Get into the holiday spirit by setting up Christmas chimes on your Ring Doorbell. This guide walks you through every step—from checking compatibility to customizing festive sounds—so you can enjoy jingling bells and cheerful tunes when guests arrive.
Key Takeaways
- Not all Ring Doorbells support custom chimes: Only Ring Video Doorbells (2nd gen and newer), Ring Doorbell Pro, Pro 2, Elite, and Battery Doorbell Plus support seasonal chimes.
- Christmas chimes are free and built-in: Ring offers festive sound options like “Jingle Bells” and “Deck the Halls” at no extra cost through the app.
- You need the latest Ring app version: Ensure your mobile app is updated to access seasonal chime features and new sound packs.
- Chime compatibility matters: If you use a Ring Chime or Chime Pro, it must be linked to your doorbell and updated to play custom sounds.
- Schedule festive chimes automatically: Use the “Seasonal Chimes” feature to activate Christmas sounds only during specific dates and times.
- Troubleshooting is simple: Common issues like no sound or outdated firmware can usually be fixed with a quick reboot or app refresh.
- Enjoy year-round customization: Once you learn how to change chimes, you can switch to Halloween, birthday, or everyday tones anytime.
How to Get Christmas Chimes for Ring Doorbell
The holiday season is the perfect time to add a little festive cheer to your front door—and what better way than with Christmas chimes on your Ring Doorbell? Imagine the joy of hearing “Jingle Bells” or “Deck the Halls” every time someone presses your doorbell. It’s a small touch that makes a big impression on guests, neighbors, and even delivery drivers.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn exactly how to get Christmas chimes for your Ring Doorbell. Whether you’re a first-time Ring user or a seasoned smart home enthusiast, we’ll walk you through every step—from checking device compatibility to scheduling your holiday sounds. By the end, your doorbell will be ringing in the season with style.
What Are Ring Christmas Chimes?
Visual guide about How to Get Christmas Chimes for Ring Doorbell
Image source: storage.googleapis.com
Ring Christmas chimes are special seasonal sound effects that replace your doorbell’s default tone during the holidays. Instead of a standard “ding-dong,” your Ring Doorbell plays festive melodies like “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” “Silent Night,” or “Jingle Bell Rock.” These sounds are designed to spread holiday cheer and make your home feel warm and welcoming.
These chimes are part of Ring’s “Seasonal Chimes” feature, which rotates special sound packs throughout the year. For Christmas, Ring typically releases a new collection of holiday tunes in late November, available for a limited time. The best part? They’re completely free—no subscription or extra purchase required.
Which Ring Doorbells Support Christmas Chimes?
Before you get started, it’s important to know whether your Ring Doorbell can play Christmas chimes. Not all models support custom or seasonal sounds. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Ring Video Doorbell (2nd generation and newer): Yes, supports seasonal chimes.
- Ring Video Doorbell Pro: Yes, fully compatible.
- Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2: Yes, with enhanced audio quality.
- Ring Video Doorbell Elite: Yes, supports all custom chimes.
- Ring Battery Doorbell Plus: Yes, includes seasonal sound options.
- Ring Video Doorbell (1st generation): No, does not support custom chimes.
- Ring Peephole Cam: No, limited chime functionality.
If your model isn’t listed above, check the Ring app under Device Settings > Chime Tones. If you see options like “Holiday” or “Seasonal,” your doorbell likely supports the feature.
Do You Need a Ring Chime or Chime Pro?
Many Ring users pair their doorbell with a Ring Chime or Chime Pro—a plug-in speaker that amplifies the doorbell sound inside your home. While your Ring Doorbell has a built-in speaker, it may not be loud enough for larger homes or if you’re in another room.
If you want to hear Christmas chimes clearly throughout your house, a Ring Chime or Chime Pro is highly recommended. Here’s how they work:
- Ring Chime: Plugs into any standard outlet and connects wirelessly to your doorbell. It plays the same chime tone as your doorbell.
