If you are looking for the best DIY security system, then Ring and Blink are two leading brands in the industry. Both of these brands have a solid reputation in producing affordable, yet reliable basic home surveillance products.
Nonetheless, selecting the device that's just right for your home can be a daunting task. That’s why we have compiled this comprehensive Ring vs Blink comparison to help.
Important Components of a Basic Home Monitoring System
Video Cameras – They can be wired or wireless, outdoor or indoor, day or night, single or multiple, conspicuous or inconspicuous.
Storage – This affects the way in which your system stores video recordings. A home security system either has local or cloud storage available.
Motion Sensors – These can be set to trigger an alarm, turn on a light, or perform other automated tasks when they detect movement in the selected range. Some systems can be integrated with temperature-, contact-, or smoke detectors.
Now, let’s dive straight into our Ring vs Blink head to head!
Outdoor Security Camera Head to Head
Ring Stick Up Cam
Being a wireless camera, the Ring Stick Up Cam is highly mobile. Its installation is very versatile. Either mount it on a wall or place it on any other flat surface. Another notable feature of this camera is its versatile power options. It can be powered through AC power or via a solar panel.
Blink XT2 Outdoor Smart Security Camera
Push notifications are sent instantly to your phone when the camera senses any motion (within the motion detection zones). Plus, the live view mode lets you view the real-time happenings in or around your home. The camera also works with Amazon Alexa for voice control.
Pros
- Highly customizable motion zones including privacy zones.
- Versatile power options including a rechargeable battery, solar panel, and a plug-in option.
- Wireless designs allow versatile and easy installation.
Cons
- Not compatible with Google Assistant and Apple Homekit.
- No free cloud storage option.
Pros
- Highly sensitive motion detection and infrared HD night vision improve surveillance of your home.
- Customizable motion detection for minimal false alerts.
- No monthly contracts needed.
Cons
- Occasional poor signal strength.
Design, Resolution, & Field of View
The Ring Stick Up Cam has a wider diagonal viewing angle at 130°, while the Blink XT2 has only 110°. In this respect, Ring is a clear winner. Both of them have 1080 HD video resolution. They are resistant against weather elements and are thus perfect for indoor and outdoor surveillance. While the Ring Stick Up Cam is available in white and black, the Blink XT2 is only available in black. However, it is much smaller and measures 2.8 x 2.8 x 1.4 inches. The Ring Stick Up Cam measures 2.36 x 2.36 x 3.82 inches. These two cameras are also very easy to set up and use. You do not need a professional electrician to install.
Power, Installation, Storage, and Streaming
Both the Ring Stick Up Camera and Blink XT2 camera are battery operated. The Ring Stick Up Cam’s battery is rechargeable while that of the Blink option is non-rechargeable. However, the Blink XT2's battery life is impressive and can last for up to two years with regular use. On the other hand, Ring has more powering options. You can plug your camera into the AC outlet or use solar power. In conclusion, both Ring and Blink have versatility on their side.
When it comes to installing these cameras, DIY is definitely an option. You do not require a professional electrician to install. Moreover, you'll be done in 5 to 10 minutes. Nonetheless, while the Blink XT2 provides free cloud storage of up to 7200 seconds of footage, the Ring option requires a subscription to access cloud storage. With the subscription, you can store up to 60 days of footage, as well as share your stored images and photos from the vault.
Night Vision, Motion & Audio Detection
With two-way audio and speaker output, both the Blink and Ring outdoor cameras allow two-way communications via your smartphone app. Plus, you can customize the camera’s motion detection areas on each of the cameras.
The only difference between these two is that the Ring Stick Up Cam has more customization options than the Blink XT2. For example, you can create privacy zones. It can also put audio and other alerts in silent mode. The customization options help reduce false motion notifications. Silent mode is ideal when you need zero disturbance.
Night Vision
Both the Blink XT2 and Ring Stick Up Cam provide decent night vision. With invisible infrared night vision, the cameras will monitor your home conspicuously, even at night. However, live streaming with the Blink version is a little wonky. It can only send video push notifications to your phone after the completion of your motion-triggered video recording.
Ring gets the cookie here for excellent live streaming and more motion detection zone customization options.
