Changing the ringtone on your Ring Doorbell is simple and customizable. This guide walks you through every step, from selecting a new tone to troubleshooting common issues, so you can personalize your doorbell sound with ease.
Key Takeaways
- Customize your doorbell sound: You can choose from a variety of built-in ringtones or upload your own for a personalized touch.
- Works on all Ring models: Whether you have a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Video Doorbell Pro, or Ring Video Doorbell Elite, the process is similar.
- Use the Ring app: All ringtone changes are made through the official Ring mobile app—no physical adjustments needed.
- Test after changing: Always test your new ringtone to ensure it’s loud and clear, especially if you have hearing concerns.
- Volume control matters: Adjust both the chime volume and your phone’s notification volume for the best experience.
- Troubleshoot common issues: If your new ringtone doesn’t play, check Wi-Fi, app updates, or device syncing.
- Smart home integration: Pair your Ring with Alexa or Google Assistant for voice alerts and enhanced sound options.
How to Change Ringtone of Ring Doorbell
If you’ve ever been startled by a generic doorbell chime or simply want something more fun—like a classic doorbell tone, a bird song, or even your favorite song—changing the ringtone on your Ring Doorbell is easier than you think. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a smart home enthusiast, this complete guide will walk you through every step to customize your Ring Doorbell’s sound. You’ll learn how to access the Ring app, select a new ringtone, adjust volume settings, and even troubleshoot common problems.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have full control over your doorbell’s audio alerts, making your home smarter and more personal. Let’s get started!
Why Change Your Ring Doorbell Ringtone?
Before diving into the steps, it’s helpful to understand why you might want to change your Ring Doorbell’s ringtone in the first place. While the default chime gets the job done, customization offers several benefits:
- Personalization: Make your home feel uniquely yours with a tone that reflects your style—whether it’s a cheerful melody or a subtle chime.
- Hearing accessibility: Some ringtones are louder or have a distinct pitch, making them easier to hear for people with hearing impairments.
- Differentiation: If you have multiple smart devices (like a smart doorbell and a smart speaker), unique ringtones help you instantly identify which device is alerting you.
- Fun and novelty: Why not have a little fun? Choose a tone that matches the season—like a spooky sound for Halloween or a jingle for the holidays.
Plus, changing the ringtone is completely free and takes just a few minutes. So, there’s really no reason not to give it a try!
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
- A Ring Doorbell device: This guide works for all Ring Video Doorbell models, including the standard Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Video Doorbell 2, Ring Video Doorbell 3, Ring Video Doorbell 4, Ring Video Doorbell Pro, Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, and Ring Video Doorbell Elite.
- The Ring app installed: Available for free on iOS (iPhone/iPad) and Android devices. Make sure it’s updated to the latest version.
- Your smartphone or tablet: You’ll use this to access the app and make changes.
- A stable Wi-Fi connection: Your Ring device needs to be connected to Wi-Fi for app-based changes to sync properly.
- Your Ring account login: You’ll need your email and password to access your device settings.
Once you’ve confirmed you have everything, you’re ready to begin!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Your Ring Doorbell Ringtone
Now, let’s walk through the process of changing your Ring Doorbell’s ringtone. The steps are straightforward and can be completed in under five minutes.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Start by unlocking your smartphone or tablet and opening the Ring app. If you don’t have it installed, download it from the App Store (for iPhone) or Google Play Store (for Android). Once installed, log in using your Ring account credentials.
Tip: If you’ve forgotten your password, use the “Forgot Password?” link to reset it via email.
Visual guide about How to Change Ringtone of Ring Doorbell
Image source: 9to5google.com
Step 2: Select Your Doorbell Device
Once you’re logged in, you’ll see a dashboard with all your Ring devices. Look for your doorbell—it should be labeled something like “Front Door” or “Ring Video Doorbell.” Tap on it to open the device control screen.
Note: If you have multiple Ring devices, make sure you select the correct one. You can rename your devices in the app for easier identification.
Step 3: Access Device Settings
On the device screen, look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner. This is the settings menu. Tap it to open a list of configuration options.
Step 4: Choose “Chime Settings”
Scroll down until you find the “Chime Settings” option. Tap on it. This section controls both the internal chime (if your Ring has one) and the connected mechanical or digital chime (if you’ve installed one).
Important: If you’re using a Ring Chime or Ring Chime Pro, you’ll also see options to adjust the volume and select ringtones for that device. We’ll cover that in a later section.
Step 5: Select “Ringtone”
Inside the Chime Settings menu, tap on “Ringtone”. You’ll now see a list of available ringtones. Ring offers a variety of built-in options, such as:
- Classic Ding-Dong
- Modern Chime
- Bird Song
- Church Bell
- Wind Chimes
- Harp
- Holiday Tones (seasonal, like Jingle Bells)
Scroll through the list and tap on any tone to preview it. You’ll hear a short audio clip so you can decide if you like it.
Step 6: Choose and Confirm Your New Ringtone
Once you’ve found a ringtone you like, tap the “Save” or “Select” button (the exact wording may vary by app version). The app will sync the change with your Ring Doorbell.
Tip: If you don’t hear the new tone right away, wait a few seconds. It may take a moment for the update to reach your device over Wi-Fi.
Step 7: Test the New Ringtone
To make sure your new ringtone is working, ask someone to press your doorbell or use the “Test Chime” feature in the app (if available). You can also simulate a motion or doorbell press from the app’s live view.
