Do You Need a Ring Doorbell Chime?

Written by

Ojash

Reviewed by

Hashir

Last updated: November 17, 2024

Expert verified

Struggling to hear your doorbell or missing visitors? I was too, until I got the Ring Doorbell Chime. In this post, I’ll help you decide if it’s right for your home, show you how to set it up, and explore some Ring Chime alternatives.

Do You Need the Chime With Ring Doorbell?

You don’t necessarily need a Chime with your Ring Doorbell because it can work without it. But a Ring Chime can make you hear the doorbell better. It alerts you inside your home when someone rings the doorbell or triggers motion, even if your phone isn’t nearby.

If you prefer mobile notifications or have other Alexa-enabled devices, you may not need a separate Chime. But I suggest getting one if you live in a large home or somewhere with weak Wi-Fi. Here’s who might benefit from Ring Chimes:

• Large or Multi-Floor Homes: Ensures you hear the doorbell throughout the house.
• Weak Wi-Fi/Cell Signal Areas: Works independently, so you won’t miss the doorbell.
• Families Not Always on Smartphones: Alerts everyone, even those not on their phones.

Why Use Chime for Ring Doorbell?

Using a chime with your Ring Doorbell offers several benefits that can enhance your overall experience with the device. Here’s why you might want to use a Ring Chime with your Doorbell:

1. 🔊 Audible Alerts: The Ring Chime provides an audible alert inside your home when someone presses the Ring Doorbell, even if your phone isn’t nearby or your phone’s notifications are off.
2. 🎵 Customization: Ring Chime offers customizable tones and volume settings. You can choose from catchy tunes or classic rings to personalize your doorbell. And set the volume to your preference—loud for outside, quiet for nap time.
3. 🚨 Visual Alerts: LED lights flash when someone’s at the door, ideal for those who might not hear the chime.
4. 🔌 Wireless Alternative: No wired doorbell? No problem. The Ring Chime connects via Wi-Fi, offering a simple, wire-free installation without the need for a traditional doorbell.
5. 🏠 Extending the Reach: For homes with multiple levels or larger layouts, having multiple Ring Chimes strategically placed around the house ensures you don’t miss a visitor, no matter where you are.
6. 🔗 Integration with Other Ring Devices: Ring Chimes integrate seamlessly with other Ring devices, allowing you to receive alerts for other Ring Cameras or sensors connected to your Ring system.

How to Setup Ring Doorbell Chime

Here’s how to set up your Ring Chime for Doorbell:

1. First, ensure the Ring Chime is compatible with your Ring Doorbell model. Most work with all models, but it’s best to double-check on the Ring website or in the product info.
2. Plug your Ring Chime into any standard outlet in your home. Place it centrally for optimal coverage.

3. Next, open the Ring app on your smartphone. Select your Ring Chime from the list and enter your Wi-Fi password.

4. Once it’s connected to Wi-Fi, your Ring Chime is all set. It will now ring whenever someone presses your Ring Doorbell.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you run into connectivity issues when setting up your Ring Chime, here’s how to fix that:

• Restart Your Router: Turning it off and on can often fix connection issues.
• Check Wi-Fi Signal: Make sure your Ring Chime is within range of your router; a weak signal could cause problems.
• Update Router Settings: Log into your router to ensure it’s not blocking the Chime from connecting.
• Restart Ring Chime: Unplug and replug the Chime to refresh its Wi-Fi connection.

What Are the Best Ring Chime Alternatives?

Below, I’ve shared some Ring Chime alternative options that you can use.

1. Old-School Chime Boxes

A traditional alternative is wiring your Ring to existing doorbell chime boxes. It’s a simple solution that lets you hear the chime without Wi-Fi or a complex setup. The downside is you’ll miss out on smart features like customizable sounds, mobile alerts, and other benefits that the Ring Chime offers.

Here’s how to hook up your Ring Doorbell with an old-school chime box:

1. Before you start, turn OFF the power to your doorbell system at the circuit breaker.
2. Unscrew and gently remove your current doorbell, revealing two wires.
3. Prepare your Ring Doorbell, charge it if needed, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Attach the two wires to the screws on the back of the Ring Doorbell—it doesn’t matter which wire goes where.
5. Mount the Ring Doorbell onto your doorframe or wall. Secure it in place using the provided screws and tools.
6. Check the Chime Box and ensure it has a compatible digital or mechanical chime. If not, you may need a Ring Chime Pro.
7. Now, turn the power back ON at the circuit breaker.
8. Test the Ring Doorbell by pressing the button. You should hear the chime sound from your old-school chime box.
9. Complete the setup through the Ring app, including connecting to Wi-Fi.

2. Smart Speakers

Linking your Ring Doorbell to smart speakers like Amazon Echo or Google Home offers an easy solution for doorbell alerts, with Alexa even notifying you verbally. However, this requires constant Wi-Fi and might cost more than a Ring Chime if you don’t already own a smart speaker.

To connect your Ring Doorbell to a smart speaker:

1. Ensure you have a compatible smart speaker, like an Echo or Google Home.
2. Make sure both your smart speaker and Ring Doorbell are connected to Wi-Fi.
3. Use the app for your smart speaker (Amazon Alexa for Echo, Google Home for Google devices) to connect the Ring Doorbell.
4. You can increase Alexa Ring Doorbell volume to your desired level. You can also enable specific notifications or features, like having Alexa announce when someone is at the door.

3. Ring Mobile App

The Ring app keeps you connected and informed wherever you are, but you must have your phone with you and charged. If your phone dies, you’ll miss alerts.

To get Ring Doorbell notifications on your mobile:

1. Download the Ring app from the app store and install it on your smartphone.
2. Connect the app to your Ring Doorbell by following the in-app instructions.
3. Customize app settings to receive alerts and notifications directly to your phone.

Ring Doorbell and Chime – An Excellent Smart Home Security Duo

I’ve personally found using Ring Doorbell with Chime very practical for my home’s doorbell system. Here’s how to get the best of your Ring Chime:

• Learn how to change the Ring Doorbell sound for your Chime to set it to something you like.
• If your Ring Chime is stuck updating, restart it, make sure the WiFi is stable, reset the Chime, and update the Ring app.
• If your Ring Chime reset button is not working, check power indicators, perform power cycle, check the outlet, and use the Ring app.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Ojash

Author

Hi, I’m Ojash! My journey into smart home technology began with a simple lighting upgrade that quickly turned into a passion. I was fascinated by how connected devices could completely transform everyday living. With over 7 years of experience, I now specialize in creating tailored smart home solutions that enhance comfort, convenience, and efficiency. Through my work at JustSmarter, I enjoy sharing practical advice and insights, helping readers confidently explore the smart home world.

Hashir

Reviewer

Hi, I’m Hashir, a tech enthusiast with a deep love for smart home innovations. My interest in technology has always been driven by the idea of making everyday life more streamlined and efficient. After years of experimenting with smart devices in my own home, I’ve made it my mission to share what I’ve learned with others. I focus on practical, easy-to-understand solutions that anyone can implement to enhance their home. Writing for JustSmarter allows me to connect with fellow tech lovers and help them take their first steps—or next steps—into the exciting world of smart homes.