This guide walks you through connecting a Ring Chime to a Blink Doorbell, even though they’re from different brands. While not officially compatible, you can use smart home tricks like IFTTT or a smart plug to sync them. Improve your doorbell alerts without replacing your current system.
Key Takeaways
- Ring Chime and Blink Doorbell aren’t natively compatible: They use different ecosystems, so direct pairing isn’t possible without workarounds.
- Use IFTTT for smart automation: Create applets to trigger Ring Chime when Blink detects motion or a doorbell press.
- Smart plugs offer a simple alternative: Plug the Ring Chime into a smart plug and sync it with Blink alerts.
- Check Wi-Fi and app settings: Both devices need stable connections and proper app configurations to work together.
- Test your setup after installation: Always verify that alerts are synchronized and working reliably.
- Update firmware regularly: Keep both devices updated to avoid bugs and improve compatibility.
- Consider long-term smart home integration: Plan for future devices by choosing platforms that work well together.
How to Connect Ring Chime to Blink Doorbell: A Complete Guide
So, you’ve got a Blink Doorbell for security and a Ring Chime for loud, reliable alerts—but they won’t talk to each other out of the box. You’re not alone. Many smart home users face this exact problem: two great devices from different brands that just don’t play nice together. The good news? You don’t need to ditch one to enjoy the benefits of both.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to connect your Ring Chime to your Blink Doorbell using clever smart home tricks. Whether you’re a tech beginner or a DIY enthusiast, we’ll walk you through every step with clear instructions, real-world tips, and troubleshooting advice. By the end, you’ll have a seamless alert system that chimes loudly whenever someone’s at your door—no matter which device detects them.
Let’s dive in and turn your smart home into a well-oiled notification machine.
Why Connect Ring Chime to Blink Doorbell?
Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why. Both Ring and Blink make excellent doorbell cameras, but they serve slightly different needs. The Blink Doorbell is known for its long battery life, easy installation, and integration with the Blink ecosystem. The Ring Chime, on the other hand, is a dedicated indoor chime that plugs into any outlet and plays customizable sounds when your doorbell is pressed.
Visual guide about How to Connect Ring Chime to Blink Doorbell
Image source: smarthomeways.com
Here’s why you might want to connect them:
- Loud, reliable alerts: The Ring Chime is louder and more customizable than most built-in doorbell sounds.
- Multiple chimes in different rooms: You can place Ring Chimes in the basement, garage, or bedroom so you never miss a visitor.
- Better sound options: Choose from dozens of chime tones, including seasonal themes and gentle melodies.
- Works with existing setup: No need to replace your Blink Doorbell if you already love it.
Even though Ring and Blink are competitors, your smart home should work for you—not against you. With a little creativity, you can make these two devices cooperate beautifully.
Understanding the Compatibility Challenge
Let’s be honest: Ring Chime and Blink Doorbell are not designed to work together. They belong to different smart home ecosystems—Ring is owned by Amazon, while Blink is also under Amazon but operates on a separate platform. This means there’s no official way to link them directly through their apps.
But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Smart homes thrive on flexibility, and there are several clever workarounds that let you connect devices across platforms. The key is using third-party automation tools like IFTTT (If This Then That) or smart plugs to bridge the gap.
Before we jump into solutions, here’s what you need to know:
- No direct app integration: The Ring and Blink apps don’t share data or allow device linking.
- Different communication protocols: Ring uses Wi-Fi and proprietary signals, while Blink uses Wi-Fi and its own sync module.
- Workarounds require extra steps: You’ll need to set up automation rules or use additional hardware.
Don’t worry—these challenges are manageable. With the right approach, you can have your Ring Chime ringing every time your Blink Doorbell detects motion or a press.
What You’ll Need
Before we start, make sure you have the following items ready:
- Blink Doorbell: Installed and connected to your Wi-Fi via the Blink app.
- Ring Chime or Chime Pro: Plugged in and set up through the Ring app.
- Smartphone or tablet: With both the Ring and Blink apps installed and updated.
- Wi-Fi network: Stable 2.4 GHz connection (most smart devices don’t support 5 GHz).
