Blink and Ring are companies with home security cameras that may seem similar, but there are some important differences to know before choosing between the two.
Ring began the video doorbell revolution, but there’s so much more to this now-Amazon owned company than just doorbells. It has grown into a full-scale security company, offering multiple camera options, smart home integration and even professional monitoring. Ring is ideal for those who want to beef up security at their home without the traditional security system price tags and long-term contracts.
Blink, also owned by Amazon, is known for its no-frills, basic security camera options that are perfect for the budget-minded consumer. But know that its products are only cameras and camera accessories—it does not offer other home security products, like window and door sensors. Plus, there is no professional security monitoring option with Blink.
If you’re deciding between Blink vs. Ring cameras, know that the offerings have many similarities. We rank Ring slightly higher because it has more options and versatility in its equipment, and you also get the choice of having professional security monitoring. Here, we take you through the pros and cons of both companies to decide which security camera system is best for your home.
Blink and Ring: What do they have in common?
- Outdoor and indoor cameras: Both companies provide customers with both indoor and outdoor camera options. Whether you’re looking to keep an eye on your back yard, or your pets inside the house, there is an option with both companies.
- Mobile app: Both Blink and Ring have apps that allow you to see live video from your camera, and even arm and disarm your system. If the app is important to you, know that Ring’s ratings in the app store are slightly higher.
- Video monitoring: Blink and Ring provide live video monitoring with the use of their apps. That means you’ll be able to check what’s going on at home without being there.
- No activation or installation fees: One of the main reasons there has been such a surge in DIY home security systems is the fact that you’re not slammed with fees. Neither Blink or Ring charge activation fees, and there are no installation fees, since you can set them up yourself.
- Simple setup: Both companies offer incredibly easy setup without the need of a professional installer. Both companies get high marks for their simple camera setup options.
- Cloud storage options: Blink and Ring both have cloud storage options, which means you’ll be paying a fee to record and save your videos. Know that Blink has two camera options where cloud storage is included in the initial. However, if you purchase the new Blink Mini, you’ll have to buy the cloud storage option for $3 per month per camera.
- No contract: If you’re a commitment-phobe, both companies allow you to buy the equipment without dealing with any long-term contracts. Generous money back guarantee: It makes sense that both Blink and Ring have generous money back guarantees, because they are owned by the same company. If you don’t like Blink or Ring, you can return the items within 30 days for a refund.
| | Blink | Ring |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 3.5 out of 5 stars | 3.5 out of 5 stars |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | No monitoring available | $10/month |
| Upfront Cost | Equipment only | Equipment only |
| MoneyBack Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| Contract Length | None required | None required |
| Installation | DIY | DIY |
Blink and Ring: What are the differences?
- Camera quality: If you go with Blink, you’ll be getting basic equipment that will get the job done at a lower cost. Spend more money, and you’ll see more versatile and higher-quality equipment, but you’ll pay for it.
- Cost: Blink is a great option if you need security cameras inside or outside of your home without spending a chunk of cash. Ring is more of an investment, but customers get more options, too.
- Professional monitoring option: If you’re comfortable monitoring your home by yourself, both companies will work well. But if you’re looking for professional monitoring, Ring is the only one of the two that can provide that for you.
- Video doorbell option: If a video doorbell is an important piece of home security equipment to you, know that you won’t be able to have that option with Blink. Ring, on the other hand, has the best one on the market.
- Battery life: Blink’s battery life is up to two years, according to the company. That’s much longer than Ring, which lasts about 6 months with normal use on the battery-powered products.
- Smart home options: If home automation is important to you, Ring is the standout winner. While both Blink and Ring are compatible with Alexa, Ring cameras are compatible with many more third-party smart lights and locks for integrated home automation.
Blink: What you need to know
Blink began in 2016 as a Kickstarter campaign, and later, it was scooped up by Amazon. The cameras are popular because of their mix of value and quality. Blink offers features like night vision, smart home integration and long battery life at a fraction of the cost of other companies.
Nerd Pros
- Cost: Blink’s highest tier model, the XT2, costs $99.99. You can purchase an indoor home security camera with Blink for less than $35, which is virtually unheard of in other home security security. Blink has made its name from providing quality products without the high price tags.
- Battery life: Customers will often find a battery-powered security camera option will have a battery life of six months to a year. Blink offers up a 2-year battery life, which is ideal if you’re one of those people who forget to change batteries often.
- Smart home options: Blink doesn’t exactly have a robust lineup of home automation options, but it is compatible with Alexa, and also has temperature monitoring. Because Blink is compatible with IFTTT, you can create rules to add more smart home options that Blink doesn’t offer.
Nerd Cons
- No professional monitoring: If you’re comfortable with DIY monitoring, this may not be a downside. But we like knowing there is at least a professional option with Ring. Blink does not offer that option.
- Limited hardware options: If you’re looking for an entire home security lineup in one company, Blink isn’t going to be the best choice. As of this writing, there are only three camera options and not a ton of accessories.
- Limited free video storage: While free cloud storage is an enticing offer, it is on the chincy side. Customers can only store two hours of footage at one time. However, there is a paid subscription option if needed.
Ring: What you need to know
Ring sure has come a long way since becoming a “Shark Tank” reject. Since launching the video doorbell in 2012, it’s been purchased by Amazon, and its offerings have increased. Now, you can outfit your entire home with Ring products to create a true smart home ecosystem.
Nerd Pros
- Home automation: Ring offers a wide range of smart home options from smart lights and locks to garage door sensors. It works with Alexa and even IFTTT, which opens up another world of compatibility.
- Equipment options: Ring has a video doorbell along with multiple camera options, but it doesn’t stop there. You can purchase an entire security system with keypad and sensors to add another layer of safety to your home.
- Professional monitoring: If you’re not comfortable monitoring your own home, Ring has contracted with ADT for professional monitoring options.
Nerd Cons
- Cost: Equipment does cost a bit more when compared to other DIY companies like Blink, but you get what you pay for.
- Must pay to record video: If you want to record your video and keep it for later, you’ll have to spring for a paid subscription plan every month.
Blink or Ring?
Ultimately, much of the decision between Blink and Ring comes down to budget and capabilities. While both companies offer cameras that can record video and have two-way communication, Ring has superior home automation and equipment offerings. Ring can provide an entire home security system along with professional monitoring if you choose, making it SecurityNerd’s pick.
However, if you’re budget conscious and aren’t looking for more than home security cameras, Blink is a great option, too. You’ll get a high-quality camera with features often seen in more expensive cameras, at a fraction of the cost. At the end of the day, you’ll get quality equipment to help keep your home safe with either company.
Made your call?
This article has been reviewed and approved by Officer Banta.
Officer Banta is the official SecurityNerd home security and safety expert. A member of the Biloxi Police Department for over 24 years, Officer Banta reviews all articles before lending his stamp of approval. Click here for more information on Officer Banta and the rest of our team.
