Adjusting the volume on your Ring Doorbell ensures you never miss a visitor or delivery again. This guide walks you through every method—from the Ring app to physical settings—so you can customize sound levels for your home and devices.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app to control chime and motion alert volumes: The app is the primary tool for adjusting sound settings on your Ring Doorbell, including chime volume and notification tones.
- Adjust your smartphone or tablet volume separately: Device-level volume affects how loud Ring notifications sound, so check your phone settings too.
- Enable or disable motion alerts to reduce noise: Customize which alerts play to avoid unnecessary interruptions while maintaining security.
- Test volume after every adjustment: Always verify changes by triggering a test chime or motion alert to ensure the sound level meets your needs.
- Troubleshoot low volume with simple fixes: Issues like muted devices, outdated apps, or Wi-Fi problems can affect sound—fix them quickly with our tips.
- Use Do Not Disturb mode for quiet times: Schedule silent periods to avoid disturbances during sleep or work without disabling alerts entirely.
- Upgrade hardware if volume remains insufficient: Older models may have weaker speakers—consider newer Ring Doorbells with enhanced audio if needed.
How to Adjust Volume on Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve ever missed a package delivery because your Ring Doorbell was too quiet—or been startled awake by an overly loud chime—you’re not alone. The good news? Adjusting the volume on your Ring Doorbell is simple, flexible, and fully customizable. Whether you want softer nighttime alerts or louder daytime notifications, this guide will walk you through every method to get your Ring Doorbell sounding just right.
In this comprehensive how-to, you’ll learn how to adjust the volume using the Ring app, tweak your smartphone settings, manage motion alerts, and troubleshoot common sound issues. We’ll also cover advanced features like Do Not Disturb mode and hardware considerations. By the end, you’ll have full control over your doorbell’s audio experience—ensuring you hear what matters without unnecessary noise.
Let’s dive in.
Understanding Your Ring Doorbell’s Audio System
Visual guide about How to Adjust Volume on Ring Doorbell
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Before adjusting volume, it helps to understand how your Ring Doorbell produces sound. Ring Doorbells don’t have built-in speakers loud enough to be heard throughout most homes. Instead, they rely on two main audio pathways:
- Chime tones played through your phone, tablet, or Echo device: When someone presses the doorbell, a notification plays on your mobile device or connected smart speaker (like an Amazon Echo).
- Motion alerts sent as push notifications: These include sound clips and can be customized in volume and frequency.
Additionally, if you’ve installed a Ring Chime or Ring Chime Pro, these devices act as indoor doorbells that play chimes when the doorbell is pressed. Their volume can also be adjusted independently.
This dual-system setup means volume control happens in multiple places—not just on the doorbell itself. That’s why adjusting volume effectively requires checking both the Ring app and your personal devices.
How to Adjust Volume Using the Ring App
The Ring app is your central hub for managing all aspects of your Ring Doorbell, including volume. Here’s how to use it to control sound levels.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account linked to your doorbell. If you have multiple Ring devices, ensure you’ve selected the correct doorbell from the dashboard.
Step 2: Navigate to Device Settings
Tap on the three-line menu icon (☰) in the top-left corner. From the menu, select “Devices.” Find your Ring Doorbell in the list and tap on it to open its settings.
Step 3: Access Audio Settings
Scroll down until you see the “Audio Settings” section. Tap on it to reveal options for chime volume, motion alerts, and more.
Step 4: Adjust Chime Volume
Under “Chime Volume,” you’ll see a slider ranging from 0 (mute) to 10 (maximum). Slide it to your preferred level. A higher number means louder chimes when someone presses the doorbell.
Pro Tip: Start at level 5 and test it. If it’s too quiet, increase gradually. If it’s too loud, dial it back.
Step 5: Customize Motion Alert Volume
Below chime volume, you’ll find “Motion Alert Volume.” This controls how loud motion-triggered notifications sound on your phone or Echo device. Use the same slider to adjust it.
Note: Motion alerts only play sound if you’ve enabled “Motion Alerts” in the app. If they’re turned off, no sound will play regardless of volume settings.
Step 6: Save Your Changes
The Ring app saves adjustments automatically. No need to tap “Save” or “Apply”—just exit the menu when done.
