Living in an apartment often comes with its own set of unique challenges, especially when it comes to home security. You might be dealing with landlord restrictions on drilling, a shared hallway, or concerns about package theft from your doorstep. That’s where a smart video doorbell, specifically a Ring doorbell, can be an absolute game-changer!
Finding the best Ring doorbell for apartments means looking for features like easy installation, flexibility, and robust security without permanent alterations. Whether you’re a renter looking for a no-drill solution or a condo owner wanting extra peace of mind, Ring offers a variety of options that fit the bill. We’ve dug deep to find the top picks and essential accessories to help you keep an eye on your front door, no matter where you live.
Let’s dive into our top choices that make apartment living more secure and convenient!
1. Ring Battery Doorbell (2nd Gen)
The Ring Battery Doorbell (2nd Gen) is a fantastic choice for apartment dwellers, especially if you’re renting and can’t drill into your property. What makes this doorbell truly shine for apartment life is its built-in battery, offering incredible flexibility for installation without any wiring hassles. You get clear head-to-toe video, meaning you won’t just see faces, but also packages left right at your doorstep – a real plus for urban living. Plus, recharging is super simple with its USB-C port, so you’re always connected.
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Key Features:
- Head-to-Toe Video for expanded vertical view
- Built-In Battery with convenient USB-C charging
- Easy, snap-in installation without complex wiring
- Live View & Two-Way Talk to see and speak to visitors
- Real-time motion detection alerts
- Smart Alerts for person and package detection (subscription required)
- Alexa connectivity for hands-free monitoring
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Pros:
- Completely wireless, ideal for rentals
- Easy to install and set up
- Head-to-Toe video helps monitor packages
- Reliable performance and smart alerts
- Portable for recharging
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Cons:
- Requires periodic recharging (battery life varies)
- Some advanced features require a Ring Protect subscription
- No existing chime integration
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User Impressions: Users love the ease of installation and the freedom from wiring. Many apartment residents find the battery life sufficient for their needs, and the head-to-toe view is frequently praised for capturing package deliveries effectively. The two-way talk feature is also a hit for screening visitors.
2. KIMILAR Anti-Theft Video Doorbell Mount
While not a doorbell itself, the KIMILAR Anti-Theft Video Doorbell Mount is an absolute must-have accessory that transforms many Ring doorbells into the best Ring doorbell for apartments – especially rentals. This innovative mount offers a brilliant anti-theft design, ensuring your valuable doorbell stays put without the need for a single drill hole. It’s compatible with a wide range of Ring Battery Doorbells and even Blink, making it incredibly versatile. If you’ve got a standard inward-opening door and landlord rules against permanent fixtures, this mount is your new best friend.
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Key Features:
- Anti-theft design for secure mounting
- No-drill installation – perfect for rentals
- Compatible with Ring Video Doorbell (1-4 gen), Battery Doorbell, and Blink Video Doorbell
- Adjustable to fit door thicknesses between 0.6 and 2.3 inches
- Works with both left and right inward-opening doors
- Easy to install with included instructions and parts
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Pros:
- Eliminates the need for drilling, preserving your door
- Adds an extra layer of security against theft
- Wide compatibility with popular Ring models
- Simple and quick installation
- Adjustable for a snug fit on various doors
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Cons:
- Not suitable for outward-opening doors, security doors, or doors with large gaps.
- Doorbell must be purchased separately.
- Can potentially obstruct door closing if not adjusted properly.
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User Impressions: Customers rave about this mount’s simplicity and effectiveness. Renters, in particular, find it indispensable as it allows them to use a video doorbell without violating lease agreements. The anti-theft aspect provides significant peace of mind.
3. Ring Battery Doorbell Plus (Newest Model)
Step up your apartment security game with the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus. This newest model takes everything great about the standard battery doorbell and cranks it up a notch. With Head-to-Toe HD+ Video, you get an even clearer and wider view of your doorstep, which is super helpful for identifying visitors or checking on deliveries. Plus, it boasts Color Night Vision, ensuring you won’t miss a thing, even in the dark. Powered by a convenient Quick Release Battery Pack, swapping out batteries for a quick charge is a breeze, minimizing downtime. If you’re looking for the absolute top-tier wireless solution for your apartment, this is it.
