The only difference between the Ring Video Doorbell 3 vs. Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus is that the Plus model offers a Pre-Roll feature. With Pre-Roll, you’ve got access to the 4-seconds before the video started to see what triggered a motion alert of your doorbell.
That’s pretty much it. Besides the Pre-Roll feature, there are no differences between the two doorbells. Except for the price, of course.
So, if you want to see what triggered the detect event, then we totally recommend spending just a little bit extra to get the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus model. After all, the difference is not that crazy. Although, just a heads-up, the 4-second Pre-Roll video will be recorded in low resolution and in black & white to conserve the battery life of your doorbell.
Ring Video Doorbell 3 vs. Plus — Tech Specs
Ring Video Doorbell 3 | Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus | |
---|---|---|
WiFi | 802.11 a/b/g/n @ 2.4GHz & 5GHz | 802.11 a/b/g/n @ 2.4GHz & 5GHz |
Video Quality | 1080 HD Video | 1080 HD Video |
Field of View | 160 degrees | 160 degrees |
Live View | Yes | Yes |
4-second Pre-Roll Video Previews | No | Yes |
Night Vision | Yes | Yes |
Motion Detection | Yes | Yes |
Adjustable Motion Zones | Yes | Yes |
Two-way Audio With Noise Cancellation | Yes | Yes |
Power | Battery / Hardwired to an existing doorbell system or transformer (8-24 VAC, 40VA max, 50/60Hz) | Battery / Hardwired to an existing doorbell system or transformer (8-24 VAC, 40VA max, 50/60Hz) |
Water Resistant | Yes | Yes |
Operating Temperature | -5°F to 120°F (-20°C to 48°C) | -5°F to 120°F (-20°C to 48°C) |
Dimensions | 5.1 in. x 2.4 in x 1.1 in (128mm x 62mm x 28mm) | 5.1 in. x 2.4 in x 1.1 in (128mm x 62mm x 28mm) |
Colors | Satin Nickel, Venetian Bronze | Satin Nickel, Venetian Bronze |
Warranty | One year limited | One year limited |
Lifetime Theft Protection | Yes | Yes |
Ring Video Doorbell 3 vs. Plus — Differences

Difference #1: 4-second Pre-Roll Video Previews – This is the major difference between the two models. With the Pre-Roll technology, you’ll get access to an additional 4 seconds of recorded video before the motion event took place. This is a unique feature for battery-powered doorbells. It kind of reminds us of Arlo’s 3-second Look Back feature, although it was only available for when the cameras were plugged in and used indoors. So, Ring does take it a step further with the new Pre-Roll technology (adds an extra second and can be used when battery-powered).
While we’re super excited about this new feature, at the same time, there’s fine print everyone should be aware of before buying the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus — the Pre-Roll 4-second video will show up only in black & white and in low resolution to conserve the battery life of the Ring Doorbell 3 Plus. Hopefully, it won’t be in 360p. We’ll definitely test it once we get our hands on a product.
Difference #2: Price – The Ring Video Doorbell 3 is slightly more expensive than the Ring Video Doorbell Plus model. Does the Pre-Roll feature justify an extra cost? Probably yes.
Popular Questions

Yes, of course. You can use either battery or wired power, or even both. This way, if there’s a power outage, the Ring Doorbell 3 will switch to battery power so no motion will be left undetected.
Yes! Both Ring Doorbell 2 and 3 use the same rechargeable, quick-release battery pack.
30 seconds — it’s a standard for all Ring battery-operated devices, no matter if they’re actually using battery power or hardwired. 60 second recordings are only available for hardwired devices without a battery option.
Actually, yes! You can exchange your existing Ring Video Doorbell or Ring Video Doorbell 2 for a Ring Video Doorbell 3. After the evaluation of your doorbell(s), you’ll just need to cover the difference in price.
Last update on 2025-02-08 at 21:19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API