Step 7: Test the Volume
To confirm your changes worked, ask someone to press your doorbell or trigger motion near the sensor. Listen for the chime and check your phone for notifications. If the volume isn’t right, return to the app and fine-tune.
Adjusting Volume on Your Smartphone or Tablet
Even with perfect Ring app settings, your device’s own volume controls can override everything. Here’s how to ensure your phone or tablet isn’t muting your Ring alerts.
Check System Volume
On iPhone:
- Press the volume up button on the side of your phone.
- Open Settings > Sounds & Haptics and adjust the “Ringer and Alerts” slider.
On Android:
- Press the volume up button.
- Tap the gear icon next to the volume slider to access detailed settings.
- Ensure “Media,” “Ringtone,” and “Notifications” are all turned up.
Important: Ring notifications fall under “Notifications” or “Alerts,” so this setting is critical.
Enable App Notifications
If you’re not hearing any alerts, your phone might be blocking Ring notifications.
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings > Notifications > Ring.
- Make sure “Allow Notifications” is on.
- Enable “Sounds” and “Lock Screen” alerts.
On Android:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Ring > Notifications.
- Turn on “Allow notifications” and “Sound.”
Disable Do Not Disturb or Focus Mode
If your phone is in Do Not Disturb (iPhone) or Focus Mode (Android), it may silence Ring alerts—even if volume is high.
On iPhone:
- Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center.
- Tap the moon icon to turn off Do Not Disturb.
- Alternatively, go to Settings > Focus and customize which apps can bypass silence.
On Android:
- Swipe down from the top of the screen.
- Tap the “Do Not Disturb” icon to turn it off.
- Or go to Settings > Sound > Do Not Disturb and add Ring as an exception.
Test with a Friend
After adjusting device settings, have someone press your doorbell again. Listen for the chime on your phone. If it’s still too quiet, increase the notification volume further.
Using Ring Chime or Chime Pro for Louder Indoor Sound
If you want a traditional doorbell sound inside your home—like a wired chime—consider adding a Ring Chime or Chime Pro.
What Is a Ring Chime?
The Ring Chime is a plug-in device that plays customizable tones when your doorbell is pressed. It connects to your Wi-Fi and syncs with your Ring Doorbell. The Chime Pro also includes a Wi-Fi extender to boost your doorbell’s signal.
How to Adjust Chime Volume
Once installed, you can control the Chime’s volume directly from the Ring app:
- Open the Ring app.
- Tap the menu (☰) > Devices.
- Select your Ring Chime or Chime Pro.
- Tap “Chime Volume” and use the slider to adjust.
You can also press the physical volume buttons on the side of the Chime device (if available on your model).
Customize Chime Tones
Want a classic “ding-dong” or something more modern? The Ring app offers multiple chime sounds:
- In the Chime settings, tap “Chime Tone.”
- Choose from options like “Classic,” “Digital,” “Wind Chime,” or “Holiday.”
- Preview each tone before selecting.
This adds personality to your alerts while ensuring they’re audible.
Managing Motion Alerts to Reduce Noise
Motion alerts can be helpful—but they can also become annoying if they trigger too often. Adjusting their volume and frequency helps maintain security without constant interruptions.
Turn Off Motion Alerts (Temporarily)
If you’re expecting frequent foot traffic (like during a party), you can disable motion alerts:
- Open the Ring app.
- Go to your doorbell’s settings.
- Tap “Motion Settings.”
- Toggle off “Motion Alerts.”
This stops all motion-triggered notifications—including sound—until you re-enable them.
Adjust Motion Sensitivity
High sensitivity can cause false alarms (like from passing cars or wind-blown trees). Lowering it reduces unnecessary alerts:
- In “Motion Settings,” tap “Motion Sensitivity.”
- Choose between Low, Medium, or High.
- Start with Medium and adjust based on your environment.
Set Motion Zones
Limit alerts to specific areas:
- Tap “Motion Zones” in the Motion Settings.
- Draw zones on the camera view where you want alerts (e.g., your front walkway).
- Ignore zones like the street or neighbor’s yard.
This way, only relevant motion triggers sound alerts.
Use Smart Alerts (Ring Protect Plan Required)
With a Ring Protect subscription, you can enable “Smart Alerts” that distinguish between people, packages, and vehicles. This reduces noise by only alerting you to what matters.
