Kangaroo Doorbell: the Affordable Answer to Ring Doorbell
In the world of smart home security, video doorbells have become a staple for many homeowners. The ability to see and speak to visitors at your door, even when you're not home, offers unparalleled convenience and peace of mind. However, the cost of these devices can sometimes be a barrier to entry. That's where Kangaroo comes in.
Kangaroo offers a range of budget-friendly home security solutions, including our Video Doorbell, that provide essential features without the hefty price tag of some competitors like Ring. Let's explore what makes Kangaroo a compelling choice for those seeking affordable home security.
Kangaroo vs. Ring: A Budget-Friendly Showdown
Ring is undoubtedly a popular name in the video doorbell market, but its products can be pricey, especially when you factor in the subscription costs for cloud storage and advanced features. Kangaroo, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly alternative without compromising on essential features.
Let's take a closer look at how the Kangaroo Video Doorbell stacks up against the Ring Video Doorbell in terms of features, pricing, and overall value.
Kangaroo and Ring: Striking Similarities
Both the Kangaroo Video Doorbell and Ring Video Doorbell share several core functionalities that make them effective for home security:
1080p Video Quality: Both offer high-definition video, ensuring clear footage of visitors and activity at your doorstep.
Two-Way Talk: Engage in real-time conversations with visitors through the doorbell's built-in speaker and microphone.
Motion Detection: Receive alerts when motion is detected near your door, keeping you informed of any activity.
Night Vision: See who's at your door even in low-light conditions.
Cloud Storage: Both offer optional cloud storage subscriptions for storing and accessing video footage remotely.
Kangaroo and Ring: Key Differences
While they share similarities, there are also key distinctions that set Kangaroo and Ring apart:
Price: Kangaroo is significantly more affordable than most Ring models, making it a budget-friendly option.
Subscription: Kangaroo doesn't require a monthly subscription for basic features like live view, Person detection, and motion alerts. Ring's cloud storage and advanced features often require a Ring Protect Plan.
Installation: Both offer DIY installation, but Kangaroo is particularly renter-friendly as it doesn't require drilling or hardwiring.
Features: Ring offers a wider range of features and integrations with other smart home devices, while Kangaroo focuses on core functionalities at a lower price point.
Theft and Damage Reimbursement: Kangaroo offers up to $2,000 in reimbursement for theft or damage covered by your system, a feature not typically found in Ring doorbells.
Features Face-Off
| Feature | Kangaroo Video Doorbell + Chime | Ring Video Doorbell 2nd Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $69.99 | $99.99 |
| Video Quality | 1080p FHD | 1080p HD |
| Installation Type | Durable Sticky Tape or Screw-mounted | Screw-mounted |
| Storage Type | Cloud | Cloud |
| Audio Communication | Two-way Talk | Two-way Talk |
| Field of View | 130 degrees | 155 degrees |
| Night Vision | Colored | Colored |
| Night Vision Distance | 9 ft | - |
| Power Source | Rechargeable Battery | Rechargeable Battery or Hard-wired |
| Free App Features | Push Notifications, Livestream,Event video recording, Event history list, HD Image | None |
| Streaming Video | 24/7 Livestreaming | Live view |
| Video Recording | Yes Up to 90 seconds |
Yes Up to 120 seconds |
| Audio Recording | Yes | Yes |
| Video Recording Prompt | Motion Detection, and Doorbell Press | Motion Detection, Doorbell Press |
| Protective Qualities | Weather, Water, and Rust Resistance | Weather Resistance |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
| Subscription Requirement | Optional but not required | Requires Subscription |
| Upfront Costs | Price only | Price + Subscription ($30 ~ $200) annually after the first month |
| Subscription Plans Inclusions | Camera Protect Plan ($23.88 /year) 30-day event history 90-day activity history Up to 90s video recording $250 annual coverage for package theft, property damages, water leak, and fire Plan for 1 camera only Two-way Audio Alexa / Google Assistant Integration Text and Voice Notifications Complete Protect Plan ($99.99 / year) 24/7 Professional Monitoring and Dispatch 30-day video history 90-day activity history Up to 90s video recording $1,000 annual coverage for package theft, property damages, water leak, and fire Plan for 3 cameras only Two-way Audio Alexa / Google Assistant Integration Text and Voice Notifications 24/7 Professional Monitoring |
Protect Basic ($30 / year) 60-day cloud storage Two-way Audio Alexa / Google Assistant Integration Plan for 1 camera Protect Plus ($100 / year) 60-day cloud storage Two-way Audio Alexa / Google Assistant Integration Plan for all cameras at one location 24/7 Professional Monitoring (until 2025 only) Protect Pro ($200) 60-day cloud storage Two-way Audio Alexa / Google Assistant Integration Plan for all cameras at one location 3GB Backup Cellular Data Needs Ring Pro Alarm System 24/7 Professional Monitoring |
As you can see, the Kangaroo Video Doorbell offers many of the same essential features as the Ring Video Doorbell, including 1080p video quality, motion detection, and night vision. It also has some additional benefits, such as motion tagging and detection zoning.
Why Choose Kangaroo?
Affordability: The Kangaroo Video Doorbell is significantly cheaper than most Ring Video Doorbells, making it a great option for budget-conscious homeowners.
No Hidden Fees: Kangaroo doesn't require a monthly subscription for basic features like live view, two-way talk, and motion alerts. You can opt for cloud storage if you want to record footage, but it's not mandatory.
