Deleting a Ring doorbell from your account is simple if you follow the right steps. This guide walks you through removing your device via the Ring app, web dashboard, or during a transfer, ensuring your data stays secure.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app or web dashboard to remove your doorbell—both methods are effective and secure.
- Factory reset your device after deletion to clear all stored data and prepare it for a new owner.
- Unlink shared users first if others have access to your Ring doorbell to avoid permission errors.
- Deleting the device removes all recordings—download or save any important footage beforehand.
- Contact Ring Support if you encounter errors or can’t access your account during the removal process.
- Reinstallation requires setup—if you plan to reuse the doorbell, you’ll need to set it up again from scratch.
- Transfer ownership properly when selling or gifting your Ring doorbell to avoid future access issues.
How to Delete a Ring Doorbell from Your Account
So, you’ve decided it’s time to part ways with your Ring doorbell. Maybe you’re moving, upgrading to a newer model, or simply no longer need it. Whatever the reason, removing your Ring doorbell from your account is a straightforward process—but it’s important to do it correctly to protect your privacy and ensure the device is fully disconnected.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of deleting a Ring doorbell from your account. Whether you’re using the Ring mobile app or the web dashboard, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also cover what happens after deletion, how to factory reset your device, and what to do if you run into problems.
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to remove your Ring doorbell safely, securely, and without leaving any digital footprints behind.
Why You Might Want to Delete Your Ring Doorbell
Visual guide about How to Delete a Ring Doorbell from Your Account
Image source: wikihow.com
Before diving into the steps, let’s quickly go over some common reasons people delete their Ring doorbells:
- Moving to a new home: You don’t want your old doorbell still linked to your account.
- Selling or gifting the device: The new owner needs to set it up under their own account.
- Upgrading to a newer model: You’re replacing your current doorbell with a newer Ring product.
- Privacy concerns: You no longer want cloud recordings or device access tied to your profile.
- Technical issues: The device is malfunctioning and you’d rather remove it than troubleshoot further.
Whatever your reason, deleting the device properly ensures that your personal data—like video recordings, motion alerts, and device settings—are removed from Ring’s servers and your account.
Important Things to Know Before You Delete
Before you hit that delete button, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
1. Deleting Removes All Data
When you remove your Ring doorbell from your account, all associated data—including video recordings, event history, and device settings—is permanently deleted from Ring’s cloud storage. This means you won’t be able to recover those recordings later unless you’ve already downloaded them.
Pro Tip: If there are any important videos you want to keep—like a package delivery, visitor interaction, or security incident—download them to your phone or computer before deleting the device.
2. Shared Users Must Be Removed First
If you’ve shared access to your Ring doorbell with family members, roommates, or trusted neighbors, you’ll need to remove them from the device before you can delete it. Otherwise, you may get an error message saying the device is still in use.
To remove shared users:
- Open the Ring app.
- Tap the menu (three lines) in the top-left corner.
- Select “Devices” and choose your doorbell.
- Tap “Shared Users” and remove each person individually.
Once all shared users are removed, you can proceed with deletion.
3. Factory Reset Is Recommended
After removing the device from your account, it’s a good idea to perform a factory reset on the doorbell itself. This clears any remaining data from the device’s internal memory and prepares it for a new owner or reinstallation.
We’ll cover how to do this later in the guide.
4. You Can’t Delete a Device You Don’t Own
If you’re trying to remove a Ring doorbell that belongs to someone else (like a neighbor’s device that somehow appeared in your app), you won’t be able to delete it. Only the primary owner can remove a device from their account.
In such cases, contact Ring Support for assistance.
How to Delete a Ring Doorbell Using the Mobile App
The Ring mobile app is the most convenient way to manage your devices. Here’s how to delete your doorbell using the app on iOS or Android.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account that owns the doorbell.
Step 2: Navigate to Your Devices
Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-left corner of the screen. From the menu, select “Devices.”
