Mounting your Ring Doorbell at an angle can significantly improve its field of view and motion detection accuracy. This guide walks you through the process with simple tools, clear steps, and expert tips to ensure a secure, professional-looking installation.
Key Takeaways
- Angle improves visibility: Mounting your Ring Doorbell at a slight angle helps capture more of your walkway, driveway, or front yard, reducing blind spots.
- Use the right tools: A drill, level, screwdriver, and the included mounting wedge are essential for a secure and properly angled installation.
- Choose the correct wedge: Ring offers adjustable mounting wedges (15°, 30°, and 45°) to help you achieve the ideal viewing angle for your home’s layout.
- Test before finalizing: Always test the camera view and motion detection range using the Ring app before tightening all screws.
- Ensure proper wiring or battery access: If using a hardwired model, make sure wires aren’t strained. For battery models, ensure easy access for recharging.
- Weatherproofing matters: Seal gaps around the mounting bracket to prevent water damage and maintain your doorbell’s longevity.
- Adjust in the app: Use the Ring app’s motion zones and angle calibration tools to fine-tune detection after mounting.
How to Mount Ring Doorbell at an Angle
So, you’ve got your Ring Doorbell—great choice! But now you’re wondering: how do I mount it at an angle? Maybe your front door is recessed, your walkway comes in from the side, or you just want better coverage of your driveway. Whatever the reason, mounting your Ring Doorbell at an angle can make a big difference in how well it sees and records activity.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of mounting your Ring Doorbell at an angle—step by step. Whether you’re using a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell 3, Ring Doorbell 4, or even the Ring Doorbell Pro, the principles are the same. We’ll cover the tools you need, how to choose the right angle, how to install the mounting wedge, and how to test and adjust your setup for optimal performance.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a securely mounted, perfectly angled Ring Doorbell that gives you the best possible view of your home’s entrance. Let’s get started!
Why Mount Your Ring Doorbell at an Angle?
Visual guide about How to Mount Ring Doorbell at an Angle
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Before we dive into the how, let’s talk about the why. Why would you want to mount your Ring Doorbell at an angle in the first place?
The main reason is improved field of view. A standard straight-on mount works fine if your door is flush with the wall and your walkway leads directly to it. But in many homes, that’s not the case. Maybe your door is set back in a porch, or your path comes in from the left or right. In these situations, a straight mount can leave large blind spots.
Mounting your Ring Doorbell at an angle—say, 15° to 30°—lets you “look down” the walkway or across the driveway. This gives you a better chance of catching someone approaching from the side, reduces glare from direct sunlight, and improves motion detection accuracy.
Another benefit? Better motion detection. Ring’s motion sensors rely on changes in the camera’s field of view. If your doorbell is pointed straight ahead but people walk in from the side, it might not trigger. An angled mount ensures more of the approach path is visible, so you get alerts when someone is actually coming to your door.
Finally, an angled mount can help with glare and lighting issues. If your doorbell faces directly into the sun in the morning or evening, video quality can suffer. Angling it slightly can reduce lens flare and improve image clarity.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following tools and materials. Most of these come with your Ring Doorbell, but it’s good to double-check.
- Ring Doorbell (any model)
- Ring mounting bracket
- Ring mounting wedge (15°, 30°, or 45°—included with most models)
- Drill with drill bits (usually 3/16″ or 5mm)
- Screwdriver (Phillips head)
- Level (a small bubble level or a leveling app on your phone)
- Pencil or marker
- Measuring tape
- Wall anchors (if mounting into drywall or brick)
- Optional: Wire strippers (for hardwired models)
- Optional: Silicone sealant (for weatherproofing)
If you’re mounting on brick, stucco, or concrete, you’ll also need a masonry drill bit and possibly a hammer drill. For wood or siding, a standard drill bit will do.
Choosing the Right Angle for Your Ring Doorbell
Not all angles are created equal. The best angle depends on your home’s layout. Here’s how to choose:
Assess Your Entryway
Stand back and look at your front door. Ask yourself:
- Where do people usually approach from?
- Is the walkway straight, curved, or coming from the side?
- Is the door recessed or flush with the wall?
- Are there any obstructions like plants, mailboxes, or light fixtures?
Take a photo of your entryway from the perspective of where you plan to mount the doorbell. This will help you visualize the angle.
Test with the Ring App
Before drilling any holes, use the Ring app to test different angles. Here’s how:
- Download and open the Ring app on your smartphone.
- Go to Devices > Select your doorbell > Device Settings > Live View.
- Hold your doorbell (or a phone) at the desired height and angle where you plan to mount it.
- Move around the area and see what the camera captures.
- Note any blind spots or areas with poor visibility.
This “dry run” helps you decide whether a 15°, 30°, or 45° wedge is best.
Recommended Angles
- 15° wedge: Ideal for slight adjustments. Use if your walkway comes in at a gentle angle or if you just need to tilt the camera down a bit.
- 30° wedge: Great for most angled installations. Works well when the path comes in from the side or the door is recessed.
- 45° wedge: Best for extreme angles, like side-entry doors or driveways. Use sparingly—too much angle can distort the image or reduce motion detection range.
Tip: Start with the 15° wedge and work your way up. You can always switch to a steeper angle later.
