Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit Review: The Smart Way to Upgrade Your Doorbell Without the Mess

Upgrading your home security shouldn’t mean staring at unsightly drill holes, mismatched paint, or a messy wall where your old doorbell used to be. I know this firsthand—after replacing my original Ring Video Doorbell with a newer model, I was left with a patch of exposed wall and a few stubborn screw holes that no amount of spackle could fully disguise. It wasn’t just an eyesore; it was a reminder that even smart home upgrades can leave behind physical scars. That’s when I discovered the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit, a simple yet ingenious solution designed specifically for Ring users who want a clean, professional-looking installation without the hassle of repainting or re-drilling.

The Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit is more than just a cosmetic cover—it’s a thoughtful, well-engineered accessory that solves a common problem for Ring doorbell owners. Whether you’re upgrading from a first-generation Ring doorbell to a Battery Doorbell Plus or switching from a wired model to the latest Wired Doorbell Pro, this kit ensures your transition is seamless, both functionally and aesthetically. With a 4.5-star rating from 21 verified customer reviews, it’s clear that Ring users appreciate the attention to detail and practicality this product brings. In this comprehensive review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit, from its design and installation to real-world performance and long-term value.

What is the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit?

The Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit is a mounting accessory designed by Ring to help homeowners seamlessly upgrade their existing Ring doorbell to a newer model—without leaving behind visible drill holes or requiring extensive wall repairs. It acts as a universal adapter plate that covers the mounting points of previous Ring doorbell installations, allowing you to install compatible newer models using the same wall anchors or screws. This means you can preserve your wall’s appearance, save time on installation, and avoid the frustration of patching and repainting.

This retrofit kit is compatible with a wide range of Ring doorbell models, including the Battery Doorbell (2nd Gen), Battery Doorbell Plus (2nd Gen), Battery Doorbell Pro (2nd Gen), Wired Doorbell Plus (2nd Gen), and Wired Doorbell Pro (3rd Gen). It’s specifically engineered to repurpose drill holes from older Ring devices such as the original Ring Video Doorbell (1st Gen and 2nd Gen/2020 release), Video Doorbell 2, 3, 3 Plus, 4, Battery Doorbell, Battery Doorbell Plus, Battery Doorbell Pro, Video Doorbell Wired (2021 release), and Wired Doorbell Plus/Video Doorbell Pro. The kit includes the retrofit mounting plate, screws, anchors, and all necessary installation accessories, making it a complete solution out of the box.

The target audience for the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit is anyone who owns or is upgrading to a Ring doorbell and wants a clean, professional installation. This includes homeowners who value aesthetics, renters who want to avoid damaging walls, and DIY enthusiasts looking for a quick, hassle-free upgrade. It’s especially useful for those replacing older Ring models with newer ones that have slightly different mounting configurations. The kit is not a standalone doorbell—it’s an accessory that works in conjunction with your new Ring device, ensuring compatibility and a polished finish.

Key Features of Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit

✅ Universal Compatibility with Multiple Ring Models

One of the standout features of the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit is its broad compatibility. It’s designed to work with nearly every Ring doorbell model released in the past several years, making it a versatile solution for upgrades. Whether you’re moving from a Ring Video Doorbell 2 to a Battery Doorbell Pro or upgrading from a Wired Doorbell Plus to the latest Wired Doorbell Pro (3rd Gen), this kit ensures your new device can be mounted using the existing wall anchors. This eliminates the need to drill new holes, which is especially valuable if your wall is made of stucco, brick, or another difficult material.

In my own experience, I upgraded from a Ring Video Doorbell 3 to a Wired Doorbell Pro (3rd Gen), and the retrofit kit allowed me to use the same screw points without any adjustments. The plate aligned perfectly with the existing anchors, and the new doorbell snapped into place securely. This level of compatibility is rare in smart home accessories, where manufacturers often force users to start from scratch with each new device. Ring’s commitment to backward compatibility here is a major win for long-term users.

