Ring has revolutionized home security with its advanced alarm systems, video doorbells, and surveillance cameras, providing homeowners with peace of mind. Since the launch of its first-gen video doorbell, the company has expanded its product line to include security cameras, smart lighting, and DIY smart home security systems. Ring has also extended its integrations with smart devices like smart locks and switches. Smart locks have become an integral part of modern home security systems, offering convenience, enhanced security, and remote access. These locks can be controlled via smartphones, allowing homeowners to lock or unlock their doors from anywhere.
This Ring buying guide will educate you on which devices work with Ring video doorbells, cameras, and security systems. We will also show you the benefits of having one app to control all these devices and how to find them using The GearBrain, our compatibility find engine for smart devices.
Before we begin, it is important to note on Ring’s site that they list two types of compatible devices that work with Ring: certified and uncertified. Certified devices provide guided setup, additional features, and the best in-app experience connected with Ring products. These integrations and devices can also be controlled through the Ring app. Uncertified products will have basic functions and limited features in the Ring app. For instance, you can only turn a device on or off using the Ring app.
Integrating Smart Locks with Ring
Integrating smart devices with your Ring video doorbell will vary based on how your Ring Video Doorbell is set up. For instance, if your Ring doorbell is the only device you are using, a limited number of connected products will work with Ring. However, if your Ring Doorbell is connected to a Ring Alarm System, your selection of devices will increase. This is because the Ring Alarm System works on a different wireless protocol. The Ring Alarm Systems work on a Z-Wave wireless connection, while Ring Video Doorbells, Smart Lighting, and Cameras connect on a Wi-Fi signal when not connected to Ring Alarm. Wondering what smart devices actually work with your Ring Video Doorbell, security camera, smart lights, or alarm system? We’ve got the answers.
This section is to help clarify your options for integrating smart locks with your Ring Doorbell. The first way to integrate smart locks with Ring is using Ring Alarm. The Ring Alarm Z-Wave connection also enables you to arm or disarm your alarm when the smart lock is locked. For example, when you arrive home and enter your lock pin, your door will unlock and your Ring Alarm will automatically disarm. Using Z-Wave smart locks with Ring Alarm is the best way to integrate these devices.
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The second way to integrate a smart lock with Ring is using the Amazon Key App. WIth the Amazon Key App, you can connect a WiFi smart lock to your Ring Doorbell. If you don’t have a Ring Alarm, this is the only option you have to directly integrate your Ring Doorbell with a smart lock. I recommend integrating with Ring Alarm if possible.
Compatible Smart Locks
If your Ring Video Doorbell is connected to a Ring Alarm system, your choices of smart locks increase dramatically. You can choose any Z-Wave smart lock since the Ring Alarm Base Station will control it. The Ring app will help you set up these integrations. However, only one Z-wave smart lock is Certified and compatible with Ring Video Doorbells when connected to Ring Alarm System. It is the Yale Real Living Assure Lock SL With Z-Wave Plus. All other Z-Wave-compatible smart locks will work with Ring but are not certified. You can use The GearBrain to find the 19 compatible smart locks.
Listed below are just a few good Z-Wave smart locks for you to consider:- Kwikset Home Connect 620 Keypad Connected Smart Lock with Z-Wave
- Schlage Z-Wave Connected Deadbolt Lock 914 SmartCode Electronic Deadbolt Lock with Z-Wave
(Note: some Z-wave smart locks might have limited features when connected to the Ring Alarm hub.
Are Smart Locks Safe? A Lock Expert Explains | WSJ
Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt
Schlage makes some of the most secure locks on the market. Overall, the Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt is one of the most secure locks you can buy for you Ring Alarm. The device is certified by Ring for seamless integration with Ring Alarm. For the smart locks we are considering, Schlage is the only manufacturer that makes a smart lock that works with Ring that is rated BHMA/ANSI Grade 1 certified. Additionally, the Schlage Connect lock has a built in alarm. You can set up the alarm to give you audible alerts when the door is opened or closed. The Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt lock uses a fingerprint resistant touchscreen for the outdoor keypad. It is important that the touchscreen doesn’t show fingerprints so other people can’t look at the common numbers that you press.
Once you connect the Schlage smart lock to Ring Alarm, you will use the Ring App to manage the lock. You can use the Ring App to lock or unlock the lock, create and manage access codes, see usage history, and check the battery level. The lock is connected to Ring Alarm so you can also link alarm actions to the door lock. For example, you can lock the door and arm Ring Alarm at the same time. You can also trigger Ring Alarm to disarm when a person unlocks the smart lock with a pin code. You can also control the Schlage smart lock using Alexa. You can lock, unlock or get the current status of the lock using your voice.
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Kwikset SmartCode 914 Deadbolt
Kwikset is an extremely popular lock that also makes good smart locks. The Kwikset SmartKey allows you to re-key the smart lock to match existing Kwikset locks already installed in your home (smart or regular). The Kwikset SmartCode 914 deadbolt uses a 10 digit keypad to gain access to your home. The 10 digit keypad uses physical keys, which are easier to use if you are wearing gloves. A keypad is arguably more reliable than a touch screen too.
Like the other locks, you manage the Kwikset smart lock in the Ring app after you connect it to Ring Alarm using Z-Wave. You can control the lock, manage access codes and review usage history directly in the Ring App. The Kwikset 914 Smart Lock is ANSI/BHMA grade 2 certified (rated 1-3 where 1 is the best). This isn’t as good as the Schlage lock (grade 1 certified), but it is very good and higher rated than most consumer grade locks.
