Ring vs. Skybell

The price of Ring and Skybell equipment varies depending on your product. Ring’s home security packages start at $199 for a five piece package that includes security essentials including sensors and motion detection. Standalone equipment such as video doorbells starts at $99.99, but can cost up to $499.00 for their top-notch Video Doorbell Elite.

Skybell only offers video doorbell cameras at this time, and both cost $199.00. But, Skybell offers free cloud storage that automatically resets after each clip’s seventh day. On the other hand, Ring charges $3/mo. for up to 60 days of cloud storage with their Protect Plan. This plan also includes video sharing and Snapshot Capture to capture photos between motion-triggered clips throughout the day. Since Ring offers more variety and cloud storage at a lower cost they win this round.

When shopping for home security equipment, you need plenty of options to choose from. That’s why we prefer Ring’s equipment between the two providers. Ring has a basic home security system with entryway sensors, motion detection and a control panel. You can add other essentials, video doorbells, cameras and more. At this time, Skybell only offers video doorbell cameras, so they won’t be able to offer you all that Ring can for your home.

Ring offers both professional and self-monitoring. Their 24/7 professional monitoring Protect Plus Plan costs $10/mo. or $100/yr. without a contract. The Protect Plus Plan comes with all of the basics including custom motion detection and instant alerts. It also includes 24/7 professional monitoring, an extended warranty and 10 percent off of future Ring purchases. As of now, Skybell doesn’t offer professional monitoring services at this time, so Ring wins this round.

Both Ring and Skybell are easy to install with helpful guides, customer service and their mobile apps. But, Skybell only offers self-installation. Skybell video doorbells must be hardwired using your traditional existing doorbell’s wiring. On the other hand, Ring wins this round because they offer both DIY installation and professional installation through Amazon and third-party professionals. Their equipment also offers a variety of powering options that make installation easy including battery-powered, hardwired and standard wall outlet power.

Both Ring and Skybell have easy-to-use mobile apps to get instant motion-triggered alerts and control equipment settings from anywhere. Skybell only works with Amazon Alexa compatible devices to get alerts and tell your Echo Show to show your Skybell doorbell camera through a simple voice command. On the other hand, Ring pairs with brands including Yale and Schlage. But, Ring only works with Amazon Alexa for voice control. Ring wins this round because they work with other brands and Amazon Alexa.

Skybell has a one-year warranty for their doorbell cameras to cover any defects or issues. Their doorbells also include a Theft Protection Guarantee if your doorbell is stolen. All you need is a proof of purchase and a police report, and Skybell will replace your doorbell for free.

Ring also offers a one-year warranty for repairs or exchanges, as well. If your Ring product isn’t available anymore, they’ll send you a similar product. You’ll also have a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee to try Ring equipment risk-free. This round is a tie since both companies offer reasonable warranties and guarantees.