You strap on a helmet for a bike ride or buckle the seat belt in a car, hoping you won’t need it but feeling snug knowing it’s there. The same goes for your house – And the Ring Alarm system is one of the least expensive and accessible ways to get a home security system installed on your house. So, between Ring Alarm Gen 2 and the Ring Alarm Pro systems currently on the market, which one is best for you?
Meet the Ring Alarm Family
There are two Ring Alarm systems currently on offer- the standard Ring Alarm Gen 2 and the Ring Alarm Pro. Of course, the Pro version has a little more to offer than its sibling.
Ring Alarm Gen 2
Ring Alarm Gen 2 keeps it classic. It’s the straightforward, no-frills home security system that gets the job done without making you feel like you’re navigating a rocketship. And as such, it’s got all the good stuff you’d need.
The Good Stuff:
- DIY Installation: This system is easier to set up than your grandma’s famous cookie recipe. Seriously, even if you still have nightmares about assembling that IKEA furniture, you’ll be just fine.
- App Control: With the Ring Alarm 2, you’re like the wizard of your own home. Control everything from your phone with a tap.
- Sensors and Detectors: Ring’s got you covered with door/window sensors and motion detectors.
- 24/7 Monitoring (Optional): You can add professional monitoring, so while you’re out camping or enjoying the outdoors, someone’s always got an eye on the fort.
If you want a more in-depth look into the Gen 2, you can click on this link to our hands-on review or on this video if you’re more of a visual learner.
Ring Alarm Pro
If the Ring Alarm 2 is like your classic, reliable blue jeans, then the Ring Alarm Pro is the fresh-off-the-rack designer denim with more features. It’s got everything the standard alarm system has plus a built-in Eero Wi-Fi 6 router.
The Good Stuff:
- Built-In Eero 6 Wi-Fi: With Eero’s reliable Wi-Fi 6 technology on board, Ring Alarm Pro essentially gives you a router upgrade and ensures that your home security doesn’t freeze when your internet service provider does a vanishing act.
- Expandable Backup Power: The Alarm Pro essentially turns your home into a worry-free zone where your network doesn’t need to take a power nap, even when the power’s out.
- eero Secure: Steps up your network security game and system management capabilities. It offers an array of features to enhance your online safety, such as threat scans, content filters, ad-blocking, and even more detailed insights into your network’s activity
Making the Decision
Deciding between the Ring Alarm 2 and the Ring Alarm Pro feels a bit like standing at a tech crossroads. The decision all boils down to what you need and want from your home alarm system.
First off, let’s talk Cost vs. Features. Ring Alarm 2 is reliable, straightforward, and doesn’t break the bank. It covers all the basics of home security without asking for much in return. The Ring Alarm Pro, on the other hand, is a little pricier, but it also doubles as a Wi-Fi router courtesy of Eero integration and throws in local video storage among other advanced features. So let’s call it how it is – are you saving for a rainy day or investing in a versatile piece?
On to the realm of Flexibility and Expansion. Both systems nod in agreement here; they’ve got you covered with options to add more sensors and gadgets down the line. In fact, they have similar kit offerings with the 8-piece kits looking identical if not for the larger base station.
Now, let’s not forget about the Set-Up and Use. Both Ring versions have a reputation for being delightful to set up, with clear instructions and an intuitive app that virtually holds your hand through the process. However, the Alarm Pro is essentially going to replace your Wi-Fi router so you have that extra bit of set-up to go through.
The deal breaker lies in the Coverage and Reliability. Because what’s a security system if it occasionally decides to take a nap, right? Both Ring Alarm 2 and Pro are vigilant watch dogs, but the Pro version, with its added Eero Wi-Fi mesh capabilities, backup power, and 24/7 emergency network ensures your system stays connected even if the power or your network goes out. However, do make sure to invest in the Ring Protect Pro plan to enjoy most of these extra features.
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