Is The Ring Doorbell 4 Worth Upgrading From The Ring 2 Model

For thousands of homeowners, the Ring Doorbell 2 was a game-changer—offering reliable motion detection, crisp video quality, and seamless smartphone integration. But with the release of the Ring Doorbell 4, many are asking: Is it time to upgrade? The answer depends on your security needs, budget, and how much value you place on incremental improvements in performance, design, and functionality.

The Ring Doorbell 4 isn’t a revolutionary leap over its predecessor, but it introduces meaningful upgrades that could justify the cost for some users. From enhanced night vision to improved audio clarity and faster response times, the fourth generation aims to refine an already solid product. But does it do enough to warrant replacing a fully functional Ring 2?

Key Upgrades in the Ring Doorbell 4

The Ring Doorbell 4 builds on the foundation of the Ring 2 while addressing several limitations. Here's a breakdown of the most significant enhancements:

• Better low-light performance: The Doorbell 4 features Starlight Technology, which delivers full-color night vision under dim lighting conditions. In contrast, the Ring 2 relies on infrared night vision, producing black-and-white footage after dark.
• Faster setup and connectivity: With dual-band Wi-Fi support (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), the Doorbell 4 connects more reliably and handles data more efficiently than the Ring 2, which only supports 2.4 GHz.
• Improved audio quality: A new microphone array reduces background noise and enhances voice clarity during two-way talk, making conversations less muffled—especially useful when speaking through a closed door.
• Enhanced motion detection: While both models offer customizable motion zones, the Doorbell 4 includes pre-configured smart alerts based on common triggers like people, packages, and vehicles, reducing false alarms from swaying trees or passing cars.
• More discreet design: The Doorbell 4 has a slightly slimmer profile and a redesigned mounting bracket that makes it harder to tamper with or remove quickly.

Tip: If you frequently experience dropped connections or poor video loading with your Ring 2, upgrading to the Doorbell 4 may resolve these issues thanks to its dual-band Wi-Fi support.

Comparing Core Features: Ring 2 vs. Ring 4

To determine if the upgrade makes sense, let’s compare the two models side by side across critical categories.

Feature	Ring Doorbell 2	Ring Doorbell 4
Video Resolution	1080p HD	1080p HD
Night Vision	Infrared (black & white)	Starlight Color Night Vision
Wi-Fi Support	2.4 GHz only	Dual-band (2.4 GHz & 5 GHz)
Two-Way Audio	Yes, basic mic/speaker	Improved noise reduction, clearer sound
Motion Detection	Custom zones, basic alerts	Smart Alerts (people, package, vehicle), reduced false triggers
Installation	Hardwired or battery-powered	Hardwired or battery-powered (new quick-release battery)
Field of View	160° diagonal	160° horizontal
Privacy Settings	Basic mode scheduling	Enhanced privacy controls, temporary disable options

While both devices share core capabilities like 1080p video and two-way communication, the Doorbell 4 offers tangible improvements in usability and reliability. The addition of 5 GHz Wi-Fi alone can make a noticeable difference in homes with congested wireless networks.

Real-World Example: A Homeowner’s Experience

Consider Sarah, a homeowner in suburban Denver who’s used her Ring Doorbell 2 since 2019. She appreciated the device’s ease of use and ability to monitor deliveries. However, she often missed alerts due to spotty Wi-Fi and struggled to identify faces in her driveway footage at night—everything appeared grainy and monochrome.

After switching to the Ring Doorbell 4, Sarah noticed immediate improvements. Her connection stabilized, especially during peak internet usage hours. More importantly, the color night vision allowed her to distinguish between neighbors, delivery drivers, and strangers even after sunset. One evening, she spotted someone lingering near her garage—an individual wearing red shoes and dark pants—details impossible to discern with her old infrared camera.

“I didn’t think I needed an upgrade,” she said, “but now that I have the Doorbell 4, I can’t imagine going back. It feels more responsive, looks sharper, and gives me peace of mind.”

“The shift from black-and-white to color night vision is one of the most underrated advancements in home security tech. It dramatically improves situational awareness.” — David Lin, Smart Home Security Analyst at TechGuard Labs

When You Should Upgrade

Not every Ring 2 owner needs to upgrade. However, certain situations make the switch highly beneficial:

1. You rely heavily on nighttime monitoring. If your property experiences frequent activity after dark—like late-night deliveries, neighborhood patrols, or suspicious movements—the Doorbell 4’s color night vision provides far better visual context.
2. Your current doorbell disconnects often. If your Ring 2 drops video feeds or fails to send notifications consistently, dual-band Wi-Fi in the Doorbell 4 can solve these issues, particularly in homes with multiple connected devices.
3. You want smarter alert filtering. The Ring 4’s Smart Alerts reduce notification fatigue by distinguishing between people, packages, and vehicles, helping you focus on what matters.
4. Security is a top priority. The newer model’s tamper-resistant mounting and quicker wake-up time (from standby to live view) mean faster reaction to potential threats.
5. You’re expanding your Ring ecosystem. If you're adding Ring Floodlights, Indoor Cams, or Alarm systems, the Doorbell 4 integrates more smoothly into a modern Ring setup.

