Want a Ring Doorbell but don’t want to pay full price? This guide reveals real, legal methods to get one for free—or close to it—through government rebates, local safety programs, nonprofit partnerships, and more. We’ll walk you through every step so you can secure your smart doorbell without spending a dime.
Key Takeaways
- Check local government rebates: Many cities offer free or discounted Ring Doorbells as part of neighborhood safety initiatives.
- Look into nonprofit partnerships: Organizations like Neighbors by Ring collaborate with community groups to distribute free devices.
- Apply for crime prevention grants: Some police departments provide free smart doorbells to residents in high-risk areas.
- Use Amazon trade-in or gift card deals: Trade eligible items for Amazon credit and combine with promotions to reduce or eliminate cost.
- Join beta testing programs: Ring occasionally offers free devices to users who test new features and provide feedback.
- Beware of scams: Only use official Ring or government websites—never share personal info with unverified sources.
- Act fast: Free programs often have limited availability, so apply early.
How to Get the Ring Doorbell Free: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve been eyeing a Ring Doorbell but the price tag has held you back, you’re not alone. Smart doorbells offer peace of mind, real-time alerts, and two-way communication—but they can cost anywhere from $60 to over $200. The good news? There are legitimate, legal ways to get a Ring Doorbell for free—or at least heavily discounted.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every proven method to secure a free Ring Doorbell, from government rebates and community safety programs to nonprofit giveaways and smart shopping hacks. Whether you live in a high-crime area, want to improve neighborhood security, or simply love a great deal, this guide will show you exactly how to get started—without falling for scams or wasting time on dead ends.
By the end of this article, you’ll know:
– Which local programs offer free Ring Doorbells
– How to apply for crime prevention grants
– Where to find nonprofit and community giveaways
– Smart ways to use Amazon deals and trade-ins
– How to avoid common scams
– Tips to increase your chances of approval
Let’s dive in and help you get that Ring Doorbell—free of charge.
1. Check for Local Government and Police Department Programs
One of the most reliable ways to get a free Ring Doorbell is through local government or police department initiatives. Many cities and towns across the U.S. have launched programs to reduce crime and increase community safety by distributing free or discounted smart doorbells to residents.
These programs are often funded by federal or state grants aimed at improving neighborhood security. The idea is simple: when more homes have video doorbells, it’s harder for criminals to operate unnoticed. In return, residents get free tech that protects their homes and families.
How to Find These Programs
Start by visiting your city or county government website. Look for sections like “Public Safety,” “Neighborhood Watch,” or “Community Programs.” Search for keywords like “free doorbell camera,” “smart doorbell program,” or “Ring Doorbell giveaway.”
You can also call your local police department’s non-emergency line and ask if they offer any security device programs. Some departments partner directly with Ring or Amazon to distribute devices.
Examples of Active Programs
– **Los Angeles, CA:** The LAPD has partnered with Ring in the past to offer free doorbells to residents in certain neighborhoods as part of their “Neighbors” safety initiative.
– **Austin, TX:** The Austin Police Department has run pilot programs providing free smart doorbells to homes in high-theft areas.
– **Chicago, IL:** Some community districts have used city grants to distribute Ring Doorbells to elderly or vulnerable residents.
What You’ll Need to Apply
Most programs require:
– Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement)
– A valid ID
– Completion of a short application form
– Sometimes, participation in a neighborhood watch or safety meeting
Pro Tip
Even if your city doesn’t currently have a program, it’s worth checking back every few months. New initiatives are launched regularly, especially after increases in package theft or burglary.
2. Explore Nonprofit and Community Safety Partnerships
Nonprofit organizations and community groups are another great source for free Ring Doorbells. Ring has partnered with several nonprofits to promote safety and connectivity in underserved communities.
One of the most notable is the Neighbors by Ring program, which encourages residents to share real-time crime and safety alerts. Through this platform, Ring sometimes offers free devices to users who commit to using the app responsibly and reporting suspicious activity.
