Securing your home is more than just locking doors—it’s about having a system you can rely on at all hours, especially when you’re asleep or away. The Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit (2nd Generation) offers a complete, wireless smart security setup that covers doors and windows, motion through rooms, and has enough pieces to protect a small to medium home. It’s designed for DIY installation but offers robust features like cellular backup, professional monitoring (optional), and integration with Alexa and Ring’s app ecosystem. Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit
This article dives into what you get, how it works, its advantages and limitations, comparisons with other systems, setup tips, pricing/value, and whether it’s the right alarm system for you. Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit
What’s Inside the Box / Key Components
The 8-Piece Kit includes:
-
Base Station – The central hub of the system with a built-in siren, backup battery (up to ~24 hours), and communicates with all sensors.
-
Keypad – Used to arm and disarm the alarm system, with modes like Home, Away, Disarmed. Has emergency buttons (police, fire, medical).
-
4 Door/Window Contact Sensors – To monitor whether doors or windows are opened. Placed on frames and sashes.
-
1 Motion Detector – Detects movement in rooms or hallways. Helps cover areas where sensors won’t work (e.g. middle of rooms).
-
1 Range Extender – Helps boost the signal between Base Station and sensors, useful in larger homes or where walls interfere.
That makes up the “8 pieces.”
Key Features & Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Wireless Communication | Sensors and keypad connect via Z-Wave (or related low-power wireless protocol) to the Base Station. The Base Station connects via either WiFi or Ethernet. |
| Backup Battery | The Base Station has an internal rechargeable battery that gives roughly 24 hours of backup in case of power outage. |
| Siren | Base Station includes a loud siren (≈ 104 decibels) to alarm when a sensor or motion is triggered. |
| Remote Alerts / Smartphone App | Via the Ring App, you receive alerts when windows/doors open or motion is detected. You can also arm/disarm the system from your phone. |
| Voice Control Integration | Compatible with Alexa. You can use voice commands (via Alexa devices) to arm/disarm the system. |
| Optional Professional Monitoring & Cellular Backup | You can opt into Ring’s monitoring service (monthly) so emergency services are dispatched automatically in case of alarm. Also, allow cellular backup to keep the system connected if internet goes down. |
| Expandable | You can add more sensors, keypads, motion detectors, range extenders. The system supports scaling. Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit |
Real-World Performance & User Experience
-
Users say the system is relatively easy to install — most sensors just stick with adhesive, keypad mounts on wall or sits on table.
-
Alerts are generally timely. Some report that heavy WiFi congestion or weak signal can delay sensor signals slightly. Range extender helps in such cases.
-
The siren is loud enough to be a deterrent. Some users place keypad in spots where it’s easily reached but hidden from view by intruders.
-
Battery life on contact sensors is pretty good (CR2032 coin batteries) though very cold weather can reduce performance.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-
Covers most basic security needs out of box (doors, windows, motion)
-
Wireless, DIY, no need for professional installation
-
Good backup features (battery, optional cellular) in case of power/internet outage
-
Expandable; works with other Ring devices and Alexa
-
Fair price for the features included
Cons:
-
Without monitoring subscription, alerts are user-monitored (you get notified, but no automatic dispatch)
-
Some features require subscription or premium plans Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit
-
Signal strength issues in larger homes or lots of walls; may need range extender or hub placement tuning
-
Battery replacement needed for sensors periodically Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit
-
Using voice commands sometimes triggers slight delays depending on network
Comparison with Other Kits / Systems
| System | What’s Similar | What’s Different / Better / Worse |
|---|---|---|
| SimpliSafe 8-Piece Kit | Similar number of sensors and coverage; DIY setup. | SimpliSafe may offer more accessories out of box; comparing subscription costs; differences in range, alert features. |
| Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit | Same system; fewer sensors included. | 5-Piece is cheaper and suitable for smaller homes; less coverage without extra sensors. |
| Ring Alarm Pro vs Standard | Both share most security features. | Pro includes built-in mesh router (eero), added network security, more backup features; cost is higher. |
| Other Smart Alarm Systems (ADT, Arlo, etc.) | All offer motion/contact sensors, siren, alerts. | Many require professional installation or wiring; subscription fees vary; ecosystems differ. |
Setup & Installation Tips
-
Place Base Station centrally in home for better communication with sensors.
-
Install Contact Sensors on doors/windows you use often (entry points) as primary sensors.
-
Position Motion Detector in hallways or large open rooms, avoiding windows that face street light to reduce false triggers.
-
Mount Keypad near an exit door, so you can arm/disarm easily when leaving/entering.
-
Use the Range Extender if you notice weak signals or sensors not connecting reliably to Base Station.
-
Test the system after setup; intentionally open a window, walk in front of motion detector, see if alerts and siren work.
-
Keep batteries in sensors fresh; replace before cold season if you notice weaker signals or slower sensor response.
Pricing & Value Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit
-
MSRP: ~ US $149.99 for the 8-piece 2nd Generation kit. (Sometimes discounted) Ring+1
-
Value comes from the package deal: gear included covers most entry points in a typical home. Buying sensors separately costs more. Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit
-
Subscription cost (for professional monitoring or extended cloud features) adds to recurring cost; evaluate if you need full monitoring or if self-monitoring is sufficient.
“Buy Now”
Verdict
The Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit (2nd Generation) is a solid, full-featured smart home security system that delivers great value, especially for 1-2 bedroom homes. It offers comprehensive protection via sensors, motion detection, backup options, and expandability. Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit
If you want full professional monitoring, be prepared for subscription fees. If you’re comfortable self-monitoring and just want alerts, this kit gives excellent protection and peace of mind.
10 min read
