Choose the service first
Ring separates camera subscriptions from monitoring for a compatible alarm. Start with the devices and service you need, then compare the recurring charge.
Do you want to review camera events, or do you want monitoring for a compatible alarm? These are different jobs. Match the plan to the devices you own or intend to buy, then compare the recurring charge. This review covers the published Ring Protect subscriptions. It does not price a particular doorbell, camera or alarm kit. A subscription comparison is most useful after you define what you want the system to do.
Four decisions before subscribing
Start with the purpose of the service. This keeps optional features from deciding the purchase for you.
Video or alarm
Choose the job you need the service to do.
A recording subscription and an alarm-monitoring service solve different problems. Write down the required job before choosing a plan.
Device or location
Count the equipment you want to cover.
Compare the scope of the subscription with your actual setup. Include each camera, doorbell and alarm in your equipment list.
Compatible hardware
Check the exact model before buying.
A familiar brand name is not enough to establish eligibility for every feature. Confirm the model and service together.
Full ownership cost
Separate hardware from recurring service.
Budget for the equipment and subscription as separate costs. Add taxes and applicable local charges before comparing alternatives.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Separate video plans for one device or one location.
- Monthly and annual billing on Solo, Multi and Pro.
- Pro supports monitoring for compatible Ring alarms.
- A distinct service option for live video monitoring.
Cons
- A video subscription does not replace compatible alarm hardware.
- Equipment costs are outside the subscription comparison.
- Features depend on compatible devices and service eligibility.
- Taxes and applicable local monitoring charges add to the price.
Ring Protect plans
Published subscription prices, checked November 2, 2026. Hardware and applicable taxes are extra. Confirm the devices and address before subscribing.
Ring plans at a glance
| Plan | Price (USD) | What is included |
|---|---|---|
| Solo | $4.99/ mo | $49.99 yearly. Video coverage for one device. |
| Multi | $9.99/ mo | $99.99 yearly. Video coverage at one location. |
| Pro | $19.99/ mo | $199.99 yearly. Monitoring requires a compatible Ring Alarm or Alarm Pro. |
| Virtual Security Guard | $99/ mo | Live video monitoring. Eligible devices required. |
Solo
$49.99 yearly. Video coverage for one device.
Multi
$99.99 yearly. Video coverage at one location.
Pro
$199.99 yearly. Monitoring requires a compatible Ring Alarm or Alarm Pro.
Virtual Security Guard
Live video monitoring. Eligible devices required.
Scope and requirements
| Check | What matters |
|---|---|
| Subscription family | Ring Protect |
| Camera coverage | Match one-device or location coverage to your setup. |
| Alarm monitoring | Compatible Ring Alarm or Alarm Pro and an eligible plan required. |
| Live video service | Virtual Security Guard requires eligible equipment. |
| Monitoring location | Available in the 50 U.S. states, not territories. Check local requirements. |
| Local charges | Permits, false-alarm or verified-response fees may apply. |
| Renewal | Plans renew automatically until canceled. |
Treat device compatibility as part of the purchase decision. A plan name should not be your only check. Keep a list of exact models and the services you expect from them. This makes it easier to compare the full setup rather than a subscription in isolation.
Build your setup in order
Define the job
Decide whether you need video recordings, a monitored alarm, or live video monitoring.
List the hardware
Record the exact models you own or plan to buy. Check their eligibility for the selected service.
Confirm local requirements
Check service availability and any permits or local fees before comparing the final cost.
Compare billing periods
Compare the same period of service. Keep equipment and other charges separate.
Review your settings
Check the chosen coverage and alerts before relying on the system. Keep renewal details with your account records.
One year of Pro service
This illustration compares the published annual price with twelve monthly payments. It covers the subscription only. Use the same period when comparing another service, and add the equipment you still need.
- Annual billingOne year of Pro service
- $199.99
- Monthly billing12 payments × $19.99
- $239.88
- Price differenceAnnual versus 12 monthly payments
- $39.89
$199.99/ year
Pro annual subscriptionAssumes the published Pro prices checked November 2, 2026. Excludes compatible equipment, tax, permits and other local fees. Plans auto-renew until canceled.
The cheaper billing option is not the only decision. Consider how long you expect to keep the setup and read the cancellation terms. Keep the confirmation of the plan and billing period so that a future renewal is easy to review.
Match the plan to your goal
Three different service jobs
Video subscription
- Start with device coverage.
- Choose one device or a location.
- Do not assume alarm dispatch is included.
Professional monitoring
- Start with alarm eligibility.
- Confirm the service address.
- Check permits and applicable local charges.
Live video monitoring
- Confirm the live service you want.
- Check equipment requirements.
- Compare its cost separately from ordinary video storage.
Compare the same service job across providers. An inexpensive video plan is not an equivalent replacement for a monitored alarm.
Before you subscribe
Sources and editorial notes
We compared published information. We did not purchase or test this product. Ratings are editorial estimates. Checked November 2, 2026.
- Ring Protect plans — Current plan names, prices, device scope and monitoring conditions. Checked November 2, 2026.
Alternatives
SimpliSafe
ADT Pro Install
VivintFrequently asked questions
Which Ring subscription should I compare first?
Start with the service you want. Choose video coverage for recordings, then check the device or location scope. For monitoring, confirm the eligible alarm or camera setup before comparing the price.
Does a video doorbell alone give me a monitored alarm?
No. A doorbell and a recording subscription are not a complete monitored alarm setup. Confirm the compatible alarm hardware and monitoring plan separately.
Is equipment included in the price comparison?
No. The prices here cover subscriptions. Add the hardware you need, applicable tax and any local charges to compare your complete setup.
Should I pay monthly or annually?
Compare the same service period and consider how long you expect to use it. Read the cancellation terms before choosing an annual commitment. Keep the renewal details with your account records.
Will every Ring feature work with my devices?
Do not assume so. Check the exact model and plan requirements. Confirm monitoring eligibility for your address as well as the hardware.