Ring today introduced the Ring Protect, a customizable home security system with a companion iPhone app.
The security system includes a base station, a wall-mounted keypad, one sensor for a window or door, an infrared motion detector, and a Z-Wave extender. Unfortunately, the system doesn't support HomeKit.
When activated, if a burglar attempts attempts to break and enter, homeowners immediately receive a notification on their smartphones.
Ring also offers an optional protection plan with 24/7 professional monitoring, similar to what a company like ADT provides, for $10 per month or $100 per year with no long-term contract. Battery and/or LTE backup allows the monitoring to continue even if the power goes out or broadband is unavailable.
By comparison, ADT currently charges between $36.99 and $52.99 per month for its monitoring plans in the United States, with a required 36-month contract and a $99 installation fee for the security system.
Ring said the security system can be easily installed by a homeowner without any tools. It works seamlessly with all of Ring's other products, including its Video Doorbell, Floodlight Cam, and Spotlight Cam.
Ring Protect starts at $199, which is considerably cheaper than the Nest Secure at $499. Additional door and window sensors are available for $20, while extra motion detectors cost $30, from Ring's products page.
Ring Protect will be available for pre-order starting today at Ring.com, HomeDepot.com, and BestBuy.com, and will be available at physical Home Depot and Best Buy retail stores in the United States later this month.
Note: Readers outside of the United States may not be able to view the Ring Protect product page on Ring.com.
Top Rated Comments
* The most obvious benefit is Home app, accessible from Control Center. Being able to see the status of all my home automation devices in one screen, control them, and create automation rules is something I do not want to give up.
* Siri has gotten a lot of criticisms, but it works well enough for me most of the time and it will only get better. Without Siri or Home, I need to run vendor's app. I don't mind running vendor's app once in awhile, but at the same time, I am getting sick of managing dozens of apps.
* With HomeKit, even if the vendor goes out of business, I will be able to use the device (provided the device does not require proprietary cloud service).
* Some vendors have pretty nice apps, but most are terrible. If I don't like Home app, there are many other HomeKit alternatives.
* Security. HomeKit requires more stringent security. Provided the device does not have vendor proprietary cloud service, I am more assured that my devices are not at risk for hacking.