Ring - Video Doorbell and Outdoor Security Cameras
July 04, 2021
A cikk magyar változatáért kattints ide.
The Requirements ❓
I’ve been eyeing the Ring smart doorbell for a while. When I moved and discovered that no doorbell was installed for any apartment in the building, I decided I needed a video smart doorbell—the Ring Video Doorbell!
Why Ring?
I wanted a device to turn on and record immediately upon detecting motion without needing on-site storage. I wanted everything saved to the cloud, with FullHD resolution and two-way communication as a must-have. Also, since nothing was set up in my apartment or the hallway, it was essential that I could install it with minimal effort.
At the time, only the Ring Video Doorbell (specifically the Ring Video Doorbell 2) could fulfil these requirements.
I immediately started researching whether I could integrate it with HomeKit. Fortunately, a Hoobs Certified plugin for it is well-maintained due to its large user base, so I jumped into the project. I also decided to look into Ring’s outdoor security cameras since I had the platform set up.
The Fine Print🔡
It’s essential to know that all Ring devices record to the cloud; there’s no local storage option (which was a benefit for me, as I didn’t want to deal with NAS or memory cards). You need a subscription for full functionality (recording video instead of just live feed/notifications).
For one device, the Protect Plan costs €3 per month; for multiple devices, it’s €10 monthly, with extra perks like a 10% discount on future purchases, extended warranties, etc. Opting for an annual plan provides a better rate.
About the Device – Ring Video Doorbell 2 🔔
The device I purchased runs on a rechargeable battery but can also be connected to a low-voltage power supply, so you don’t have to swap the battery. Even when wired, the battery is essential to keep recording if the power goes out.
The product is user-friendly and comes with everything needed for installation: screwdriver, drill bit, screws, and so on. Setup is straightforward, with excellent tutorial videos, and the app guides you seamlessly through each step. I had everything ready within 15 minutes.
The battery is said to last up to six months on a single charge (~6000 mAh capacity). However, usage depends on recording length, motion detection sensitivity, and traffic frequency. In our busy hallway with settings on maximum, I need to replace the battery every three weeks. The battery can be swapped out by releasing a security screw, and another fully charged battery can be inserted while the depleted one charges. It’s wise to keep a backup battery ready if not wired for constant power, as a depleted one takes around half a day to recharge. An additional battery costs €25, a practical but optional choice.
I’m considering wiring the device to avoid battery swaps every three weeks. Still, it has worked fine for a year and is not particularly bothersome. I receive a notification and email when battery power drops to 30%. Then, I replaced it with a spare charged from the drawer, which took about a minute.
The video doorbell has night vision (160° horizontal and 90° vertical field of view), motion triggers, adjustable sensitivity, and zone configurations. It can send notifications for both motion and ringing. When someone rings, you can answer via a video call and speak with the person, and live video is accessible anytime.
We’re also planning some other electrical upgrades (of course, related to smart home solutions 😊). Once this starts, I’ll also connect the Ring to low-voltage power.
The device has two faceplate options (one darker), which can be swapped out.
Note: Ring is now on the fourth generation, with newer features (like colour video preroll, better Wi-Fi, etc.), but the basics remain similar. Other models (Elite, Pro) exist, but I chose this one. The more budget-friendly option is the Video Doorbell 2nd Generation, though its battery isn’t replaceable; instead, the entire device must be removed and charged via USB. It can be wired to a doorbell location if available, avoiding this issue.
I also purchased an indoor Chime unit to hear ringing without relying solely on phones. The Chime plugs into a standard socket and looks like this:
Security Cameras - Ring Spotlight Solar 📹
We installed two wireless security cameras on our terrace and at the building’s main entrance. This is the Spotlight Cam Solar.
Each camera can hold two of the same Quick Release batteries (one is included). Still, since these are usually placed outdoors, battery swaps would require a ladder.
Thankfully, the solution is a compatible solar panel for continuous charging. Like the doorbell, the camera has night vision, a 140° field of view, sound recording with noise cancellation, a microphone, and two powerful LED lights. It records in FullHD and includes a built-in siren. The LED lights can activate motion detection at night, improving illumination. It’s weather-resistant and has withstood some harsh hailstorms and storms here.
Each device can create snapshots and timelapse recordings (at 1 minute, 5 minutes, 14 minutes, or 1 hour) and distinguish between humans and other motions, sending notifications only when people are detected (if set this way).
We ordered an extra battery pack for each camera, which was a good choice, especially for the main entrance camera, as it records every time a vehicle or person passes. The solar charging solution has been effective; over a year later, we found that with ideal positioning, it can fully recharge daily, especially in summer.
When sunlight is limited in winter, the panel occasionally only maintains charge levels. For instance, after some intensive usage days, one battery stayed at 100% while the other dropped to around 70%, but neither has ever drained entirely.
Swapping batteries isn’t difficult here either, but the solar option is preferable for convenience if the panel’s position is carefully chosen.
HomeKit Integration 🏠
The Ring devices work perfectly on their own, and the Ring app is excellent, but having HomeKit integration is beneficial for unified notifications and control via the Home app.
Fortunately, a HomeBridge/Hoobs plugin exists. The setup is straightforward:
Install the plugin, then add your refresh token to the configuration. This is obtained by running a simple command in the Hoobs Terminal:
npx -p ring-client-api ring-auth-cliEnter your username and password, complete 2-step verification if enabled, and then copy and save the token.
Once the token is added to the configuration, all cameras (and motion detection features) appear in the Home app. I arranged them by room, which was simple.
I also set the doorbell to trigger sound from HomePod minis when rung, making the Chime unnecessary (I ordered it before getting HomePods). Integrated into the Home ecosystem, the video feed can now pop up as a PiP on AppleTV during TV or movie time.
Summary 💭
The HomeKit setup is a breeze, and the devices function reliably. The solar solution is sustainable even in low-light winters; occasional battery swaps are manageable. However, the cameras are particular about Wi-Fi strength, so strategically placing APs is critical.
The Ring devices have been a solid choice. While alternatives (like Eufy) exist, my priority was cloud storage. Amazon owns Ring, so the infrastructure and support are robust, with rapid fixes if issues arise.
