The main difference between Ring Alarm and Ring Alarm Pro is that the Pro version has a built-in eero Wi-Fi 6 router that provides network security and backup internet for your home. Both systems are DIY smart home security solutions that offer 24/7 professional monitoring, local video storage, and compatibility with other Ring devices. However, the Ring Alarm Pro has some additional features and benefits that may make it worth the upgrade. In this article, we will compare the Ring Alarm and Ring Alarm Pro in terms of cost, features, installation, and performance, and help you decide which one is best for your needs.
The Ring Alarm system comes in two generations: the first-gen and the second-gen. The first-gen system was launched in 2018 and has since been discontinued by Ring. The second-gen system was released in 2020 and has some improvements over the first-gen, such as smaller and sleeker devices, a more user-friendly keypad, and a one-touch emergency button. The second-gen system is also cheaper than the first-gen, starting at $199.99 for a 5-piece kit that includes a base station, a keypad, a contact sensor, a motion detector, and a range extender. You can also buy additional devices separately or choose from other kits that have more devices.
The Ring Alarm Pro system was launched in 2021 and is the newest and most advanced system from Ring. It has the same devices as the second-gen system, except for the base station, which is replaced by the eero Wi-Fi 6 router. The router acts as the hub for the security system and the network, and also has a built-in battery backup and cellular backup. The Ring Alarm Pro system starts at $249.99 for the router alone, or $299.99 for a 5-piece kit that includes the router, a keypad, a contact sensor, a motion detector, and a range extender. You can also buy additional devices separately or choose from other kits that have more devices.
Both systems require a subscription to the Ring Protect plan to access some features, such as professional monitoring, cellular backup, video recording, and extended warranty. The Ring Protect plan comes in two tiers: the Basic plan and the Pro plan. The Basic plan costs $3 per month or $30 per year and covers one Ring device. It offers 60 days of video history, video saving and sharing, snapshot capture, and people only mode. The Pro plan costs $10 per month or $100 per year and covers all Ring devices at one location. It offers everything in the Basic plan, plus 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup, 30 days of video history for unlimited cameras, local video storage, extended warranty, and 10% off select Ring products.
Both systems have similar features when it comes to home security, such as:
Customizable modes: You can set your system to Home, Away, or Disarmed mode, depending on whether you want to arm or disarm your sensors and cameras.
Notifications: You can receive alerts on your phone, tablet, or PC when your system detects motion, a door or window opens, or an alarm goes off.
Emergency contacts: You can add up to three emergency contacts who will be notified if your system triggers an alarm and you are not available to respond.
Works with Alexa: You can use voice commands to control your system and get updates on its status.
Compatibility: You can connect your system to other Ring devices, such as doorbells, cameras, smart lighting, and locks, and create a seamless smart home ecosystem.
However, the Ring Alarm Pro system has some unique features that the Ring Alarm system does not have, such as:
Network security: The eero Wi-Fi 6 router provides world-class network security for your home internet, with encryption, automatic updates, and eero Secure, a service that blocks malicious websites, scans for threats, and filters out unwanted content.
Backup internet: The eero Wi-Fi 6 router has a built-in battery backup and cellular backup that can keep your internet and security system online in case of a power outage or internet disruption. You can also use the backup internet for other purposes, such as streaming, gaming, or working from home.
Local video storage: The eero Wi-Fi 6 router has a microSD card slot that allows you to store up to 3 GB of video footage from your Ring cameras locally, without relying on the cloud. You can access your videos anytime from the Ring app or the eero app.
Ring Power Packs: The Ring Alarm Pro system supports expandable external power through the use of Ring Power Packs, which are battery packs that can power your devices for up to 24 hours in case of a power outage. You can connect up to two Ring Power Packs to your eero Wi-Fi 6 router and up to one Ring Power Pack to each of your other devices.
Both systems are easy to install and do not require professional installation or wiring. You can set up your system in minutes by following these steps:
Download the Ring app on your smartphone and create an account or log in to your existing account.
Scan the QR code on your device or enter the serial number manually to add it to your account.
Follow the instructions on the app to connect your device to your Wi-Fi network and test its functionality.
Place your device in your desired location and secure it with the included mounting hardware or adhesive tape.
Repeat the process for each device until you have completed your system.
The main difference in the installation process between the two systems is that the Ring Alarm Pro system requires you to connect the eero Wi-Fi 6 router to your modem with an ethernet cable and create a new network for your home internet. You will also need to download the eero app on your smartphone and use it to manage your network settings and security features.
Performance
Both systems perform well and reliably when it comes to home security and smart home integration. They have fast and responsive sensors, clear and loud sirens, and high-quality cameras that capture sharp and detailed videos. They also work seamlessly with other Ring devices and Alexa-enabled devices, allowing you to create routines, schedules, and automations for your smart home.
However, the Ring Alarm Pro system has an edge over the Ring Alarm system when it comes to network performance and backup options. The eero Wi-Fi 6 router provides faster and more reliable Wi-Fi speeds, wider coverage, and more device capacity than most standard routers. It also protects your network from online threats and gives you more control over your internet access and usage. Moreover, the eero Wi-Fi 6 router has a battery backup and a cellular backup that can keep your internet and security system online even when the power or internet goes out. This gives you peace of mind and convenience in case of an emergency or a disruption.
The Ring Alarm and Ring Alarm Pro systems are both excellent choices for smart home security, but they have some differences that may affect your decision. The Ring Alarm system is cheaper, simpler, and more compatible with existing networks, but it does not have network security or backup internet features. The Ring Alarm Pro system is more expensive, more advanced, and more secure, but it requires a new network and a subscription plan to access its full potential. Ultimately, the best system for you depends on your budget, your needs, and your preferences. We hope this article has helped you compare the Ring Alarm and Ring Alarm Pro systems and make an informed choice.