Tip: If you're still under warranty or protection plan for your Ring 2, check return or trade-in options before purchasing the Doorbell 4 outright.

Step-by-Step: How to Decide If the Upgrade Is Right for You

Follow this practical timeline to evaluate whether upgrading makes financial and functional sense:

1. Assess your current setup (Week 1): Track how often your Ring 2 misses motion events, disconnects, or delivers unclear footage. Keep a log for seven days.
2. Test your Wi-Fi signal at the door (Week 2): Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app to measure signal strength where your doorbell is mounted. If it’s below -70 dBm, the Doorbell 4’s 5 GHz support could help—but only if your router supports it nearby.
3. Review your Ring subscription usage (Week 3): Are you using Ring Protect to save videos? Do you frequently access event history? Higher video retention needs benefit from smoother playback and faster uploads offered by the Doorbell 4.
<4> Compare pricing and incentives (Week 4): Check Ring’s official site for trade-in programs, seasonal discounts, or bundle deals. Sometimes, buying a Doorbell 4 + indoor cam together saves more than upgrading alone.
4. Make your decision (End of Week 4): Based on performance gaps, security needs, and cost, decide whether to keep, repair, or replace your Ring 2.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my existing Ring 2 accessories with the Doorbell 4?

Yes, most mounting brackets and power kits are compatible. However, the Doorbell 4 uses a new quick-release battery design, so older batteries won’t fit. You can reuse your existing transformer if it meets voltage requirements (8–24 VAC).

Do I need a Ring Protect subscription for the Doorbell 4?

While not mandatory, a subscription is strongly recommended. Without Ring Protect, you can only view live video—you lose recorded events, cloud storage, and Smart Alerts. The Doorbell 4’s advanced features shine best with a paid plan.

Is the installation process more complicated?

No, installation is just as straightforward as the Ring 2. The app guides you through wiring, alignment, and testing. The main difference is securing the new mounting plate, which has anti-tamper screws.

Upgrade Checklist

Before finalizing your purchase, go through this checklist to ensure a smooth transition:

• ✅ Confirm your Wi-Fi network supports 5 GHz near the front door
• ✅ Back up any important footage from your Ring 2
• ✅ Remove the old doorbell and turn off power at the breaker
• ✅ Test voltage from existing wires to avoid damage
• ✅ Download the latest Ring app version
• ✅ Transfer your Ring Protect plan to the new device
• ✅ Reconfigure motion zones and notification settings
• ✅ Test doorbell chime sync and two-way audio

Final Verdict: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

If your Ring Doorbell 2 still works well and meets your daily needs, there’s no urgent reason to upgrade. The improvements in the Doorbell 4 are evolutionary, not revolutionary. However, if you’ve experienced connectivity issues, poor night visibility, or frustration with false alerts, the fourth generation addresses those pain points effectively.

The most compelling reasons to upgrade come down to three factors: better night vision, stronger Wi-Fi compatibility, and smarter detection. For users in high-crime areas, large households, or tech-forward homes, these upgrades translate into real-world security advantages.

Additionally, considering long-term value, the Doorbell 4 is likely to receive software updates and support longer than the aging Ring 2. Investing now could extend your device lifecycle and integration with future smart home tools.

“Technology doesn’t age based on calendar years—it ages based on relevance. When a device no longer meets your evolving needs, it’s time to move on.” — Lena Tran, Senior Editor at SmartHome Review

Take Action Today

Your front door is your home’s first line of defense. If your current doorbell leaves you guessing in the dark—literally—it might be time for an upgrade. Evaluate your needs, test your environment, and consider whether the Ring Doorbell 4 brings the clarity, speed, and confidence you deserve.

Whether you choose to upgrade or optimize your existing setup, staying proactive about home security pays dividends in safety and peace of mind. Explore your options, compare real user experiences, and make a choice that aligns with how you live today—not how you lived five years ago.

💬 Have you upgraded from the Ring 2 to the 4? Share your experience, tips, or concerns in the comments below—your insights could help others make a smarter decision!