This guide walks you through how to delete a Ring Doorbell from your device list across all platforms—iOS, Android, and web. Whether you’re troubleshooting, upgrading, or removing an old device, we’ve got you covered with clear, simple instructions.
Key Takeaways
- Deleting a Ring Doorbell removes it from your account: This action stops all notifications and access to live view or recordings from that device.
- You can only remove devices you own: If the doorbell was shared with you, contact the owner to have it removed from your list.
- Unlinking is different from deleting: Unlinking removes the device from your account but keeps it active for others; deleting fully removes it from the Ring ecosystem.
- Always check shared users before deleting: Removing a device may affect other users who rely on it for security monitoring.
- Factory reset is recommended after deletion: For security, reset the device to its original settings if you’re giving it away or selling it.
- Use the Ring app for all device management: The web portal has limited functionality—most actions must be done via the mobile app.
- Back up important recordings first: Once deleted, cloud recordings tied to the device may become inaccessible unless saved elsewhere.
How to Delete a Ring Doorbell from My Device List
If you’ve moved, upgraded your doorbell, or simply no longer need a Ring Doorbell connected to your account, knowing how to delete a Ring Doorbell from your device list is essential. Whether you’re using an iPhone, Android phone, or accessing Ring through a web browser, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step—safely and efficiently.
Deleting a Ring Doorbell isn’t just about removing it from your phone. It’s about ensuring your security system stays clean, your notifications stay relevant, and your personal data remains protected. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from basic removal steps to advanced troubleshooting, plus tips to avoid common mistakes.
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to remove a Ring Doorbell from your account, understand the difference between unlinking and deleting, and learn best practices for handling shared devices or preparing a doorbell for resale.
Let’s get started.
Why You Might Want to Delete a Ring Doorbell
Visual guide about How to Delete a Ring Doorbell from My Device List
Image source: doorbellnest.com
Before diving into the steps, it’s helpful to understand why someone would want to remove a Ring Doorbell from their device list. Here are the most common reasons:
- Moving to a new home: If you’re leaving your current residence, you may want to take your Ring Doorbell with you—or leave it behind and remove it from your account.
- Upgrading to a newer model: Ring frequently releases updated doorbells with better cameras, longer battery life, or improved motion detection. When you install a new one, you’ll want to remove the old one.
- Selling or giving away the device: If you’re passing your Ring Doorbell to a friend or selling it online, you must remove it from your account to protect your privacy.
- Troubleshooting issues: Sometimes, a malfunctioning doorbell can cause app glitches or false alerts. Removing and re-adding it can reset the connection.
- Privacy concerns: If you no longer trust the device or suspect it’s been compromised, deleting it ensures no one can access your feed.
Whatever your reason, the process is straightforward—but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid leaving loose ends in your security system.
Important Things to Know Before You Delete
Before you tap that delete button, here are a few critical points to consider:
1. Deleting Removes All Access
When you delete a Ring Doorbell from your device list, it’s completely removed from your Ring account. This means:
- You’ll stop receiving motion alerts and doorbell rings.
- Live view and recorded videos will no longer be accessible through your app.
- The device will no longer appear in your dashboard or device list.
2. Shared Users Are Affected
If other people (like family members or roommates) have access to the doorbell through shared user permissions, they will also lose access once you delete it. Always communicate with them before proceeding.
3. Cloud Recordings May Be Lost
If you have a Ring Protect Plan, recordings are stored in the cloud. However, once the device is deleted, those recordings may become inaccessible—even if they were saved. Download or save any important footage before deleting.
4. You Can’t Delete a Device You Don’t Own
If the doorbell was shared with you (you’re a “shared user”), you won’t see a delete option. Only the owner can remove it. In that case, contact the owner and ask them to remove you or delete the device.
5. Factory Reset Is Recommended
If you’re giving away or selling the doorbell, perform a factory reset after deletion to wipe all personal data. We’ll cover how to do this later.
How to Delete a Ring Doorbell from the Mobile App (iOS & Android)
The Ring mobile app is the primary tool for managing your devices. Here’s how to delete a Ring Doorbell using your iPhone or Android phone.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone. Make sure you’re logged into the account that owns the doorbell.
Step 2: Go to the Device Dashboard
Once the app opens, you’ll see your home screen with a list of all connected devices. This is your Device Dashboard. Look for the doorbell you want to remove.
Step 3: Select the Doorbell
Tap on the doorbell you wish to delete. This will open the device’s control screen, where you can view live feed, check battery, or adjust settings.
Step 4: Open Device Settings
In the top-right corner of the screen, tap the gear icon (⚙️) to access the device settings menu.
Step 5: Scroll Down to “General”
In the settings menu, scroll down until you find the General section. Tap on it to expand the options.
Step 6: Find “Remove Device”
Look for the Remove Device option. It’s usually near the bottom of the General menu. Tap on it.
Step 7: Confirm Deletion
A warning message will appear, explaining that removing the device will stop all alerts and access. Tap Remove to confirm.
Step 8: Wait for Confirmation
The app will process the request. Within a few seconds, you should see a confirmation message saying the device has been successfully removed.
Step 9: Check Your Device List
Return to the home screen. The doorbell should no longer appear in your device list.
Pro Tip: If you don’t see the “Remove Device” option, double-check that you’re the owner of the device. Shared users won’t have this option.
