This guide walks you through how to change chime sound on Ring Doorbell using the Ring app, whether you’re using a Ring Chime, Chime Pro, or your existing mechanical doorbell. You’ll also learn how to adjust volume, test sounds, and troubleshoot common issues.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring App: All chime sound changes are made through the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Compatible Devices: You can customize chimes on Ring Chime, Chime Pro, or wired mechanical doorbells connected to your Ring Doorbell.
- Multiple Sound Options: Choose from a variety of built-in tones like Classic, Ding Dong, Westminster, and seasonal sounds.
- Adjust Volume Easily: Set your chime volume from silent to loud to suit your home environment.
- Test Before Finalizing: Always test your new chime sound to ensure it works properly.
- Troubleshoot Common Issues: If your chime doesn’t play, check power, Wi-Fi, and app settings.
- Update Firmware: Keep your Ring devices updated for the best performance and newest features.
How to Change Chime Sound on Ring Doorbell: A Complete Guide
If you’ve recently installed a Ring Doorbell or have been using one for a while, you might be wondering how to personalize your doorbell experience. One of the most satisfying upgrades is changing the chime sound. Whether you’re tired of the default “ding-dong” or want something more festive for the holidays, Ring makes it easy to customize your chime tone.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to change chime sound on Ring Doorbell step by step. We’ll cover everything from using the Ring app to adjusting volume, testing your new sound, and troubleshooting common problems. Whether you’re using a Ring Chime, Chime Pro, or relying on your existing mechanical doorbell, this guide has you covered.
By the end, you’ll be able to choose from a variety of fun and functional chime sounds, set the perfect volume, and ensure your doorbell alerts you the way you want—every time.
Why Change Your Ring Doorbell Chime Sound?
Visual guide about How to Change Chime Sound on Ring Doorbell
Image source: safenow.org
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about why you might want to change your chime sound in the first place.
First, personalization. Your home should reflect your style, and your doorbell is no exception. Instead of the standard tone, you can choose something that matches your personality—like a gentle chime, a classic Westminster melody, or even a seasonal sound like jingle bells during the holidays.
Second, functionality. Some default chimes can be too quiet or too harsh. If you have a large home, hearing-impaired family members, or pets that startle easily, adjusting the chime sound and volume can make a big difference.
Third, differentiation. If you have multiple Ring devices—like a front doorbell, back doorbell, or even a Ring Alarm—custom chime sounds help you know which device is triggering the alert. For example, you could set a “ding” for the front door and a “dong” for the back.
Finally, updates and new features. Ring frequently adds new chime sounds through app updates, so changing your tone gives you access to the latest options.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Before changing your chime sound, make sure you have the following:
- A Ring Doorbell (any model: Video Doorbell, Doorbell 2, Doorbell 3, Doorbell 4, Doorbell Pro, or Doorbell Pro 2)
- The Ring app installed on your smartphone or tablet (iOS or Android)
- A Ring Chime or Chime Pro (optional but recommended for wireless chimes)
- OR a compatible wired mechanical doorbell (if not using a Ring Chime)
- A stable Wi-Fi connection
- Your Ring account login information
If you’re using a Ring Chime or Chime Pro, it should already be set up and connected to your Ring Doorbell. If not, follow the setup instructions in the Ring app first.
Step-by-Step: How to Change Chime Sound on Ring Doorbell
Now, let’s walk through the process of changing your chime sound. The steps are the same whether you’re using a Ring Chime, Chime Pro, or your existing doorbell.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Start by opening the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account associated with your Ring Doorbell.
If you have multiple Ring devices, the app will show them all on the home screen. Look for your doorbell and any connected Chime devices.
Step 2: Select Your Doorbell Device
Tap on the device icon for your Ring Doorbell. This will open the device dashboard, where you can view live video, check motion history, and access settings.
Step 3: Go to Device Settings
In the top-right corner of the device dashboard, tap the gear icon (⚙️) to open the Device Settings menu.
This menu contains all the customizable options for your doorbell, including motion settings, alerts, and chime preferences.
