Amazon's flagship hardwired doorbell, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, shoots 1536p HD+ video and adds 3D motion detection plus Bird's Eye View, which maps where visitors approach from. Engadget's review highlighted it as a top pick for security-conscious homeowners already in the Ring/Alexa ecosystem. The trade-off is the Ring Protect subscription required to unlock cloud video history and smart alerts.
Full review
Video Quality and Clarity
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 delivers a significant upgrade in visual fidelity, capturing footage at 1536p HD+ resolution. This higher pixel count provides noticeably sharper details compared to the standard 1080p models, allowing users to clearly identify faces and read license plates from a distance. The increased resolution makes a tangible difference in low-light scenarios, where the camera's HDR processing helps balance exposure between bright doorways and dark shadows. The head-to-toe view ensures that packages left on the ground are captured just as clearly as visitors standing at the door, eliminating the common blind spots found in older models.
3D Motion Detection Features
A defining feature of this model is the introduction of 3D motion detection powered by radar technology. Unlike traditional PIR sensors that simply detect heat changes, this system maps the distance and direction of moving objects. CNET questioned whether this radar capability is truly necessary for the average homeowner, suggesting it might be overkill for simple porch monitoring. However, the implementation of Bird's Eye View, which generates an aerial map of motion paths, has been praised by guidespot for its utility in understanding exactly how someone approached the door. This feature helps distinguish between a person walking up the path and a car driving by, potentially reducing false alerts.
Installation and Power Requirements
Despite its advanced features, the installation process remains a point of contention for many users. The device requires a hardwired connection to existing doorbell wiring, typically needing 16-24 volts AC, which can be a barrier for those without electrical experience. Reddit discussions in smart home communities highlight that while the physical mounting is straightforward, integrating the device with mechanical chimes often requires additional adapters or bypass kits. Some users reported that the initial setup of the radar sensors required careful calibration to avoid false triggers from passing traffic, a step that adds complexity to the out-of-the-box experience compared to battery-powered alternatives.
Subscription Costs and Ecosystem
The long-term value of the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is heavily tied to the Ring Protect subscription service. Without a paid plan, users lose access to video recording, Bird's Eye View, and advanced motion zones, leaving only live view functionality. Reddit threads comparing Ring to competitors like Eufy frequently cite this recurring cost as a major drawback, with some users expressing frustration over the lack of local storage options on this specific model. One user in the r/EufyCam community detailed their switch away from Ring specifically to avoid monthly fees, noting that while the Ring ecosystem integrates seamlessly with Alexa, the financial commitment over time can be substantial.
Subscription required to access video history
Critics and users alike have identified several areas where the Pro 2 does not meet expectations. The reliance on a subscription for core features like video history is a significant pain point, with many reviewers feeling that the hardware should offer more flexibility. Additionally, the radar motion detection, while innovative, can sometimes be overly sensitive, triggering alerts for minor movements in the yard that do not warrant attention. CNET specifically raised concerns about whether the radar technology justifies the premium price tag for casual users who may not need precise motion mapping. Furthermore, the requirement for a stable Wi-Fi connection and specific voltage levels can lead to connectivity issues in homes with older wiring or weak network signals.
Strengths
- +3D Motion Detection and Bird's Eye View
- +1536p HD video quality
- +Built-in Alexa Greetings
- +Color Pre-Roll video previews
Watch-outs
- −Requires Ring Protect subscription for recordings
- −Wired installation only
How it compares
Best-in-class 3D motion detection and Bird's Eye View features set it apart from competitors.
Rating sources
“Daniel Cooper Senior Editor Wed, February 24, 2021 at 2:30 PM UTC Add Engadget on Google Wed, February 24, 2021 at 2:30 PM UTC Ring The next generation of Ring’s smart home doorbells is here , with better sound, a bigger field of vision and, most interestingly, radar.”
Our 4.2 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
