Just like the first-generation Ring Chime Pro, the second-generation Ring Chime Pro is an effective Wi-Fi extender that works in conjunction with other Ring smart home devices. While there are only a few differences, the newer model builds on its predecessor in meaningful ways, namely better connectivity and additional features.
Now it should be noted that the original Ring Chime Pro is no longer widely available. Put differently, this comparison is targeted mainly at existing users who are looking to upgrade.
Ring Chime Pro 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen Comparison Chart
| Model | Ring Chime Pro (1st Generation) | Ring Chime Pro (2nd Generation) |
 |  | |
| Price | n/a | Check Price at Ring.com |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | 2.4 GHz | 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz |
| Integrated Nightlight | No | Yes |
| Compatibility | Android, iOS | Android, iOS |
| Power Supply | Standard power outlet | Standard power outlet |
| Color | White | White |
Design
The second-generation Ring Chime Pro looks sleeker than the first-generation Ring Chime Pro.
Between the two, the first thing that’ll probably jump out at you is their design. First off, the older Ring Chime Pro isn’t exactly the nicest to look at: It has two big antennas protruding from the sides and a chunky, wide-spaced speaker grill. It also doesn’t help that it’s boxy and obviously plastic.
On the other hand, the newer Ring Chime Pro has a more subtle appearance, allowing it to easily blend with just about any home design. That’s thanks to its finer mesh, rounded sides and the fact that there aren’t any antennas sticking out of it. But just like its predecessor, it’s available only in white.
Connectivity
The Ring Chime Pro (2nd generation) supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz connections, while the Ring Chime Pro (1st generation) only supports 2.4 GHz.
What really sets the second-generation Ring Chime Pro from the previous iteration is its dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity. In other words, it can connect not only to 2.4 GHz networks but also 5 GHz ones. That comes in handy particularly if you have a Ring doorbell that supports 5 GHz connectivity, such as the Ring Video Doorbell 3 and Video Doorbell 4. And if nothing else, this gives it more flexibility and a higher chance of getting a stable connection going.
Speaking of, the newer Ring Chime Pro may have connection issues with Ring Doorbells that only use 2.4 GHz like the first Ring Doorbell and Ring Doorbell 2. That likely occurs when it’s connected to a 5 GHz frequency since it won’t play nicely with a Ring device that uses a 2.4 GHz connection.
Click here for our comparison between the Ring Doorbell and Ring Doorbell 3.
Features
The Ring Chime Pro 2nd gen is more feature-packed than the Ring Chime Pro 1st gen.
Setting up the Ring Chime Pro (2nd generation) is easier because of its feedback feature. To be exact, it offers voiced instructions to help you find the ideal location for it and guide you throughout the setup process.
There’s also a built-in nightlight that automatically turns on and off on the newer Ring Chime Pro, but whether or not that’s useful is up for debate. At the very least, it can be disabled if it isn’t up your alley.
As always, it has customizable chime noises, ability to snooze alerts and adjustable volume, so you can always set things up according to your preferences.
Verdict
The second-generation Ring Chime Pro offers a lot of improvements over the first-generation Ring Chime Pro.
Ring Chime Pro (1st Generation)
If this is the first time you’re setting up a Ring ecosystem at home, then the Ring Chime Pro (2nd generation) is the obvious pick. It has dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity using 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, and while this may be subjective, it looks a whole lot better this time around. Its integrated nightlight isn’t exactly tilting the scales to its favor, but it’s a nice touch. The same goes for the guided feedback feature. But most importantly, it provides a more seamless connection to newer Ring devices than the Ring Chime Pro (1st generation).
FAQs
The Ring Chime and Ring Chime Pro are similar, but only the latter is a Wi-Fi extender with 5 GHz frequency support.
The first-generation Ring Chime Pro only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, while the second-generation Ring Chime Pro supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The newer model also has a more modern design, voiced feedback during setup for easier installation and a built-in nightlight.
Yes, the newer Ring Chime Pro is generally more responsive and comes with plenty of new features, and it works better with newer Ring devices too.
Yes, the Ring Chime and Ring Chime Pro are worth getting, especially if you’re already invested in the Ring ecosystem of smart doorbells, lighting, security cameras and more.