Step 4: Find the Chime Settings
Scroll down until you see the Chime Settings section. Tap on it to open the chime options.
Here, you’ll see settings for both your Ring Chime (if you have one) and your mechanical doorbell (if applicable).
Step 5: Choose Your Chime Type
You’ll see two main options:
- Ring Chime / Chime Pro: If you’re using a wireless Ring Chime or Chime Pro, this is where you’ll change the sound.
- Mechanical Chime: If your Ring Doorbell is wired to a traditional doorbell chime inside your home, you can adjust settings here too.
Tap on the one you want to customize.
Step 6: Select a New Chime Sound
Once you’re in the chime settings, look for the Chime Tone or Sound option.
Tap on it to see a list of available sounds. Ring offers a variety of tones, including:
- Classic Ding Dong
- Westminster Chime
- Ding
- Dong
- Bell
- Chime
- Holiday Tones (seasonal, like Jingle Bells or Halloween sounds)
- Nature Sounds (like birds or wind chimes)
Scroll through the list and tap on any sound to preview it. The app will play a short sample so you can hear how it sounds.
Pro Tip: If you don’t hear the preview, make sure your phone volume is turned up and not on silent.
Step 7: Adjust the Chime Volume
After selecting your sound, look for the Volume slider.
You can set the volume from 0 (silent) to 10 (very loud). Slide the bar to your preferred level.
Consider your home environment:
- If you have a small apartment, a medium volume (5–6) may be enough.
- If you have a large house or hard-of-hearing family members, set it higher (8–10).
- If you want the chime to be subtle, choose a lower setting (3–4).
You can always change this later if needed.
Step 8: Save Your Settings
Once you’ve chosen your sound and volume, tap Save or Done at the top of the screen.
The app will sync your changes with your Ring Chime or doorbell. This usually takes just a few seconds.
Step 9: Test Your New Chime
To make sure everything works, test your new chime sound.
You can do this in two ways:
Option 1: Use the Test Button in the App
Go back to the Chime Settings and look for a Test Chime button. Tap it, and your Ring Chime should play the new sound.
Option 2: Ring the Doorbell
Press the button on your Ring Doorbell (or simulate a ring using the app’s “Test Motion” feature). Listen for the new chime sound inside your home.
If you hear the correct tone at the right volume, you’re all set!
Using Multiple Chimes or Doorbells
If you have more than one Ring Doorbell or a Chime in multiple rooms, you can customize each one individually.
For example:
- Set your front doorbell to play “Westminster” on the living room Chime.
- Set your back doorbell to play “Ding” on the kitchen Chime.
This helps you quickly identify which door someone is at.
To do this, repeat the steps above for each device. Just make sure you’re in the correct device’s settings before making changes.
Changing Chime Sounds on a Mechanical Doorbell
If you’re not using a Ring Chime and instead rely on your existing wired doorbell, you can still customize the sound—but with some limitations.
Ring Doorbells connected to mechanical chimes can’t play custom tones like a Ring Chime can. Instead, they trigger your existing doorbell’s sound.
However, you can still adjust the volume and duration of the chime through the Ring app.
Here’s how:
Step 1: Go to Device Settings
Open the Ring app, select your doorbell, and tap the gear icon.
Step 2: Find Chime Settings
Scroll to Chime Settings and tap on Mechanical Chime.
Step 3: Adjust Chime Duration
You’ll see a slider for Chime Duration. This controls how long the chime rings when someone presses the button.
Options typically range from 1 to 10 seconds. Choose a duration that matches your existing doorbell’s behavior.
Step 4: Set Volume (If Supported)
Some mechanical chimes allow volume adjustment through the Ring app. If you see a volume slider, use it to increase or decrease the sound.
Note: Not all mechanical chimes support volume control via the app. If you don’t see this option, your chime’s volume is fixed.
Step 5: Save and Test
Save your settings and test by ringing the doorbell.
If the chime doesn’t sound as expected, check your wiring or consider upgrading to a Ring Chime for more customization.
Tips for Getting the Best Chime Experience
Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your Ring chime customization:
- Use a Ring Chime for Best Results: While mechanical chimes work, a Ring Chime or Chime Pro gives you full control over sound, volume, and placement.
