Connecting your Ring Doorbell Chime ensures you never miss a visitor. This guide walks you through setup, syncing, and troubleshooting for both Chime and Chime Pro models. Get reliable indoor alerts with simple, clear instructions.
Key Takeaways
- Compatible Models: Ring Chime works with most Ring Video Doorbells, including Ring Video Doorbell, Doorbell 2, 3, 3 Plus, 4, and Pro models.
- Two Chime Options: Choose between the standard Ring Chime (plugs into any outlet) or Chime Pro (includes Wi-Fi extender and louder sound).
- Easy Setup via App: Use the Ring app to pair your Chime with your doorbell in under 10 minutes—no tools required.
- Customizable Alerts: Set unique sounds, adjust volume, and enable silent mode directly from the app.
- Wi-Fi Requirements: Chime Pro needs a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network; standard Chime connects via Bluetooth to your doorbell.
- Troubleshooting Tips: If connection fails, check power, Wi-Fi signal, app updates, and reset the device if needed.
- Multiple Chimes Supported: Add up to three Chimes per doorbell for whole-home coverage.
How to Connect Ring Doorbell Chime: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve got your shiny new Ring Video Doorbell installed—great choice! But what about hearing it inside your home? That’s where the Ring Doorbell Chime comes in. Whether you have the standard Ring Chime or the upgraded Chime Pro, connecting it ensures you’ll never miss a delivery, visitor, or package thief again.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to connect Ring Doorbell Chime. From unboxing to final setup, customizing alerts, and fixing common issues, we’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll have a fully synced system that chimes reliably every time someone presses your doorbell—even if you’re in the basement, backyard, or sound asleep.
Let’s get started!
What Is the Ring Doorbell Chime?
Before we dive into the setup, let’s quickly explain what the Ring Chime actually does. The Ring Chime is a wireless indoor chime that plugs into any standard electrical outlet. When someone presses your Ring Video Doorbell, the Chime emits a loud, customizable sound—just like a traditional doorbell—so you can hear it from anywhere in your home.
There are two versions:
– Ring Chime: A simple plug-in device that connects to your doorbell via Bluetooth. It’s affordable, easy to use, and perfect for most homes.
– Ring Chime Pro: A more advanced version that includes a built-in Wi-Fi extender. It connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network, offers louder sound, and can boost your doorbell’s signal—ideal for larger homes or areas with weak Wi-Fi.
Both models are compatible with nearly all Ring Video Doorbells, including the original Ring Video Doorbell, Doorbell 2, 3, 3 Plus, 4, and Pro models.
What You’ll Need Before You Begin
Before connecting your Ring Doorbell Chime, make sure you have the following:
- Your Ring Video Doorbell already installed and working
- The Ring Chime or Chime Pro device
- The Ring app installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android)
- A stable Wi-Fi connection (for Chime Pro only)
- A standard electrical outlet near where you want to place the Chime
- Your Ring account login details
Having everything ready will make the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 1: Download and Open the Ring App
The Ring app is the control center for all your Ring devices. If you haven’t already, download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Once installed, open the app and log in with your Ring account credentials.
If you’re setting up your first Ring device, the app will guide you through the initial setup. But since you’re adding a Chime to an existing doorbell, we’ll focus on the Chime setup process.
Navigate to the Devices Menu
Once logged in, tap the three horizontal lines (☰) in the top-left corner to open the menu. Then, select “Devices” from the list. You should see your Ring Video Doorbell listed here.
Select Your Doorbell
Tap on your doorbell’s name to open its settings. This will take you to the device dashboard, where you can manage motion zones, alerts, and connected accessories.
Step 2: Add the Chime to Your Ring System
Now it’s time to add your Chime. Here’s how:
Tap “Add a Device”
From the device dashboard, scroll down and look for the “Add a Device” option. Tap it. The app will ask what type of device you’re adding. Select “Chime” from the list.
Choose Your Chime Model
The app will ask whether you’re setting up a Ring Chime or Ring Chime Pro. Select the correct model. This ensures the app provides the right setup instructions.