How Nonprofit Giveaways Work
These programs often target:
– Low-income households
– Seniors or elderly residents
– Neighborhoods with high crime rates
– Communities affected by recent break-ins or package theft
Organizations like Habitat for Humanity, local churches, and community centers may also receive bulk donations of Ring Doorbells to distribute to families in need.
How to Apply
– Visit the official Neighbors by Ring website and sign up for alerts.
– Follow local community Facebook groups or Nextdoor posts—many nonprofits announce giveaways there first.
– Contact local shelters, senior centers, or housing authorities to ask about safety device programs.
Real-World Example
In 2022, a nonprofit in Atlanta partnered with Ring to give away 500 free doorbells to residents in a neighborhood that had seen a spike in porch piracy. Recipients had to attend a 30-minute safety workshop and agree to use the Neighbors app.
Pro Tip
Even if you don’t qualify for a free device, some nonprofits offer deep discounts (up to 70% off) through grant-funded programs. Always ask!
3. Apply for Crime Prevention or Home Security Grants
Some local governments and law enforcement agencies offer grants specifically for home security improvements—including smart doorbells. These grants are designed to reduce crime by making homes less attractive targets.
Types of Grants Available
– **Police Department Grants:** Some PDs allocate funds for residents to purchase security devices.
– **City or County Safety Funds:** Larger municipalities may have dedicated budgets for neighborhood safety.
– **Federal Programs:** While rare, some federal grants (like those from the Department of Justice) trickle down to local safety initiatives.
How to Find and Apply for Grants
1. Search online for “[Your City] home security grant” or “crime prevention grant [Your State].”
2. Check with your local police department’s community outreach division.
3. Look for announcements on city council meeting agendas or public notices.
Application Tips
– Be specific about how the doorbell will improve safety (e.g., “reduce package theft,” “monitor elderly parent”).
– Include photos of your front door or recent crime reports from your area.
– Submit applications early—funds are often limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Example Success Story
A homeowner in Phoenix, AZ, received a $150 grant from the city’s “Safe Streets” program to buy a Ring Doorbell. She submitted a photo of a broken package left on her porch and a police report from a neighbor’s break-in. Her application was approved within two weeks.
4. Use Amazon Trade-In or Gift Card Deals
If you can’t find a free program, you can still get a Ring Doorbell for little or no money using smart shopping strategies—especially through Amazon.
Amazon Trade-In Program
Amazon allows you to trade in eligible electronics (like old phones, tablets, or cameras) for Amazon gift cards. You can then use that credit to buy a Ring Doorbell.
How It Works
1. Go to Amazon Trade-In.
2. Search for your device (e.g., “iPhone 8” or “Nest Doorbell”).
3. Answer a few questions about its condition.
4. If accepted, you’ll receive an Amazon gift card (usually within a few days).
5. Use the credit to buy a Ring Doorbell—often during a sale.
Example
Trade in an old iPhone 11 in good condition and receive a $120 Amazon gift card. During a Prime Day sale, a Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) drops to $59.99. You pay nothing out of pocket.
Combine with Promotions
Amazon frequently runs promotions like:
– “Buy a Ring Doorbell, get a free Echo Dot”
– “Spend $50 on Ring, get $10 off”
– “Prime members get 10% back in rewards”
Stack these deals with trade-in credit to maximize savings.
Pro Tip
Check the trade-in value before buying a new phone. Sometimes it’s better to trade in your old device now than wait—values drop quickly.
5. Join Ring Beta Testing or Feedback Programs
Ring occasionally recruits users to test new features or hardware in exchange for free devices. These beta programs are a win-win: Ring gets real-world feedback, and you get a free doorbell.
How to Sign Up
– Visit the Ring Support Page and look for “Beta Programs” or “Product Testing.”
– Follow Ring on social media (Twitter, Facebook) for announcements.
