In recent years, home security has become a top priority for many homeowners and renters. With rising crime rates and new smart home technology, people are looking for ways to protect their property and loved ones. Two popular options on the market are traditional home security cameras and video doorbells like Ring. For hotels evaluating their security needs, the choice between installing full security camera systems versus using Ring doorbells comes down to a number of factors. In this guide, we’ll compare home security cameras and Ring doorbells for hotel security.
Security Camera Overview
Home security cameras are complete camera systems designed to monitor both indoor and outdoor areas of a property. They typically include multiple cameras that connect wirelessly to a digital video recorder (DVR).
The DVR stores footage which can be reviewed remotely at any time. Features of whole-home security camera systems include:
- Multiple wide-angle camera views – Most systems include 4-8 cameras or more to provide sweeping coverage of all entry points, common areas, parking lots, hallways and more.
- 24/7 continuous recording and cloud storage – Footage is constantly recorded locally onto a DVR and can also be backed up to the cloud for redundancy.
- Remote monitoring from any device – Homeowners can check security feeds on their smartphone, tablet or computer from anywhere.
- Motion-activated alerts – If motion is detected, the system can send instant alerts to the owner’s devices.
- Night vision – Infrared night vision provides clear video even in total darkness.
- Weather-resistant outdoor cameras – Outdoor cameras are designed to withstand the elements.
- Smart detection features – Some cameras have intelligent alerts that can detect people versus general motion.
- Integration with smart home platforms – Security systems can often connect with smart home hubs for easy control and automation.
- Professional installation – Most home security packages include professional installation and configuration.
Ring Video Doorbell Overview
Ring is the most popular video doorbell on the market. Owned by Amazon, Ring doorbells are designed to replace a regular doorbell and provide security for front door areas. Ring doorbells are best known for the following features:
- HD video – Ring doorbells capture 720p or 1080p HD video clips of each visitor.
- Motion alerts – Get notifications any time the doorbell detects motion near the front door.
- Two-way talk – Speak with visitors using the doorbell’s built-in microphone and speaker.
- Chime kit – The wired version can connect to existing doorbell wiring to ring a chime in the home.
- Battery or hardwired power – Ring works on battery power or can be hardwired to existing doorbell wiring.
- Night vision – Infrared night vision ensures clear video even in the dark.
- Weather resistance – Ring is designed to withstand heat, cold, rain and snow.
- DIY installation – Ring doorbells are designed for easy DIY installation and setup.
- Affordable entry-level option – Ring costs less than full security camera systems.
Comparing Hotel Security Needs
When comparing security cameras versus Ring for hotels, there are a number of factors to consider:
Camera Coverage
The most significant difference is the amount of coverage provided. Home security systems include multiple cameras that cover every vulnerable entry point, common areas, hallways, parking lots and more. This provides complete 24/7 monitoring of a property.
Ring only covers the immediate door area. While it captures visitors, it misses potentially vulnerable areas a few feet away from the door that traditional cameras would cover. Hotels have many entry points besides the front door that need monitoring.
Continuous Recording
Continuous RecordingFull security systems provide continuous recording locally onto a DVR. Footage can be reviewed at any time after an incident occurs. Ring doorbells only record video clips when motion is detected and have limits on cloud storage. They lack continuous recording to review.
Smart Detection Features
Some advanced home security cameras have intelligent alert features that detect people and reduce false alarms from general motion. This allows hotels to hone in on real security events. Basic Ring doorbells lack smart detection.
Remote Monitoring
Both security cameras and Ring allow remote access to video feeds via mobile apps. However, full security systems make accessing and managing many cameras easier from one centralized interface versus separate apps for each Ring doorbell.
Deterrence Factor
Visible security cameras have a strong deterrence factor, warning potential intruders that they are being recorded if they trespass. Small doorbell cameras are far less visible and may not deter criminals.
Two-Way Communication
While the ability to speak to visitors is useful, security cameras offer even more flexibility by integrating with two-way voice assistants. This allows verbal communication through security systems using Alexa or Google Assistant.
Professional Installation
Installing a multi-camera system across a large property can be challenging. Professional installation takes the hassle out of configuring a hotel security system and ensures optimal setup. DIY Ring installation is prone to user error.
Ongoing Costs
Ring requires an optional annual subscription for full functionality and cloud storage. Security systems incur ongoing costs as well, depending on the features chosen. Both options ultimately provide monitoring capabilities that are invaluable for hotels.
Choosing the Right Hotel Security
When evaluating their unique needs, most hotels will benefit more from a complete video surveillance system versus relying solely on video doorbells like Ring. Wider camera coverage, continuous recording and remote monitoring make traditional security systems superior for monitoring large properties and preventing crime.
That said, Ring doorbells do offer an affordable smart option for smaller hotels or bed and breakfasts. For these businesses, combining Ring with a couple of strategically placed security cameras may provide adequate monitoring. Larger franchises and hospitality businesses are still best served by implementing robust, multi-camera surveillance systems across their premises.
Key Takeaways
- Home security cameras provide widespread coverage while Ring focuses on entry areas.
- Continuous recording and smart motion detection give security cameras an advantage.
- Easy remote access and deterrence make cameras better for hotels.
- Professional installation ensures optimal security system setup.
- Traditional cameras excel for larger hotels while Ring can work for smaller properties.
The choice comes down to a hotel’s specific security needs. But for complete around-the-clock monitoring and maximum protection, full home security camera systems are the best solution in most cases. As crime and liability risks remain a concern, hotels must take every precaution available.