Ever worry about who’s at your apartment door when you’re not home? It’s a common thought for apartment dwellers. Many people want an extra layer of security, but finding the right Ring camera for a rental can feel like a puzzle. You might wonder if you can even install one, or which features are most important for your situation.
Choosing a Ring camera for your apartment isn’t always straightforward. You might have questions about drilling holes, battery life, or whether it will work with your building’s Wi-Fi. These concerns can make the decision feel overwhelming. But what if there was a way to easily figure out the best fit for your needs?
This post is here to help you cut through the confusion. We’ll explore the top Ring camera options perfect for apartments, explain their key features in simple terms, and offer tips on installation without causing any damage. By the end, you’ll feel confident about choosing a Ring camera that gives you peace of mind.
Our Top 5 Ring Camera For Apartments Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Ring Camera For Apartments Detailed Reviews
1. Ring Battery Doorbell
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your home or business security with the Ring Battery Doorbell in a stylish Venetian Bronze finish. This newest model offers expanded viewing with Head-to-Toe Video, letting you see more of what’s happening at your doorstep. It’s designed for easy setup and keeps you connected through your phone.
What We Like:
- Head-to-Toe Video: See 66% more of your visitors and packages with the latest version.
- Built-In Battery: Enjoy flexible installation with a rechargeable battery that charges easily via USB-C.
- Simple Setup: Charge it, mount it, and connect to your phone in minutes.
- Two-Way Talk: See and speak to whoever is at your door from anywhere.
- Motion Alerts: Get instant notifications on your phone when motion is detected.
- Smart Alerts (Subscription): Receive specific alerts for people or packages.
- Alexa Integration: Hear custom alerts and control your doorbell with compatible Alexa devices.
What Could Be Improved:
- Subscription Required for Some Features: Advanced alerts like package detection and 24/7 recording need a separate Ring Home subscription.
- Battery Life: While convenient, the battery will need periodic recharging.
The Ring Battery Doorbell provides a clear view and easy communication, making it a smart choice for enhanced security. It’s a user-friendly way to keep an eye on your property and connect with visitors, even when you’re not home.
2. Ring Battery Doorbell
Rating: 8.9/10
The Ring Battery Doorbell, in a stylish Satin Nickel finish, brings enhanced security and convenience to your home or business. This newest model offers a wider view with its Head-to-Toe Video, letting you see more of what’s happening right at your doorstep. It’s designed for easy setup and keeps you connected, whether you’re home or away.
What We Like:
- Wider View: Get 66% more vertical coverage with Head-to-Toe Video. You can see packages on the ground and people from head to toe.
- Easy Installation: Charge the built-in battery with USB-C, attach it to your wall, and connect to your phone. It’s a snap to set up.
- Talk to Visitors: See and speak with anyone at your door using Live View and Two-Way Talk right from your phone.
- Motion Alerts: Receive instant notifications on your phone when motion is detected.
- Smart Alerts: Get notifications that tell you if there’s a person or a package at your door (requires a subscription).
- Alexa Integration: Hear custom alerts on Echo devices and use hands-free monitoring with compatible Alexa devices.
- Rechargeable Battery: The doorbell has a built-in battery that you can easily recharge.
What Could Be Improved:
- Subscription Needed for Some Features: To get Smart Alerts for people and packages, and to record video 24/7, you’ll need a separate Ring Home subscription.
- Battery Life: While rechargeable, battery life can vary depending on usage and settings, meaning you might need to recharge it periodically.
This Ring Battery Doorbell offers a great balance of advanced features and user-friendly design. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting better visibility and control over their home or business security.
3. KIMILAR Anti-Theft Video Doorbell Mount Compatible with Ring/Blink Wireless Video Doorbell
Rating: 9.5/10
Keep your video doorbell safe and sound with the KIMILAR Anti-Theft Video Doorbell Mount. This clever bracket is designed to protect your Ring or Blink doorbell from being stolen, giving you peace of mind whether you live in a house, apartment, or run a business. It’s a smart solution for anyone who wants to add security without the worry of losing their valuable doorbell.
What We Like:
- Super Secure Design: This mount has a special anti-theft feature that makes it really hard for thieves to take your doorbell. Designers worked hard to make it strong and good-looking.
- Works with Many Doorbells: It fits most Ring Video Doorbells (generations 1-4, 2020, 2023, and 2024 models) and Blink Video Doorbells. Just make sure your doorbell is not wider than 2.55 inches, not taller than 5.11 inches, and not deeper than 1.14 inches.
- Fits Most Doors: The bracket works with doors between 0.6 and 2.3 inches thick. It’s made for doors that open inwards, no matter if they open to the left or right.
- Simple to Set Up: You just pop your doorbell into the mount and adjust the clips to fit your door. It’s quick and easy! Instructions and all the needed parts come in the box.
- Adjustable Angle: A cool feature lets you slide the mount to change how far your doorbell sticks out from the door.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not for Security Doors: This mount won’t work if you have a security door.
- Door Thickness Check: You need to measure your door thickness to make sure it fits before buying.
This KIMILAR mount is a fantastic way to protect your video doorbell. It offers strong security and is easy to use, making it a great addition to your home security setup.
4. Blink Video Doorbell (newest model) – Head-to-toe HD view
Rating: 8.8/10
The Blink Video Doorbell (newest model) is a smart security camera for your front door. It gives you a clear view of who is there, day or night. This doorbell is designed to be easy to set up and use, offering peace of mind no matter where you are.