How to Delete a Ring Doorbell from the Web (Ring.com)
While the mobile app is the most reliable way to manage devices, you can also access your Ring account through a web browser. However, the web version has limited functionality—especially when it comes to deleting devices.
Step 1: Go to Ring.com
Open your preferred browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc.) and go to ring.com.
Step 2: Log In to Your Account
Click Sign In in the top-right corner and enter your email and password.
Step 3: Navigate to Devices
Once logged in, click on Devices in the top menu. This will show a list of all your Ring devices.
Step 4: Select the Doorbell
Click on the doorbell you want to remove. This opens a detailed view with settings and activity history.
Step 5: Look for “Remove Device”
Unfortunately, the web portal does not allow you to delete devices directly. You’ll see options like “Edit Name,” “Shared Users,” and “Motion Settings,” but no “Remove Device” button.
Step 6: Use the Mobile App Instead
To delete the doorbell, you must use the Ring mobile app. The web version is mainly for viewing activity and managing subscriptions—not for full device management.
Important: If you’re trying to delete a device from a computer, your best option is to download the Ring app on your phone or tablet and follow the mobile steps above.
What Happens After You Delete a Ring Doorbell?
Once you’ve successfully removed the doorbell from your account, here’s what changes:
- No more notifications: You won’t receive alerts for motion or doorbell presses.
- Live view is disabled: The camera feed will no longer be accessible through your app.
- Recordings are inaccessible: Any cloud recordings tied to the device may be lost unless you’ve downloaded them.
- Device is offline in your account: It disappears from your dashboard and device list.
- Shared users lose access: Anyone who had permission to view the doorbell will no longer see it.
The physical doorbell remains installed and powered, but it’s no longer connected to your Ring account. If it’s still receiving power (via wires or battery), it may continue to function for someone else—but only if they set it up with their own account.
How to Factory Reset a Ring Doorbell After Deletion
If you’re giving away, selling, or recycling your Ring Doorbell, it’s crucial to perform a factory reset. This wipes all personal data, Wi-Fi credentials, and account links from the device.
Here’s how to reset different Ring Doorbell models:
For Ring Video Doorbell (1st to 4th Gen), Ring Doorbell 2, 3, 3 Plus, and 4
- Locate the orange button on the back or bottom of the device.
- Press and hold the button for 15–20 seconds until the light on the front flashes.
- Release the button. The doorbell will restart and return to factory settings.
For Ring Doorbell Pro and Pro 2
- Remove the faceplate to access the internal buttons.
- Press and hold the orange reset button for 15–20 seconds.
- The device will reboot and reset to factory defaults.
For Ring Doorbell Elite
- Power off the device by disconnecting the Ethernet cable and power adapter.
- Press and hold the reset button (usually near the Ethernet port) for 15 seconds.
- Reconnect power. The device will reset and be ready for a new setup.
Note: After a factory reset, the doorbell will need to be set up again using the Ring app by the new owner.
Troubleshooting: What If I Can’t Delete My Ring Doorbell?
Sometimes, users encounter issues when trying to remove a Ring Doorbell. Here are common problems and how to fix them.
Problem: “Remove Device” Option Is Missing
Cause: You’re not the owner of the device.
Solution: Only the account owner can delete a device. If you’re a shared user, ask the owner to remove it. Alternatively, the owner can remove you as a shared user, which will also remove the device from your list.
Problem: App Freezes or Crashes During Deletion
Cause: App glitch or poor internet connection.
Solution: Close and reopen the Ring app. Ensure you have a strong Wi-Fi or cellular signal. Try again. If it persists, restart your phone and retry.
Problem: Device Reappears After Deletion
Cause: The device may have been re-added by another user or through a sync error.
Solution: Check if someone else with access has re-added it. If not, contact Ring Support for assistance.
Problem: Can’t Access the App at All
Cause: Account issues or app corruption.
Solution: Log out and log back in. Update the app from the App Store or Google Play. If problems continue, uninstall and reinstall the app.
Problem: Doorbell Still Sends Alerts After Deletion
Cause: The deletion didn’t fully process, or the device is still linked.
Solution: Double-check that the device is gone from your list. If alerts continue, perform a factory reset on the device and ensure it’s not connected to your Wi-Fi.
Best Practices for Managing Your Ring Devices
To keep your Ring system running smoothly, follow these tips:
- Regularly review your device list: Check every few months to remove old or unused devices.
- Name your devices clearly: Use descriptive names like “Front Door – Ring 3” to avoid confusion.
- Limit shared users: Only give access to people you trust. Remove shared users when they no longer need access.
- Back up important recordings: Save critical videos to your phone or cloud storage before deleting a device.
- Update your app regularly: New versions often fix bugs and improve device management features.
Conclusion
Knowing how to delete a Ring Doorbell from your device list is a key part of managing your home security system. Whether you’re upgrading, moving, or troubleshooting, the process is simple when you follow the right steps.
Always use the Ring mobile app for the most reliable experience, and remember to factory reset the device if you’re giving it away. Communicate with shared users, back up important footage, and keep your app updated to avoid issues.
By following this guide, you’ll keep your Ring account clean, your notifications relevant, and your privacy protected. And if you ever run into problems, Ring’s customer support team is available to help.
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge to remove a Ring Doorbell safely and effectively, you can manage your smart home with confidence.