Ring's new Video Doorbell Pro 3 leads a lineup of redesigned doorbells with a sleeker look and significant upgrades. The top model costs £219.99 (€249.99/$249.99/A$329.99) and is available in wired or battery versions. It features a 4K camera, dual-band wifi 6, and radar-based motion tracking, along with optional AI-powered subscription features.
Design and Camera Improvements
The doorbell retains Ring's signature two-tone colour scheme and chime but has a more modern, rounded shape. The wired model includes interchangeable coloured faceplates. The 4K camera captures fine detail, enabling digital zoom up to 10x and the ability to read a car numberplate from about nine metres away. Low-light performance is notably improved, especially in mixed lighting conditions, with a crisp infrared mode for night vision.
The 140-degree square field of view shows visitors head to toe, and package detection alerts users to boxes left at the door. Radar-based motion tracking provides an aerial view of movement and allows customisation of detection distance to reduce false alerts.
Connectivity and Power Options
Upgraded to wifi 6, the doorbell offers faster live view sessions and better performance in congested areas, eliminating the need for a wifi booster in many cases. The wired model requires a low-voltage transformer (included) or Ring's plug-in adaptor, while the battery version offers easier installation. The wired model provides six seconds of full-colour HD pre-roll video before an event, and can continuously record 24/7 with an extra monthly fee. The battery model offers four seconds of lower-definition pre-roll without sound in low light.
Subscription and AI Features
While basic functions work without a subscription, cloud storage and advanced features require a plan. Ring Solo costs from £4.99 per month and includes 180 days of event videos, smart alerts (person, package, vehicle), and animated previews. Ring Multi covers multiple cameras at one location from £7.99 per month. The top-tier Ring Pro plan costs from £15.99 per month and adds AI features such as video descriptions, search by description, and facial recognition for frequent visitors. Unusual event alerts learn patterns and reduce notifications to only those that warrant attention; the reviewer saw alerts drop from about 30 per day to just a few. These AI features can be added to lower plans for £3 per month per camera, and 24/7 recording costs an additional £3 per month per camera.
Sustainability and Verdict
Ring commits to software updates until at least 31 December 2030. The device uses 25% recycled materials, and the company offers trade-in and recycling schemes. The Video Doorbell Pro 3 is priced competitively against rivals like the Google Nest Doorbell (£179.99) and Eufy Video Doorbell E340 (£169.99). It excels in camera quality and low-light performance, and the AI features effectively combat notification fatigue. However, the requirement for a subscription and lack of local recording are notable drawbacks. The wired model eliminates battery charging and offers better pre-roll video, but requires existing wiring.