Smart Integration & Smartphone App
With the Blink Home Monitor and Ring app (for iOS and Android), you can customize activity zones, view recorded footage, stream live video, arm or disarm the system, and do much more.
The smartphone apps also allow you to integrate security cameras with other automation devices in your home. Both apps are easy to use with easy-to-follow user interfaces. You can in fact use your smartphone to access your home remotely regardless of your location. All you need is a Blink account for the Blink XT2 and a Ring account for the Ring Stick Up Camera.
What’s more, the Ring Stick Up Cam and Blink XT2 indoor/ outdoor cameras are also compatible with Alexa and Alexa devices.
Ring vs Blink: Technical Comparison
| Ring Stick Up Cam | Blink XT2 | |
| Field of view | 130° diagonal, 110° horizontal, 57° vertical | 110 degrees diagonal |
| Size | 2.36″ x 2.36″ x 3.82” | 2.8’’ x 2.8’’ x 1.4’’ |
| Available Colors | White, Black | Black |
| Audio | Two-way talk with noise cancellation | Two-way audio and speaker output |
| Video, Resolution | 1080p HD | 1080p HD |
| Battery | Rechargeable | Non-rechargeable battery |
| Storage | Subscription is needed | Free |
| Smart Integration | Works with Alexa | Works with Alexa |
The Verdict
Ring Stick Up Cam
Being a wireless camera, the Ring Stick Up Cam is highly mobile. Its installation is very versatile. Either mount it on a wall or place it on any other flat surface. Another notable feature of this camera is its versatile power options. It can be powered through AC power or via a solar panel.
Blink XT2 Outdoor Smart Security Camera
Push notifications are sent instantly to your phone when the camera senses any motion (within the motion detection zones). Plus, the live view mode lets you view the real-time happenings in or around your home. The camera also works with Amazon Alexa for voice control.
Indoor Camera Head to Head
Ring Indoor Camera
This indoor camera comes in white or black and its operating temperature is from -20 degrees Celsius to 45 degrees Celsius. Other notable features are a wide 115 degrees horizontal field of view, 1080p HD video resolution, and two-way audio with noise reduction.
The Ring indoor camera doesn't have local storage, so you’ll need a subscription to store your video in the cloud.
Blink Mini
With a 110 degrees diagonal field of view, infrared vision at night, and 1080p HD video resolution during the day, the Blink camera allows complete surveillance of your home. It is powered by AC. Plus, there’s two-way recording and a speaker output for remote communication.
Pros
- Two-way communication with noise cancellation feature.
- 115 degrees horizontal field of view.
- Easy to install.
Cons
- Requires subscription for cloud storage.
- Night vision could have been clearer.
- The power cord could have been longer.
Pros
- Its compact size allows almost inconspicuous mounting.
- Easily mountable on the wall or on a flat surface.
- Decent day and night images.
Cons
- Cloud recordings require a subscription.
- Continuous streaming isn’t supported.
- Field of view could have been wider.
Design, Resolution, and Field of View
The Ring indoor and Blink mini cameras are compact security cameras with a solid, basic design. The Ring indoor camera is available in both black and white while the Blink mini is only available in white.
Looking at the cameras’ field of view, Blink mini has a slightly narrower field of view at 110 degrees while the Ring indoor camera has a 115 degrees viewing angle. The lenses in both cameras have 1080p video resolution and support night vision. Video recording is quite clear in both cameras.
However, note that these cameras are meant for indoor use. Therefore, they are not waterproof.
Power, Installation, Storage, and Streaming
Both the Ring and Blink indoor cameras need to be plugged in to operate. This is a good feature since you do not have to keep on recharging or replacing batteries. On the other hand, the cameras must be installed near a power outlet, which can limit installation options. Their power cables are long enough to allow versatile connections, though. Installing either of these indoor cameras is not at all complicated.
Since both cameras do not provide free cloud storage, you will need a $3 per month or annual $30 to access cloud storage. Currently, all the two cameras do not support local storage of video recordings. However, the Blink mini promises to introduce a local storage option to be sold separately by the end of 2020.
