So, you’ve got a Ring Doorbell 2 – awesome choice! It’s super handy for seeing who’s at your door and keeping an eye on your home. But let’s be real, relying solely on your phone for notifications isn’t always practical. What if your phone’s on silent, or you’re in another room? That’s where a good chime comes in. It gives you an audible alert, just like a traditional doorbell, ensuring you never miss a visitor or an important delivery.
Finding the best chime for Ring Doorbell 2 isn’t just about hearing a “ding-dong.” It’s about seamlessly integrating with your smart home, extending your Wi-Fi, and giving you peace of mind. While the original Ring Doorbell 2 connects to your Ring app for alerts, adding a dedicated chime significantly boosts its functionality and your overall home security experience.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the top chimes and related Ring devices that can truly enhance your Ring Doorbell 2 setup. We’ll break down what makes each one stand out, so you can pick the perfect addition to your smart home.
Understanding Your Ring Chime Options
Before we dive into the products, it’s helpful to understand that not all “chimes” are created equal, especially when it comes to Ring.
- Wireless Smart Chimes: These are designed specifically to work with your Ring devices, connecting via Wi-Fi to provide audible alerts. They offer custom tones and volume control through the Ring app. (e.g., Ring Chime, Ring Chime Pro).
- Traditional Wired Chimes: These are your classic doorbell chimes that require existing doorbell wiring and a transformer. While some Ring doorbells can be hardwired to utilize an existing chime, they don’t offer the same smart features or direct app control as the dedicated Ring chimes.
- Ring Doorbells Themselves: It’s worth noting that sometimes products listed as “chimes” are actually different Ring doorbell models. We’ll clarify these distinctions below.
Let’s explore the options!
Our Top Picks for Enhancing Your Ring Doorbell 2 Setup
Here are the products we’ll be reviewing, keeping in mind that some are actual chimes and others are related Ring devices that you might consider for a comprehensive system.
Ring Chime
The original Ring Chime is a fantastic, no-fuss accessory that serves as the perfect companion for your Ring Doorbell 2. It’s designed to do one job — alert you when someone rings your doorbell or when motion is detected by your connected Ring cameras and doorbells — and it does it exceptionally well. Simple to set up and discreet, it blends right into any room, ensuring you hear those important notifications loud and clear, even when your phone isn’t handy.
-
Key Features:
- Hear real-time notifications for doorbell rings and motion detection.
- Easy plug-in setup and Wi-Fi connection.
- Choose from a variety of tones and adjust volume via the Ring app.
- Ability to temporarily snooze alerts.
- Connectivity: 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi connection 2.4 GHz.
-
Pros:
- Affordable and effective way to get audible alerts.
- Simple and quick installation.
- Full control over tones and volume through the Ring app.
- Reliable connection to Ring devices.
-
Cons:
- Does not extend Wi-Fi range.
- No nightlight feature.
-
User Impressions: Users love its straightforward functionality and how it solves the problem of missed notifications. Many highlight its ease of use and the convenience of being able to pick different chimes and adjust volume from their phones. It’s often praised as an essential addition for anyone with a Ring doorbell.
Ring Chime Pro
Stepping up from the basic Ring Chime, the Ring Chime Pro is a true multi-tasker that brings even more value to your Ring ecosystem. Not only does it provide those crucial audible alerts for your Ring Doorbell 2 and other Ring cameras, but it also doubles as a Wi-Fi extender! This is a game-changer if your doorbell is a bit far from your router or struggles with connectivity. Plus, the built-in nightlight adds a subtle, reassuring glow, making it a powerful 3-in-1 solution for any Ring enthusiast.
-
Key Features:
- Acts as a Wi-Fi extender for all your Ring doorbells and cameras (up to 2000 sq. ft.).
- Hear real-time notifications for doorbell rings and motion detection.
- Easy plug-in setup and Wi-Fi connection.
- Includes a built-in nightlight that automatically turns on.
- Choose from a variety of tones and adjust volume via the Ring app.
- Ability to temporarily snooze alerts.
- Connectivity: 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi connection 2.4 or 5.0 GHz.
-
Pros:
- Significantly improves Wi-Fi signal for Ring devices.
- Offers dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 & 5.0 GHz) for better performance.
- Convenient nightlight feature.
- Provides all the chime features of the standard Ring Chime.
- Excellent for larger homes or areas with poor Wi-Fi.
-
Cons:
- Higher price point than the standard Ring Chime.
- Requires an outlet, but the nightlight means it’s often placed in common areas.
-
User Impressions: Customers frequently rave about the Wi-Fi extension capabilities, noting significant improvements in live view loading times and overall device reliability. The nightlight is a pleasant bonus, and users appreciate the flexibility of dual-band Wi-Fi. It’s often considered a worthwhile investment for a more stable and robust Ring system.