- IFTTT account: Free to sign up at ifttt.com.
- Optional: Smart plug: A Wi-Fi-enabled plug like a TP-Link Kasa or Amazon Smart Plug.
If you’re missing any of these, pause and set them up first. A strong foundation makes the connection process much smoother.
Method 1: Using IFTTT to Connect Ring Chime to Blink Doorbell
The most popular and effective way to connect Ring Chime to Blink Doorbell is through IFTTT, a free automation platform that links apps and devices. IFTTT stands for “If This Then That,” and it lets you create simple rules like “If Blink detects motion, then play a sound on Ring Chime.”
Here’s how to set it up step by step.
Step 1: Set Up Your Blink Doorbell
Make sure your Blink Doorbell is fully installed and working:
- Mount the doorbell using the included kit.
- Insert the batteries and sync it with the Blink Sync Module.
- Open the Blink app and follow the setup wizard to connect it to Wi-Fi.
- Test the doorbell by pressing it—you should see a live view and receive a notification.
Once it’s online, go to the Blink app settings and enable motion alerts and doorbell press notifications. These will be the triggers for your IFTTT applet.
Step 2: Set Up Your Ring Chime
Next, ensure your Ring Chime is ready:
- Plug the Chime into an outlet near where you want to hear alerts.
- Open the Ring app and tap “Set Up a Device.”
- Follow the prompts to connect the Chime to your Wi-Fi.
- Choose a chime sound and volume level you like.
- Test it by pressing the test button in the app.
Your Ring Chime should now be online and responsive. Keep the app open—we’ll need it later.
Step 3: Create an IFTTT Account
If you don’t already have one, go to ifttt.com and sign up for a free account. You can use your Google, Apple, or email address.
Once logged in, click on your profile icon and select “Create” to start building your first applet.
Step 4: Connect Blink to IFTTT
IFTTT needs permission to access your Blink account:
- In IFTTT, click “Create” and then “If This.”
- Search for “Blink” and select the Blink service.
- Click “Connect” and log in with your Blink account credentials.
- Authorize IFTTT to access your Blink devices.
You’ll now see options like “Motion detected” and “Doorbell pressed.” These are your triggers.
Step 5: Connect Ring to IFTTT
Now link your Ring account:
- Click “Then That” and search for “Ring.”
- Select the Ring service and click “Connect.”
- Log in with your Ring account and grant access.
IFTTT will now be able to control your Ring Chime.
Step 6: Create the Automation Applet
Now for the magic. Let’s create a rule that makes your Ring Chime play when your Blink Doorbell detects activity:
- Under “If This,” choose “Motion detected” or “Doorbell pressed” from Blink.
- Under “Then That,” choose “Play a sound” from Ring.
- Select your Ring Chime from the list.
- Choose a sound (e.g., “Ding Dong” or “Chime”).
- Click “Create action” and then “Finish.”
Your applet is now live! Test it by walking in front of your Blink Doorbell or pressing the button. The Ring Chime should play the selected sound within a few seconds.
Tips for Better IFTTT Performance
- Use specific triggers: Create separate applets for motion and doorbell press if you want different sounds.
- Adjust delay settings: IFTTT can have a 5–15 second delay. If it’s too slow, try reducing other automations.
- Keep apps updated: Outdated apps can break IFTTT connections.
- Check applet status: Go to your IFTTT dashboard to see if applets are running or paused.
IFTTT is powerful, but it’s not instant. For faster response, consider the smart plug method below.
Method 2: Using a Smart Plug to Trigger Ring Chime
If IFTTT feels too slow or complicated, here’s a simpler alternative: use a smart plug to turn your Ring Chime on and off based on Blink alerts.
This method works by plugging your Ring Chime into a smart plug, then using the Blink app to trigger the plug when motion or a press is detected. Since the Chime only makes noise when powered, turning the plug on briefly will simulate a “chime” sound.
Step 1: Get a Compatible Smart Plug
Choose a Wi-Fi smart plug that works with both Blink and IFTTT. Popular options include:
- TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug
- Amazon Smart Plug
- Wyze Plug
Make sure it’s compatible with the Blink app or IFTTT.