What We Like:
- The battery lasts up to two years, so you don’t have to change it often.
- It has a wide view, so you can see people from head to toe.
- Night vision lets you see clearly even in the dark.
- You can talk to visitors through the Blink app.
- Setting it up is simple, either wire-free or by connecting to your existing doorbell wires.
- It works with Alexa, so you can use voice commands.
- You get alerts when someone is detected.
- You can save and share video clips with a subscription.
- The Sync Module Core is included to help it work.
What Could Be Improved:
- A Blink Subscription Plan is needed for some features like person detection alerts and cloud storage.
- Using it as an indoor chime without wiring requires a separate Blink Mini 2 camera.
This Blink Video Doorbell offers great features for home security and convenience. It’s a solid choice for keeping an eye on your front door.
5. Anti Theft Ring Doorbell Mount: Metal Ring Apartment Door Mount Blink Doorbell Camera Holder No Drill – Renter Friendly Ring Doorbell Mount No Damage
Rating: 8.7/10
Protect your Ring or Blink doorbell without damaging your apartment door! This metal mount is designed for renters who need a secure and easy-to-use solution. It fits most Ring doorbells, including the latest models. It also works with Blink doorbells. You can install and remove it in minutes.
What We Like:
- It’s renter-friendly because it requires no drilling.
- The strong metal build makes it truly anti-theft.
- It protects your door with a special silicone pad.
- It’s easy to install and remove.
- It works with many Ring doorbell models.
- It’s also compatible with Blink doorbells.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only works on inward-swinging doors.
- Your door needs a specific gap (at least 0.06”) between the door and frame.
- It’s not suitable for storm doors, screen doors, or iron security doors.
This mount offers peace of mind for renters. It’s a solid choice for securing your smart doorbell without any hassle.
Ring Cameras for Apartments: Your Guide to Smarter Living
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have peace of mind. Ring cameras offer a fantastic way to keep an eye on your space, whether you’re home or away. This guide will help you pick the best Ring camera for your apartment needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
When choosing a Ring camera for your apartment, focus on these important features:
- Motion Detection: This is a big one. The camera should alert you when it sees movement. Some cameras let you set specific zones so you only get notified about what matters.
- Two-Way Talk: This lets you speak and listen through the camera. You can greet a delivery person or tell someone to leave your package.
- Night Vision: Good night vision means the camera can see clearly even when it’s dark.
- Video Quality: Look for cameras that record in high definition (HD). This makes it easier to see details.
- Power Source: Some cameras plug into an outlet. Others run on batteries, which can be easier to install if you can’t drill holes.
- Connectivity: Ensure the camera connects easily to your home Wi-Fi network.
2. Important Materials and Design
Ring cameras are usually made from durable plastic. This helps them withstand everyday use. For apartment living, consider:
- Size and Shape: Smaller, more discreet cameras might be better for apartments. Some cameras are designed to blend in.
- Mounting Options: If you can’t drill into walls, look for cameras with strong adhesive mounts or those that can sit on a shelf.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make your Ring camera work better or worse:
- Wi-Fi Signal Strength: A strong Wi-Fi signal is crucial. If your Wi-Fi is weak, the video might be choppy or the camera might disconnect.
- Camera Placement: Putting the camera in a good spot helps it see everything important. Avoid pointing it directly at bright lights, which can make the image too dark.
- App Settings: Adjusting the motion detection sensitivity and notification settings in the Ring app can greatly improve your experience.
- Battery Life (for battery-powered cameras): Keeping batteries charged is important. Regularly check the battery level in the app.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Ring cameras are designed to be easy to use. The Ring app is your control center.
Common Uses for Apartment Dwellers:
- Package Monitoring: See when your packages arrive and if anyone tries to take them.
- Visitor Identification: Know who is at your door before you open it.
- Pet Monitoring: Check in on your furry friends while you’re out.
- Deterring Intruders: The presence of a camera can discourage potential burglars.
- Keeping an Eye on Deliveries: Make sure your food or other deliveries are handled correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ring Cameras for Apartments
Q: Can I use a Ring camera in an apartment without drilling holes?
A: Yes, many Ring cameras can be used without drilling. Some have adhesive mounts, or you can place them on shelves or tables.
Q: Do I need a Ring Protect Plan?
A: A Ring Protect Plan is optional but recommended. It lets you save and share videos. Without it, you can still use live view and motion alerts.
Q: How does motion detection work?
A: The camera detects movement and sends an alert to your phone. You can customize which areas trigger alerts.
Q: Can I see my Ring camera feed when I’m not home?
A: Yes, you can view live video from your camera anytime through the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
Q: What kind of internet speed do I need for a Ring camera?
A: Ring recommends at least 2 Mbps upload speed for one camera. More cameras might need faster speeds.
Q: Are Ring cameras easy to set up?
A: Most Ring cameras are designed for easy setup. You usually just need to connect them to Wi-Fi using the app.
Q: Can I use a Ring camera for my balcony?
A: Yes, you can use a Ring camera on your balcony. Just make sure it’s protected from the weather if it’s not designed for outdoor use.
Q: What if my apartment has weak Wi-Fi?
A: You might need to move your router closer to the camera or consider a Wi-Fi extender to improve the signal.
Q: Can I connect multiple Ring cameras?
A: Yes, you can connect multiple Ring cameras to your account and manage them all through the Ring app.
Q: Are there Ring cameras that don’t need batteries?
A: Yes, some Ring cameras plug directly into a power outlet, so you don’t have to worry about charging batteries.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.