The Kwikset locks have been improved to fix vulnerabilities found in previous versions. Overall, if you already have Kwikset locks then this is a great choice for your home. You can use the Kwikset SmartKey to re-key your smart lock and still use your current house keys.
Yale Real Living Assure Lock
Yale makes some great locks and the Yale Assure Lock is one of the best looking smart locks on the market. The Yale Real Living Assure lock uses a Touchscreen Keypad to unlock your door. The touchscreen keypad is backlit for easy use during the night. A unique feature of the Yale Assure smart lock is that it does NOT have a key. The only way to open the lock is using the digital keypad. This is a modern approach that fits in with the modern look of the lock.
Once you have a smart lock, you will likely never use the key again. Not having a key is a good security feature too. The Yale Real Living Assure lock is BHMA/ANSI Grade 2 certified. Again, this isn’t rated as high as Schlage, but level 2 certification is better than most residential locks. The Yale Assure lock is controlled in the Ring App after you successfully connect it to your Ring Alarm. You can create up to 250 access codes for your Yale lock. Like the other locks in this list, you can lock / unlock the smart lock directly in the Ring app.
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The Yale smart lock uses 4 AA batteries to power the lock. Additionally, it has a 9 volt connector to use as a backup in case the batteries die and you can’t open the lock. Overall, the Yale Real Living Assure smart lock is a good choice if you want a clean and modern look. The deadbolt is rated higher than most residential locks.
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt is the perfect solution if you simply want to lock or unlock your door directly from the Ring App. The Schlage Encode uses a fingerprint resistant capacitive touchscreen (similar to a smartphone) to enter lock codes. The screen displays 10 digits that are lighted so you can easily see in the dark. Since the Encode uses a capacitive touchscreen, you unfortunately can’t wear gloves when entering the pin codes.
To use the Schlage Encode with Ring, you need to set up the lock with the Amazon Key App. The Amazon Key App allows you to link the lock to your Ring Doorbell in the Ring App. You can set up and manage up to 100 user codes in the Amazon Key App. The Schlage Encode is a very secure deadbolt that is BHMA/ANSI Grade 1 certified (highest possible certification). It also has a built in alarm for audible notifications of doorbell events or security breaches. This means it is not just a smart lock.
Overall, if you don’t have Ring Alarm then the Schlage Encode is the option for you to connect your smart lock to your Ring Doorbell.
Additional Compatible Devices
Besides smart locks, smart thermostats, and smart garage door controllers, Ring devices work with smart plugs and outlets. All these smart devices require a Ring Alarm Security System since they work on a Z-Wave connection. None of these devices are Ring certified, which means they will have limited functionality in the Ring app. For instance, you can control devices plugged into these devices or smart outlets in the Ring app. Controls are limited to turning appliances on and off and adjusting the brightness on dimmable lights.
The other smart devices that will work with your Ring devices, which are Certified, are smart thermostats, smoke/CO alarms, and smart water systems. All these devices can be controlled in the Ring app. Here is the list of certified devices:
- Honeywell Home T5 Smart Thermostat
- Honeywell Home T9 Wi-Fi Thermostat with Smart Sensor
- First Alert Z-Wave Plus Smoke/CO Alarm (2nd Generation) - does require Ring Alarm
- Flo by Moen 3/4-Inch Smart Water Shutoff
- Amazon Smart Thermostat - Buy on Amazon
All smart home security systems need a good reliable siren. Ring Alarm System does come with a Base Station with a built-in siren. However, Dome Siren is the recommended Certified siren if you would like another siren to help prevent intruders. You will need a Ring Alarm System since Dome connects to the Ring Base station.
Ring and Alexa Integration
The one category that all Ring products are compatible with is smart speakers and displays. Whether you have a Ring Video Doorbell, StickUp Cam, Floodlight Cam, or Ring Alarm system, you can use voice commands with these devices. However, only one voice platform works with Ring devices and systems today: Amazon Alexa. This is most likely due to the fact Ring is owned by Amazon.
Products with the Amazon Alexa platform built-in can function just like an Amazon smart speaker or display. It will work with Ring products if you have an Echo Show, Echo, Echo Dot, or even an Echo Plus. You can even use other smart speakers or displays with Amazon Alexa built-in.
Suppose you have a smart TV with Amazon Alexa voice platform built-in. In that case, you can enjoy many of the same features found in an Echo Smart Display, including viewing live video from your Ring Doorbells and Cameras. Using voice commands like "Alexa, show the front door," you can directly see live footage from your connected Ring devices on your smart TV screen. This integration allows you to monitor your home’s security without needing a separate Echo device.
Benefits of Integrating Smart Locks with Ring
Integrating smart locks with your Ring system offers numerous benefits, enhancing both convenience and security.
- One of the primary benefits of smart locks is the ability to control your door locks remotely. With the Ring app, you can lock or unlock your door from anywhere, ensuring that your home is secure even when you're not there.
- Smart locks offer enhanced security features, such as auto-locking, real-time notifications, and integration with your Ring Alarm system.
- Keyless entry and remote control eliminate the need for physical keys, making it easier to manage access to your home.
- Smart locks that are compatible with Ring integrate seamlessly with other Ring devices, such as video doorbells and cameras.
Troubleshooting and Support
And if you need help troubleshooting problems with integrations, connecting compatible devices with the Ring app, or just trying to find compatible products, you can use The GearBrain. It’s free and easy to use. Also, you can store all your smart devices’ product information (i.e., user manuals and warranties) for free.
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