Do you need the chime for the Ring Doorbell to work? No, the Ring Chime is an optional accessory that can extend your Wi-Fi’s range and notify you of doorbell alerts. While it is not necessary for your Ring Doorbell to function, it does offer some benefits that you might find useful.
You can still receive notifications from your Ring Doorbell on your smartphone through the Ring app, even without the Chime. However, if you prefer the traditional sound of a doorbell, or want others in your home without access to the app to be notified when someone is at the door, the Ring Chime can be a helpful addition.
Table of Contents
Overview of Ring Doorbell and Ring Chime
Ring Doorbell Overview
The Ring Doorbell is a smart doorbell that allows you to monitor your front door and interact with visitors no matter where you are. When someone presses the doorbell or the device detects motion, you receive a notification on your smartphone, tablet, or computer. You can then view a live video feed and communicate with your visitors through two-way audio.
One of the main advantages of the Ring Doorbell is its easy installation process and compatibility with a range of devices. You don’t need to replace your existing doorbell wiring, making it suitable for homeowners and renters alike.
Ring Chime Overview
The Ring Chime is an optional accessory designed to work with your Ring Doorbell. It plugs into a wall socket and connects to your Wi-Fi network. Its primary function is to send real-time notifications every time your doorbell is pressed and when motion is detected by your doorbell or security cameras.
The Ring Chime Pro is an upgraded version that offers additional features such as extending your Wi-Fi network’s range, dual-band 2.4Ghz & 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, a built-in nightlight, and guided feedback during the setup process to help you find the best location for your Chime Pro.
While the Ring Chime and Chime Pro are not mandatory for the operation of your Ring Doorbell, they can be a valuable addition to your setup, especially if you require better Wi-Fi coverage for your devices or desire a more traditional audible chime in your home.
Ring Chime Functionality
The Ring Chime is an optional accessory designed to enhance the functionality of your Ring Doorbell and security cameras. In this section, we will discuss the benefits of using a Ring Chime and how it integrates with Ring Devices.
Benefits of Chime
Although you do not need the Ring Chime to fully operate your Ring Doorbell, it offers some useful benefits:
- Wireless notifications: The Chime serves as a wireless notification device with a built-in speaker, eliminating the need to rely solely on your smartphone for alerts.
- Flexibility: With a simple setup process, you can easily install the Chime in any room in your house for optimal visitor notifications.
- Customizable tones: The Ring app allows you to choose from a variety of notification tones, tailoring the Chime alerts to your preferences.
- Peace of mind: You can be assured you will never miss a visitor or security alert, even if you are away from your phone or have it on silent.
Integration with Ring Devices
Connecting your Ring Chime to your Ring Doorbell or security cameras is a straightforward process:
- Open the Ring app on your smartphone.
- Tap the three lines in the top left corner of the Dashboard.
- Select the doorbell or security camera you wish to connect to the Chime
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the connection process.
Once connected, the Ring Chime will play a pre-set tone each time someone presses your Ring Doorbell, or when your security camera detects motion. The integration of the Chime with your Ring devices ensures you’re always informed of activity at your door, regardless of your location within your home.
Alternatives to Using Chime
If you’re looking to use your Ring Doorbell without the need for a separate chime, there are other options available. In this section, we’ll explore two alternatives: Ring App notifications and Amazon Echo integration.
Ring App Notifications
One of the primary alternatives to using a chime with your Ring Doorbell is to rely on the Ring app notifications that are sent directly to your smartphone. All you need to do is install the Ring app on your phone, and it will notify you every time someone is at your door. This way, you don’t have to worry about missing any visitor, whether you’re at home or away.
To set up Ring app notifications, you will need to connect your Ring Doorbell to your Wi-Fi network and pair it with your phone through the app. Once the setup process is complete, you can customize your notifications to meet your needs.
Amazon Echo Integration
Another excellent alternative to using a chime is integrating your Ring Doorbell with an Amazon Echo device. When connected, your Echo device can serve as the doorbell chime and announce any doorbell activity detected by your Ring Doorbell.
To connect your Ring Doorbell with an Amazon Echo, you simply need to enable the Ring Skill through the Alexa app. Once enabled, you can use voice commands to control your Ring Doorbell and receive alerts on your Echo device when someone is at your door.
With these alternatives, you can make the most of your Ring Doorbell experience without the need for an additional chime. Both Ring app notifications and Amazon Echo integration will keep you informed of any visitor activity and provide you with the convenience and efficiency you’re looking for in a smart doorbell system.
Chime Installation and Setup
In this section, we will discuss the installation and setup process of your Ring Doorbell, focusing on the Chime Installation Process and Hardwiring Ring Doorbell.
Chime Installation Process
Start by deciding whether you want to use a Ring Chime or an existing in-home chime. The Ring Chime is an optional, supplementary device that helps extend the reach of your Wi-Fi network and notify you of doorbell presses.
If you choose to use the Ring Chime, follow these steps:
- Plug the Ring Chime into an electrical outlet.
- Open the Ring App and tap the three lines on the top left.
- Select “Devices” and tap the doorbell you want to connect to the chime.
- Go to “Device Settings,” followed by “In-home Chime Settings.”
- Tap “Automatic Chime Detection” and allow the app to detect your Ring Chime.
If you prefer using an existing in-home chime, you will need to connect it to your Ring Doorbell during the setup process (see Hardwiring Ring Doorbell below).
Hardwiring Ring Doorbell
When hardwiring your Ring Doorbell, ensure compatibility with your doorbell system by checking the voltage requirements: 10-24 volts AC, 50 or 60 Hz, 20-40 VA max. Here is a step-by-step guide to hardwire your Ring Doorbell:
- Turn off the power to your existing doorbell at the circuit breaker.
- If necessary, install the included jumper cable to bypass and disable your existing in-home chime.
- Remove the cover from your existing doorbell chime.
- Wire the Ring Doorbell to your in-home chime.
By following the installation and setup steps provided, you can successfully set up your Ring Doorbell with or without using the Ring Chime. Remember that the choice of using a Ring Chime is optional and depends on your personal preference and needs.
Ring Chime Pro
The Ring Chime Pro is an optional accessory for your Ring Doorbell that offers several useful features.
Benefits of Chime Pro
One key benefit of the Chime Pro is its flexibility. When paired with your Ring Doorbell, it can notify you of doorbell presses through audible chimes, ensuring you never miss a visitor. Additionally, the Chime Pro device is compatible with any Ring video doorbell or security camera product, making it a versatile addition to your home security setup.
The Chime Pro also features a built-in automatic nightlight, which can add an extra layer of confidence and peace of mind as you navigate your home in the dark.
Chime Pro as WiFi Extender
Another significant advantage of the Ring Chime Pro is its functionality as a WiFi extender. Many homes face WiFi signal issues, which can affect the performance of your smart devices. By acting as a WiFi extender, the Chime Pro can boost the network for all your Ring Video Doorbells and Cams, ensuring a reliable connection and seamless performance.
When setting up your Ring devices, it is recommended to set up your Ring Chime Pro first, followed by your Ring video doorbell or security camera. This helps ensure your devices are properly connected and benefit from the WiFi extending capabilities of the Chime Pro.