You’ll see a list of all your Ring devices—doorbells, cameras, alarms, etc.
Step 3: Select Your Doorbell
Tap on the Ring doorbell you want to remove. This will open the device’s control panel, where you can view live video, adjust settings, and manage alerts.
Step 4: Access Device Settings
Look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner of the screen and tap it. This opens the device settings menu.
Step 5: Scroll Down and Tap “Remove Device”
Scroll down until you see the “Remove Device” option. It’s usually near the bottom of the settings menu, often in red text to indicate it’s a destructive action.
Tap “Remove Device.”
Step 6: Confirm the Deletion
A confirmation popup will appear, warning you that removing the device will delete all associated data and disconnect it from your account.
Read the message carefully, then tap “Remove” to confirm.
Note: If you see an error saying the device can’t be removed, it may be because shared users still have access. Go back and remove them first.
Step 7: Wait for Confirmation
The app will process the request. Once complete, you’ll see a confirmation message, and the doorbell will disappear from your device list.
That’s it! Your Ring doorbell is now removed from your account.
How to Delete a Ring Doorbell Using the Web Dashboard
If you prefer using a computer or don’t have access to the mobile app, you can also delete your Ring doorbell through the Ring web dashboard.
Step 1: Go to the Ring Website
Open your web browser and go to ring.com. Click “Log In” in the top-right corner and sign in with your Ring account credentials.
Step 2: Access Your Dashboard
Once logged in, click on your profile icon (usually in the top-right) and select “Devices” from the dropdown menu.
Step 3: Find Your Doorbell
You’ll see a list of all your Ring devices. Click on the doorbell you want to remove.
Step 4: Open Device Settings
On the device page, look for the “Settings” tab and click it.
Step 5: Scroll to “Remove Device”
Scroll down the settings page until you find the “Remove Device” section. Click the “Remove Device” button.
Step 6: Confirm the Action
A confirmation dialog will appear. Read the warning message, then click “Remove” to confirm.
The doorbell will be disconnected from your account, and all data will be deleted.
Step 7: Log Out
For security, log out of your Ring account when you’re done.
How to Factory Reset Your Ring Doorbell After Deletion
Even after removing the device from your account, the doorbell may still store some data locally. To fully wipe it clean—especially if you’re selling or giving it away—perform a factory reset.
The reset process varies slightly depending on your Ring doorbell model. Here’s how to do it for the most common types:
For Ring Video Doorbell (1st, 2nd, or 3rd Gen)
- Locate the orange button on the back of the doorbell.
- Press and hold the button for 15–20 seconds.
- The light on the front will flash, then turn solid—this means the reset is complete.
For Ring Video Doorbell Pro or Pro 2
- Remove the doorbell from the mounting bracket.
- Press and hold the black button on the back for 15–20 seconds.
- The LED light will flash, then turn solid.
For Ring Video Doorbell Elite
- Disconnect the power cables.
- Press and hold the reset button (usually near the terminals) for 15 seconds.
- Reconnect the power—the device will reset automatically.
Important: After a factory reset, the doorbell will no longer be connected to Wi-Fi or your account. It will need to be set up again from scratch if reused.
What Happens After You Delete Your Ring Doorbell?
Once your Ring doorbell is removed from your account, several things happen:
- All cloud recordings are deleted: Videos stored in Ring’s cloud are permanently removed and cannot be recovered.
- Device alerts stop: You’ll no longer receive motion or doorbell press notifications.
- Live view is disabled: You can’t access the camera feed anymore.
- The device is unlinked: It’s no longer associated with your Ring account or any shared users.
- Local storage is cleared (after reset): If you performed a factory reset, any saved clips on the device are wiped.
If you plan to reinstall the doorbell later (e.g., at a new home), you’ll need to go through the full setup process again—just like when you first installed it.
Troubleshooting Common Issues When Deleting a Ring Doorbell
Sometimes, things don’t go as smoothly as planned. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Error: “Device Cannot Be Removed”
Cause: Shared users still have access, or the device is offline.
