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Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 vs. 3 Plus: Which is best for you?

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If you’re interested in a Ring video doorbell to complete a home security setup and give you an eye on the front door at all times, two popular models are the advanced Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus and the new Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2. Those names by themselves don’t say a lot about the actual features, so we’re making it easier by breaking down the two doorbells and which is ultimately the best choice.

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At a glance

Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus
Design Rectangular, 4.49 inches tall, 1.9 inches wide, and .87 inch thick Rectangular, 5.1 inches tall, 2.4 inches wide, and 1.1 inches thick
Features Live video, color night vision, 3D motion detection with Bird’s Eye View, two-way HD audio with noise cancellation, Alexa connectivity Live video, night vision, advanced motion detection with adjustable motion zones, two-way audio with noise cancellation, Alexa connectivity
Specs 150-degree field of view, 1536p HD video  160-degree field of view, 1080p HD video
Price $250 retail $200 retail
Subscription Starts at $3 per month; highest tier is $10 per month Starts at $3 per month; highest tier is $10 per month
Install Requirements Hard-wired; requires compatible doorbell or Ring adapter, 16-24 VAC, 40VA max, 50/60Hz A simple mounting setup takes roughly five minutes for installation, can be hard-wired. Wiring in requires a standard doorbell system or transformer with 8-24 VAC, 40VA max, 50/60Hz; also has battery power.

Design

Image used with permission by copyright holder

The Pro 2 takes the unusual step of skipping the rechargeable battery found in many Ring video doorbells and going for a hard-wired-only approach (something we’ll discuss more below). One advantage to this approach is that is allows the Pro 2 to be extra compact and super slim at only 1.9 inches wide. It looks more like a traditional doorbell than ever, and the smooth satin nickel faceplate is also a worthy upgrade.

The Video Doorbell 3 Plus, by contrast, is a bulkier model with a thicker base and a more uneven faceplate that gives it an overall clunkier look. It’s not a deal breaker when it comes to style, but the Pro 2 clearly takes things to the next level.

Winner: Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2

Installation

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Here we find one of the big differences between the two models. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 can only be hard-wired into your existing doorbell wiring. Not all wiring is compatible, and if you don’t have the right kind of setup, you will need to purchase an adapter or transformer — it’s all doable on your own, but those inexperienced with wiring may require the services of a professional electrician.

The 3 Plus, on the other hand, can be wired in but includes a removable, rechargeable battery in a quick-release case. It lasts for a few months, then requires a recharge before going back to work. The big advantage to this approach is that you can choose exactly where to put the doorbell, and you don’t need to worry about existing doorbell wiring or even need an existing doorbell to get everything working. That flexibility is a boon for installation flexibility.

Winner: Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus

Features and specs

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Let’s tackle the Video Doorbell 3 Plus’s specs first to get a baseline. The model offers 1080p HD video, live viewing via Wi-Fi, night vision capabilities, motion detection with customizable motion zones, two-way audio with noise cancellation, and the “Pre-Roll” capabilities that let you see what happened four seconds before motion alarms were triggered. There’s also Alexa functionality for some voice commands and notifications through Alexa devices.

The Video Doorbell Pro 2 has significant upgrades to almost all of those specs. The new cam bumps up the resolution to 1536p HD and upgrades from night vision to color night vision for better clarity. Motion detection has been reworked to 3D detection that can reach up to 30 feet away, and a new feature called Bird’s Eye View gives a more aerial view of your yard to help detect where people might have gone if they disappear from view (plus a “Head to Toe” video mode for getting a better look at people). Even Alexa gets an upgrade with a new built-in greeting function that can interface with guests so you don’t have to. However, customizable motion zones aren’t an option on this model.

Note that both models have similar app functionality in that you can view and save video through the Ring app, get notifications about movement, adjust settings, and so on. But the technical specs on the Pro 2 are still much more impressive.

Winner: Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2

Price and subscription model

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Ring’s subscription plan, called Protect, allows you to record and save video for up to 60 days and utilize new detection modes like “People Only” as well as rich notifications for more in-depth, customizable alerts. That’s all pretty important quality of life stuff, but you’ll have to pay $3 per month to get it. The advanced package costs $10 per month and adds professional monitor services for Ring Alarms but doesn’t affect video doorbells that much. The packages are the same for both doorbells.

Retail prices, on the other hand, are another story. The Pro 2’s advanced features come at a cost, and you’ll have to pay $250 to get this upgraded model. The Video Doorbell 3 Plus saves you $50 with a retail price of $200, and as an older model, it’s more likely to get discounts for the time being.

Winner: Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus

Overall winner

Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2

The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 features a bevy of upgraded features that make it one of the most advanced on the market along with a slimmer, updated design. Additions like a better resolution, color night vision, Bird’s Eye View mode, and more user-friendly motion detection all make this video doorbell a strong recommendation if you want the best features.

However, while these Pro 2 features are excellent, they aren’t necessary to have a useful video doorbell in your home. Plus, the Pro 2 is required to be hard-wired, which may make some installations difficult. The 3 Plus remains a viable model for those who want to save money and prefer more flexible options when it comes to placement.

Editors' Recommendations

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Tyler Lacoma
Former Digital Trends Contributor
If it can be streamed, voice-activated, made better with an app, or beaten by mashing buttons, Tyler's into it. When he's not…
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