sensor, one motion detector, and one range extender. It costs $199.99 and covers up to 1,000 square feet. The 14-piece kit includes a base station, two keypads, eight contact sensors, two motion detectors, and one range extender. It costs $329.99 and covers up to 2,000 square feet.
You can also purchase additional devices separately, such as more sensors, cameras, or accessories. The prices vary depending on the device, but they range from $19.99 to $249.99.
In addition to the hardware costs, you can also subscribe to Ring Protect, a monthly or annual plan that offers cloud video storage, professional monitoring, cellular backup, and other benefits. There are two plans: Ring Protect Basic and Ring Protect Plus. Ring Protect Basic costs $3 per month or $30 per year and covers one Ring device. It offers 60 days of video history, video saving and sharing, snapshot capture, and extended warranties. Ring Protect Plus costs $10 per month or $100 per year and covers all Ring devices at one location. It offers everything in the Basic plan, plus 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup, 10% off Ring products, and unlimited cameras.
What are the pros and cons of Ring Alarm?
Ring Alarm has many advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before buying it. Here are some of the main ones:
Pros
Affordable: Ring Alarm is one of the most affordable home security systems on the market, especially compared to traditional systems that require contracts, installation fees, and high monthly fees. You can also save money by choosing the Ring Protect plan that suits your needs and budget.
Easy to install and use: Ring Alarm is designed to be installed by yourself, without the need for professional help. You can simply follow the instructions on the app and use the included tools to set up your devices. You can also easily control and manage your system with the app or your voice, and customize your settings, modes, and schedules.
Flexible and expandable: Ring Alarm is compatible with a wide range of Ring and third-party devices, so you can create a personalized and comprehensive security system for your home. You can also add or remove devices as you wish, and move your system to a new location if you need to.
Reliable and secure: Ring Alarm uses both cellular and battery backup to ensure that your system stays online even if your power or internet fails. It also uses advanced encryption and security protocols to protect your data and privacy. You can also opt for professional monitoring and cellular backup with Ring Protect Plus, which will alert the authorities in case of an emergency.
Limited integration: Ring Alarm works well with other Ring devices and Alexa, but it does not support other popular smart home platforms, such as Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, or Samsung SmartThings. This means that you may not be able to use your Ring Alarm with some of your existing smart home devices, or you may need to use multiple apps to control them.
Privacy concerns: Ring has faced some criticism and controversy over its privacy and security practices, such as sharing user data with third-party companies, allowing law enforcement access to user videos, and suffering from hacking incidents. Ring has taken some steps to address these issues, such as introducing end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and privacy zones, but some users may still have reservations about trusting Ring with their home security.
Customer service: Ring has received mixed reviews from customers regarding its customer service and support. Some customers have reported positive experiences, while others have complained about long wait times, unhelpful agents, and unresolved issues. Ring offers phone, email, and chat support, as well as online resources, such as FAQs, guides, and videos, but you may encounter some difficulties or delays when contacting them.
Conclusion
Ring Alarm is a smart home security system that offers a range of features and benefits for a reasonable price. It is easy to install, customize, and control with the Ring app or Alexa voice commands. It also integrates well with other Ring devices, such as video doorbells and cameras, to create a comprehensive security solution for your home. Ring Alarm is worth the money if you are looking for a reliable, affordable, and flexible way to protect your home and family.
However, Ring Alarm also has some drawbacks that you should be aware of, such as limited integration, privacy concerns, and customer service. You should weigh the pros and cons of Ring Alarm carefully and compare it with other home security options before making your decision. You should also read the terms and conditions of Ring and its partners, and adjust your settings and preferences accordingly, to ensure that you are comfortable with how your data and videos are used and shared.