Night Vision, Motion Detection, & Audio
The Blink and Ring indoor cameras have infrared night vision for remote monitoring even at night. You can set up your camera to focus on hotspot areas and block out other “not so important” sections of your home in order to minimize false alerts. However, because these are budget camera options, their night vision resolution isn’t that great.
Also, clips are recorded when the cameras detect motion and a motion alert is sent to your phone. Another feature that is common to both options is the two-way audio recording with speaker output. The speakers in both options are loud enough for flawless communication.
Smart Integrations and Smartphone App
You will need to download and install the Blink Home app and Ring App to access and control your indoor cameras remotely. The apps are compatible with both Android and iOS.
The apps allow you to set activity zones, view live streams, and review cloud storage by using just your phone. Both indoor cameras need 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity to function. They are compatible with Amazon Alexa. And by combining the cameras with a screen Alexa device, you can enjoy hands-free control of your cameras.
Ring vs Blink: Technical Comparison
| Ring Indoor Camera | Blink Mini | |
| Video Resolution | 1080p | 1080p |
| Smart Integration | Amazon Alexa and Ring App | Amazon Alexa and Blink Home App |
| Field of View | 115 degrees | 110 degrees |
| Local Storage | Absent | Bought separately |
| Cloud storage | Requires a subscription | Requires a subscription |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | 1.81 x 1.81 x 2.95 inches | 2 x 1.9 x 1.4 inches |
| Power | Standard power outlet | Standard power outlet |
| Colours | White and black | White |
| Audio | Two-way recording and speaker | Two-way recording and speaker |
| Night Vision | Infrared night vision | Infrared night vision |
The Verdict
Ring Indoor Camera
This indoor camera comes in white or black and its operating temperature is from -20 degrees Celsius to 45 degrees Celsius. Other notable features are a wide 115 degrees horizontal field of view, 1080p HD video resolution, and two-way audio with noise reduction.
The Ring indoor camera doesn't have local storage, so you’ll need a subscription to store your video in the cloud.
Blink Mini
With a 110 degrees diagonal field of view, infrared vision at night, and 1080p HD video resolution during the day, the Blink camera allows complete surveillance of your home. It is powered by AC. Plus, there’s two-way recording and a speaker output for remote communication.
Kits & Protection Plans Head to Head
All-new Ring Alarm 14-Piece kit
It is easy to install and can be controlled remotely using the Ring app. Alternatively, you can pair it with Alexa devices to control your system using voice commands. The system sends alerts straight to your phone when it detects any motion.
Moreover, the easily accessible emergency buttons and optional 24/7 professional surveillance ensure better protection of your home compared to other entry-level home protection kits.
Blink Indoor Home Security Camera System
The camera system is battery-operated and free from any wiring. It needs two Lithium AA 15v batteries to function. The batteries are non-rechargeable but can last for up to two years depending on use.
What’s more, you’ll get free cloud storage to store your footage. There are no service contracts or monthly subscriptions
Pros
- Setting up the entire system is easy.
- Optional 24/7 professional monitoring.
- Compatible with Alexa for hands-free operation.
Cons
- Some users complained of a weak range extender.
- Keypad user interface could have been simpler.
- Lacks a built-in timer to arm and disarm the system.
Pros
- Long-lasting battery that can last for up to two years.
- Free cloud storage to store your videos.
- Wire-free and blends in well with any interior.
Cons
- Video clips recorded could have been longer.
- Night vision could be better.
Design, Resolution, and Field of View
The 14 kit Ring alarm system comes with two motion sensors, eight contact detectors, one base station, one range extender, and two keypads. On the other hand, the Blink camera system is available in one-, two-, three-, or five-camera systems.
The Ring alarm system’s operating temperature is 0 to 40 degrees Celsius. Similarly, the Blink cameras are indoor cameras and hence not waterproof. Both are available only in white.
The Ring alarm system’s contact sensors can be installed in up to eight doors and/or windows and the two motion detectors can be installed in hallways or two of your most important rooms. The Blink cameras have a 720 HD video day resolution with a 110 degrees field of view. It has a blue LED that notifies you when your camera system is on.