Step 2: Plug in the Ring Chime
Insert your Ring Chime into the smart plug, then plug the smart plug into the wall. The Chime should power on and connect to Wi-Fi as usual.
Open the Ring app and confirm the Chime is online. You may need to re-pair it if it loses connection.
Step 3: Set Up the Smart Plug
Download the smart plug’s app (e.g., Kasa for TP-Link) and follow the setup instructions to connect it to your Wi-Fi.
Once online, open the Blink app and go to Settings > Smart Home Integrations. Look for your smart plug brand and link it.
Alternatively, use IFTTT to connect the smart plug to Blink, just like we did with Ring.
Step 4: Create a Blink Automation
In the Blink app:
- Go to Settings > Automation.
- Tap “Add Automation” and choose “When doorbell is pressed” or “When motion is detected.”
- Select your smart plug and set it to “Turn on.”
- Add a delay (e.g., 2 seconds) and then “Turn off.”
- Save the automation.
Now, when someone presses your Blink Doorbell, the smart plug will turn on for 2 seconds, powering the Ring Chime just long enough to play a sound.
Pros and Cons of the Smart Plug Method
Pros:
- Faster response than IFTTT.
- No need for complex applets.
- Works even if Ring app is slow.
Cons:
- Chime may not play a full sound if powered too briefly.
- Requires an extra device (smart plug).
- May cause wear on the Chime’s power circuit over time.
This method is great for quick alerts but may not be ideal for long-term use.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful setup, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common problems when connecting Ring Chime to Blink Doorbell.
Ring Chime Doesn’t Play Sound
- Check Wi-Fi connection: Both devices need strong signals. Move the Chime closer to your router or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Test the Chime manually: Use the Ring app to play a test sound. If it works, the issue is with the trigger.
- Verify IFTTT applet: Go to IFTTT and check if the applet is active and hasn’t failed.
- Restart devices: Power cycle the Chime, smart plug, and Blink Sync Module.
Delay Between Blink Alert and Chime Sound
- Reduce IFTTT load: Disable other applets that might be slowing down the system.
- Use local automation: If your smart plug supports it, use the manufacturer’s app for faster triggers.
- Upgrade internet speed: Slow Wi-Fi can delay cloud-based automations.
Smart Plug Doesn’t Respond
- Check app integration: Ensure the smart plug is properly linked in the Blink app or IFTTT.
- Update firmware: Manufacturers often release updates to fix bugs.
- Try a different outlet: Some outlets have built-in switches that cut power.
Blink Doorbell Not Detecting Motion
- Adjust sensitivity: In the Blink app, go to camera settings and increase motion sensitivity.
- Clean the lens: Dust or dirt can block the sensor.
- Reposition the doorbell: Make sure it’s not facing direct sunlight or a heat source.
If all else fails, contact Ring or Blink support. They can help diagnose deeper issues.
Tips for a Smarter, More Reliable Setup
Now that your Ring Chime and Blink Doorbell are working together, here are some pro tips to keep things running smoothly:
- Use a dedicated Wi-Fi network: If you have a guest network, connect smart devices to it to reduce congestion.
- Label your devices: In the Ring and Blink apps, give each device a clear name (e.g., “Front Door Chime”).
- Schedule quiet hours: Use IFTTT to disable chimes at night or during meetings.
- Monitor battery levels: Blink Doorbell batteries drain faster with frequent alerts. Check them monthly.
- Back up your settings: Take screenshots of your IFTTT applets in case you need to recreate them.
A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your smart home alert system reliable.
Conclusion
Connecting a Ring Chime to a Blink Doorbell isn’t officially supported, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s absolutely possible. Whether you use IFTTT for smart automation or a smart plug for quick power triggers, you can enjoy loud, customizable alerts without replacing your existing devices.
This setup not only saves money but also gives you more control over your smart home experience. You get the best of both worlds: Blink’s reliable doorbell camera and Ring’s powerful indoor chime.
Remember to test your system regularly, keep apps updated, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different sounds and triggers. Your smart home should work for you—and now, it does.
Ready to hear that chime? Get started today and never miss a visitor again.