Changing your Ring doorbell sound is simple and can enhance your home security experience. This guide walks you through every step—from accessing the app to selecting custom tones—so you can personalize your alerts with ease.
Key Takeaways
- Ring doorbell sounds are customizable through the Ring app: You can change chimes, adjust volume, and even use seasonal or custom tones.
- Both Ring Video Doorbells and Ring Chimes support sound changes: The process varies slightly depending on your device model.
- Ensure your app is updated: Outdated software may prevent access to sound settings or new tone options.
- Use the Device Health feature to troubleshoot: If sounds don’t play, check Wi-Fi, battery, or firmware issues.
- Custom sounds require a Ring Chime or Chime Pro: Standard doorbells rely on the app or connected chime for audio alerts.
- Volume control is available in the app: Adjust loudness to suit your home environment and hearing needs.
- Test your new sound immediately: Always verify the change worked by triggering a test ring.
How to Change Ring Doorbell Sound: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve ever missed a delivery because your Ring doorbell was too quiet—or jumped out of your skin when it blared unexpectedly—you’re not alone. One of the best features of Ring doorbells is the ability to customize your alert sounds. Whether you want a gentle chime for nighttime or a festive jingle during the holidays, changing your Ring doorbell sound is easier than you think.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly how to change your Ring doorbell sound using the Ring app, whether you have a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Chime, or Ring Chime Pro. We’ll walk you through every step, explain the differences between models, offer practical tips, and help you troubleshoot common issues. By the end, you’ll have full control over how—and when—you’re alerted to visitors at your door.
Let’s get started!
Understanding Your Ring Doorbell Sound Options
Visual guide about How to Change Ring Doorbell Sound
Image source: justsmarter.net
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand how Ring doorbell sounds work. Unlike traditional doorbells that rely solely on a wired chime inside your home, Ring devices use a combination of app notifications, in-app sounds, and optional physical chimes (like the Ring Chime or Chime Pro) to alert you.
There are three main ways you’ll hear a Ring doorbell sound:
- Mobile App Notifications: When someone presses the button, you’ll get a push notification on your phone. Tapping it opens the live video feed. The sound that plays with this notification depends on your phone’s settings and the Ring app’s alert tone.
- In-App Chime Sounds: When you open the Ring app and someone rings the bell, you can hear a chime directly from your phone or tablet. This is useful if you’re nearby but not near a physical chime.
- Ring Chime or Chime Pro: These are standalone devices that plug into an outlet and play a physical sound when the doorbell is pressed. They’re ideal for homes without existing doorbell wiring or for people who want an audible alert throughout the house.
The ability to change the sound depends on which of these methods you’re using. For example, if you only rely on app notifications, you’ll change the sound in your phone’s settings. But if you use a Ring Chime, you can select from a variety of built-in tones directly in the Ring app.
Step 1: Open the Ring App and Log In
The first step to changing your Ring doorbell sound is accessing the Ring app. This free app is available for both iOS and Android devices and is the central hub for managing all your Ring devices.
Download and Install the App (If Needed)
If you haven’t already, download the Ring app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Once installed, open it and log in using your Ring account credentials. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one using your email address and a secure password.
Ensure You’re on the Latest Version
Before making any changes, check that your app is up to date. Outdated versions may not support the latest sound options or features. To update:
- On iPhone: Go to the App Store > tap your profile icon > scroll down to see pending updates > update Ring if listed.
- On Android: Open Google Play Store > tap the menu > select “Manage apps & device” > check for updates.
An updated app ensures you have access to all current chime sounds and settings.
Step 2: Select Your Doorbell Device
Once you’re 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 (e.g., front door, back door), make sure you select the correct one.
Locate the Device Health Section
After selecting your doorbell, scroll down to find the “Device Health” section. This shows important information like battery level, Wi-Fi signal strength, and firmware version. A strong connection is essential for sound changes to sync properly.
Check for Firmware Updates
If your device shows a firmware update is available, install it before changing the sound. Updated firmware often includes bug fixes and new features, including additional chime options. To update:
- Tap “Device Health” > “Firmware” > “Update Now” if prompted.
- Wait for the update to complete—this may take a few minutes.
Skipping this step could result in missing sound options or syncing issues.
Step 3: Access the Chime Settings
Now it’s time to change the sound. The exact steps depend on whether you’re using a Ring Chime device or relying on app-only alerts.
If You Have a Ring Chime or Chime Pro
If you own a Ring Chime or Chime Pro, follow these steps:
- From the device dashboard, tap “Chime Settings.”
- Select “Chime Tones.”
- Browse the list of available sounds. Ring offers a variety of options, including classic chimes, seasonal tones (like “Jingle Bells” for Christmas), and fun sounds like “Ding Dong” or “Westminster.”
- Tap the sound you want to preview it.
- Once you’ve found one you like, tap “Save” or “Set as Default.”
The new sound will take effect immediately. You can change it anytime by repeating these steps.
If You Don’t Have a Ring Chime
If you don’t have a physical chime, your doorbell alerts will come through the app or your phone’s notification system. In this case:
- The sound you hear when someone rings the bell is controlled by your phone’s notification settings.
- To change it, go to your phone’s Settings > Notifications > Ring > Sounds.
- Choose a new alert tone from your device’s list.