- Ring Chime Pro: Does everything the Chime does, plus it acts as a Wi-Fi extender to boost your doorbell’s signal.
Both devices support seasonal chimes, including Christmas sounds. Just make sure your Chime is linked to your doorbell in the Ring app and updated to the latest firmware.
Step 1: Update Your Ring App
Before you can access Christmas chimes, you need to make sure your Ring app is up to date. New features—including seasonal sound packs—are often rolled out through app updates.
How to Update the Ring App
- Open your device’s app store (Google Play Store for Android or App Store for iPhone).
- Search for “Ring” and tap on the official Ring app.
- If an update is available, tap “Update.” If it says “Open,” your app is already current.
- Once updated, open the Ring app and log in to your account.
Pro tip: Enable automatic updates on your phone so you never miss new features. On iPhone, go to Settings > App Store > toggle on “App Updates.” On Android, open Google Play Store > tap your profile > Settings > Auto-update apps.
Step 2: Check Your Doorbell’s Firmware
Your Ring Doorbell’s firmware (internal software) must also be up to date to support seasonal chimes. Ring automatically pushes firmware updates, but sometimes they can be delayed.
How to Check and Update Firmware
- Open the Ring app and tap the three-line menu (☰) in the top-left corner.
- Select “Devices” and choose your doorbell.
- Tap “Device Health” and look for “Firmware Version.”
- If an update is available, you’ll see a prompt to “Update Now.” Tap it.
- Wait for the update to complete—this may take a few minutes. Do not unplug or restart your doorbell during this time.
If no update appears, your firmware is likely current. Ring usually releases holiday chime support in November, so check back if it’s early in the season.
Step 3: Enable Seasonal Chimes in the App
Once your app and firmware are updated, it’s time to turn on Christmas chimes. Here’s how:
Accessing Chime Settings
- Open the Ring app and go to “Devices.”
- Select your doorbell from the list.
- Tap “Chime Tones” or “Chime Settings.”
- Look for a section labeled “Seasonal Chimes” or “Holiday Sounds.”
- Toggle the switch to “On.”
If you don’t see this option, your doorbell may not support seasonal chimes, or the feature hasn’t been released yet for your region. Ring typically enables holiday sounds in the U.S., Canada, and the UK first.
Choosing Your Christmas Chime
Once seasonal chimes are enabled, you’ll see a list of available holiday sounds. These may include:
- Jingle Bells
- We Wish You a Merry Christmas
- Deck the Halls
- Silent Night
- Feliz Navidad
- Christmas Time Is Here
Tap on any sound to preview it. When you find one you like, select it as your active chime. The change takes effect immediately.
Step 4: Schedule Your Christmas Chimes (Optional)
Want your doorbell to play festive tunes only during the holidays? Ring lets you schedule seasonal chimes so they automatically turn on and off.
How to Set a Chime Schedule
- In the Ring app, go to your doorbell’s “Chime Tones” settings.
- Tap “Schedule” or “Set Timeframe.”
- Choose your start date (e.g., December 1) and end date (e.g., January 1).
- Set the time range—like 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM—so your doorbell doesn’t wake you up at night.
- Save your settings.
This feature is perfect for avoiding holiday sounds in January or ensuring your doorbell stays quiet during late-night hours. You can adjust the schedule anytime.
Step 5: Test Your Christmas Chime
After setting up your festive tone, it’s important to test it to make sure everything works.
How to Test Your Doorbell Chime
- Ask someone to press your doorbell, or use the “Test Chime” feature in the app.
- Listen for the Christmas sound both at the doorbell and inside your home (if you have a Chime).
- If you don’t hear anything, check your volume settings and Wi-Fi connection.
To test via the app:
- Go to your doorbell’s settings.
- Tap “Test Chime” or “Play Sound.”