Plug In Your Chime
Now, plug your Chime into a standard electrical outlet. Make sure it’s within range of your doorbell (for standard Chime) or your Wi-Fi router (for Chime Pro). The Chime will power on and begin blinking.
Wait for the Chime to Enter Pairing Mode
When you plug in the Chime, it will automatically enter pairing mode. You’ll see a blue light blinking slowly. This means it’s ready to connect.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts
The Ring app will detect the Chime and guide you through the next steps. Tap “Next” to continue. The app may ask you to confirm the Chime’s location (e.g., “Living Room” or “Kitchen”)—this helps you identify it later.
Step 3: Connect the Chime to Your Doorbell
This is where the magic happens. The Chime needs to “talk” to your doorbell so it knows when to ring.
For Ring Chime (Standard Model)
The standard Chime connects to your doorbell via Bluetooth. Here’s what happens:
– The app will prompt you to press the button on your Ring Video Doorbell.
– Press and hold the button for about 3 seconds until the light ring flashes.
– The Chime will detect the signal and pair automatically.
– You’ll hear a test chime from the Chime device.
That’s it! The standard Chime uses a direct Bluetooth link, so it doesn’t need Wi-Fi. Just make sure the Chime is within 100 feet of your doorbell for a strong connection.
For Ring Chime Pro
The Chime Pro connects via Wi-Fi, which allows for more features and better range. Here’s how it works:
– The app will ask you to connect the Chime Pro to your Wi-Fi network.
– Select your home Wi-Fi from the list and enter the password.
– The Chime Pro will connect to your network and sync with your Ring account.
– Once connected, it will pair with your doorbell automatically.
The Chime Pro also acts as a Wi-Fi extender, boosting the signal to your doorbell. This is especially helpful if your doorbell is far from your router.
Step 4: Test the Connection
After setup, it’s crucial to test the connection to make sure everything works.
Press Your Doorbell Button
Go outside and press the button on your Ring Video Doorbell. You should hear the Chime ring inside your home.
Check the App for Alerts
While you’re at it, check the Ring app. You should receive a notification on your phone, and the live view should activate. This confirms that both your doorbell and Chime are working correctly.
Listen for the Chime
If you don’t hear the Chime, don’t panic—we’ll cover troubleshooting later. But if you do hear it, great! Your setup is complete.
Step 5: Customize Your Chime Settings
One of the best features of the Ring Chime is customization. You can tailor it to fit your lifestyle.
Change the Chime Sound
The Ring app offers several built-in sounds, from classic doorbell tones to fun options like “Ding Dong,” “Westminster,” or even “Mario Coin.” To change it:
– Go to the Chime settings in the Ring app.
– Tap “Chime Sound”.
– Select your favorite tone and tap “Save”.
You can also upload a custom sound if you’re feeling creative (more on that below).
Adjust the Volume
Not everyone wants a loud chime. Maybe you have small children who sleep during the day, or you just prefer a softer tone.
– In the Chime settings, tap “Volume”.
– Use the slider to set your preferred level (from silent to max).
– Tap “Save”.
You can even set different volumes for different times of day using the “Schedule” feature.
Enable Silent Mode
Sometimes you don’t want to be disturbed—like during a nap or movie night. Silent mode lets you mute the Chime without turning off notifications.
– In the Chime settings, toggle “Silent Mode” on.
– Your phone will still get alerts, but the Chime won’t ring.
You can schedule silent mode for specific hours (e.g., 10 PM to 7 AM) so it turns on and off automatically.
Set Up Chime Schedules
Want the Chime to ring only during certain hours? You can create a schedule:
– Tap “Schedule” in the Chime settings.
– Choose the days and times you want the Chime active.
– Save your settings.
This is perfect for avoiding late-night disturbances.
Advanced Features and Tips
Now that your Chime is connected, let’s explore some advanced features to get the most out of it.
Add Multiple Chimes
Did you know you can connect up to three Chimes to a single Ring doorbell? This is great for larger homes where one Chime isn’t enough.
– Repeat the setup process for each additional Chime.
– Place them in different rooms (e.g., kitchen, bedroom, basement).
– Each Chime can have its own sound and volume settings.