Note: The Ring app itself doesn’t allow you to customize the notification sound beyond what your phone offers. For more control, consider purchasing a Ring Chime.
Step 4: Adjust the Volume
Just changing the sound isn’t enough—you also want to make sure it’s the right volume. Whether you have a Chime or are using app alerts, volume control is key.
For Ring Chime or Chime Pro
To adjust the volume:
- Go to “Chime Settings” in the Ring app.
- Tap “Volume.”
- Use the slider to increase or decrease the loudness.
- Test the volume by pressing the doorbell or using the “Test Chime” button in the app.
We recommend setting the volume high enough to hear from other rooms but not so loud it’s disruptive—especially at night.
For App Notifications
If you’re relying on phone alerts:
- Go to your phone’s Settings > Sounds & Haptics (iOS) or Sound (Android).
- Adjust the “Ringtone Volume” or “Notification Volume.”
- You can also enable “Do Not Disturb” exceptions for Ring so alerts still come through during quiet hours.
Some users prefer to keep their phone on vibrate but allow Ring notifications to play sound—this is a great way to stay informed without constant noise.
Step 5: Enable or Disable Night Mode
Ring doorbells come with a “Night Mode” feature that automatically reduces the volume or changes the sound during specified hours. This is perfect for households with babies, light sleepers, or early risers.
How to Set Up Night Mode
To customize Night Mode:
- In the Ring app, go to your doorbell’s settings.
- Tap “Chime Settings” > “Night Mode.”
- Toggle Night Mode “On.”
- Set the start and end times (e.g., 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM).
- Choose a quieter chime tone or lower the volume specifically for nighttime.
- Save your settings.
Now, when someone rings the bell during Night Mode hours, the sound will be softer or different, helping maintain peace without sacrificing security.
Step 6: Test Your New Sound
After making changes, always test your new sound to ensure everything works as expected.
How to Test the Chime
There are two ways to test:
- Manual Test: In the Ring app, go to “Chime Settings” > tap “Test Chime.” This triggers the sound without needing someone to press the button.
- Live Test: Have someone press the doorbell or simulate a press using the app’s “Motion Test” feature.
Listen carefully to confirm the new tone plays at the correct volume. If you don’t hear anything, proceed to the troubleshooting section below.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful setup, you might run into problems when changing your Ring doorbell sound. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them.
No Sound After Changing the Tone
If your new sound doesn’t play:
- Check that the Ring Chime is plugged in and powered on.
- Ensure the Chime is connected to Wi-Fi (look for a solid green light).
- Restart the Chime by unplugging it for 10 seconds, then plugging it back in.
- Reopen the Ring app and re-save the chime tone.
Sometimes a simple reboot resolves syncing issues.
Sound Is Too Quiet or Too Loud
If the volume isn’t right:
- Adjust the slider in “Chime Settings” > “Volume.”
- Move the Chime to a more central location—avoid placing it behind doors or in closets.
- Use a Ring Chime Pro for larger homes—it has a louder speaker and extended range.
Delayed or Missed Alerts
If the sound lags or doesn’t play at all:
- Check your Wi-Fi signal strength in the app’s Device Health section.
- Move your router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Ensure your doorbell and Chime are on the same network.
- Update the firmware on both devices.
A strong connection is essential for real-time alerts.
Custom Sounds Not Available
Ring does not currently support uploading custom audio files (like your own voice or a favorite song). All tones must be selected from the app’s built-in library. However, Ring frequently adds new sounds, especially around holidays, so check back regularly.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Ring Doorbell Sound
Now that you know how to change your Ring doorbell sound, here are some pro tips to enhance your experience:
Use Seasonal Tones for Fun and Function
Ring often releases limited-time chimes for holidays like Halloween, Christmas, and Easter. These can add a festive touch and even help you identify the time of year—useful if you have multiple properties or rental units.
Assign Different Tones to Different Doorbells
If you have more than one Ring doorbell (e.g., front and back), assign unique chime sounds to each. That way, you’ll know instantly which door someone is at without checking your phone.
Combine with Smart Lights for Visual Alerts
For hearing-impaired users or noisy environments, pair your Ring doorbell with smart lights (like Philips Hue). Set them to flash when the doorbell rings—this provides a visual cue in addition to sound.
Use Motion Zones to Reduce False Alerts
Adjust your motion zones in the app to prevent the doorbell from triggering every time a car drives by or a pet walks past. This reduces unnecessary chimes and helps you focus on real visitors.
Keep Your Devices Updated
Regularly check for app and firmware updates. Ring frequently improves performance, adds new sounds, and fixes bugs. Staying current ensures the best experience.
Conclusion
Changing your Ring doorbell sound is a simple yet powerful way to personalize your home security system. Whether you prefer a classic chime, a holiday jingle, or a quiet nighttime tone, the Ring app gives you full control over how you’re alerted.
By following the steps in this guide—accessing the app, selecting your device, adjusting chime settings, and testing your changes—you can easily customize your doorbell to fit your lifestyle. And with features like Night Mode, volume control, and multiple chime options, you’ll never miss a visitor again.
Remember to keep your app and devices updated, test your settings regularly, and explore new sounds as they become available. With a little tweaking, your Ring doorbell can do more than just notify you—it can reflect your personality and enhance your daily routine.
So go ahead, change that sound, and make your doorbell truly yours.