✅ Covers Previous Mounting Holes for a Clean Look

Perhaps the most obvious benefit of the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit is its ability to conceal old drill holes. Over time, repeated installations and removals can leave behind a cluster of screw holes, anchor marks, or even conduit openings that are difficult to hide. The retrofit plate is wide enough to cover these imperfections, creating a smooth, uniform surface for your new doorbell. This is especially important for homeowners who care about curb appeal or renters who want to avoid security deposit deductions.

I tested this feature on a stucco exterior wall where my previous doorbell had left a noticeable conduit hole and two screw marks. The retrofit plate covered the entire area seamlessly, and after a quick touch-up with matching paint, the wall looked as good as new. The plate’s design includes a slightly recessed center that accommodates the doorbell’s mounting bracket, ensuring a flush fit without gaps or protrusions.

✅ Paintable Surface to Match Your Home’s Exterior

Another thoughtful design element is the paintable surface of the retrofit plate. Made from durable, weather-resistant plastic, the plate can be painted to match your home’s exterior color. This allows for a truly custom finish that blends in with your siding, brick, or stucco. I used a latex exterior paint to match my beige stucco, and after two coats, the plate was virtually invisible—no visible seams or color mismatches.

The paint adheres well to the surface, and I’ve had no issues with chipping or fading after several months of exposure to sun and rain. This feature is particularly useful for homes with unique or custom colors that don’t match standard white or black doorbell finishes. It’s a small detail, but one that demonstrates Ring’s attention to aesthetic integration.

✅ Includes All Necessary Installation Accessories

The Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit comes with everything you need for a complete installation. Inside the box, you’ll find the retrofit mounting plate, a set of screws, wall anchors, and a small level to ensure proper alignment. The instructions are clear and concise, with step-by-step guidance that even a novice DIYer can follow. I appreciated that Ring included both standard and heavy-duty anchors, which is helpful for different wall types.

During my installation, I used the heavy-duty anchors for my stucco wall, and they held the plate securely without any wobbling. The screws provided were the correct length and gauge, eliminating the need to hunt for compatible hardware at the hardware store. This all-in-one approach saves time and reduces frustration, especially for users who aren’t experienced with home installations.

✅ Repurposes Drill Holes from Previous Devices

The core functionality of the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit is its ability to repurpose existing drill holes. This is a game-changer for anyone who has upgraded their Ring doorbell more than once. Instead of patching old holes and drilling new ones, you can simply attach the retrofit plate over the existing mounting points and secure your new doorbell. This not only saves time but also minimizes wall damage.

I’ve seen users online who’ve upgraded three or four times and ended up with a wall full of holes. The retrofit kit prevents this by providing a single, unified mounting surface. It’s a sustainable approach that reduces waste and extends the life of your installation hardware. Plus, it’s environmentally friendly—fewer materials used, less patching compound, and no need for new anchors.

✅ Durable and Weather-Resistant Construction

Built to withstand outdoor conditions, the retrofit plate is made from high-quality, UV-resistant plastic that won’t warp, crack, or fade over time. I’ve had mine installed for several months through rain, heat, and even a minor hailstorm, and it still looks brand new. The material feels sturdy and well-made, not flimsy or cheap like some third-party alternatives.

The plate is also designed to resist moisture intrusion, which is crucial for protecting the wiring and mounting hardware behind it. There’s a slight lip around the edges that helps deflect water away from the wall, reducing the risk of water damage. This level of durability ensures the kit will last as long as your doorbell—potentially years.

✅ Easy Installation Process

Despite its technical benefits, the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit is surprisingly easy to install. The process takes less than 15 minutes and requires only basic tools: a screwdriver, drill (if needed), and a level. Ring provides a small bubble level in the kit, which I used to ensure the plate was perfectly horizontal before tightening the screws.

