Living in an apartment offers plenty of perks, but when it comes to home security, it can feel a bit tricky. You might not have the same outdoor space as a house, and drilling into walls isn’t always an option. That’s where a smart video doorbell comes in handy, especially a Ring doorbell. They offer peace of mind, let you see who’s at your door (even when you’re not home), and help keep those pesky package thieves away.
But with so many models, how do you pick the best Ring doorbell for apartment use? Don’t sweat it! We’ve scoured the options and broken down the top Ring doorbells and a crucial accessory that make apartment living safer and smarter, without breaking your lease agreement. We’ll help you find the perfect fit for your specific needs, whether you’re a renter or an owner.
Why a Ring Doorbell is Great for Apartments
Ring doorbells aren’t just for houses with big front porches. Their compact design, flexible power options (battery or wired), and smart features make them ideal for apartment dwellers. You can keep an eye on deliveries, screen visitors, and even deter unwanted guests, all from your phone. Plus, they integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices like Alexa, making your apartment even more connected.
Our Top Picks for the Best Ring Doorbell for Apartment Living
Here are our in-depth reviews of the top Ring doorbells, keeping apartment life firmly in mind.
Ring Battery Doorbell (Head-to-Toe Video, Live View with…)
This Ring Battery Doorbell is a fantastic choice for apartment renters because of its incredible flexibility. Since it’s battery-powered, you don’t need existing wiring, which means no drilling or complicated installation – a huge win for those “no-modifications” leases. Its standout feature, Head-to-Toe Video, ensures you see your entire entryway, perfect for checking on packages right below the camera or spotting pint-sized visitors. It charges easily with a USB-C, making recharging a breeze.
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Key Features:
- Head-to-Toe Video (66% more vertical coverage)
- Built-in battery with convenient USB-C charging
- Easy, snap-in installation
- Live View & Two-Way Talk
- Real-time motion alerts
- Smart Alerts for person/package detection (with subscription)
- Alexa integration
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Pros:
- Extremely easy to install, ideal for renters
- No wiring required
- Wide field of view for full porch coverage
- Convenient USB-C charging
- Affordable entry point into Ring ecosystem
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Cons:
- Battery needs periodic recharging
- Advanced alerts require a Ring Protect subscription
- No existing chime integration
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User Impressions: Many apartment dwellers praise this model for its quick setup and clear video quality. Users love the ability to see packages at their feet and appreciate the battery convenience, often finding that a single charge lasts a good amount of time, especially with tailored motion settings. It’s frequently recommended as the best Ring doorbell for apartment living if you prioritize ease of installation.
Ring Battery Doorbell Plus (newest model) | Head-to-Toe HD+…
Stepping up from the standard battery model, the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus offers enhanced features that make it even more compelling for apartment security. Its Head-to-Toe HD+ Video provides an even clearer, sharper picture, ensuring you don’t miss any details. What really shines for apartment use is the Color Night Vision, which gives you a much better view of what’s happening outside your door after dark, a common concern in dimly lit hallways or entryways. The Quick Release Battery Pack is also a game-changer, allowing for super-easy recharging without taking the whole unit down.
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Key Features:
- Head-to-Toe HD+ Video
- Color Night Vision for clear nighttime visibility
- Motion detection and customizable privacy zones
- Person + Package Alerts (with subscription)
- Powered by Quick Release Battery Pack
- Easy setup via Ring app and included tools
- Alexa compatibility for alerts and live view
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Pros:
- Superior video quality with HD+ and Color Night Vision
- Quick Release Battery Pack for effortless recharging
- Enhanced detection features for people and packages
- Great for poorly lit apartment common areas
- Still retains the no-wiring advantage
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Cons:
- Higher price point than the basic battery model
- Advanced features like package alerts require subscription
- Battery life can vary based on activity
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User Impressions: Reviewers frequently highlight the improved video clarity and the convenience of the quick-release battery. For those looking for a premium battery-powered option for their apartment, the added night vision and higher definition video make it a worthwhile upgrade, providing clearer insights into who’s at their door at any time of day or night.
