Ring vs Blink Video Doorbell (2021): How Are They Different?

Does Blink have a doorbell camera? It’s probably a question you never thought you’d ask about the company. After all, the Amazon-acquired brand is known more for its low-cost security cameras. But the release of the Blink Video Doorbell has certainly surprised many. Starting at less than $50, the budget-friendly device positions itself as a cheaper alternative to doorbells from another Amazon-owned company, Ring. With HD video and two-way audio, how does Blink’s smart doorbell hold up with the entry-level Ring Video Doorbell, for instance?

Ring vs Blink Video Doorbell Comparison Chart

Design

Blink’s Video Doorbell has a slimmer profile compared to Ring’s Video Doorbell.

The Ring Video Doorbell looks exactly like the other Ring doorbells. It measures 4.9 X 2.4 x 1.10 in inches and is crafted from plastic as well. Like the Ring Video Doorbell 4 and 3, the 2020 release has a camera on the top and the button at the bottom. Blink’s Video Doorbell also follows the same set up, although it comes in a longer but narrower profile measuring 5.1 x 1.65 x 1.1 inches. It’s slim form and rounded corners is more reminiscent of Arlo’s video doorbells than Ring’s.

Both doorbells’ buttons illuminate when pressed. Near their base, you’ll find the brand logo, too. Ring’s Video Doorbell comes in two colors — Satin Nickel and the more premium-looking Venetian Bronze. Meanwhile, Blink’s doorbell is available in black or white. Unlike more advanced models, Ring and Blink’s Video Doorbells are not equipped with interchangeable faceplates.

Nonetheless, both devices are weather-resistant. According to Ring, its doorbell can operate within a temperature range of -5ºF to 120ºF. It should also be able to withstand rain storms and strong winds. Blink’s doorbell, on the other hand, is listed for operating conditions within -4 to 113° F. Like Ring’s offering, the Blink Video Doorbell should be able to handle heavy rain and snow.

Camera and Audio

Ring’s video doorbell has better camera and audio features than Blink’s.

Both the Ring and Blink Video Doorbells have 1080p cameras that allow users to record and view HD video. Ring, however, offers a slightly greater 155° horizontal and 90° vertical field of view (FOV) over Blink’s 135° horizontal and 80° vertical FOV. In terms of video quality, you’ll get vibrant images from Ring and Blink during daytime. It’s not as sharp as Ring’s Video Doorbell Pro 2 but it gets the job done. Through infrared, you also enjoy decent night vision mode from both doorbells.

Two-way communication is also available in both devices. Here, Ring has the edge thanks to its noise cancellation feature. With high-speed internet connectivity, talking to someone at the door using the Ring App is an enjoyable convenience. Still, audio transmissions on Blink are comparably clear and loud enough. However, you will need to hardwire the doorbell or pair it to a sync module to engage in live view and to get two-way audio feeds on demand.

Will you hear an actual doorbell ring with these devices? Ring and Blink’s doorbell units are designed to play an audible chime. You’ll also get chime alerts on the respective Ring and Blink apps. But if you want a louder notification, it’s best to hardwire these doorbells or connect them to an Alexa-enabled device. 

Features

Ring and Blink’s Video Doorbells enjoy smart home integration and advanced features courtesy of paid subscriptions.

Speaking of Alexa, smart home integration is expected from doorbells under Amazon-owned brands. Ring and Blink’s units, for instance, can connect to devices like the Echo Show, providing homeowners with live-view and two-way communication. Meanwhile, custom notifications can be sent through the Echo Dot. Handsfree monitoring is also possible through voice commands.

In terms of monitoring features, Ring has the edge. Both Ring and Blink have motion detection and customizable motion zones but Ring’s Video Doorbell seems more reliable. To access this capability, however, you’ll need to subscribe to Ring Protect. Homeowners can choose between the Ring Protect Basic, which works for a single camera, or the Ring Protect Plus for multiple Ring devices. Both packages give users the ability to save and share a video.

Similar membership plans — Basic and Plus — are available for Blink. However, they do miss out on Ring’s intelligent notifications that can limit alerts to detecting motion from people only. What you do get from these subscriptions will include 60-day video history access, along with video recording and photo capture.

Power and Installation

Installing and setting up Ring and Blink’s Video Doorbells is easy and straightforward.

Ring and Blink’s Video Doorbells both run on batteries. However, there are key differences between them. Ring’s unit is rechargeable but not removable. If it runs out of power, you’ll need to unmount the entire doorbell unit to charge it. It’s one of the few drawbacks of the model compared to the Ring Video Doorbell 3, 4, and Pro 2.

Blink’s Video Doorbell, on the other hand, runs on two AA batteries. They’re not removable and they’re not rechargeable either. But the company shares battery life can last up to two years. In any case, both Ring and Blink’s devices can be hardwired for continuous charging. Installing them is pretty simple, too. Both devices come with the mounting hardware needed to set them up. Instructions are also provided through their mobile apps.

Verdict

The Blink Video Doorbell should be great for most people. If you want advanced features, however, it’s worth investing in the Ring Video Doorbell.

With the Blink Video Doorbell, homeowners now have a budget alternative to the Ring Video Doorbell. Despite being cheaper, Blink’s unit offers everything you’ll need from a smart doorbell. You do miss out on advanced features like intelligent notifications and a rechargeable battery. But in terms of day-to-day use, you’re getting the same 1080p HD camera anyway, plus smart home integration.

For those just getting into home security systems, Blink’s affordable doorbell is a more value-for-money entry-level option. If you have deeper pockets, the Ring Video Doorbell is a nice investment.

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