Blink vs Ring

Blink and Ring home security systems are extremely effective and designed for homeowners and renters who want quality equipment they can manage on their own. Neither company requires professional installation or a long-term contract. Professional monitoring is an option instead of a requirement. Each system offers remote connectivity through mobile apps that allow you to observe your home whenever you feel the need. Ring does offer an advantage over Blink in this area with its two-way voice communication feature.

Monitoring

Blink and Ring are capable of both self-monitoring by the homeowner/renter but each company also offers the option for professional monitoring. The systems are wireless and need Wi-Fi to maintain connectivity. When alerts are triggered through the system, notifications are sent to the owner via texts or emails. If the system is being professionally monitored, the alerts go to the third-party monitoring center first and then to both the subscriber and the local authorities.

Features

Ring has a list of features that make it one of the most popular home security systems. Leading the list is its two-way voice communication feature that allows you to speak with whoever is within viewing distance of the cameras. Infrared night vision, indoor/outdoor surveillance cameras, video sharing, and indoor/outdoor lighting options are also available.

Blink’s list of features is less extensive but still offers homeowners and renters options that will enhance their home security and protect their family. They offer third-party integration with devices such as the Echo or Echo Dot. Mobile alerts, night vision, voice control to arm or disarm your system, and low maintenance equipment are other features customers prefer.

Costs

Ring does not require a contract but does offer package options for monitoring if the customer wants it. When it comes to equipment, Ring offers the video doorbell, motion detector, entry sensors, solar panels, chargers, hub, floodlights, and keypad. The actual system costs around $199. Ring offers two monitoring packages both using month-to-month payments. The Protect Basic Plan will cost you $3 each month or $30 for a year and allows for one camera. The next level is the Protect Plus Plan. This plan costs $10 monthly or $100 annually and covers multiple cameras.

Starting at $99, you can purchase a basic Blink camera system that includes cloud storage. They also offer a hardware bundle that is somewhat more affordable, especially if you already have Blink installed in your home. If you are already a Blink customer, the bundled system costs $149. If you are purchasing your first system, it can cost you as much as $399. There are no contracts with Blink. You have to month-to-month options, however. The cheaper of the two costs $10 a month and is supported by both Wi-Fi and cellular platforms. The next plan costs $20 a month and includes professional monitoring if you prefer emergency connectivity. Blink offers the basic Blink camera and the more advanced Blink XT, plus entry sensors, a siren, and an enhanced sync module.

Installation

Blink and Ring are designed to be as simplistic as possible. Each system comes with detailed installation instructions making it easy for both homeowners and renters to install the system. Both installation and setup take less than an hour to complete and can be up and running within a few hours of their purchase.

Our Take: Blink vs Ring

Blink is a basic system that offers effective home security features that are extremely popular with both homeowners and renters. It’s a good choice if you like camera-based security systems that don’t require a lot of professional involvement. It’s easy to install and monitor and doesn’t lock you into a contract.

Ring is the best option if you want two-way voice communication and a high-quality video doorbell. Ring offers monitoring options for both renters and homeowners and is designed for maximum convenience. The system is easy to use and affordable compared to other systems that require contracts and professional monitoring.