Pros and cons of using a Ring Camera

Long gone are the days of a simple deadbolt being sufficient for the best home security.

In this era of advanced technology, numerous individuals who own homes are choosing a more intelligent alternative. This alternative possesses the ability to capture footage, send alerts, and even engage in conversation with individuals standing at the entrance.

You already know the name: the Ring Camera. It's no surprise this security device has become one of the most popular, considering its wide range of features. In just one camera, you get a video doorbell, motion detector, and two-way audio. All that is supplemented by the fact that it runs on cloud storage and offers user-friendly mobile access from anywhere.

But what are the pros and cons of having a Ring Camera? Let's take a look at what they are, and whether owning one of these is the right choice for your home. To end, we'll introduce IFTTT, our free automation service that can integrate your Ring camera with a variety of other services and apps.

What is a Ring Camera?

A Ring Camera, part of the product line by the company Ring, is a type of smart home security camera. It's designed to provide homeowners with real-time video footage of their property and alert them to potential security threats.

These cameras come in various models, including doorbell cameras, floodlight cameras, and standalone outdoor and indoor cameras. They are equipped with features such as motion detection, two-way audio, and night vision.

One of the key features of these popular cameras is its integration with a smartphone app. This allows homeowners to view live footage from anywhere, receive alerts when motion is detected, and even communicate with people at their door through the camera.

Ring Cameras can also integrate with other smart home devices for a more seamless home security setup. They offer both wired and battery-powered options depending on your installation preferences.

An explosion in popularity

In the past few years, Ring security cameras have seen an explosive growth in popularity. In the month of December 2019 alone, an incredible 400,000 cameras were sold.

As more and more users discover the convenience of these security devices, the demand has only been increasing. This is especially true since Ring Camera systems are relatively easy to install and can be used with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, which is a fresh breath of air compared to traditional cameras.

Despite providing much of the functionality of a full-blown surveillance camera, Ring Cameras are sleek and hardly noticeable. However, the ease and efficiency of using these cameras have garnered some negative attention, most notably concerns from experts over privacy risks.

In a letter by Amazon engineer Max Eliaser, he argued that video recording doorbell cameras are "simply not compatible with a free society," citing the fact that law enforcement can access security camera feeds without a warrant. Nevertheless, these cameras continue to explode in popularity, and the majority of users applauded the product for making their lives safer despite the small security issue.

Pros of utilizing a Ring Camera

Before you decide to purchase one, let's take a look at some of the benefits it offers.

Monitor from anywhere: With the mobile app, you can view live footage of your home and check on any suspicious activity from anywhere with an internet connection. You'll also receive alerts when motion is detected so that you're always in the know.

Two-way audio: With a Ring Camera, you can communicate with people at your door without having to be home. This is especially useful for those who are frequently away from home and need an extra set of eyes on their property.

Mobile app access: The mobile app lets you access all the features of the Ring, including video footage and motion detection alerts. This makes it easier to check on things without having to be at home or near your security system.

Automation: The Ring is compatible with other smart home devices, such as door locks and lights, so that you can create a more seamless home security setup with apps like IFTTT.

Easy Installation: Unlike traditional security cameras, these cameras are relatively easy to install and can be done without hiring professionals.

Cons of having a Ring Camera

Npw, let's consider some of the potential downsides.

Cost: While Ring Cameras are popular for their affordability, they still come with an upfront cost that may not be within everyone's budget, especially when compared to a normal doorbell.

Privacy risks: Experts have raised concerns over potential privacy risks associated with these cameras. Depending on where you live, law enforcement may be able to access video footage without a warrant.

False Alarms: As with any security system, Ring Cameras are prone to false alarms and recognizing which motion is suspicious and which isn't can be tricky.

Limited Range: While the range of coverage will depend on your model, most cameras have limited range and will likely not be able to provide full coverage of your property.

Is a Ring Camera right for me?

Whether or not a Ring Camera is the right choice for you ultimately comes down to personal preference. With its easy installation and wide range of features, it's no surprise why these cameras have become a household name in recent years.

Consider your budget, security needs, and privacy concerns before deciding if this is the right choice for you. Despite some privacy concerns, we believe the convenience and incredible levels of security outweigh the drawbacks in most cases. On many occasions, shared by online users, Ring devices have prevented or stopped package theft, robberies, and other crimes.

Home security made safer with IFTTT

One of the big appeals behind owning a Ring Camera or any other Ring app device is the fact that it can easily connect with other smart devices in your home. With the help of IFTTT, you can integrate your Ring with over 800 apps and services, all with the click of a button.

Read on to hear about our mission, and our top picks for the best Ring automations with IFTTT.

What is IFTTT?

IFTTT, an acronym for "If This Then That," is our free web-based service and mobile app designed to boost productivity by automating tasks. It works by creating connections between popular apps and services, allowing them to work together seamlessly.

The basic idea behind IFTTT is to create "applets" or sets of instructions that trigger when certain conditions are met. This can be turning on the lights automatically when you enter your house, for example.

Founded in 2011, IFTTT has been used by over 25 million individuals to automate both business and home tasks, saving time and increasing efficiency. It's commonly used to connect disparate services and systems, making all products and services work well together in a way that instills user confidence. Best of all, it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to set up.

Best Ring Camera Applets with IFTTT

Blink your Hue lights when your doorbell rings

Have trouble missing when someone comes by your house? With this Applet, your Hue lights will blink to alert you whenever someone activates your Ring doorbell.

When the doorbell rings, pause iRobot cleaning With this automation, your iRobot Roomba or other cleaning device will stop its route, so that your guests can enjoy your home without interruptions.

Log in Google Calendar if somebody rings the door bell Leaving for a long trip and want to know who comes to your door? This Applet will log each door visit to it's corresponding day on Google Calendar, so you can review later.

To connect your Ring account to these Applets and millions (yes, millions) of others, try signing up for IFTTT free today!