In-Depth Review of the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus (2021 Release)
The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus is a remarkable addition to any smart home, combining enhanced security features with user-friendly technology. In this review, we will explore its key features, installation process, performance, and overall value to determine how it stands up in the crowded market of home security cameras.
Key Features
Video Quality
One of the standout features of the Floodlight Cam Wired Plus is its impressive 1080p HD video capability. This ensures that both daytime and nighttime footage is clear and detailed. The integration of Color Night Vision enhances the camera’s ability to capture quality images even in low-light conditions. Users have reported satisfaction with the clarity of the video, which is crucial for identifying potential intruders or monitoring deliveries.
Motion Detection and Customizability
The advanced motion detection system is another highlight. With customizable motion zones, users can tailor the camera’s sensitivity and focus to specific areas, minimizing unnecessary alerts from passing cars or small animals. This flexibility in settings is highly appreciated, allowing for a more personalized security experience.
Two-Way Audio and Siren
The two-way audio feature enables users to communicate with visitors or potential intruders directly through the camera. Coupled with a 105db remote-activated siren, the Floodlight Cam Wired Plus provides an additional layer of deterrence against unwanted intrusions. This feature is particularly useful for greeting delivery personnel or scaring off trespassers.
Floodlight Brightness
Equipped with two powerful 3000° Kelvin floodlights emitting 2000 lumens, the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus ensures well-lit surroundings. The brightness can be adjusted through the app, allowing users to optimize light levels for their preferences and needs. The wide field of view (140° horizontal and 80° vertical) further enhances coverage, eliminating blind spots.
Installation Process
Average Installation Time
Setting up the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus typically takes between 15 to 25 minutes. The integrated mounting base simplifies the installation, allowing for adjustable angles for both the lights and camera. The installation requires a 4-inch round weatherproof electrical box and AC power wiring, which can be a hurdle for those without prior experience in electrical work.
Step-by-Step Setup
- Preparation: Gather all tools and ensure you have the necessary electrical box and power wiring.
- Mounting: Carefully measure and mark the installation spot, drill the necessary holes, and secure the mounting bracket.
- Wiring: Connect the power supply, ensuring all safety measures are in place.
- Configuration: Use the Ring app to connect the camera to your Wi-Fi network and set up motion detection zones.
User Feedback on Installation
Users have reported that while the installation is generally straightforward, it requires attention to detail, particularly with wiring and placement. Clear instructions are provided in the manual, making it accessible even for those who may not be particularly handy.
Performance and Reliability
Connectivity and Power
The Floodlight Cam Wired Plus operates on a hardwired power connection, eliminating battery concerns and ensuring uninterrupted operation. The connectivity options via 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi at 2.4GHz are reliable, provided users have a minimum upload speed of 2 Mbps, which is a standard requirement for optimal performance.
Weather Resistance
Designed to withstand various environmental conditions, the camera functions efficiently in temperatures ranging from 4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C). Users have praised its durability and reliability in different climates, making it a dependable choice for outdoor security.
Overall Value
Subscription Services
While the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus offers numerous features, some functionalities, such as extended video storage and advanced alerts, require a separate Ring Home subscription. This aspect may be seen as a drawback for users looking for a completely free solution, but many find the additional features justifiable.
Integration with Smart Home Devices
The compatibility with Alexa adds significant value, allowing users to receive alerts on compatible Echo devices and view live feeds through an Echo Show or Fire TV. This integration enhances the overall smart home experience and convenience.
Ratings
- Video Quality: 4.7/5
- Motion Detection Customization: 4.8/5
- Two-Way Audio: 4.5/5
- Installation Ease: 4.2/5
- Floodlight Performance: 4.6/5
- Overall Value: 4.3/5
Final Thoughts
The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus is a robust and effective security solution that combines high-quality video, customizable motion detection, and excellent lighting features. Its reliable performance and easy integration with smart home devices make it a highly recommended choice for anyone looking to enhance their home security.
Overall Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5)
Whether you’re a seasoned tech enthusiast or a first-time smart home user, the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus promises peace of mind with its advanced features and user-friendly setup.
HL –
I’ve been using the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus for a while now, and it has truly transformed my home security. The 1080p HD video quality is impressive, delivering clear images both day and night, while the motion-activated LED lights offer fantastic brightness. The camera works flawlessly with Alexa, allowing me to easily check the live feed or receive motion alerts using voice commands.
Setting up motion detection zones through the app was a breeze, ensuring that I only get notifications for relevant activity. Plus, the wired connection means I never have to stress about battery life.
This product is sturdy, practical, and gives me great peace of mind. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable security camera with floodlights!
MM –
Highly dependable motion detection and lighting. Installation and usage are straightforward. The brightness is impressive, and you can adjust it through the app, along with motion sensitivity, motion zones, and scheduling options. The resolution is decent, but I look forward to a 4K option in the future.