Power, Installation, Storage, and Streaming
Blink indoor security cameras are battery-powered. They need two AA lithium batteries to function. The batteries can last for up to two years, recording about 4,000 short clips. Each short clip measures 5 seconds. The duration varies depending on individual camera use, though. The Blink Sync Module operates with 100 to 200V AC to 5V. A DC converter is included.
Each component of the Ring alarm system is powered differently. The base station needs to be plugged into a 100 – 240 V 50/60Hz power using the included adapter. The keypad has a rechargeable battery, and the contact sensors are powered by CR2032 batteries. Finally, the motion detectors need two AA batteries, while the range extender has to be plugged in to 100-240V 60Hz power.
Storage
A notable advantage of the Blink security system is the included free cloud storage. And because it is wireless, its installation is simple and will be complete in minutes, leaving no hanging wires. The Blink app also provides clear, real-time images. On the downside, you can only view up to 20 seconds in live view mode, after which a pop up appears after every 15 seconds of the clip which, of course, can be quite annoying.
Night Vision, Motion Detection, & Audio
The Ring alarm system has no cameras. Instead, the motion sensors notify you whenever motion is detected, while contact sensors detect when someone touches your door or windows. Motion sensitivity levels are adjustable so you can change sensitivity to reduce false alarms.
Blink cameras, on the other hand, have built-in motion sensors. Instead of using invisible infrared night vision, the cameras have a bright flash-like LED right below the lenses of the cameras. The LED illuminates whenever the system senses movement. The unexpected light is a great way to let a likely intruder know that they are being watched. Images are clear enough and you can see who is inside.
One of the major drawbacks of the Blink camera system is that it only has one-way audio. That means that you can hear what people inside your home are saying but you cannot hold a two-way conversation.
Smart Integrations and Smartphone App
Ring and Blink can be integrated with your Alexa-enabled devices for easier hands-free operations. You can use voice commands to arm or disarm your system. Alternatively, you can integrate a home protection kit with your other Alexa-enabled devices for better home automation.
With the Ring app, you’ll receive alerts every time your system detects motion or contact. The app also allows you to set your preferred alarm modes plus many more settings. The best part is that with the Ring Protect Plus plan subscription, the system unlocks additional features including 24/7 professional surveillance in the US.
Unlike the Ring system, Blink does not require a monthly subscription. You’ll get access to free cloud storage plus the Blink app gives easy access to live feed regardless of your location. Both of these apps work with iOS and Android.
Ring vs Blink: Technical Comparison
| All-new Ring Alarm 14-piece kit | Blink Indoor Home Security Camera System | |
| Field of View | N/A | 110 degrees |
| Power | Range extender, base station, and keypad need AC connection. Contact sensors require two CR2032 Coin cell batteries. Motion detectors need two AA batteries. | Two AA Lithium batteries. |
| Cloud Storage | Paid subscription | Free |
| Smart Integration | Amazon Alexa | Amazon Alexa |
| Installation | Wired | Wireless |
| Sensors | Motion and contact | Motion |
| Night Vision | N/A | Visible, bright white LED |
| Professional Monitoring | Optional 24/7 | None |
| Video Resolution | N/A | 720 HD |
The Verdict
All-new Ring Alarm 14-Piece kit
It is easy to install and can be controlled remotely using the Ring app. Alternatively, you can pair it with Alexa devices to control your system using voice commands. The system sends alerts straight to your phone when it detects any motion.
Moreover, the easily accessible emergency buttons and optional 24/7 professional surveillance ensure better protection of your home compared to other entry-level home protection kits.
Blink Indoor Home Security Camera System
The camera system is battery-operated and free from any wiring. It needs two Lithium AA 15v batteries to function. The batteries are non-rechargeable but can last for up to two years depending on use.
What’s more, you’ll get free cloud storage to store your footage. There are no service contracts or monthly subscriptions
The Ring vs Blink Verdict
While Blink offers affordable home monitoring solutions, Ring’s products are on the pricier side. Plus, you need a subscription to unlock all features.
That’s why, in the Ring vs Blink debate, Blink remains a top choice for entry-level home security systems. On the other hand, Ring has optional 24/7 professional monitoring and with a subscription can store up to 60 days of audio.