(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (573 ratings); the listing is the newest Plug-In model.
Wirecutter's pick for Ring Alarm users, with stellar 4K video and 10x zoom. But it can't save a single clip without a subscription, it works only with Alexa, it lacks animal detection, and Ring paid $5.8 million in 2023 to settle FTC claims over staff access to customer videos.
Subscription: Needed to record anything: Ring plans from $5/mo or $50/yr per camera (180-day history); 24/7 recording adds $3/mo per camera (Wirecutter)
Top complaints
- Useless without a subscription
Wirecutter says Ring cameras can't record anything without a plan, and free alerts don't say what triggered them. TechRadar says that without a plan you can't save or review recordings. Tom's Guide left Ring off its list for this reason.
- Pricey and mains-only
TechRadar lists the higher price than other cameras and mains-only power as cons. Some Amazon owners say it's not worth the extra money.
- Limited detection and ecosystem
Wirecutter says it's the only one of its picks without animal detection, and Ring works only with Alexa, not Google Home. Amazon owners note it doesn't work with SmartThings and report mixed Wi-Fi performance and some blurry images.
What owners love
- Stellar 4K image
Wirecutter calls Ring's Retinal 4K a standout, and the 10x digital zoom keeps details sharp. TechRadar lists excellent video quality.
- Flexible placement
It can sit on a shelf or mount on a wall or ceiling and has a 17.8-foot cord (Wirecutter). TechRadar praises the flexible mounting options.
- Long history once you pay
Ring plans include 180 days of video storage, more than most picks, and the $20 Ring Pro plan covers every camera (Wirecutter).
Source: Wirecutter (outdoor cameras)
- You don't want any subscription
- You use Google Home
- You want animal alerts or battery power
- Homes already on Ring Alarm or a Ring plan
- Reading details like plates at a distance
- Alexa households
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Best for Ring Alarm users (updated 2026-09-02): a fantastic 4K image, but a subscription is essential, there's no animal detection, and it works only with Alexa.
- TechRadar: Excellent video and a well-designed unit, but expensive, mains-only, and you pay for extra functionality.
- Tom's Guide: Ring makes quality devices but doesn't offer any video storage without a subscription, a big reason Tom's Guide leaves it off its list.