Solution:
- Remove all shared users first.
- Ensure the doorbell is online (has power and Wi-Fi).
- Try again after a few minutes.
Doorbell Still Appears in App After Deletion
Cause: The app hasn’t refreshed, or the deletion didn’t complete.
Solution:
- Close and reopen the Ring app.
- Log out and log back in.
- Check the web dashboard to confirm removal.
Can’t Access the Ring App or Website
Cause: Forgotten password, account lockout, or technical glitch.
Solution:
- Use the “Forgot Password” link to reset your login.
- Clear your browser cache or try a different device.
- Contact Ring Support if issues persist.
Factory Reset Not Working
Cause: Incorrect button press, low battery, or hardware issue.
Solution:
- Make sure the doorbell has sufficient charge or is wired properly.
- Hold the reset button for the full 15–20 seconds.
- Try removing the battery (if applicable) and reinserting it.
How to Transfer Ownership of a Ring Doorbell
If you’re selling or giving away your Ring doorbell, simply deleting it from your account isn’t enough. The new owner needs to set it up under their own Ring account.
Here’s the proper way to transfer ownership:
- Remove the device from your account using the steps above.
- Factory reset the doorbell to clear all data.
- Provide the new owner with the device and mounting hardware.
- They should download the Ring app and create an account (if they don’t have one).
- They’ll follow the setup process to connect the doorbell to their Wi-Fi and account.
Important: Never give your Ring login details to someone else. Always remove the device and let them set it up themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deleting Ring Doorbells
We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions users have when removing their Ring doorbells.
Can I delete a Ring doorbell if it’s offline?
Yes, you can still remove a Ring doorbell from your account even if it’s offline. However, it’s best to do it while the device is online to ensure the deletion completes successfully. If it’s offline, the removal will process once the device reconnects—or you can proceed anyway, and the cloud data will still be deleted.
Will deleting the doorbell stop charging my subscription?
Deleting the device does not automatically cancel your Ring Protect subscription. If you’re no longer using any Ring devices, you should cancel your subscription separately through the app or website to avoid future charges.
Can I reinstall the same doorbell later?
Yes! After deleting and factory resetting the doorbell, you can set it up again under your account (or someone else’s). Just follow the standard installation process in the Ring app.
What if I accidentally deleted my doorbell?
Unfortunately, once a device is deleted, it cannot be restored to your account. You’ll need to set it up again as if it were new. Make sure to double-check before confirming deletion.
Does deleting the doorbell affect my Ring Alarm system?
No. Ring doorbells are separate from Ring Alarm systems. Deleting a doorbell won’t impact your alarm sensors, base station, or monitoring service.
How long does it take for the device to be fully removed?
The deletion is usually instant. However, if the device is offline, it may take a few minutes to sync. Cloud data is removed immediately upon confirmation.
Final Tips for a Smooth Deletion Process
To make deleting your Ring doorbell as hassle-free as possible, keep these tips in mind:
- Back up important videos before deleting the device.
- Remove shared users first to avoid errors.
- Use the app for the quickest process—it’s more user-friendly than the web dashboard.
- Factory reset the device if you’re selling or gifting it.
- Cancel your Ring Protect plan if you no longer need it.
- Contact Ring Support if you run into persistent issues.
Conclusion
Deleting a Ring doorbell from your account is a simple but important step—especially if you’re moving, upgrading, or concerned about privacy. By following the steps in this guide, you can remove your device safely, securely, and without leaving behind any personal data.
Whether you use the Ring app or the web dashboard, the process takes just a few minutes. Just remember to remove shared users, back up any important recordings, and factory reset the device if needed.
And if you ever decide to reinstall your Ring doorbell in the future, you’ll know exactly how to get it back up and running.
Now that you’re equipped with all the knowledge you need, go ahead and remove that doorbell with confidence. Your account—and your peace of mind—will thank you.