Theft and Damage Reimbursement: Kangaroo offers up to $2,000 in reimbursement for theft or damage covered by your system, providing an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.
Easy Installation: The Kangaroo Video Doorbell is designed for DIY installation, so you can set it up yourself without needing to hire a professional.
Integration with Smart Home Devices: Connect your Kangaroo doorbell with other smart home devices like Alexa or Google Home for voice control and automation.
Kangaroo Reviews
Living alone, it’s always better to know who’s at the door before you open it. I spoke with the friend who referred me to Kangaroo. This kangaroo was worth every penny. It does exactly what the box says it will do and send messages to my phone if someone shows up and I’m not home.
Kim Wilson, Amazon Verified Purchase
Excellent quality product easy installation
GlennT, Amazon Verified Purchase
Great motion detection, beautiful, clear pictures or videos.
Amazon Customer, Apr 2023, Amazon Verified Purchase
This is a good, inexpensive alternative to higher-priced products. Its completely wireless, so can be easily moved. About the only down-side is that its pretty sensitive, and picks up movement of cars on the street. So I paid a nominal yearly fee in order to turn on the "people only" notification function.
BretH, BestBuy Verified Purchase
Good price and affordable
Love, this doorbell, cam easy to install no screws or anything like that necessary. It comes with the sticker so that you can stick it on the outside of your apartment. It works great great battery life great support system easy set up. Mecho, BestBuy Verified Purchase
If you're looking for an affordable video doorbell that doesn't skimp on essential features, the Kangaroo Video Doorbell is an excellent choice. It's easy to install, offers clear video quality, and comes with the added benefit of theft and damage reimbursement. While Ring offers a wider range of features and integrations, Kangaroo provides exceptional value for the price.
So, if you're ready to upgrade your home security without breaking the bank, consider the Kangaroo Video Doorbell – the affordable answer to Ring.
Q&A: Kangaroo Video Doorbell vs. Ring Video Doorbell
1. What are the main differences between the Kangaroo Video Doorbell and the Ring Video Doorbell?
The Kangaroo Video Doorbell and Ring Video Doorbell both offer essential features like 1080p video quality, two-way talk, motion detection, and night vision. However, there are key distinctions:
Price: Kangaroo is significantly more affordable than most Ring models, making it a budget-friendly option.
Subscription: Kangaroo doesn't require a monthly subscription for basic features, while Ring's cloud storage and advanced features often require a Ring Protect Plan.
Installation: Both offer DIY installation, but Kangaroo is particularly renter-friendly as it doesn't require drilling or hardwiring.
Features: Ring offers a wider range of features and integrations with other smart home devices, while Kangaroo focuses on core functionalities at a lower price point.
Theft and Damage Reimbursement: Kangaroo offers up to $2,000 in reimbursement for theft or damage covered by your system, a feature not typically found in Ring doorbells.
2. Can I use both the Kangaroo and Ring Video Doorbells with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant?
Kangaroo: Yes, the Kangaroo Video Doorbell is compatible with both Alexa and Google Assistant.
Ring: Ring Video Doorbells generally work with Alexa, but compatibility with Google Assistant may vary depending on the specific model.
3. Do I need existing doorbell wiring to install either doorbell?
Kangaroo: Kangaroo offers both wired and battery-powered options. The wired version connects to your existing doorbell wires, while the battery-powered version can be installed without any wiring.
Ring: Ring also offers both wired and battery-powered options.
4. What's the difference between motion detection and motion sensor?
Motion Detection: This is a feature built into the camera that detects movement within its field of view and triggers alerts or recording.
Motion Sensor: This is a separate device that can be added to a security system to detect motion in a specific area, triggering an alarm or other actions.
5. Can I expand my home security system with other devices besides the doorbell camera?
Kangaroo: Yes, Kangaroo offers a range of other devices, including indoor and outdoor cameras, motion sensors, and water leak sensors, that can be integrated into a comprehensive home security system.
Ring: Ring also offers a variety of security devices, including cameras, alarms, and sensors, that can be connected to create a Ring Alarm system.
6. What is the video quality of the Kangaroo and Ring doorbells?
Kangaroo: The Kangaroo Video Doorbell offers 1080p HD video quality.
Ring: The video quality of Ring doorbells varies depending on the model, with some offering 1080p HD and others offering higher resolutions.
7. Do I need a subscription for cloud storage with either doorbell?
Kangaroo: No, Kangaroo offers 24 hours of free cloud storage. You can opt for a paid subscription for longer storage and additional features.
Ring: Ring offers a free trial of its Ring Protect Plan, which includes cloud storage. After the trial, a subscription is required for video recording and some advanced features.
8. Which doorbell is better for renters?
Kangaroo: The Kangaroo Video Doorbell is particularly renter-friendly because it offers a battery-powered option that can be installed without drilling or hardwiring.
Ring: Ring also offers battery-powered options, but some models may require drilling for installation.
9. Can I see who's at my door in real-time with both doorbells?
Kangaroo: Yes, you can access a live view of your doorstep through the Kangaroo app.
Ring: Yes, you can also access a live view through the Ring app.
10. What if I have an existing doorbell chime?
Kangaroo: The Kangaroo Video Doorbell includes a chime connector that allows you to connect it to your existing mechanical chime.
Ring: Some Ring Video Doorbells require a compatible chime or a separate plug-in chime.