- The selected Christmas chime should play through your doorbell’s speaker.
If the sound doesn’t play, try rebooting your doorbell by removing the battery (for battery models) or turning off the power at the breaker (for wired models) for 10 seconds.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best setup, you might run into a few hiccups. Here are solutions to the most common problems:
No Sound When Doorbell Is Pressed
- Check volume: In the Ring app, go to Chime Settings and ensure the volume is turned up.
- Verify Wi-Fi: A weak signal can prevent chimes from playing. Move your router closer or use a Chime Pro to extend coverage.
- Restart devices: Reboot your doorbell and Chime by unplugging them for 10 seconds.
Christmas Chimes Not Showing Up
- Update app and firmware: Make sure both are current.
- Check region: Seasonal chimes may not be available in all countries yet.
- Wait for release: Ring usually enables holiday sounds in late November. Check back if it’s early.
Chime Plays Default Tone Instead of Christmas Sound
- Confirm selection: Double-check that a holiday tone is selected in Chime Tones.
- Disable “Quiet Hours”: If Quiet Hours are active, custom chimes may be muted. Adjust the schedule in Device Settings.
- Re-link Chime: If using a Ring Chime, unlink and re-pair it with your doorbell in the app.
Sound Is Distorted or Crackling
- Check speaker placement: Avoid placing your Chime near metal objects or thick walls.
- Reduce volume: High volume can cause distortion. Lower it slightly in the app.
- Update firmware: Audio improvements are often included in updates.
Tips for the Best Christmas Chime Experience
Make the most of your festive doorbell with these expert tips:
- Choose a cheerful but not overwhelming tone: “Jingle Bells” is fun, but “Silent Night” might be better for evening hours.
- Use a Chime Pro for larger homes: It boosts both sound and Wi-Fi, ensuring you hear every ring.
- Pair with holiday lights: Sync your doorbell chime with outdoor Christmas lights for a full festive experience.
- Involve the family: Let kids pick the chime or help set the schedule—it’s a fun holiday activity.
- Change it up: Try a different Christmas tune each week to keep things fresh.
Can You Use Custom Christmas Sounds?
Currently, Ring does not allow users to upload their own audio files as doorbell chimes. All sounds—including Christmas chimes—must be selected from Ring’s built-in library. This ensures compatibility and prevents issues with audio quality or file formats.
However, Ring frequently adds new seasonal packs, so keep an eye on app updates for fresh holiday options. You can also suggest new sounds through Ring’s customer support or community forums.
What If Your Doorbell Doesn’t Support Seasonal Chimes?
If you have an older Ring model that doesn’t support custom chimes, don’t worry—there are still ways to add holiday cheer:
- Use a smart plug with a holiday sound machine: Plug a small speaker or sound machine into a smart plug near your front door. Set it to play Christmas music when motion is detected.
- Upgrade your doorbell: Consider upgrading to a newer Ring model that supports seasonal chimes. Ring often offers holiday discounts in November and December.
- Play music manually: Keep a Bluetooth speaker near the door and play holiday tunes when guests arrive.
While not as seamless as built-in chimes, these workarounds can still create a festive atmosphere.
Conclusion
Getting Christmas chimes for your Ring Doorbell is a simple and joyful way to celebrate the season. With just a few taps in the Ring app, you can transform your doorbell into a holiday soundtrack that delights visitors and spreads cheer.
Remember to check your device compatibility, update your app and firmware, and enable seasonal chimes before the holidays begin. If you use a Ring Chime or Chime Pro, make sure it’s linked and updated for the best sound quality.
Whether you choose “Jingle Bells” or “Deck the Halls,” your front door will become a festive focal point of your home. And once you’ve mastered Christmas chimes, you’ll be ready to switch to Halloween, birthday, or everyday tones whenever you like.
So go ahead—ring in the holidays with style. Your guests will love it, and you’ll enjoy the magic of the season every time someone comes to your door.