Changing the alert sound on your Ring Doorbell is simple and lets you personalize your home security experience. This guide walks you through every step—from app settings to troubleshooting—so you can set up custom chimes, adjust volume, and ensure your alerts work perfectly.
Key Takeaways
- Customize your alerts: You can change the Ring Doorbell alert sound directly from the Ring app to suit your preferences.
- Use Ring Chime or Chime Pro: For indoor alerts, connect a Ring Chime device to play custom sounds when someone rings the doorbell.
- Adjust volume and frequency: Control how loud and how often your alerts play to avoid disturbance while staying informed.
- Ensure app and device updates: Keep your Ring app and doorbell firmware updated to access the latest sound options and features.
- Troubleshoot common issues: If sounds don’t play, check Wi-Fi, device pairing, and notification settings in the app.
- Silent mode available: You can mute alerts temporarily or schedule “Do Not Disturb” hours for peace and quiet.
- Multiple users can customize: Each household member with app access can set their own alert preferences.
How to Change Alert Sound on Ring Doorbell
If you’ve ever been startled by a loud, generic doorbell chime—or worse, missed a delivery because the sound was too quiet—you’re not alone. The good news? Your Ring Doorbell lets you change the alert sound to something that fits your lifestyle. Whether you want a cheerful melody, a soft chime, or a completely silent notification, Ring gives you the flexibility to customize your alerts.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to change alert sound on Ring Doorbell step by step. You’ll learn how to use the Ring app, connect a Ring Chime, adjust volume settings, and even troubleshoot common issues. By the end, you’ll have full control over your doorbell alerts—making your home smarter, safer, and more personalized.
Let’s get started!
Why Customize Your Ring Doorbell Alert Sound?
Before diving into the steps, it’s worth understanding why changing your alert sound matters. Default chimes are functional, but they’re not always ideal. Here’s why customization is a game-changer:
- Personalization: Choose a sound that matches your home’s vibe—whether it’s a classic “ding-dong,” a bird chirp, or a modern electronic tone.
- Hearing assistance: If you have hearing challenges, a louder or more distinct sound can help you notice visitors.
- Pet-friendly alerts: Some sounds are less likely to startle pets, reducing anxiety for your furry friends.
- Noise control: In apartments or shared spaces, a softer chime prevents disturbance to neighbors.
- Security awareness: A unique sound helps you instantly recognize when someone is at the door—even from another room.
Customizing your alert sound isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making your Ring Doorbell work better for you.
What You’ll Need to Change Your Alert Sound
Before we begin, make sure you have the following:
- A Ring Doorbell: Any model (Video Doorbell, Doorbell 2, Doorbell 3, Doorbell 4, Doorbell Pro, etc.).
- The Ring app: Installed on your smartphone or tablet (iOS or Android).
- A Ring account: Logged in and synced with your doorbell.
- Wi-Fi connection: Your doorbell must be connected to a stable 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz network.
- Optional: Ring Chime or Chime Pro: For indoor audio alerts (highly recommended).
If you don’t have a Ring Chime, your doorbell will still send push notifications to your phone—but you won’t hear a physical chime indoors. We’ll cover both scenarios.
Step 1: Open the Ring App and Access Your Device
The first step to changing your alert sound is opening the Ring app and navigating to your doorbell settings.
Launch the Ring App
Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. If you haven’t downloaded it yet, search for “Ring” in the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and install it.
Visual guide about How to Change Alert Sound on Ring Doorbell
Image source: safenow.org
Log In to Your Account
Enter your email and password to log in. If you’re using a shared household account, make sure you have permission to change settings.
Select Your Doorbell
Once logged in, you’ll see a dashboard with all your Ring devices. Tap on the doorbell you want to customize. If you have multiple doorbells, choose the correct one by location or name.
Enter Device Settings
On the device screen, look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner. Tap it to open the device settings menu.
Now you’re ready to adjust your alert preferences.
Step 2: Adjust Notification Settings in the App
The Ring app allows you to control how and when you receive alerts—including sound preferences for mobile notifications.
Go to Notification Settings
In the device settings menu, scroll down and tap on “Notifications.” This section controls all alert types, including motion and doorbell rings.
Customize Alert Types
You’ll see options like:
- Doorbell Press: Alerts when someone rings the bell.