Newhouse Hardware White 2-Note Wired Door Bell Chime CHM1
While the Ring Chime and Chime Pro are wireless smart devices, the Newhouse Hardware CHM1 is a classic, wired doorbell chime. It’s not a smart chime designed to wirelessly integrate with your Ring Doorbell 2. However, if your Ring Doorbell 2 is hardwired to your existing doorbell wiring (which allows it to trickle charge and potentially use your existing indoor chime), this Newhouse unit could serve as a stylish replacement for an old, broken, or outdated traditional chime. It offers a clean, modern look and distinct two-note and one-note chimes for different doors. It’s best suited for a wired doorbell system, not for direct wireless pairing with a Ring Doorbell 2 unless you’re leveraging its hardwired capabilities to trigger an existing indoor chime.
-
Key Features:
- Modern and unobtrusive design blends into any décor.
- 2 distinct chime notes (“ding-dong” for front, “ding” for back/side).
- Supports up to two push buttons for multi-door setups.
- Ideal for replacing older wired chimes or new construction.
- Easy to install with mounting screws included.
-
Pros:
- Classic, reliable wired chime functionality.
- Clean aesthetic.
- Clear and distinct chime tones.
- Good for traditional wired setups or replacements.
-
Cons:
- Does NOT wirelessly connect to Ring Doorbell 2.
- Requires existing doorbell wiring, transformer, and push buttons.
- No smart features, app control, or custom tones.
- Won’t provide notifications if your Ring Doorbell 2 is running purely on battery.
-
User Impressions: Users appreciate its simple, timeless design and the clear, classic chime sounds. It’s often chosen for its reliability and ease of installation as a direct replacement for older wired chime units. It’s a solid choice for those with traditional wired systems or who want to upgrade their existing hardwired chime in conjunction with a hardwired-capable Ring doorbell.
Ring Battery Doorbell, Head-to-Toe Video, Live View with…
It’s important to clarify: this product is a doorbell, not a chime. In fact, based on its features, this is likely the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen), which is essentially what most people refer to as the “Ring Doorbell 2” or its successor. If you’re looking for the best chime for Ring Doorbell 2, this isn’t it – this is the doorbell itself! It offers excellent features like head-to-toe video, a built-in rechargeable battery, and smart alerts. While it sends notifications to your phone and can be paired with a separate Ring Chime for audible alerts, it won’t produce a chime sound on its own.
-
Key Features:
- Head-to-Toe Video for wider vertical coverage.
- Built-in rechargeable battery with USB-C charging.
- Easy, snap-in installation.
- Live View and Two-Way Talk for real-time interaction.
- Real-time motion detection alerts.
- Smart Alerts for person and package detection (with subscription).
- Connects with Alexa for voice announcements and video streams.
- Ring Protect Plan compatibility for recorded video history.
-
Pros:
- Excellent video quality and field of view.
- Wire-free installation thanks to the built-in battery.
- Comprehensive smart features for home monitoring.
- Seamless integration with the Ring app and Alexa.
-
Cons:
- Requires periodic recharging if not hardwired.
- Advanced features like person/package detection require a Ring Protect subscription.
- Does not function as a chime; requires a separate chime unit for audible indoor alerts.
-
User Impressions: Highly praised for its convenience, ease of installation, and improved video capabilities. Users love the flexibility of battery power and the enhanced view. Many find the smart alerts valuable, noting that a Ring Chime is a necessary companion to get indoor audible notifications without always checking their phone.
Ring Video Doorbell Wired (newest model), Use Two-Way Talk…
Just like the previous item, this is another doorbell model, not a chime. The Ring Video Doorbell Wired is a great entry-level wired doorbell that offers 1080p HD video and essential Ring features without needing battery recharges. It’s designed to be hardwired into your existing doorbell wiring. Crucially, it does not sound your existing chime; you’ll need to pair it with a Ring Chime, a compatible Alexa device, or choose a bundle that includes a Chime to get indoor audible notifications. So, if you’re seeking the best chime for Ring Doorbell 2, this product isn’t it, but it’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable, hardwired Ring doorbell.
-
Key Features:
- 1080p HD wired video doorbell with two-way talk.
- Advanced motion detection and customizable privacy settings.
- Standard 2.4 GHz connectivity.
- Night vision with sharp contrast.
- Hardwired installation for around-the-clock power.
- Connects with Alexa for motion alerts and Live View.
- Ring Protect Plan compatibility for recorded video and smart alerts.
-
Pros:
- Always-on power, no battery charging needed.
- Affordable entry point into the Ring ecosystem.
- Reliable performance for video and motion detection.
- Compact design.
-
Cons:
- Requires existing doorbell wiring for power.
- Does not use your existing indoor chime; a separate Ring Chime or Alexa device is needed for audible alerts.
- No 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi option.
-
User Impressions: Users appreciate its reliable wired connection and the fact that they never have to worry about battery life. It’s often recommended for its value and consistent performance, with many noting that purchasing a Ring Chime alongside it is essential for a complete notification experience.
Ring Spare Parts for Ring Wired Doorbell Pro (Video…
This product is neither a chime nor a doorbell itself. As the title suggests, it’s a kit of spare parts specifically for the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro (also known as Video Doorbell Pro 2). This kit includes essentials like a screwdriver, power kit, mounting screws, security screws, wire extenders, and wire nuts. While these parts are vital for setting up or maintaining a different Ring doorbell model, they are not a chime for your Ring Doorbell 2. If you happen to own a Ring Doorbell Pro 2 and need replacement parts for installation, this kit is what you’d look for.
