Ring security system is a smart home security solution that offers various devices and features to protect your home from intruders, fire, flood, and more. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as privacy concerns, subscription fees, and compatibility issues. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of Ring security system in detail and help you decide if it is the right choice for you.
Ring security system is a product of Ring, a company owned by Amazon that specializes in home security devices. Ring security system consists of a base station, a keypad, contact sensors, motion detectors, a range extender, and a siren. You can also add other devices, such as cameras, doorbells, smart locks, smoke and CO detectors, flood and freeze sensors, and panic buttons. All these devices work together to create a comprehensive security system that can be controlled and monitored from your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
What are the advantages of Ring security system?
Some of the benefits of Ring security system are:
Easy to install and use: Ring security system is a DIY system that does not require professional installation or wiring. You can set it up in minutes using the Ring app and customize it to suit your needs. You can also arm and disarm the system, check the status of your devices, view live and recorded videos, and receive alerts and notifications from anywhere using the app or the web interface.
Affordable and flexible: Ring security system is relatively cheaper than other home security systems, especially if you already have some Ring devices. You can also choose from different plans and packages to fit your budget and preferences. You can start with the basic 5-piece kit for $199.99 and add more devices as you need. You can also opt for the Ring Protect Plus plan for $10 per month or $100 per year, which gives you professional monitoring, cellular backup, video recording and sharing, and extended warranty for all your Ring devices. Alternatively, you can use the system without any subscription and still enjoy the basic features and self-monitoring.
Compatible and expandable: Ring security system works with other Ring devices, such as cameras, doorbells, smart locks, and more, to create a seamless and integrated security system. You can also connect it with other smart home devices and platforms, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and SmartThings, to enable voice control, automation, and integration. You can also expand the system by adding more devices and sensors to cover more areas and scenarios.
Reliable and secure: Ring security system uses both Wi-Fi and Z-Wave to communicate with the devices and the cloud. It also has a battery backup and a cellular backup (with the Ring Protect Plus plan) to ensure that the system stays online and functional even if the power or internet goes out. Moreover, Ring security system uses encryption and authentication to protect your data and privacy from hackers and unauthorized access.
What are the disadvantages of Ring security system?
Some of the drawbacks of Ring security system are:
Privacy concerns: Ring security system collects and stores a lot of personal and sensitive information, such as your name, address, email, phone number, video footage, audio recordings, and more. While Ring claims that it respects your privacy and does not sell your data to third parties, there have been some incidents and controversies that raise doubts about its privacy practices. For instance, in 2019, it was reported that Ring employees had access to live and recorded videos of customers without their consent or knowledge. It was also revealed that Ring had partnered with hundreds of police departments across the US to share video footage and user data without proper oversight or transparency. These issues have sparked criticism and lawsuits from privacy advocates, civil rights groups, and customers who feel that Ring is violating their privacy and civil liberties.
Subscription fees: Ring security system requires a subscription fee to unlock some of the features and benefits that make it attractive and useful. For example, without the Ring Protect Plus plan, you cannot access professional monitoring, cellular backup, video recording and sharing, and extended warranty. You also cannot use some of the features and integrations that require a subscription, such as Alexa Guard, which can detect sounds of glass breaking, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide alarms and alert you and the monitoring center. Without a subscription, you are limited to the basic functionality and self-monitoring of the system, which may not be enough for some users who want more security and convenience.
Compatibility issues: Ring security system is compatible with many smart home devices and platforms, but not with all of them. For example, it does not work with Apple HomeKit, which is a popular and widely used smart home ecosystem. It also does not support some of the common security devices and protocols, such as Zigbee, Z-Wave Plus, glass break sensors, and key fobs. This means that you may not be able to use some of the devices and features that you already have or want to have with Ring security system. You may also face some compatibility issues and glitches when using Ring security system with other devices and platforms, such as delays, errors, and conflicts.
Conclusion
Ring security system is a smart home security solution that offers various devices and features to protect your home from intruders, fire, flood, and more. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as privacy concerns, subscription fees, and compatibility issues. Therefore, before you decide to buy and use Ring security system, you should weigh the pros and cons and consider your needs, preferences, and budget. You should also read the terms and conditions and the privacy policy of Ring and understand how it collects, uses, and shares your data and footage. You should also review the settings and options of the system and the app and adjust them to your liking and comfort level. By doing so, you can make an informed and smart decision and enjoy the benefits of Ring security system without compromising your security and privacy.
