A Thorough Comparison of Features, Pricing and Performance
As video doorbell cameras grow increasingly popular for home security, two big names stand out – Blink and Ring. Both companies are now owned by Amazon, but have key differences across factors like features, integrations, pricing and more.
This comprehensive guide will compare every aspect of Blink and Ring doorbell cameras to help you decide which solution is right for your needs and budget.
Overview of Blink and Ring
Blink, founded in 2009, is a home security company focused on affordable, easy-to-use indoor and outdoor cameras. It was acquired by Amazon in 2017. Blink cameras are completely wireless and run on batteries with a remarkably long life of up to 2 years.
Ring started in 2013 and was bought by Amazon for over $1 billion in 2018. Ring offers a wider range of home security products beyond cameras, like alarm systems, locks and floodlights. The company is known for its video doorbells and broader smart home integrations.
Now let‘s dive deeper into how Blink and Ring doorbell cameras compare across key metrics:
Video and Image Quality
| Video Resolution | 1080P HD for both Blink and Ring |
| Field of View | 110 degrees for Blink vs 160 degrees for Ring |
| Night Vision | Infrared on both. Select Ring models also offer color night vision |
When it comes to video quality, Blink and Ring are on par, capturing crisp 1080p HD footage during the day and infrared night vision after dark. However, Ring‘s wider 160-degree field of view gives you a more complete view of your front door area. And Ring‘s color night vision is a handy bonus not offered by Blink.
Smart Home Integrations
Blink cameras integrate with Amazon Alexa for voice controls and IFTTT for automations.
Ring offers far broader compatibility, working not just with Alexa but also Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, Kevo, Philips Hue lights and more. This allows greater flexibility to view live footage and trigger custom actions across multiple smart devices when the Ring doorbell detects motion or is pressed.
Installation and Power Options
Both Blink and Ring doorbells are designed for easy DIY installation and offer flexible power choices:
| Installation | Simple DIY process for both. No wiring required. |
| Power Supply | Removable/rechargable battery for Ring. Wireless battery lasting 2 years for most Blink models. Blink Mini requires wired power. |
The use of long-lasting batteries sets most Blink models apart from competitors when it comes to flexible placement and hassle-free power. However, Ring offers a wider selection including solar panel and direct 24/7 wired power options not available from Blink.
Advanced Features and AI
When you pay for a cloud storage plan, Ring cameras tap into sophisticated AI to cut down on false alerts. The algorithm highlights footage that‘s likely to show people so you can review events efficiently. Blink cameras currently lack any AI capabilities.
Other useful Ring features missing on Blink are:
- Custom motion zones to target alerts to key areas
- Privacy zones to mask off camera views as needed
- Works with Alexa Guard to listen for smoke/CO2 alarms
So for buyers looking for the latest smart features and smartest detection, Ring is ahead today. However Blink may match some of these capabilities over time.
Storage and Accessing Footage
| Local Storage | Blink offers free cloud storage plus local storage with Sync module 2. Ring relies on cloud plans only. |
| Cloud Plans | Both have basic plans starting at $3/month per camera. Ring offers more storage tiers. |
Having the option for local storage is a nice advantage of Blink if you want to backup footage without ongoing subscription fees. But for most homeowners, the convenience of accessing video anytime from the cloud makes Ring‘s plans worthwhile. Ring also archives more footage, up to 60 days on higher tiers vs 14 days max on Blink‘s premium plan.
Mobile Apps
The companion apps for managing cameras are well-rated for both brands, available on iOS and Android.
Blink‘s app earns praise for its intuitive interface to view live and recorded video, adjust settings like motion sensitivity and more.
Ring‘s app adds controls like customizable alerts and privacy modes along with integration with its alarm system and other Ring devices. Third-party reviews give Ring‘s app a slight edge while both score highly.
Pricing and Subscription Fees
| Upfront Cost | Blink‘s single video doorbell model is $49. Ring‘s wired options run from $60 to $250 for higher-end models. |
| Subscription Plans | Both offer basic cloud storage plans starting at $3/month per camera. Ring offers higher tiers and professional monitoring. |
In terms of upfront equipment pricing, Blink is the winner if budget is your main concern. However, Ring costs are still fair given the wealth of features and performance you get. While subscriptions are optional, Ring does offer substantially more storage allowance in higher-tier plans.