The mounting holes on the plate are pre-drilled and aligned to match the spacing of older Ring models, so there’s no guesswork involved. I simply removed my old doorbell, attached the retrofit plate using the existing anchors, and then mounted the new doorbell. The entire process was smooth and stress-free, even for someone with minimal DIY experience.

How Does Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit Perform?

Real-World Scenario: Upgrading from Ring Video Doorbell 3 to Wired Doorbell Pro

I tested the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit during a real upgrade from a Ring Video Doorbell 3 to a Wired Doorbell Pro (3rd Gen). The old doorbell had been installed for over two years, and the wall had two screw holes and a small conduit opening. I removed the old device, cleaned the area, and attached the retrofit plate using the existing anchors. The plate fit perfectly, covering all previous holes and providing a clean surface for the new doorbell.

The Wired Doorbell Pro mounted securely onto the retrofit plate, and the alignment was spot-on. I used the included level to ensure the plate was horizontal, and the final result was a professional-looking installation that looked like it was done by a contractor. The doorbell functioned flawlessly, and the plate showed no signs of shifting or loosening after several weeks.

Performance on Different Wall Types

I also tested the kit on different wall materials to assess its versatility. On stucco, the heavy-duty anchors held firmly, and the plate remained stable even after exposure to wind and rain. On wood siding, the standard screws worked perfectly, and the plate blended in seamlessly with the painted surface. I didn’t test it on brick, but based on the anchor design and customer feedback, it should perform well with masonry walls using appropriate anchors.

One thing to note is that the kit works best when the existing drill holes are within the standard Ring mounting pattern. If your old doorbell was installed with non-standard spacing, you may need to drill new holes. However, for the vast majority of Ring users, the retrofit plate will align with existing anchors.

Long-Term Durability and Maintenance

After several months of use, the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit has held up exceptionally well. The paint hasn’t chipped, the screws haven’t loosened, and the plate shows no signs of warping or discoloration. I’ve received compliments from neighbors who assumed the doorbell was professionally installed. The only maintenance required is occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.

The kit’s durability is a testament to Ring’s quality control. Unlike some third-party mounting plates that feel flimsy or break easily, this one is built to last. It’s clear that Ring designed it with long-term use in mind, not just as a temporary fix.

Comparison to Expectations

Before purchasing, I was skeptical about how well a simple plate could solve such a persistent problem. I expected it to be a partial fix at best—maybe covering some holes but not all, or requiring extra patching. Instead, the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit exceeded my expectations. It delivered a clean, professional result with minimal effort, and the compatibility with my existing setup was flawless.

The only minor disappointment was that the kit doesn’t include paint, so you’ll need to supply your own if you want to match your wall color. But given the low cost and high value, this is a small trade-off.

Pros and Cons of Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit

✅ Universal compatibility with multiple Ring models – Works with nearly every Ring doorbell from the past several years, making upgrades seamless.

✅ Covers previous mounting holes effectively – Eliminates the need for patching and repainting by concealing old drill points.

✅ Paintable surface for custom finishes – Can be painted to match your home’s exterior, ensuring a seamless look.

✅ Includes all necessary installation accessories – Comes with screws, anchors, and a level—no need to buy extra parts.

✅ Repurposes existing drill holes – Saves time and reduces wall damage by using previous mounting points.

✅ Durable and weather-resistant construction – Made from high-quality materials that withstand outdoor conditions.

✅ Easy installation process – Can be installed in under 15 minutes with basic tools.

❌ Limited to Ring doorbell models – Only compatible with Ring devices, so it won’t work with other brands.

❌ Does not include paint – You’ll need to supply your own paint if you want to match your wall color.

❌ May require new anchors for certain wall types – While it includes anchors, very hard or soft walls might need specialized hardware.

❌ Not a standalone product – Must be used with a compatible Ring doorbell; doesn’t function on its own.

❌ Shipping restrictions apply – Currently unavailable in some regions, which may delay delivery.

What Customers Are Saying About Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit

Customer Review: “Purchased for ‘Wired Doorbell Plus (2nd Gen).’ Worked perfectly. Extremely well built and sturdy. Well thought design. Glad Ring makes this product.”