Ring Video Doorbell Wired (newest model), Use Two-Way Talk,…
If your apartment has existing doorbell wiring that you’re permitted to use, the Ring Video Doorbell Wired is an excellent, always-on solution. Its biggest advantage for apartment dwellers is the constant power supply, meaning you never have to worry about charging a battery. This ensures 24/7 surveillance and instant responsiveness. It’s also typically slimmer than battery models, which can be a plus in tight apartment spaces. The 1080p HD video and advanced motion detection provide reliable security, and the sharp night vision ensures you’re always aware of who’s visiting.
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Key Features:
- 1080p HD wired video doorbell
- Two-Way Talk and advanced motion detection
- Standard 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
- Customizable privacy settings
- Sharp night vision
- Hardwires to existing doorbell wiring for constant power
- Alexa integration
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Pros:
- 24/7 power, never needs charging
- More consistent performance and alerts
- Sleeker, more discreet design
- Cost-effective wired option
- Reliable 1080p HD video quality
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Cons:
- Requires existing doorbell wiring (not suitable for all apartments)
- Does not sound existing chime directly (requires Ring Chime or Alexa device)
- Installation might be more involved than battery models
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User Impressions: Users who have existing wiring rave about the “set it and forget it” nature of this doorbell. They appreciate the consistent power and reliable performance, never missing a notification. The clear video and quick response times are frequently mentioned as highlights, making it a solid contender for the best Ring doorbell for apartment if you have the wiring option.
KIMILAR Anti-Theft Video Doorbell Mount Compatible with…
Okay, this isn’t a doorbell, but it’s an absolute game-changer for anyone wanting the best Ring doorbell for apartment living without violating their lease! The KIMILAR Anti-Theft Video Doorbell Mount is ingeniously designed to let you install a battery-powered Ring doorbell (like the ones above) without drilling a single hole. It clamps securely onto your door, making it perfectly rental-friendly and surprisingly robust against theft. If your landlord gives you the side-eye about drilling, this mount is your secret weapon.
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Key Features:
- Anti-theft design for secure mounting
- Compatible with various Ring Video Doorbells (1-4 gen, Battery, Plus, Blink)
- Fits most doors with thickness between 0.6 and 2.3 inches (must open inward)
- Easy, no-drill installation
- Adjustable distance from doorbell to door
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Pros:
- Enables rental-friendly installation for battery Ring doorbells
- No drilling or permanent modifications needed
- Provides peace of mind against theft
- Simple to install and remove
- Versatile compatibility with many doorbell models
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Cons:
- Only works with doors that open inward
- Not suitable for security doors
- Adds bulk to the doorbell unit
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User Impressions: This product consistently receives high praise from renters. Users are thrilled with its non-invasive installation and the solid security it provides. Many consider it an essential accessory for using a Ring doorbell in an apartment or dorm, highlighting its ease of use and the freedom it offers from landlord restrictions. It truly makes a battery Ring doorbell the best Ring doorbell for apartment use by removing installation hurdles.
Like-New Ring Wired Doorbell Plus (Video Doorbell Pro) –…
For apartment dwellers who have existing wiring and want premium features at a more accessible price point, the Like-New Ring Wired Doorbell Plus (Video Doorbell Pro) is a fantastic option. As a certified refurbished model, it’s tested and certified to work like new, offering a smart way to save money while still getting top-tier performance. This doorbell boasts enhanced dual-band Wi-Fi for a more reliable connection, which is crucial in multi-unit buildings where Wi-Fi interference can be a problem. Features like Quick Replies and built-in Alexa Greetings add a layer of convenience and smart interaction for managing visitors.