Step-by-Step: How to Mount Ring Doorbell at an Angle
Now that you’ve chosen your angle, it’s time to install. Follow these steps carefully for a secure, professional-looking mount.
Step 1: Turn Off Power (For Hardwired Models)
If you’re installing a hardwired Ring Doorbell (like the Ring Doorbell Pro), safety first. Turn off the power to your existing doorbell at the circuit breaker. Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm the wires are not live.
Step 2: Remove the Old Doorbell (If Applicable)
If you’re replacing an old doorbell, unscrew and remove it. Disconnect the wires and cap them with wire nuts for safety. Set the old mounting plate aside.
Step 3: Attach the Mounting Wedge to the Bracket
Take the Ring mounting bracket and the wedge that matches your desired angle (15°, 30°, or 45°). Align the wedge with the back of the bracket and secure it using the included screws. Make sure it’s tight and flush.
Tip: The wedge should sit flat against the wall. If it wobbles, double-check the alignment.
Step 4: Position the Bracket on the Wall
Hold the bracket (with wedge attached) against the wall where you want to mount the doorbell. Use a level to ensure it’s straight. The ideal height is about 48 inches (4 feet) from the ground—this gives the best balance of visibility and security.
Mark the screw holes with a pencil. If you’re mounting on brick or concrete, use a masonry bit to drill pilot holes. For drywall, use wall anchors for extra support.
Step 5: Drill and Secure the Bracket
Drill the pilot holes, then insert wall anchors if needed. Screw the bracket into place using the provided screws. Make sure it’s tight and doesn’t move.
Tip: Don’t overtighten—this can crack the bracket or strip the screws.
Step 6: Connect the Wires (Hardwired Models Only)
If you’re using a hardwired model, connect the existing doorbell wires to the terminals on the back of the Ring Doorbell. Most models have two terminals—polarity doesn’t matter. Strip about 1/4 inch of insulation from each wire and secure them under the screws.
For battery-powered models, skip this step.
Step 7: Attach the Ring Doorbell to the Bracket
Slide the Ring Doorbell onto the mounting bracket. It should click into place. Secure it with the included security screw using a screwdriver or the Ring screwdriver tool.
Step 8: Test the Angle and View
Open the Ring app and go to Live View. Check the camera feed. Walk around the area and see if the angle captures the approach path well. Adjust the bracket slightly if needed—most brackets allow minor tweaks before final tightening.
Step 9: Weatherproof the Installation
To protect your doorbell from rain and moisture, apply a small bead of silicone sealant around the edges of the mounting bracket where it meets the wall. This prevents water from seeping behind the bracket.
Tip: Don’t seal over the camera lens or microphone holes.
Step 10: Finalize and Power On
Once everything looks good, turn the power back on (for hardwired models). The doorbell should light up and connect to your Wi-Fi. Follow the in-app setup prompts to complete the installation.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful planning, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Blind Spots Remain
If you still have blind spots after mounting at an angle, try:
- Increasing the angle slightly (switch to a 30° or 45° wedge).
- Raising or lowering the mounting height.
- Using the Ring app’s motion zones to focus detection on key areas.
Motion Detection Is Too Sensitive or Not Sensitive Enough
Adjust the motion sensitivity in the Ring app:
- Go to Device Settings > Motion Settings.
- Use the slider to increase or decrease sensitivity.
- Set up motion zones to ignore areas like busy streets or trees.
Video Is Blurry or Glared
This could be due to:
- Dirty lens: Clean the lens with a soft, dry cloth.
- Sun glare: Adjust the angle slightly to avoid direct sunlight.
- Improper focus: Some Ring models allow digital zoom and focus adjustments in the app.
Doorbell Won’t Stay Secure
If the doorbell feels loose:
- Check that the security screw is fully tightened.
- Ensure the mounting bracket is securely attached to the wall.
- Use longer or stronger screws if needed (especially for brick or concrete).
Wi-Fi Connection Issues
Weak Wi-Fi can affect performance. Try:
- Moving your router closer.
- Using a Wi-Fi extender.
- Switching to a 2.4 GHz network (most Ring doorbells don’t support 5 GHz).
Tips for a Professional-Looking Installation
A well-mounted Ring Doorbell not only works better—it looks better too. Here are some pro tips:
- Hide the wires: For hardwired models, tuck excess wire into the wall or use wire covers.
- Match the finish: Choose a mounting bracket color that blends with your door or wall.
- Keep it clean: Wipe down the doorbell and lens monthly to maintain video quality.
- Check alignment seasonally: Over time, brackets can shift. Re-level if needed.
- Use the Ring app’s angle guide: Some newer models have built-in tools to help you find the best angle.
Conclusion
Mounting your Ring Doorbell at an angle isn’t just possible—it’s often the smartest choice. Whether you’re dealing with a side-entry walkway, a recessed door, or just want better motion detection, angling your doorbell can dramatically improve its performance.
By following this guide, you’ve learned how to choose the right angle, use the correct tools, install the mounting wedge, and test your setup for optimal results. You’ve also picked up tips for troubleshooting and maintaining your doorbell over time.
Remember: the goal is to capture the most important areas—your walkway, driveway, or front yard—while minimizing blind spots and false alerts. With the right angle and a little patience, your Ring Doorbell will be working smarter, not harder.
So grab your drill, pick your wedge, and get mounting. Your home’s security—and your peace of mind—will thank you.