Now, no matter where you are, you’ll hear the doorbell.
Use Chime Pro as a Wi-Fi Extender
If you chose the Chime Pro, you’re getting an extra benefit: improved Wi-Fi coverage.
– The Chime Pro boosts your Wi-Fi signal to your doorbell.
– This can reduce lag, improve video quality, and prevent disconnections.
– It also helps other Ring devices stay connected.
Just make sure the Chime Pro is placed between your router and your doorbell for the best signal boost.
Upload a Custom Chime Sound
Want to get creative? You can upload your own sound file to use as a chime.
– The file must be in MP3 or M4A format.
– It should be under 10 seconds and less than 1 MB.
– Go to Chime settings > Chime Sound > Custom > Upload.
Popular choices include baby laughter, a favorite song snippet, or even a voice message like “Someone’s at the door!”
Integrate with Alexa
If you have an Amazon Echo device, you can link your Ring Chime to Alexa for voice alerts.
– Open the Alexa app.
– Go to “Skills & Games” and search for “Ring.”
– Enable the Ring skill and log in with your Ring account.
– Say, “Alexa, discover devices.”
– Now, when someone rings the doorbell, Alexa can announce it.
You can also ask Alexa to show the live feed on an Echo Show.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best setup, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common problems when connecting your Ring Doorbell Chime.
Chime Won’t Connect to the App
If the app doesn’t detect your Chime:
– Make sure the Chime is plugged in and the blue light is blinking.
– Restart the Chime by unplugging it for 10 seconds, then plugging it back in.
– Ensure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network (for Chime Pro).
– Update the Ring app to the latest version.
– Try resetting the Chime (see below).
No Sound from the Chime
If the Chime powers on but doesn’t ring:
– Check the volume setting in the app—make sure it’s not on silent.
– Test the Chime sound directly from the app (Chime settings > Test Chime).
– Ensure the Chime is within range of your doorbell (standard Chime) or Wi-Fi (Chime Pro).
– Try moving the Chime closer to the doorbell or router.
Chime Rings Randomly
If your Chime goes off without anyone pressing the button:
– Check for motion alerts—sometimes motion can trigger a chime if settings are misconfigured.
– Disable “Motion Alerts” in the Chime settings if you only want button presses to trigger it.
– Make sure no one else has access to your Ring account.
Wi-Fi Connection Issues (Chime Pro Only)
If the Chime Pro won’t connect to Wi-Fi:
– Ensure your Wi-Fi network is 2.4 GHz (Chime Pro doesn’t support 5 GHz).
– Move the Chime Pro closer to your router during setup.
– Restart your router and try again.
– Reset the Chime Pro and repeat the setup.
How to Reset Your Chime
If all else fails, a reset can solve many issues.
– Unplug the Chime.
– Press and hold the button on the side (standard Chime) or the reset button (Chime Pro) for 15 seconds.
– Plug it back in. The light will blink rapidly, indicating it’s ready to pair.
– Repeat the setup process in the Ring app.
Final Tips for a Smooth Experience
To keep your Ring Doorbell Chime working perfectly:
– Keep the app updated: Regular updates fix bugs and add new features.
– Check battery levels: If your doorbell is battery-powered, low battery can affect Chime performance.
– Place Chimes strategically: Avoid placing them behind thick walls or metal objects that block signals.
– Use Chime Pro in large homes: The Wi-Fi extender feature makes it worth the extra cost for bigger spaces.
– Test regularly: Press your doorbell once a week to ensure everything’s working.
Conclusion
Connecting your Ring Doorbell Chime is a simple yet powerful upgrade to your home security system. Whether you choose the standard Chime for basic alerts or the Chime Pro for enhanced sound and Wi-Fi coverage, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ll always hear when someone’s at your door.
With just a few taps in the Ring app, you can customize sounds, adjust volume, set schedules, and even add multiple Chimes for whole-home coverage. And if you run into any issues, our troubleshooting tips will help you get back on track quickly.
So go ahead—plug in that Chime, press your doorbell, and enjoy the satisfying “ding dong” that means you’re always in the know. Your home just got a whole lot smarter.