Blink and Ring are two of the best-known security companies, and they’re responsible for many of the best security cameras on the market. The Blink Mini 2 and the Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In are popular choices for frugal shoppers, as they carry reasonable price tags, yet offer most of the features you’d expect from a well-rounded camera. But if you only need one, which is right for you — the Blink Mini 2 or the Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In? Here’s a look at both to help you decide.
Pricing and monthly fees
The Blink Mini 2 is one of the most affordable security cameras money can buy. It clocks in at just $40, though Blink often slashes its price to just $30. If you’d like to use the camera outside, you can bundle in the Weather Resistant Adapter for a total of $50. The Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In is more expensive at $100, though with the launch of the Stick Up Cam Pro, it’s typically available for $70.
Many features are locked behind a monthly subscription for both the Ring and Blink products, including cloud video history. That means you’ll want to opt for a Blink Basic Plan ($3 per month) or Ring Protect Basic Plan ($5 per month) to get the most out of your purchase.
Winner: Blink Mini 2
Design and installation
As is often the case with Blink and Ring products, installation is a breeze. Both products pair with a companion mobile app, which guides you through the entire process. That process, for both models, involves little more than unboxing the camera, plugging it into an electrical outlet, and connecting it to your mobile app. You can also mount either device to a wall if you’d rather not clear space on a countertop or table. If you’re not a fan of wired connections, Ring sells a Stick Up Cam Battery — this features the same price tag and most of the same specs as the Plug-In, though it’s powered by a rechargeable battery instead of a wired connection.
The Blink Mini 2 and Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In are both well-designed for their price point. As its name would suggest, the Blink Mini 2 is quite small, clocking in at 51mm (approximately 2 inches) tall. That makes it great for crowded countertops or tight home offices. It looks pretty nice too, with a rounded design that’s modern and that should appeal to most shoppers. The Stick Up Cam is a bit larger at nearly 4 inches tall, though it looks just as great due to a cylindrical footprint and premium Ring construction.
Winner: Tie
Resolution and night vision
The Blink Mini 2 and Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In both record in 1080p. You’ll get color night vision with the Blink Mini 2 when using the built-in spotlight, while the Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In gets you color night vision without the need for a spotlight. Both are capable of capturing high-quality footage, though it’s important to note that many other products now offer 2K and 4K resolutions.
Winner: Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In
Features and spec list
Despite an affordable price tag, the Blink Mini 2 is packed with extra features. This includes support for Alexa, two-way audio, the ability to set custom motion zones, and person detection when equipped with a Blink Plan. It’s largely the same for the Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In, which gets you two-way audio, customizable motion zones, Alexa support, and person alerts when equipped with a Ring Protect Plan.
Winner: Tie
Is the Blink Mini 2 worth its low price tag?
Most shoppers will find the less expensive Blink Mini 2 to be the better choice for their home. Not only does it offer a 1080p resolution like the more expensive Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In, but its monthly subscription is more affordable and its smaller footprint makes it easier to place in your home. If you already have a bunch of Ring products in your home, the Stick Up Cam Plug-In might make it an easier addition to your setup. The support for color night vision without a spotlight is also great, though it may not be worth the added price.