– Join the Neighbors app and enable notifications—sometimes invites are sent through the app.
What to Expect
– You may receive a pre-release version of a new doorbell.
– You’ll be asked to test features like motion detection, night vision, or app integrations.
– You’ll need to provide detailed feedback via surveys or video calls.
Real Example
In 2023, Ring invited 200 users to test a new solar-powered doorbell. Participants received the device for free and were asked to report on battery life and installation ease. Most kept the doorbell after the test.
Pro Tip
Be honest and detailed in your feedback. Ring values users who provide constructive criticism—it increases your chances of being selected again.
6. Beware of Scams and Fake Giveaways
Unfortunately, the popularity of Ring Doorbells has led to an increase in scams. Fake websites, phishing emails, and social media posts promise “free Ring Doorbells” in exchange for personal information or payment.
Red Flags to Watch For
– “Click here to claim your free Ring Doorbell!” (from an unknown sender)
– Websites that look like Ring but have misspelled URLs (e.g., “Ring-Doorbell-Free.com”)
– Requests for Social Security numbers, bank details, or upfront fees
– Posts on social media asking you to “share and tag 10 friends” to enter
How to Stay Safe
– Only apply through official Ring, Amazon, or government websites.
– Never pay to enter a giveaway.
– Verify the sender’s email address—official Ring emails come from @ring.com or @amazon.com.
– Report suspicious activity to Ring’s support team.
Example of a Scam
A fake Facebook ad claimed, “Ring is giving away 10,000 free doorbells! Click now!” The link led to a survey asking for credit card info “to cover shipping.” This is a classic phishing scam.
Pro Tip
When in doubt, go directly to Ring.com or call their customer service line to verify a promotion.
7. Increase Your Chances of Getting Approved
Not every application will be approved—but you can improve your odds with a few smart strategies.
1. Be Proactive
Don’t wait for crime to happen. Apply before your neighborhood sees a spike in theft. Programs often prioritize prevention over reaction.
2. Highlight Community Impact
In your application, explain how the doorbell will benefit not just you, but your neighbors. For example:
– “I live on a busy street with frequent package theft.”
– “I’m part of a neighborhood watch group and will share alerts.”
3. Provide Evidence
Include photos, police reports, or news articles about local crime. The more proof you have, the stronger your case.
4. Follow Up
If you don’t hear back in 2–3 weeks, send a polite follow-up email or call. Sometimes applications get lost.
5. Network Locally
Talk to your neighbors. If multiple people apply, the program may be more likely to approve your area.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
“I Applied But Got Rejected. What Now?”
Don’t give up. Ask for feedback on why you were denied. Common reasons include:
– Incomplete application
– Living outside the target area
– Program funds already exhausted
Reapply when new funding becomes available.
“I Received a Free Doorbell—Now What?”
– Install it properly (follow Ring’s setup guide).
– Connect it to the Neighbors app.
– Test motion alerts and two-way talk.
– Share non-emergency alerts with your community (e.g., “Suspicious person walking dogs at 2 a.m.”).
“My Doorbell Isn’t Working After Installation”
– Check Wi-Fi signal strength (use the Ring app’s signal tool).
– Ensure the doorbell is charged or wired correctly.
– Reset the device and reconnect to the app.
– Contact Ring support for troubleshooting.
Conclusion
Getting a Ring Doorbell for free isn’t just a dream—it’s a realistic goal if you know where to look. From government rebates and nonprofit partnerships to Amazon trade-ins and beta testing, there are multiple legitimate paths to securing this popular smart device at no cost.
The key is to stay informed, act quickly, and apply through official channels. Avoid scams, provide strong applications, and leverage community resources to boost your chances.
Remember: safety shouldn’t come with a high price tag. With the right approach, you can protect your home, help your neighbors, and enjoy the convenience of a Ring Doorbell—all without spending a dime.
Start your search today. Your free Ring Doorbell might be just one application away.