-
Key Features:
- Includes a variety of spare parts for Ring Wired Doorbell Pro (Video Doorbell Pro 2).
- Comes with a screwdriver, Pro Power Kit, mounting hardware, and wiring accessories.
- Designed for quick and easy setup or maintenance.
-
Pros:
- Essential for installing or re-installing the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro 2.
- Provides all necessary small hardware in one convenient kit.
-
Cons:
- Only works with Ring Wired Doorbell Pro (Video Doorbell Pro 2).
- Not a chime or a doorbell.
- Irrelevant if you do not own the specific Doorbell Pro 2 model.
-
User Impressions: Customers who need these parts find them incredibly useful for replacing lost components or ensuring a smooth installation of their Doorbell Pro 2. It’s seen as a convenient solution for specific hardware needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Ring Setup
When deciding on the perfect additions for your Ring Doorbell 2, think about these points:
- Wi-Fi Coverage: Is your Ring Doorbell 2 experiencing connection issues? A Ring Chime Pro’s Wi-Fi extender feature might be exactly what you need.
- Notification Preferences: Do you primarily want audible indoor alerts, or are phone notifications enough? A dedicated Ring Chime ensures you hear every visitor.
- Smart Home Integration: All Ring devices work seamlessly with the Ring app and Alexa. Consider how you want your notifications to integrate with your existing smart home setup.
- Existing Wiring: If you have existing doorbell wiring, decide if you want to leverage it for power (for certain Ring doorbell models) or stick with battery power. If hardwiring your Ring Doorbell 2, remember it might not use your old chime directly without specific setup or a Ring Chime.
- Budget: Ring Chimes are generally affordable, while the doorbells themselves represent a larger investment.
- Ring Protect Plan: While not a chime, remember that a Ring Protect Plan subscription unlocks advanced features like recorded video history, person detection, and package alerts for your Ring doorbells.
FAQ Section
Q1: Do I need a Ring Chime for my Ring Doorbell 2?
A1: While your Ring Doorbell 2 will send notifications to your smartphone via the Ring app, a separate Ring Chime provides an audible indoor alert, just like a traditional doorbell. This ensures you hear visitors even if your phone is on silent, out of reach, or if you prefer not to carry it around your home.
Q2: What’s the difference between the Ring Chime and Ring Chime Pro?
A2: The standard Ring Chime provides audible alerts for your Ring devices. The Ring Chime Pro does all that and acts as a Wi-Fi extender, boosting the signal to your Ring doorbells and cameras. It also includes a built-in nightlight. If your Wi-Fi signal is weak at your doorbell’s location, the Chime Pro is a better choice.
Q3: Can my Ring Doorbell 2 use my existing wired doorbell chime?
A3: The Ring Doorbell (2nd Gen), which is often referred to as Ring Doorbell 2, is primarily battery-powered and doesn’t directly use your existing wired chime for audible alerts. If you hardwire it for trickle charging, it might bypass the existing chime completely or require a Ring Chime to function as an indoor alert. The Ring Video Doorbell Wired also does not sound your existing chime and requires a separate Ring Chime for indoor alerts.
Q4: How do I connect a Ring Chime to my Ring Doorbell 2?
A4: Connecting a Ring Chime is super easy! Simply plug it into a standard power outlet, open the Ring app, tap on “Set Up a Device,” select “Chime,” and follow the on-screen instructions. It will connect to your home Wi-Fi and then link with your Ring Doorbell 2.
Q5: Can I customize the sounds on my Ring Chime?
A5: Yes! Through the Ring app, you can choose from a variety of different doorbell tones, adjust the volume, and even set a schedule to temporarily snooze alerts if you don’t want to be disturbed.
Q6: Do Ring Chimes work with all Ring doorbell models?
A6: Yes, Ring Chimes (both the standard and Pro versions) are designed to work universally with all Ring video doorbells and security cameras, providing audible alerts for any connected Ring device in your account.
Q7: What if my Wi-Fi signal is poor where my doorbell is?
A7: If your Wi-Fi signal is weak, consider the Ring Chime Pro. Its built-in Wi-Fi extender can boost the signal to your Ring Doorbell 2, improving connectivity, live view performance, and overall reliability.
Conclusion
Choosing the best chime for Ring Doorbell 2 (or the best Ring accessory to complement it) boils down to your specific needs. For reliable audible alerts and basic chime functionality, the Ring Chime is an excellent and affordable choice. If you’re looking to boost your Wi-Fi signal or want the added convenience of a nightlight, the Ring Chime Pro is definitely worth the extra investment.
Remember, while other Ring doorbells and spare parts are crucial components of the Ring ecosystem, they aren’t chimes themselves. Understanding the role of each device will help you build the perfect, most efficient Ring setup for your home, ensuring you never miss a ring!
Ready to enhance your Ring experience? Find the perfect chime or accessory today!