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Key Features:
- Refurbished, tested, and certified to work like new
- 1080p HD wired video doorbell with Two-Way Talk
- Quick Replies and built-in Alexa Greetings (with subscription)
- Advanced Motion Detection
- Enhanced dual-band (2.4 or 5.0 GHz) Wi-Fi
- Customizable privacy settings
- Hardwires to existing doorbell wiring
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Pros:
- Cost-effective way to get a premium wired doorbell
- Dual-band Wi-Fi for more stable connection in apartments
- Always-on power, no battery worries
- Advanced features like Alexa Greetings and Quick Replies
- Comes with same limited warranty as new
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Cons:
- Requires existing doorbell wiring
- Refurbished status might be a concern for some (though certified)
- Some features tied to Ring Protect Plan subscription
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User Impressions: Customers who opt for the Like-New Wired Doorbell Pro are often impressed by its pristine condition and performance, indistinguishable from new. The stable dual-band Wi-Fi connection is particularly appreciated in dense urban environments, leading to fewer dropped signals. For those prioritizing a robust wired connection and smart features without the new product price tag, this is a strong contender for the best Ring doorbell for apartment security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I install a Ring doorbell in an apartment if I’m renting?
A1: Absolutely! Battery-powered Ring doorbells are ideal for renters because they don’t require any drilling or permanent modifications. You can use strong adhesive strips or, even better, a special anti-theft doorbell mount (like the KIMILAR one reviewed above) that clamps onto your door without leaving any marks. Always check your lease agreement first, but these non-invasive options are usually perfectly fine.
Q2: Do I need a Ring Protect Plan subscription for my Ring doorbell to work?
A2: No, a Ring Protect Plan subscription is not strictly required for your Ring doorbell to function. Without a subscription, you can still use Live View to see and speak to visitors in real-time, and you’ll receive real-time motion alerts. However, to access recorded video history, share videos, and enable advanced features like Person Alerts, Package Alerts, or Rich Notifications, a subscription is necessary.
Q3: What’s the main difference between a battery-powered and a wired Ring doorbell for apartments?
A3: The main difference is power source and installation. Battery-powered doorbells offer easy, no-wiring installation, making them perfect for renters or those without existing doorbell wires. You’ll need to periodically recharge the battery. Wired doorbells connect to your existing doorbell wiring, providing continuous power and typically more consistent performance without the need for recharging, but they require available wiring.
Q4: How can I manage motion detection to avoid false alerts in a busy apartment hallway?
A4: Ring doorbells offer customizable motion zones and sensitivity settings. For apartment hallways, you can draw specific zones to monitor only your immediate doorway and exclude high-traffic areas. You can also adjust motion sensitivity, utilize “People Only” mode (with a Ring Protect subscription), or set a shorter motion frequency to reduce unnecessary alerts.
Q5: Are Ring doorbells safe from theft in an apartment hallway?
A5: While no device is entirely theft-proof, Ring doorbells come with security screws that make them harder to remove. For extra security, especially for battery models not drilled into the wall, a specialized anti-theft mount (like the KIMILAR one) can significantly deter theft by securely encasing the doorbell and clamping onto your door. Ring also offers a free replacement policy if your doorbell is stolen, provided you report the theft to the police.
Q6: Can multiple people in my apartment access the Ring doorbell?
A6: Yes! You can invite multiple users to access your Ring doorbell through the “Shared Users” feature in the Ring app. This is great for roommates or family members, allowing everyone to receive alerts, view live video, and use the two-way talk feature from their own devices.
Q7: Can a Ring doorbell integrate with my apartment’s smart lock?
A7: Ring doorbells integrate well with many smart home ecosystems, particularly Amazon Alexa. While Ring doesn’t directly control smart locks, you can often link compatible smart locks to your Alexa ecosystem. This allows you to potentially use voice commands via Alexa (or other smart home hubs like Google Assistant) to lock/unlock your door in conjunction with your doorbell’s activity, though specific functionality depends on your smart lock and smart home setup.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Ring doorbell for apartment living boils down to your specific needs, particularly your landlord’s rules and whether you have existing wiring. From the ultra-convenient battery-powered options perfect for renters to the always-on wired solutions for those with the setup, Ring has a doorbell that can enhance your apartment’s security and your peace of mind.
Don’t let apartment living hold you back from smart home security. Pick the Ring doorbell that fits your lifestyle, and consider an anti-theft mount for ultimate flexibility. You’ll love the convenience and confidence of knowing who’s at your door, anytime, anywhere.