- Place Your Chime Strategically: Put your Ring Chime in a central location where you’re likely to hear it—like the living room or kitchen.
- Update the Ring App Regularly: New chime sounds are often added in app updates. Keep your app current to access the latest options.
- Use Seasonal Sounds for Fun: Ring releases holiday-themed chimes during events like Christmas, Halloween, and Easter. Check the app during these times for limited-time sounds.
- Silent Mode for Quiet Times: If you don’t want to be disturbed at night, set the chime volume to 0 or use the “Do Not Disturb” mode in the app.
- Pair with Smart Lights: For extra visibility, link your chime to smart lights that flash when the doorbell rings.
Troubleshooting Common Chime Issues
Even with the best setup, you might run into problems. Here’s how to fix the most common issues when changing your chime sound.
Chime Doesn’t Play After Changing Sound
If your new chime sound doesn’t play, try these steps:
- Check Wi-Fi Connection: Your Ring Chime needs a stable Wi-Fi signal. Move it closer to your router or use a Chime Pro (which extends Wi-Fi).
- Restart the Chime: Unplug your Ring Chime for 10 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait for it to reconnect (the light will turn solid green).
- Re-sync the Device: In the Ring app, go to Device Settings > General > Reconnect to Wi-Fi. Follow the prompts to re-link your Chime.
- Update Firmware: Outdated firmware can cause glitches. The Ring app will notify you if an update is available. Install it promptly.
Chime Sound Is Too Quiet or Too Loud
If the volume isn’t right:
- Go back to Chime Settings and adjust the volume slider.
- Make sure your phone’s volume is up when testing in the app.
- If using a mechanical chime, check that the transformer provides enough power (Ring recommends 16–24V).
Chime Plays Old Sound After Update
Sometimes, app updates reset settings. If your chime reverts to the default sound:
- Reopen the Chime Settings and select your preferred sound again.
- Save the changes and test.
- Check if the update introduced new sounds—you might find a better option!
Chime Doesn’t Work with Mechanical Doorbell
If your wired doorbell isn’t ringing:
- Ensure the doorbell is properly wired and the transformer is compatible.
- Check that the “Mechanical Chime” option is enabled in the Ring app.
- Test the doorbell with a multimeter to confirm power.
- Consider installing a Ring Chime for reliable wireless alerts.
App Crashes or Freezes When Changing Settings
If the Ring app becomes unresponsive:
- Close and reopen the app.
- Restart your phone or tablet.
- Update the app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Clear the app cache (in phone settings).
Advanced Tips: Customizing Beyond the Basics
Once you’ve mastered the basics, try these advanced customizations:
Create a Chime Schedule
Use the Ring app’s “Do Not Disturb” mode to silence your chime during specific hours. For example, set it to silent from 10 PM to 7 AM.
To do this:
- Go to the Ring app home screen.
- Tap the menu (three lines) > Account > Do Not Disturb.
- Set your preferred schedule.
Use Alexa for Voice Alerts
If you have an Amazon Echo device, link it to your Ring account. You can set Alexa to announce “Someone is at the front door” when the button is pressed—even if the chime is off.
Integrate with Smart Home Systems
Connect your Ring Chime to platforms like SmartThings or Home Assistant for advanced automation. For example, trigger a light flash or send a notification to your TV when the doorbell rings.
Conclusion
Changing the chime sound on your Ring Doorbell is a simple yet powerful way to personalize your smart home experience. Whether you prefer a classic tone, a festive jingle, or a gentle chime, the Ring app makes it easy to customize your alerts to suit your lifestyle.
By following this guide, you’ve learned how to change chime sound on Ring Doorbell using both wireless Chimes and mechanical doorbells. You’ve also discovered how to adjust volume, test your settings, and troubleshoot common issues.
Remember to keep your app updated, test your chimes regularly, and explore new sounds as they become available. With a little tweaking, your Ring Doorbell can deliver the perfect sound—every time someone’s at the door.
Now go ahead, pick your favorite tone, and enjoy a doorbell that truly sounds like home.