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Key Features:
- Head-to-Toe HD+ Video for superior clarity and field of view
- Color Night Vision for clear visibility after dark
- Person + Package Alerts (Ring Protect subscription required)
- Powered by Quick Release Battery Pack for easy recharging
- Simple setup and easy mounting
- Alexa integration for smart home connectivity
- 180-day video history with Ring Home subscription
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Pros:
- Enhanced video quality and wider view
- Excellent night vision capabilities
- Quick-release battery for minimal interruption
- Completely wireless installation
- Advanced detection features
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Cons:
- Higher price point than basic models
- Battery life still requires attention
- Full feature access needs a Ring Protect subscription
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User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed with the improved video quality and the color night vision of the Battery Doorbell Plus. The quick-release battery is a game-changer for many, making recharging less of a hassle. It’s often cited as the premium wireless choice for apartment dwellers.
4. Anti-Theft Ring/Camera Video Doorbell Mount
Another excellent solution for apartment dwellers, this Anti-Theft Ring/Camera Video Doorbell Mount offers a robust, no-drill way to secure your Ring doorbell. Designed with apartment and rental living in mind, it provides a sturdy plastic-metal construction with silicone anti-slip backing, protecting both your doorbell and your door. It’s specifically optimized to avoid obstructing sensors or two-way audio, ensuring your Ring doorbell functions perfectly while securely mounted. If you need a reliable, non-invasive mounting option, this one’s a winner.
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Key Features:
- No-drill installation for apartment and rental compatibility
- Anti-theft design for enhanced security
- Compatible with specific Ring battery doorbells (Video Doorbell 2020, Battery Doorbell 2024, Battery Doorbell Plus/Pro)
- Optimized design to prevent sensor/audio obstruction
- Premium plastic-metal construction with silicone backing
- Easy slide-in installation and adjustable fixed clips
- Suitable for inward-opening doors (0.6″-2.3″ thickness, >0.1″ door-frame gap)
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Pros:
- Ideal for situations where drilling is prohibited
- Robust and durable construction
- Specifically designed to work seamlessly with compatible Ring doorbells
- Offers peace of mind against theft
- Quick and straightforward to set up
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Cons:
- Limited compatibility to specific Ring models (check before buying)
- Not suitable for outward-opening, iron security, storm, or screened doors
- Doorbell sold separately
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the solid build quality and how well it integrates with their Ring doorbells without blocking any features. It’s highly recommended by renters for its non-damaging installation and the added security it provides against doorbell theft.
5. Ring Video Doorbell Wired (Newest Model)
While many apartment residents gravitate towards wireless options, the Ring Video Doorbell Wired can be the best Ring doorbell for apartments that already have existing doorbell wiring. If your apartment has a traditional doorbell, this wired option offers reliable, around-the-clock power, meaning you never have to worry about recharging batteries. It delivers crisp 1080p HD video, advanced motion detection, and sharp night vision, ensuring you capture every detail. It’s a great, permanent solution for consistent security and monitoring.
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Key Features:
- 1080p HD wired video with two-way talk
- Advanced motion detection
- Standard 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
- Customizable privacy settings
- Sharp night vision
- Hardwire installation using existing doorbell wiring
- Real-time notifications
- Alexa compatibility
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Pros:
- Constant power, no battery charging needed
- Reliable performance 24/7
- Excellent video quality day and night
- More compact design than battery models
- Affordable entry point for Ring security
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Cons:
- Requires existing doorbell wiring (not suitable for all apartments)
- Does not sound existing chime (requires Ring Chime or Alexa device)
- Some features require a Ring Protect subscription
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User Impressions: Customers who have existing wiring find this doorbell incredibly convenient due to its continuous power. The video quality and consistent performance are frequently highlighted. It’s praised for being a “set it and forget it” solution for apartment security.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Ring Doorbell for Apartments
When picking out your ideal Ring doorbell for apartment living, it’s not just about the doorbell itself. Think about your specific living situation:
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Installation Type:
- Battery-Powered: These are your go-to for rentals or if you can’t access existing wiring. They’re super easy to install, often just requiring a peel-and-stick or a simple mount.