Pro Tip: Stand near your doorbell and listen carefully. If the sound is too quiet, you may need to adjust the volume (see next section).
Adjusting Ringtone Volume
Even with the perfect ringtone, it won’t help if no one can hear it. That’s why adjusting the volume is a crucial step.
How to Change Chime Volume
In the same Chime Settings menu, look for “Chime Volume”. You’ll see a slider that lets you adjust the loudness from low to high. Move the slider to your preferred level.
- Low: Best for quiet environments or nighttime use.
- Medium: A balanced setting for most homes.
- High: Ideal for large homes, noisy areas, or hearing-impaired users.
After adjusting, tap “Save” to apply the change.
Phone Notification Volume
Don’t forget that your smartphone also plays a role! When someone rings your doorbell, you’ll get a push notification with sound. Make sure your phone’s notification volume is turned up:
- On iPhone: Go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone and Alert Volume.
- On Android: Go to Settings > Sound > Volume and adjust the notification slider.
Tip: Enable “Do Not Disturb” exceptions for the Ring app so you never miss a visitor.
Using a Ring Chime or Chime Pro
If you’ve installed a Ring Chime or Ring Chime Pro, you can enjoy even more customization options. These devices plug into a wall outlet and play your chosen ringtone when the doorbell is pressed.
How to Change Ringtone on Ring Chime
The process is similar to changing the tone on your doorbell:
- Open the Ring app.
- Tap on your Ring Chime device.
- Go to Device Settings (gear icon).
- Select “Chime Settings”.
- Tap “Ringtone” and choose your preferred sound.
- Adjust the volume using the slider.
- Save your changes.
Bonus: The Ring Chime Pro also acts as a Wi-Fi extender, boosting your Ring Doorbell’s signal for better performance.
Uploading Custom Ringtones (Advanced Option)
While Ring doesn’t officially support uploading your own audio files as ringtones, there’s a workaround using smart home integrations—especially with Amazon Alexa.
Using Alexa to Play Custom Sounds
If you have an Echo device, you can set up a routine so that when your Ring Doorbell is pressed, Alexa plays a custom sound—like your favorite song or a funny phrase.
Here’s how:
- Open the Amazon Alexa app.
- Go to Routines > Create Routine.
- Set the trigger: “When This Happens” > “Smart Home” > “Ring” > “Doorbell Pressed.”
- Set the action: “Alexa Says” > “Custom” > Record or type your message, or select a sound file.
- Save the routine.
Example: “Ding dong! Someone’s at the door!” or play a 10-second clip of “Happy” by Pharrell Williams.
Note: This method doesn’t replace the doorbell’s internal chime but adds an extra layer of audio feedback through your Echo speaker.
Troubleshooting Common Ringtone Issues
Sometimes, your new ringtone might not work as expected. Here are common problems and how to fix them.
Problem: New Ringtone Doesn’t Play
Possible Causes:
- Wi-Fi connection is weak or unstable.
- App hasn’t synced with the device.
- Device needs a restart.
Solutions:
- Check your Wi-Fi signal near the doorbell. Use the Ring app’s “Device Health” feature to see signal strength.
- Force close and reopen the Ring app, then re-sync settings.
- Restart your Ring Doorbell by removing it from the mount (if battery-powered) or turning off the power at the breaker (if hardwired) for 10 seconds.
Problem: Ringtone Is Too Quiet
Possible Causes:
- Volume is set too low.
- Chime is placed in a location with poor acoustics.
- Using a mechanical chime with low output.
Solutions:
- Increase the chime volume in the app.
- Move your Ring Chime to a central location, away from walls or furniture that block sound.
- Consider upgrading to a Ring Chime Pro for louder, clearer audio.
Problem: App Crashes When Changing Ringtone
Possible Causes:
- Outdated app version.
- Phone storage is full.
- Software bug.
Solutions:
- Update the Ring app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Free up space on your phone by deleting unused apps or photos.
- Restart your phone and try again.
Problem: Ringtone Reverts to Default
Possible Causes:
- App glitch during save.
- Device firmware update reset settings.
Solutions:
- Re-select your preferred ringtone and save again.
- Check for firmware updates in the Ring app under Device Health.
Tips for the Best Ringtone Experience
To get the most out of your Ring Doorbell’s sound, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose a tone you can hear from anywhere in your home. Test it in different rooms.
- Avoid overly complex melodies. Simple, clear tones are easier to recognize quickly.
- Update your ringtones seasonally. Switch to festive sounds during holidays for fun.
- Use different tones for multiple doors. If you have a front and back doorbell, assign unique ringtones.
- Pair with smart lights. Set up routines so your lights flash when the doorbell rings—great for the hearing impaired.
Conclusion
Changing the ringtone of your Ring Doorbell is a quick, easy way to personalize your smart home and improve your daily experience. With just a few taps in the Ring app, you can swap out the default chime for something more fun, functional, or festive. Whether you prefer a classic ding-dong or a custom Alexa routine, the power to customize is in your hands.
Remember to test your new ringtone, adjust the volume, and troubleshoot any issues using the tips in this guide. And don’t forget—your Ring Doorbell is more than just a security tool; it’s a part of your home’s personality.
So go ahead, pick a tone that makes you smile, and enjoy the little moments—like hearing your favorite sound every time someone comes to the door.