Cove vs. Ring 2025

We decided to test two of the best DIY home security systems to see which one performs better.

While both brands let us choose the devices we wanted to protect our home, we preferred Ring’s solution, as the equipment was more reliable and easier to operate. Plus, it has cheaper monitoring plans and a free option if you only need a livestream of your cameras and alerts.

Cove offers solid value too. The system saves money on cloud storage since their cameras support micro SD card recording. They also provide discount incentives when you expand your system after your initial purchase.

After spending six weeks with Cove and Ring, here’s what we learned about these two home security systems.

Key Similarities

Our hands-on testing showed a few important similarities between Cove and Ring:

• Flexible month-to-month service: Both companies eliminated contracts entirely. You can modify or cancel your monitoring plan anytime without penalties.
• Professional installation: If you prefer an expert to set up your home security system, Cove and Ring can send technicians to install your equipment.
• Smart integrations: You can connect your security systems to Google and Alexa devices. This lets you control your security system with your voice.

Key Differences

Of course, there were some differences too, including:

• Third-party devices: Ring let us connect some smart devices, like light switches, dead bolts and garage door controls. We couldn’t do this with Cove.
• Video storage options: Ring’s monitoring plans are add-ons to their subscriptions with 180 days of cloud storage for all camera footage. With Cove, you’ll pay extra for Cove Cloud+ or purchase micro SD cards for local recording.
• Self-monitoring: You can sign up for a free Ring self-monitoring plan and use the devices you paid for. Cove requires a monitoring plan for the equipment to work. Check out our roundup of the best self-monitored home security systems for some Ring alternatives.

Equipment Comparison

Cove and Ring let you mix and match your security equipment, so you only pay for what you need. We recommend at least one sensor for each ground floor door and window as well as a motion sensor for any main egress points.

Here’s our detailed breakdown of available devices from each company:

Ring’s extensive product lineup includes multiple power configurations for most cameras. Choose between battery-powered, plug-in, hardwired, or solar-powered models based on your installation preferences.

Ring also provides multiple product generations, allowing budget-conscious buyers to select older models at reduced prices.

>> Learn More: Ring Alarm Security System Cost and Pricing

While Cove’s streamlined catalog simplifies browsing, certain homes require specific devices like smart locks or garage sensors for comprehensive protection. Cove currently does not offer those more niche pieces of equipment.

Ring simplifies selection with preconfigured packages tailored to various home types:

Equipment winner: Ring’s comprehensive product range impressed us most. Despite the extensive catalog, their curated bundles simplify the selection process for first-time buyers.

Which One Is Easier to Install?

Anyone can install a Cove or Ring security system. You won’t need any specialized tools, and you’ll be lucky to break a sweat. The hardest part for us was choosing where to place our devices.

Setting up Cove required minimal effort. We positioned our Eufy Indoor Camera on a bookshelf for optimal room coverage, then connected it to the hub. Installing sensors proved even simpler. All we had to do was remove the adhesive backing and attach them to our doors and windows.

Our Ring equipment also required little effort. We sat the Stick Up Cam on the other side of our bookcase, but we could have mounted it on a wall if we wanted. To connect it to the app, we scanned the QR code on the back and could see everything instantly. For the sensors, like Cove, we exposed the adhesive and followed the installation instructions.

Installation winner: Both systems proved equally straightforward. We completed each installation in under 30 minutes, though your setup time may vary based on the number of devices.

Comparing Monitoring Plans

Ring offers monitoring options for every budget, including free self-monitoring. Cove requires a paid plan for their equipment to function.

Cove

Cove provides two monitoring tiers:

The $10 premium for Cove Plus primarily adds voice assistant compatibility and support for cameras. If you regularly use Alexa or Google Assistant, the upgrade enables hands-free system control and status checks.

The equipment lifetime warranty is handy to have up your sleeve, but we think it’s only worth it if you have a history of electronic devices malfunctioning.

