Ring, a popular name in the smart home security industry, recently launched its latest offering – the Ring Video Doorbell 4. As an addition to their existing lineup of smart doorbells, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 brings along some minor yet significant upgrades. In this article, we will dive into an in-depth review of the device.
Design and Hardware
The Ring Video Doorbell 4 retains its familiar design and form factor of its predecessors. It has a black faceplate with a camera on top, a large button in the center with the iconic white ring around it, and a removable cover at the bottom for easy access to installation screws. The device measures 5.1 x 2.4 x 1.1 inches, making it slightly larger than some competitors but still unobtrusive.
The camera on this video doorbell captures video at a resolution of 1080p, which is quite standard for most modern video doorbells. It has a field of view of 160° horizontal and 90° vertical, ensuring the coverage of your entire front porch area.
Setup and Installation
Setting up the Ring Video Doorbell 4 is straightforward and user-friendly. The device comes with all necessary mounting hardware and a tool kit, including a drill bit for easy installation on different surfaces like brick or stucco. Ring also offers detailed instructions through their mobile app that walks you through every step of the process.
New Features
The Ring Video Doorbell 4 introduces enhanced color Pre-Roll technology. This feature allows users to see four seconds of video before motion is detected to help identify potential threats more effectively. Pre-Roll footage is now in full color instead of black-and-white as seen with previous models.
Another addition to this new model is improved motion detection technology called “quick replies.” If you are unable to answer the door or respond to a notification, you can choose from preset audio replies that Ring Video Doorbell 4 will play for your visitor.
Battery Life and Charging
The Ring Video Doorbell 4 uses a removable, rechargeable battery that can last up to six months with regular use. The device now features a Quick Release Battery Pack, which makes it much easier to swap out the battery without having to uninstall the entire doorbell.
Smart Home Integration
As expected, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 works seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and allows for voice commands and Echo devices’ video integration. However, it lacks compatibility with Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit, which might be a drawback for some potential users.
Final Thoughts
With minor upgrades like color Pre-Roll technology and improved motion detection capabilities, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 continues to be a reliable choice for those looking to enhance their home security systems. While it may not offer major changes from its predecessor, it remains as a solid option for new users or those who don’t require more advanced features available in more expensive models.
