Does Blink Work with Ring? Here’s How you can pair them easily

Blink and Ring are two leading smart home security brands, known for offering reliable and budget-friendly solutions. Both brands serve distinct user bases with their wide range of devices designed for protecting homes. The big question, however, is: Can Blink and Ring work together to form a seamless security system?

Although Blink and Ring are not natively compatible, there are workarounds using Amazon Alexa and IFTTT that allow you to integrate both systems for better home security.

Are Blink and Ring Devices Compatible?

Blink and Ring devices operate in separate ecosystems. Blink focuses on affordability and simplicity, while Ring offers a broader range of high-end products, from video doorbells to advanced smart lights. Despite both being owned by Amazon, Blink and Ring are not natively compatible, which means they cannot be controlled from a single app or communicate directly with one another.

Why Aren’t They Compatible?

• Proprietary Technology: Each brand has its own unique protocols, making it difficult for the devices to sync directly.
• Separate Ecosystems: Blink and Ring target different markets, with Blink offering basic home security and Ring focusing on advanced, feature-rich systems.
• Business Strategy: Keeping the ecosystems separate allows Amazon to cater to diverse customer preferences without limiting its market reach.

However, users can still integrate Blink and Ring devices using third-party platforms like Amazon Alexa and IFTTT, making it possible to coordinate actions between the two.

Key Differences Between Blink and Ring Security Systems

Hardware and Features

• Blink: Known for its affordability, Blink requires a Sync Module to function, except for the Blink Mini. Its feature set is more limited compared to Ring.
• Ring: A higher-end option, Ring does not require a hub and offers a wide array of devices like video doorbells, motion sensors, and smart lights.

Video and Storage Options

• Both Blink and Ring offer 1080p video quality and storage options. However, Ring excels with better video quality, a wider field of view, and extended cloud storage plans. Blink is more budget-friendly but lacks some of the premium features Ring offers, such as color night vision.

Professional Monitoring vs. Self-Monitoring

• Ring: Provides both self-monitoring and professional monitoring with AI features like person detection and enhanced motion zones.
• Blink: Limited to self-monitoring, with no AI features or professional monitoring options, making it a simpler but less comprehensive solution.

Mobile Apps and User Experience

• Ring Always Home app: Offers a more comprehensive experience with advanced features like two-way audio, motion alerts, and integration with Ring’s Neighbors feature for community-based crime reporting.
• Blink Home Monitor app: Simpler and more user-friendly but lacks some of the customization and advanced features found in the Ring app.

User ratings often place the Ring app ahead due to its richer feature set and a higher level of customization.

How to Pair Blink and Ring Devices

While Blink and Ring don’t communicate directly, you can create automated routines using Amazon Alexa or IFTTT to make the systems work together.

Integration via Alexa Routines

1. Download and Set Up Alexa Skills:
   • Launch the Alexa app, navigate to the “More” section, and choose Skills & Games.
   • Search for Blink SmartHome and enable the skill. Log into your Blink account and follow the setup prompts.
   • Repeat the process for the Ring Skill, linking your Ring account to Alexa.
2. Creating Alexa Routines:
   • Open the Alexa app, head to “More,” and pick Routines.
   • Tap the + button to set up a new routine.
   • Name the routine and set the trigger (e.g., motion detection from a Blink camera).
   • Choose an action (e.g., turning on Ring lights or recording from a Ring doorbell).
   • Customize the routine and save it.

Integration via IFTTT Automation

If you don’t use Alexa, IFTTT (If This Then That) offers another integration method.

1. Download and Set Up IFTTT:
   • Install the IFTTT app and sign up for an account.
   • Link your Blink and Ring accounts to IFTTT by searching for their respective services and granting access.
2. Creating Custom IFTTT Recipes:
   • Open IFTTT and create an automation recipe. For example:
     • Set up the Blink camera to trigger Ring smart lights or begin recording with the Ring camera when it detects movement.
   • Customize your automation and save it.

Monitoring and Security Options

When comparing the two systems:

• Ring offers professional monitoring, AI features like person detection and advanced motion alerts.
• Blink focuses on simple, affordable self-monitoring without AI-driven options.

Recommendations: Choose Ring if you prefer advanced, feature-rich security with professional monitoring. Blink is ideal for budget-conscious users who are satisfied with basic self-monitoring.

Installation and Setup Differences

• Blink: Requires a Sync Module, but installation is straightforward and DIY-friendly. Ideal for users who prefer a hands-on setup.
• Ring: Offers more robust options, requiring no hub. Devices come pre-assembled, and professional installation services are available for more complex setups.

Both Blink and Ring offer local and cloud storage options, but Ring provides more flexibility, including 180 days of cloud storage compared to Blink’s 60 days.

FAQs

Conclusion

While Blink and Ring are not natively compatible, it is possible to create a unified security system using Alexa routines and IFTTT automation. Depending on your security needs, both systems offer unique advantages. For those seeking a budget-friendly, self-monitored system, Blink is a solid choice. For users wanting more advanced features, professional monitoring, and wider product variety, Ring is the better option. Whichever you choose, integrating both can give you the comprehensive security experience you need.