>> Check Out: Cove Security Systems Pricing and Packages

Ring

Ring’s tiered plans accommodate various needs and budgets:

While the free tier limits functionality, we think Ring’s paid plans deliver exceptional value.

All Ring Home plans include a 10 percent discount on future Ring purchases. That makes it affordable to expand your system as needed. Further, the Standard and Premium plans add an extended warranty on all equipment, support for unlimited cameras, and the option to add professional monitoring for an extra $10 per month.

Ring Home Standard with monitoring costs the same as Cove Basic while providing 180 days of cloud storage. Cove charges an additional $2.99 monthly per camera, yet only stores 30 days of footage. The professional monitoring features remain comparable between both services.

Monitoring plans winner: Ring’s flexible pricing structure and included cloud storage create superior value compared to Cove’s limited options.

App Functionality

We found Cove and Ring’s apps were the easiest way to control each system.

Cove let us monitor our entire setup from the comfort of our favorite chair. We reviewed notifications, livestreamed footage, and armed and disarmed the system. When someone showed up at our door, we spoke to them through our phone instead of getting up.

The “Recipes” feature (Cove’s term for automation) proved particularly useful. We configured cameras to record automatically when sensors triggered and scheduled weekday arming at 10 a.m.

Ring’s app matched these capabilities while adding privacy zones. We masked specific areas from recording, such as our neighbor’s property, maintaining security without compromising privacy.

Adjusting motion sensitivity eliminated pet-triggered false alarms — a crucial feature for households with animals.

App winner: Another tie. Both applications provide comprehensive control with automation capabilities and remote management features.

>> Read More: Cove Home Security Review for 2025

Integrating Third-Party Products

Cove restricts users to their proprietary equipment. This limitation disappointed us since they lack essential devices like garage door sensors and smart locks. While Cove Plus enables Alexa and Google Assistant voice control, you cannot incorporate non-Cove products into automation recipes.

Ring embraces an open ecosystem approach. We seamlessly integrated various third-party devices — from smart switches to deadbolts and garage controllers. Compatible brands include GE, Dome, Chamberlain, and Leviton, among others.

Third-party integration winner: Ring’s compatibility with external devices significantly expands system capabilities. Their “Works with Ring” marketplace showcases numerous compatible products.

Speaking to Customer Service

Cove is there for you day or night. Its phone and webchat services are responsive and available 24/7. The agent we spoke to did more than send us guides on the website. They talked us through setting up our camera and troubleshooting a syncing issue.

Ring’s chat button is available on every webpage. But that’s only to chat with a bot. It tried to guide us to help pages and their community. But we wanted to speak to a real person, so we had to give them a call. Thankfully, the contact center is available 24/7.

Customer service winner: It was easier to get help from Cove. We appreciated that we could speak to someone via webchat.

Emergency Response Times

When Cove receives an alert, someone from the monitoring center will confirm you need assistance. If you don’t respond, they send emergency personnel to your home. We found this out for ourselves while testing the system. Sure, it was embarrassing, but we also found it reassuring that the police would arrive quickly if we needed them.

Ring follows a similar procedure if you have the Protect Pro plan. Their response varies according to the alarm. For example, if a sensor gets tripped, Ring will attempt to contact you first to confirm before sending the police. But they instantly send the fire department if it’s a carbon monoxide alert.

Emergency response winner: While we accidentally received a visit from the cops with Cove, we felt safe and secure with both systems, so we’ll call it a draw.

Overall Winner: Cove or Ring?

We believe Cove delivers solid DIY security with competitive pricing and a streamlined buying experience. However, their limited equipment catalog and lack of third-party compatibility restrict system expansion possibilities. These happen to be areas where Ring excels.

Ring’s advantages include free self-monitoring, budget-friendly paid plans, and diverse equipment with flexible power options.

Both brands provide reliable protection and peace of mind. Yet for overall value, flexibility, and features, we recommend Ring for most homeowners.