- Wired: If your apartment has existing doorbell wiring, a wired option offers continuous power, so you never have to worry about recharging.
- No-Drill Mounts: These accessories (like the KIMILAR and Anti-Theft Mounts we reviewed) are game-changers for renters. They let you install battery-powered doorbells securely without making any permanent holes.
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Features that Matter:
- Head-to-Toe Video: Essential for seeing packages on the ground right outside your door, especially in busy apartment hallways.
- Two-Way Talk: Lets you communicate with visitors or delivery drivers from anywhere.
- Motion Detection: Get alerts when someone approaches your door, even if they don’t ring. Look for customizable zones to avoid excessive alerts from neighbors walking by.
- Night Vision: Crucial for clear video after dark. Color Night Vision is a bonus!
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Subscription Needs (Ring Protect Plan): While Ring doorbells offer basic live view and motion alerts without a subscription, features like video recording, person/package alerts, and longer video history require a Ring Protect plan. Factor this ongoing cost into your decision.
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Apartment Regulations: Always double-check your lease agreement or HOA rules. Most landlords are fine with temporary, non-damaging installations like battery doorbells with no-drill mounts, but it’s always best to confirm.
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Privacy Concerns: Consider privacy zones within the app, which allow you to black out areas you don’t want to record (e.g., a neighbor’s door across the hall).
Conclusion
Choosing the best Ring doorbell for apartments really comes down to balancing your apartment’s specific setup with your security needs. For ultimate flexibility and landlord-friendliness, a battery-powered Ring Doorbell (like the Battery Doorbell or Battery Doorbell Plus) combined with a no-drill, anti-theft mount is undoubtedly your top pick. If you have existing wiring and want a “set it and forget it” solution, the Ring Video Doorbell Wired offers reliable, continuous power.
No matter which you choose, a Ring doorbell can significantly enhance your apartment security, keeping an eye on your doorstep and giving you peace of mind. Get ready to experience smart, convenient security right where you live!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I install a Ring doorbell in an apartment if I’m renting?
A1: Yes, absolutely! Many Ring doorbells, especially battery-powered models, can be installed without drilling, making them perfect for renters. Look for accessories like no-drill, anti-theft mounts that secure the doorbell to your door frame without permanent alterations. Always check your lease agreement or landlord’s policy first.
Q2: Do I need a Ring Protect subscription for my doorbell to work?
A2: No, a Ring Protect subscription is not required for basic functionality. You’ll still get real-time motion alerts, Live View, and Two-Way Talk. However, to access video recording history, person and package alerts, and other advanced features, a Ring Protect plan (sold separately) is necessary.
Q3: How do battery-powered Ring doorbells get charged?
A3: Battery-powered Ring doorbells come with a built-in or quick-release battery pack that can be easily removed and recharged using a USB-C or micro-USB cable. The frequency of charging depends on usage and settings (e.g., motion detection sensitivity).
Q4: Will a Ring doorbell work on any apartment door?
A4: Most battery-powered Ring doorbells are quite adaptable. However, if you plan to use a no-drill mount, ensure your door opens inward and falls within the specified thickness and gap requirements for the mount. Wired doorbells require existing compatible doorbell wiring.
Q5: What’s the difference between “Head-to-Toe” video and standard video?
A5: Standard video doorbells typically offer a wider horizontal view. “Head-to-Toe” video, as found in models like the Ring Battery Doorbell and Battery Doorbell Plus, provides an expanded vertical field of view. This is incredibly useful for seeing packages directly below the doorbell or children standing closer to the door.
Q6: Can I use my existing apartment chime with a Ring doorbell?
A6: If you choose a wired Ring doorbell, it typically connects to your existing wiring for power but won’t sound your old mechanical chime directly. You’ll need to pair it with a Ring Chime or a compatible Alexa-enabled device (like an Echo Dot) to hear notifications inside your apartment. Battery-powered models do not connect to existing chimes at all and require a Ring Chime or Alexa device.
Q7: How do Ring doorbells handle privacy for apartments with shared hallways?
A7: Ring doorbells offer customizable motion zones and privacy zones. You can draw specific areas within the camera’s view that you want to monitor for motion, and also blackout areas you don’t want to record, such as a neighbor’s doorway or common hallway space, to respect privacy.