Using Do Not Disturb Mode for Quiet Times
Sometimes you want your doorbell to work—but not make noise. That’s where Do Not Disturb mode comes in.
Enable Do Not Disturb in the Ring App
- Open the Ring app.
- Tap the menu (☰) > Devices.
- Select your doorbell.
- Tap “Do Not Disturb.”
- Toggle it on and set a schedule (e.g., 10 PM to 7 AM).
During this time, your doorbell will still record and send silent notifications to your phone—but no sound will play.
Customize Exceptions
You can allow certain alerts to bypass Do Not Disturb:
- In Do Not Disturb settings, enable “Allow Motion Alerts” or “Allow Doorbell Press.”
- This lets critical alerts through while silencing others.
Perfect for overnight when you want to know if someone’s at the door—but don’t want every squirrel triggering a chime.
Troubleshooting Low or No Volume
If your Ring Doorbell still sounds too quiet—or not at all—try these fixes.
Check Wi-Fi Connection
Weak Wi-Fi can delay or mute notifications. Ensure your doorbell has a strong signal:
- Open the Ring app > Device Health.
- Look for “Signal Strength.” It should say “Good” or “Excellent.”
- If it’s “Poor,” move your router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender (like Ring Chime Pro).
Update the Ring App
Outdated apps can cause bugs, including audio issues.
- Go to the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android).
- Search for “Ring.”
- If an update is available, tap “Update.”
Restart Your Phone and Doorbell
Simple reboots often fix glitches:
- Restart your smartphone or tablet.
- For the doorbell, remove it from the mount, wait 10 seconds, and reattach.
- Or use the “Reboot Device” option in the Ring app under Device Health.
Check for Muted Devices
Ensure nothing is muted:
- Your phone isn’t on silent.
- The Ring app notifications are enabled.
- The Chime (if used) isn’t unplugged or muted.
Test with Another Device
Install the Ring app on a family member’s phone. If they hear alerts clearly, the issue is with your device—not the doorbell.
Factory Reset (Last Resort)
If nothing works, reset your doorbell:
- In the Ring app, go to your doorbell’s settings.
- Tap “Device Health” > “Remove Device.”
- Follow setup instructions to reconnect it.
This clears all settings and often resolves stubborn issues.
When to Consider a Hardware Upgrade
If you’ve tried everything and still struggle with volume, your doorbell model might be the issue.
Older Models Have Weaker Audio
Ring Doorbell (1st Gen) and Doorbell 2 have smaller speakers and less powerful chimes compared to newer models like the Ring Video Doorbell 4, Pro, or Battery.
Newer Models Offer Better Sound
Upgrading to a newer Ring Doorbell can improve audio clarity and volume. Features like:
- Louder built-in speaker (on some models).
- Better integration with Echo devices.
- Enhanced motion detection with smarter alerts.
If volume is a top priority, consider investing in a newer model—especially if you live in a noisy area or have a large home.
Use Multiple Chimes for Whole-Home Coverage
For big houses, one Chime might not be enough. You can connect multiple Ring Chimes to different outlets so the sound reaches every floor.
Best Practices for Optimal Volume Control
To keep your Ring Doorbell sounding great long-term, follow these tips:
- Test volume monthly: Sound preferences change with seasons, routines, and home layouts.
- Use headphones at night: If you’re a light sleeper, wear wireless headphones linked to your phone for silent-but-audible alerts.
- Label your settings: Note your ideal volume levels for day, night, and weekends in your phone’s notes app.
- Involve family members: Make sure everyone knows how to adjust volume—especially kids or guests who might accidentally mute alerts.
- Keep firmware updated: Ring regularly releases updates that improve performance and audio quality.
Conclusion
Adjusting the volume on your Ring Doorbell doesn’t have to be complicated. With the Ring app, your smartphone settings, and optional accessories like the Ring Chime, you have full control over how—and how loudly—your doorbell alerts you.
Whether you need softer nighttime tones, louder daytime chimes, or smarter motion alerts, the steps in this guide will help you customize your audio experience. And if you run into issues, our troubleshooting tips will get you back on track quickly.
Remember: the goal isn’t just to hear your doorbell—it’s to hear it at the right time, at the right volume, without unnecessary noise. With a little tweaking, your Ring Doorbell can be the perfect balance of security and convenience.
So go ahead—adjust that volume, test it out, and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ll never miss a visitor again.