Ring Video Doorbell 4 vs Pro 2 (2021): Which Doorbell Is Best For You?

If you’re in the market for a smart video doorbell, Ring is arguably the most trusted and recognizable brand. The Ring Video Doorbell 4, for instance, features colored pre-roll recording and the convenience of a rechargeable battery. The Video Doorbell Pro 2, on the other hand, updates the original top-of-the-line model with a range of new camera capabilities. Given what both doorbells can offer, which one is the best for you?

Ring Video Doorbell 4 vs Pro 2 Comparison Chart

Design

With its narrow profile, Ring’s Video Doorbell Pro 2 looks sleeker than the Video Doorbell 4.

Ring’s latest smart video doorbells take a cue from their predecessors when it comes to design. The Ring Video Doorbell 4, for instance, sports the same rectangular form as the Doorbell 3. Its camera is also placed on the black upper half of the doorbell while the button occupies the silver lower half. At the base, you’ll find a faint Ring logo and the speakers for two-way talk.

In contrast, the Doorbell Pro 2 retains the narrow profile — just under two inches — of the original Doorbell Pro. Although you get the same satin nickel finish as the Doorbell 4, the style is different. On the Pro model, both the lens and button are enclosed within a black panel, resulting in a sleeker overall appearance than the regular Ring doorbells.

But because the Pro 2’s button is also black, it’s harder to distinguish it from the camera. Thankfully, the toggle is illuminated by a blue Ring LED when pressed — a feature emblematic of the Ring’s doorbells.

Now, both the Doorbell 4 and Pro 2 can operate in temperatures ranging between -5°F to 120°F. Even if made from plastic, they’re still weather-resistant and according to Ring, can withstand strong winds and rainstorms. If you’re not a fan of their color finish, interchangeable faceplates are also available.

Video and Audio

The Ring Doorbell Pro 2 has the edge over the Video Doorbell 4 when it comes to video.

As expected, Ring’s top-of-the-line doorbell edges out the Video Doorbell 4 in terms of video. The Doorbell Pro 2 is equipped with an upgraded 1536p HD+ camera. Aside from delivering sharper video recording, it also comes with color night vision. In contrast, the Doorbell 4 maxes out at 1080p. Its night vision mode is limited to black and white, too, although it still delivers HD Live Video and features HDR support.

The Pro 2 also boasts a larger 150° horizontal and 150° vertical field of view (FOV) compared to the 4’s 160° horizontal and 84° vertical. With these numbers, Ring’s flagship smart doorbell provides Head-to-Toe HD+ Video at a 1:1 aspect ratio. This should come in handy at viewing or monitoring packages left on your doorstep.

In terms of audio, the gap between devices is narrower. Both the Video Doorbell 4 and Pro 2 have two-way talk with noise cancellation and support for quick replies. Both deliver respectable performance as well. Ring, however, says that it has boosted the Pro 2’s system through Audio+ technology that should minimize sound and echo disruptions further.

Click here for more Ring Video Doorbell 4 reviews.

Features

While the Video Doorbell 4 is a capable device, the Video Doorbell Pro 2 offers more advanced security features.

Aside from video and audio, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 also has the lead when it comes to features. First, the top-of-the-line doorbell comes with 3D Motion Detection. Unique to Ring, the technology provides users greater control over areas of their property they want to be monitored. Not only does it minimize false alarms, but it also ensures greater privacy for homeowners.

Next, the Pro 2’s 3D Motion Detection works in tandem with Bird’s Eye View. The latter is a radar-powered feature that gives users an aerial view of their property courtesy of third-party satellite mapping services. With this technology, the Pro 2 can provide a user with information about the path taken by a guest on their property. If you’re planning to boost your home security system, the Bird’s Eye View makes the Pro 2 a more compelling purchase.

Still, the regular Video Doorbell 4 isn’t to be brushed aside. Like its Pro sibling, the Doorbell 4 comes with the Pre-Roll. It’s a feature that captures four seconds of video leading to a motion alert. It also has advanced motion detection with customizable motion zones. Plus, it enjoys smart home integration, too. For those who like voice-controlled devices, the Video Doorbell 4 and Pro 2 are compatible with devices like the Echo Show.

Power and Installation

Setting up the Video Doorbell 4 is easier compared to the hardwire-only Video Doorbell Pro 2.

The Ring Video Doorbell 4 installation process remains hassle-free. Like its predecessor, the Doorbell 4 runs on removable and rechargeable batteries. This allows users to wirelessly mount the device on their front door. Ring shares the new batteries have also been improved to last longer. If you prefer continuous charging, the model can still be hardwired to existing doorbell systems or connected to Ring’s plug-in adaptor.

In contrast, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 can only be hardwired. Some homeowners might need a professional to help install the system, especially if they’re unfamiliar with low-voltage wiring. Compared to the Doorbell 4, pairing the Pro 2 to the Ring app can also be finicky.

Verdict

The Ring Video Doorbell 4 is the better doorbell for most homeowners. If you’re willing to spend over $200 on a smart doorbell, however, then go for the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2.

While the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 has plenty of advanced features, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 is still a more practical purchase for most homeowners. Ring’s standard model offers most of the features you’ll need for this component of your home security system. The Doorbell 4’s video recording quality is also one of the best in class. Plus, it’s much easier to install than the Doorbell Pro 2. If you’re willing to spend more on a smart doorbell, however, you can’t go wrong with the Doorbell Pro 2. Once you get past the complicated installation, you’ll find a premium device with some of the best video and security features on a smart doorbell.

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