Customer Review: “Allowed me to cover up the conduit hole in the stucco and had a number of screw points that I could use to best choose where I could mount the Ring Wired Doorbell 3rd gen to the stucco.”

Customer Review: “Worked perfectly to cover up where a smaller Ring had been. No more ugly holes! Installation was a breeze.”

Is Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit Right for You?

The Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit is ideal for several types of users:

🎯 Homeowners upgrading their Ring doorbell – If you’re replacing an older Ring model with a newer one, this kit ensures a clean, professional installation.

🎯 Renters who want to avoid wall damage – The kit minimizes drilling and patching, helping you preserve your security deposit.

🎯 DIY enthusiasts looking for a quick fix – With easy installation and included tools, it’s perfect for those who want a hassle-free upgrade.

🎯 Homeowners with stucco, brick, or difficult walls – Repurposing existing holes saves time and effort on challenging surfaces.

However, if you’re installing a Ring doorbell for the first time or switching from a non-Ring brand, this kit won’t be necessary. It’s designed specifically for upgrades within the Ring ecosystem.

Is Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit Worth the Price?

The Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit is priced affordably, especially considering the value it provides. While exact pricing may vary by region, it typically costs less than $20—a small investment for a solution that saves time, reduces wall damage, and improves aesthetics. Compared to hiring a handyman to patch and repaint, or buying separate anchors and plates, this kit is a cost-effective choice.

Long-term, the kit pays for itself by extending the life of your installation and reducing the need for future repairs. It’s a smart buy for anyone serious about maintaining a clean, professional-looking home exterior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit work with my old Ring doorbell?
A: Yes, if your old doorbell is one of the compatible models listed by Ring, including Video Doorbell 2, 3, 3 Plus, 4, or any Battery or Wired Doorbell from the past several years.

Q: Can I paint the retrofit plate?
A: Absolutely. The plate is made from paintable plastic and can be coated with exterior latex paint to match your wall color.

Q: Do I need to drill new holes?
A: Not necessarily. The kit is designed to use existing drill holes, but if your old mounting points don’t align, you may need to drill new ones.

Q: Is the kit weatherproof?
A: Yes, the plate is made from UV-resistant, weatherproof materials that withstand rain, sun, and temperature changes.

Q: Does it work with brick or stucco walls?
A: Yes, as long as you use the appropriate anchors. The kit includes heavy-duty options for difficult surfaces.

Q: Can I use it with non-Ring doorbells?
A: No, the kit is specifically designed for Ring doorbells and may not fit other brands.

Q: How long does installation take?
A: Most users can install it in 10–15 minutes with basic tools.

Q: What’s included in the box?
A: The retrofit plate, screws, wall anchors, a level, and installation instructions.

Q: Is it easy to remove later?
A: Yes, the plate can be unscrewed and removed if you need to access the wall or upgrade again.

Q: Where can I buy it?
A: Available through Ring’s official website and select retailers, though shipping may be restricted in some areas.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit?

After extensive testing and real-world use, I can confidently say that the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit is a must-have for anyone upgrading their Ring doorbell. It delivers on its promises: covering old holes, enabling easy installation, and providing a clean, professional finish. With a 4.5-star rating and overwhelmingly positive customer feedback, it’s clear that this product solves a real problem for Ring users.

★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Highly recommended for its practicality, durability, and ease of use.

Conclusion

The Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit is a small but powerful accessory that makes a big difference in the appearance and functionality of your doorbell upgrade. It’s well-designed, easy to install, and built to last. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or DIY enthusiast, this kit is a smart investment that saves time, reduces mess, and enhances your home’s curb appeal.

If you’re planning to upgrade your Ring doorbell, don’t skip this kit. It’s the finishing touch that turns a good installation into a great one. Buy the Ring Doorbell Retrofit Kit today and enjoy a cleaner, more professional-looking doorbell setup.