Ring Alarm Kit Review

The Ring Alarm Kit is one of the most popular DIY home security systems in the United States, and for good reason. It offers a simple, expandable setup that works with Amazon Alexa and Ring cameras. But is it the right choice for you? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest review. We did not test the product hands-on, but we analyzed thousands of user reviews and expert opinions to help you decide.

Design and Build Quality

The Ring Alarm Kit includes a base station, a keypad, two contact sensors, one motion detector, and a range extender. The base station is a compact white box that plugs into your router via Ethernet, and it also has a backup battery. The keypad is wireless and can be mounted on a wall or placed on a table. The sensors are small and unobtrusive, with adhesive backing for easy installation.

Build quality is decent but not premium. The keypad feels a bit plasticky to some users, but it's functional. The base station has a built-in siren, but it's not very loud (around 85 dB). If you want a louder alarm, you can add a separate siren. The whole system is designed to be user-friendly, and most users report that installation takes less than 30 minutes.

Performance and Reliability

In terms of performance, the Ring Alarm system is reliable for basic security needs. The contact sensors detect when doors or windows open, and the motion detector covers a 30-foot range with a 90-degree field of view. The system responds quickly to triggers, sending push notifications to your phone almost instantly. The base station uses Z-Wave to communicate with sensors, and the range extender helps ensure good coverage in larger homes.

One common complaint is that the motion detector can be triggered by pets if they are large enough. The sensor uses passive infrared (PIR) technology, and it has a sensitivity adjustment, but it's not pet-friendly by default. Some users have reported false alarms from pets or moving objects. However, you can adjust the sensor's placement or use the app to set schedules.

Another issue is that the system relies on your Wi-Fi for remote access. If your internet goes down, you won't get notifications unless you have a professional monitoring plan with cellular backup. The base station has a battery backup, but it doesn't have a built-in cellular modem without a plan.

Ease of Use and App Integration

The Ring app is intuitive and well-designed. You can arm and disarm the system from your phone, set schedules, and receive alerts. The app also integrates with Ring cameras, so you can view live video and receive motion alerts from the same interface. Alexa integration is seamless: you can use voice commands to arm or disarm, and you can create routines that trigger lights or cameras.

Setup is straightforward: you plug in the base station, download the app, and follow the on-screen instructions. Pairing sensors is as simple as scanning a QR code or entering a PIN. The keypad has a panic button and a disarm code, but it doesn't have a built-in screen, so you'll need to use the app for more detailed settings.

Battery Life and Storage

The contact sensors and motion detector use coin-cell batteries that last about 1-2 years, depending on usage. The keypad uses AA batteries, and the base station has a rechargeable backup battery that lasts up to 24 hours. There's no local storage for video, but if you have Ring cameras, you can subscribe to Ring Protect for cloud recording.

For security system events, the app stores a history of alarms and alerts for free, but you need a subscription for video recording and professional monitoring. The free plan is limited, but it's enough for basic self-monitoring.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the Ring Alarm Kit has high ratings, some buyers have raised concerns. The most common complaint is the subscription requirement for professional monitoring and cellular backup. Some users also mention that the keypad feels cheap and that the motion detector is not pet-friendly. Another issue is that the system only works with Z-Wave, so it won't connect to Zigbee devices like some other hubs. Finally, a few users have experienced connectivity issues with the base station's Wi-Fi, especially in larger homes, but the range extender helps.

Comparison with Alternatives

When compared to SimpliSafe, the Ring Alarm is more affordable and integrates better with Ring cameras and Alexa. However, SimpliSafe offers a more polished keypad and a wider range of sensors, including a smoke detector and a water leak sensor. Abode is another competitor that supports HomeKit and Zigbee, but it's more expensive. If you're already in the Ring ecosystem, the Ring Alarm is a no-brainer. If you need broader smart home compatibility, consider Abode.

Value and Verdict

The Ring Alarm Kit offers excellent value for the price. It's one of the most affordable ways to get a professional-grade security system, and the optional monitoring plans are competitively priced. The system is expandable, so you can add more sensors as needed. However, if you want a system with more advanced features like built-in cameras or local storage, you'll need to look elsewhere.

Overall, the Ring Alarm Kit is a reliable, user-friendly choice for most households. It's especially great for renters or anyone who wants a simple, effective security system without a long-term contract. Just be aware of the subscription costs and the limitations of the motion detector.