- Motion Detected: Alerts when motion is sensed.
- Live View: Notifications when someone starts a live view.
Tap on “Doorbell Press” to customize the sound for when someone presses your doorbell.
Choose Your Mobile Alert Sound
Under “Sound,” you’ll see a list of default tones. Tap to preview each one. Select the one you prefer. Options may include:
- Classic Chime
- Modern Beep
- Soft Ding
- Bird Song
- Electronic Tone
Note: The available sounds depend on your device model and app version. Newer models offer more variety.
Adjust Volume and Repeat Settings
You can also control:
- Volume: Set how loud the notification is on your phone.
- Repeat Alerts: Choose whether the alert repeats if not acknowledged.
- Vibration: Enable or disable phone vibration with the sound.
Make your selections and tap “Save” to apply changes.
Step 3: Set Up a Ring Chime for Indoor Alerts
If you want to hear a physical chime inside your home—like a traditional doorbell—you’ll need a Ring Chime or Ring Chime Pro. This device plugs into a wall outlet and plays customizable sounds when your doorbell is pressed.
Why Use a Ring Chime?
A Ring Chime enhances your doorbell experience by:
- Playing loud, clear alerts even if your phone is on silent.
- Allowing multiple chimes in different rooms (with Chime Pro).
- Offering a wider selection of alert sounds than the app alone.
- Working independently of your phone’s battery or signal.
Connect Your Ring Chime to the Doorbell
Follow these steps to pair your Chime with your doorbell:
Step 1: Plug in the Chime
Insert the Ring Chime into a standard wall outlet. Wait for the LED light to flash blue, indicating it’s in setup mode.
Step 2: Open the Ring App
Go back to the Ring app and tap the menu icon (☰) in the top-left corner. Select “Devices” > “Chimes.”
Step 3: Add a New Chime
Tap “Add Chime” and follow the on-screen instructions. The app will guide you through connecting the Chime to your Wi-Fi network.
Step 4: Pair with Your Doorbell
Once connected, select your doorbell from the list of devices. The Chime will now play when the doorbell is pressed.
Customize Chime Sounds
After pairing, you can change the alert sound:
Step 1: Go to Chime Settings
In the Ring app, tap on your Chime device, then select “Settings.”
Step 2: Choose a Sound
Tap “Chime Tones” and browse the available options. Ring offers a variety of sounds, including:
- Classic Ding-Dong
- Modern Chime
- Nature Sounds (e.g., birds, wind chimes)
- Holiday Themes (seasonal updates)
- Custom Uploads (on select models)
Tap a sound to preview it, then select your favorite.
Step 3: Adjust Volume and Repeat
Set the volume level (Low, Medium, High) and choose whether the chime repeats. Tap “Save” to confirm.
Use Multiple Chimes (Optional)
If you have a large home, consider adding a Ring Chime Pro, which acts as a Wi-Fi extender and supports multiple chimes. You can place one in the living room, bedroom, and kitchen—all playing the same or different sounds.
Step 4: Schedule Silent Hours and Do Not Disturb
Sometimes, you don’t want to be disturbed—like during nighttime or work meetings. Ring lets you schedule “Do Not Disturb” hours to mute alerts temporarily.
Enable Do Not Disturb
Here’s how to set it up:
Step 1: Go to Device Settings
In the Ring app, select your doorbell and tap the gear icon.
Step 2: Find “Do Not Disturb”
Scroll down and tap “Do Not Disturb.”
Step 3: Set a Schedule
Toggle on “Scheduled Do Not Disturb” and choose start and end times. For example, set it from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Step 4: Choose What to Mute
You can mute:
- Doorbell press alerts
- Motion alerts
- Chime sounds (if using a Chime)
Tap “Save” to activate the schedule.
Manual Mute Option
You can also mute alerts temporarily:
- Tap the “Mute” button on the doorbell’s live view screen.
- Or go to “Notifications” and toggle off alerts for a set time.
This is perfect for naps, movie nights, or when you’re expecting a late delivery.
Step 5: Update Your Ring App and Firmware
To access the latest alert sounds and features, keep your app and doorbell firmware up to date.
Check for App Updates
Go to your device’s app store (iOS or Android) and search for “Ring.” If an update is available, tap “Update.”
