Introduction:

The Ring Video Doorbell 4, which recently hit the market, comes with some minor improvements to its predecessor while still maintaining the popular features that made the previous models attractive to homeowners. In this review, we will explore those upgrades and whether or not these changes are worth the investment for those considering a video doorbell for their homes.

Key Features:

The Ring Video Doorbell 4, like its predecessors, offers motion detection, bidirectional audio communication, night vision capabilities, and customizable privacy settings. This time around though, several tweaks have been made to enhance user experience with the device:

1. Color Pre-Roll: One of the significant upgrades in this model is the introduction of color pre-roll, which captures four seconds of 1080p color video before motion is detected. This feature enables homeowners to get a better view of what led up to a detected motion event. This technology operates on low power consumption, ensuring that your doorbell won’t drain your battery at an accelerated pace.

2. Improved Battery life: The Ring Video Doorbell 4 comes with better battery efficiency than the previous model; users can expect about one month of usage on a single charge. As an additional feature, you can also purchase a Quick Release battery pack that makes swapping batteries easier and faster.

3. Quick Replies: The Quick Replies feature allows homeowners to choose from six preset responses that play automatically when a visitor rings the doorbell. This helps in managing visitors when you are unable to tend to them immediately.

4. Compatibility: The Ring Video Doorbell 4 is compatible with Alexa-enabled devices and integrates easily with other smart home systems like Amazon Echo.

The Drawbacks:

While the new features in this device do provide some convenience upgrades, there are also some potential drawbacks that users should be aware of:

1. Subscription: To make full use of the Ring Video Doorbell 4, you will need to pay for a monthly Ring Protect plan ($3/month or $30/year) that offers access to recorded footage. Users who do not subscribe only have access to the live feed.

2. Minor Improvements: Some users might find the improvements in this version of the device minimal compared to the previous models, especially considering the price difference.

Conclusion:

The Ring Video Doorbell 4 offers some minor upgrades that enhance user experience, such as the color pre-roll feature and improved battery life. These features can prove beneficial for users looking for an enhanced video door bell experience with added conveniences. However, users who are satisfied with their current model or those on a strict budget may want to weigh the value of these enhancements before investing in the new device.