Bartek –
Great quality. Installation was fairly easy. The video is clear with a wide angle. The lights are bright. Definitely a good purchase.
Randy2 –
RING Flood Cam Wire Plus Review
I received my order earlier than expected, and I must say, RING’s customer support has been outstanding, available 24/7. I opted for the wired version for its reliability and chose white to withstand the intense Phoenix, Arizona sun.
I installed the camera vertically on the exterior wall of my garage, about 8 feet above the driveway, aimed at my two-car driveway and the street. I ran a 3-wire round power cord from an AC outlet in the garage ceiling, approximately 15 feet to the wall. Precise measurements for the mounting location are crucial. I carefully calculated the spot for drilling through the stucco and into the garage. I purchased a 12” x 3/8” concrete drill bit and a 4” plastic round box.
Unfortunately, I had to enlarge the hole slightly to allow the power cord to fit through easily; a 7/16” or ½” bit would have worked better. After drilling through about 13” of stucco and wood for the extension cord, I cut the plug off and pushed it through the wall. I mounted the 4” plastic round box with long screws, stripped the cord down to the three wires, and wired it up according to the instructions.
The next morning, I found that one of the tabs on the plastic round box had broken, leaving the unit hanging by just the wire and the remaining tab. I strongly advise against using a plastic 4” round box. I purchased a metal round box, rewired, and remounted the unit. Make sure to use appropriate screws for attaching the round box to the wall.
The camera is quite heavy, and the round box has only two tabs for mounting it. The metal 4” round box with ½” threaded outlets includes screw plugs for unused holes. Additionally, the panhead screws provided for mounting the metal bracket were too long, preventing a proper seal with the foam rubber gasket. I replaced them with truss-head screws. Again, handle the unit with care due to its weight.
I sealed the 4” round box to the stucco wall with liquid nails to keep rain out and painted over the box to match the stucco.
As for performance, I’m disappointed with the image resolution when zoomed in for clearer identification. It seems the camera lacks lenses, resulting in a limited depth of field. The feature that allows you to select the motion detection area is nice, and while the app is a bit confusing at first, it works well after some exploration. The selectable motion alarm is an interesting feature, complete with a recorded female voice stating, “Hi, you are currently being recorded,” when motion is detected.
Overall, this unit is worth the investment and installation effort. It adds a reassuring layer of outdoor security and integrates well with my RING doorbell. I’ll have a better understanding of its durability after a few summers and rainy seasons. I subscribed to the Plus option for $100/year, which covers video recording for all my devices at home, and I appreciate the shared neighborhood alerts about security issues detected by RING products.
Customer Feedback to RING: I recommend updating your installation video to emphasize the use of a Metal 4” Round Box and to replace the panhead screws with flatter head screws. Additionally, enhancing the resolution for zoomed-in images is crucial for identification purposes. I would be willing to pay extra for improved resolution in future product versions.
Zeljka Schwachenwald –
The Ring Wired Floodlight Cam has truly surpassed my expectations! The setup process was simple and straightforward, and once it was installed, it significantly enhanced my home security. The video quality is impressively sharp, even at night, allowing me to see and hear everything happening around my property. The 1080p HD camera delivers clear footage both day and night, and the night vision feature works remarkably well.
The two-way audio is a standout feature; it lets me communicate with anyone at my door or on my property directly from my phone, which is incredibly useful for deliveries or unexpected visitors. The motion detection is highly adjustable, and I appreciate the ability to fine-tune the sensitivity to minimize false alerts from small animals or passing cars. I particularly love that it’s hardwired, eliminating the hassle of charging batteries—providing constant and reliable power.
The floodlights are exceptionally bright and illuminate a wide area, effectively deterring potential intruders and giving me peace of mind when returning home after dark. I also appreciate that they automatically activate when motion is detected, making them both energy-efficient and convenient. With the Ring app, I can control the lights, view live footage, and review recorded clips anytime, which is perfect for monitoring my home while I’m away.
In summary, the Ring Wired Floodlight Cam has provided me with a strong sense of security and added immense value to my home. It’s an investment that’s absolutely worth it for the peace of mind and safety it offers. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their home security with an effective, high-quality system!
Randy2 –
The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus bundle with the Echo Show 5 is a fantastic enhancement to any home security system! The Floodlight Cam delivers bright, adjustable lighting and offers a crystal-clear view, enabling me to keep an eye on my property around the clock. The two-way audio feature is excellent, allowing me to converse with anyone outside from anywhere in my home.
Pairing it with the Echo Show 5 truly elevates the experience, making it easy to view live feeds, receive notifications, and control other smart devices effortlessly. The integration is smooth, making home security both user-friendly and effective. I highly recommend this bundle for anyone wanting to enhance their home safety!