Update Doorbell Firmware
Ring automatically checks for firmware updates, but you can manually trigger one:
Step 1: Open Device Settings
Select your doorbell in the app and tap the gear icon.
Step 2: Check for Updates
Scroll down to “Device Health” and tap “Check for Updates.”
Step 3: Install if Available
If an update is found, follow the prompts to install it. Your doorbell will restart automatically.
Why Updates Matter
Updates often include:
- New chime sounds and themes
- Improved audio quality
- Bug fixes for notification delays
- Enhanced compatibility with Chime devices
Regular updates ensure your doorbell works smoothly and offers the best experience.
Troubleshooting Common Alert Sound Issues
Even with perfect setup, you might run into problems. Here’s how to fix the most common issues when trying to change alert sound on Ring Doorbell.
Issue 1: No Sound Plays When Doorbell is Pressed
Possible Causes:
- Chime not paired correctly
- Volume set to zero
- Do Not Disturb is active
- Wi-Fi connection is weak
How to Fix:
- Check if your Chime is plugged in and the LED is solid blue (not flashing).
- Open the Ring app, go to Chime settings, and confirm the volume is not muted.
- Verify that “Do Not Disturb” is not enabled during the current time.
- Test your Wi-Fi signal at the doorbell location. Use a Wi-Fi extender if needed.
- Restart your Chime by unplugging it for 10 seconds, then plugging it back in.
Issue 2: Sound Plays Too Quietly
Possible Causes:
- Volume set too low
- Chime placed in a noisy area
- Obstructions blocking sound
How to Fix:
- In the Ring app, go to Chime settings and increase the volume to “High.”
- Move the Chime to a central location, away from appliances or walls.
- Ensure the Chime’s speaker isn’t covered by furniture or curtains.
- Consider upgrading to a Ring Chime Pro for louder, clearer sound.
Issue 3: Delayed or Missed Alerts
Possible Causes:
- Weak Wi-Fi signal
- Phone battery saver mode
- App notifications disabled
How to Fix:
- Check your doorbell’s Wi-Fi strength in the app under “Device Health.”
- Disable battery optimization for the Ring app in your phone settings.
- Go to your phone’s notification settings and ensure Ring has permission to send alerts.
- Restart your phone and router to refresh connections.
Issue 4: Chime Doesn’t Play Custom Sound
Possible Causes:
- Sound not saved properly
- Chime needs a reset
- App glitch
How to Fix:
- Re-select your preferred sound in the Chime settings and tap “Save.”
- Reset the Chime by holding the button for 20 seconds until the LED flashes.
- Re-pair the Chime with your doorbell in the app.
- Update the Ring app and try again.
Issue 5: Multiple Users Hear Different Sounds
Possible Cause: Each user has their own notification settings in the app.
How to Fix:
- Each household member should open the Ring app and adjust their own notification sound under “Notifications.”
- For Chime sounds, only the primary account holder can change the tone—others will hear the same sound.
- Communicate preferences to avoid confusion.
Pro Tips for the Best Alert Experience
Now that you know how to change alert sound on Ring Doorbell, here are some expert tips to maximize your setup:
- Use seasonal themes: Ring often releases holiday-themed chimes (e.g., jingle bells for Christmas). Check the app regularly for updates.
- Test sounds during the day: Try different tones when you’re home to see which one stands out best.
- Pair with smart lights: Use IFTTT or Alexa routines to flash lights when the doorbell rings—great for hearing-impaired users.
- Name your devices clearly: If you have multiple Ring devices, label them (e.g., “Front Door,” “Back Door”) to avoid confusion.
- Share access wisely: Only give app access to trusted family members to prevent accidental setting changes.
Conclusion
Changing the alert sound on your Ring Doorbell is a simple yet powerful way to personalize your home security. Whether you’re using the app’s built-in tones, a Ring Chime, or both, you now have the tools to create an alert system that fits your lifestyle.
From choosing the perfect chime to scheduling silent hours and troubleshooting issues, this guide covers everything you need to know. Remember to keep your app and firmware updated, test your settings regularly, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different sounds.
With a customized alert sound, you’ll never miss a visitor—and you’ll enjoy a smarter, more responsive doorbell experience. So go ahead, make that change, and turn your Ring Doorbell into the perfect companion for your home.