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No, Ring does not currently manufacture a Power over Ethernet (PoE) camera, relying instead on Wi-Fi-enabled models that use plug-in power or batteries. This means users seeking PoE for stable, hardwired connections must consider other brands or use third-party adapters, which may compromise performance and ease of use. Discover the best alternatives and workarounds in our full guide.
Does Ring Make a Poe Camera? Find Out Here
If you’re considering upgrading your home security setup, you may be wondering: does Ring make a PoE camera? The short answer is no—Ring does not currently manufacture a true Power over Ethernet (PoE) camera. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t integrate Ring devices into a PoE-based system or achieve similar functionality with a few workarounds. Ring, owned by Amazon, focuses primarily on Wi-Fi-powered smart security cameras and doorbells, which offer easy DIY installation and seamless integration with the Ring app and ecosystem. While PoE is a popular choice for professional or large-scale installations due to its reliability and consistent power delivery, Ring has not entered the PoE camera market—at least not yet.
But don’t rule out Ring just because it lacks a native PoE model. With the right accessories and network setup, you can still enjoy Ring’s user-friendly features while leveraging the stability and performance benefits of a wired connection. In this guide, we’ll explore why Ring doesn’t offer a PoE camera, what alternatives exist, and how you can bridge the gap between Ring’s wireless convenience and PoE’s wired reliability.
Can You Use Ring Cameras with PoE? Exploring the Options
The core reason Ring does not make a PoE camera lies in its business model: simplicity and accessibility. Ring’s entire product line—from the Ring Video Doorbell to the Spotlight Cam and Floodlight Cam—is designed for easy, wireless setup. Most models run on batteries, solar, or plug-in power, with Wi-Fi handling both data and video transmission. PoE, on the other hand, requires Ethernet cabling and network switches capable of delivering both data and power over a single cable—ideal for commercial systems but often overkill for typical homeowners.
That said, there are practical ways to connect a Ring camera to a PoE network. The most common solution is using a PoE to USB adapter. These adapters receive power and data via Ethernet from a PoE switch or injector, then convert that into a standard USB power output. You can then plug your Ring camera (like the Ring Stick Up Cam or Spotlight Cam Wired) into the adapter using its included USB cable. This setup effectively powers the camera over Ethernet while maintaining Wi-Fi connectivity for video streaming and app access.
For example, install a Ubiquiti PoE switch in your home network cabinet, run an Ethernet cable to your outdoor camera location, and connect the cable to a PoE to USB adapter like the TP-Link TL-PoE10R. Plug your Ring Spotlight Cam Wired into the adapter, and you’ve achieved PoE-like power delivery without sacrificing Ring’s smart features. This method is especially useful in areas with unreliable Wi-Fi or where running a power outlet is impractical.
Another option is to use a hybrid setup: power your Ring camera via PoE-to-USB while connecting it to a dedicated Wi-Fi access point for optimal bandwidth. This reduces strain on your main network and ensures smoother video streaming, especially if you have multiple cameras. Tip: Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh node with Ethernet backhaul to maintain strong signal strength at the camera’s location.
Keep in mind that while this method powers the camera over Ethernet, the camera still relies on Wi-Fi for data. True PoE cameras (like those from Reolink or Lorex) transmit video over the same Ethernet cable, reducing latency and bandwidth usage. Ring’s lack of native PoE means you won’t get that full benefit, but for most users, the trade-off is worth the convenience.
Lastly, if you’re building a new security system from scratch and prioritize PoE, consider mixing brands. Use dedicated PoE cameras for critical zones (like front and back doors) and supplement with Ring devices where Wi-Fi is strong and aesthetics matter—such as near entryways or patios.
In conclusion, while Ring does not make a PoE camera, the flexibility of modern networking gear makes it possible to integrate Ring devices into a PoE-powered environment. With a few smart accessories and a solid network plan, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: Ring’s intuitive interface and PoE’s dependable power delivery.