Ring devices charge in two to four hours with a standard USB charger

Most Ring video doorbells and cameras use rechargeable batteries that take between two and four hours to reach full charge from completely empty. The exact time depends on which Ring model you own, the power output of your charger, and whether the device is powered off during charging. A standard 5-watt USB charger (the kind that comes with many phones) will take longer than a higher-wattage charger.

Ring does not publish a single universal charging time because the company makes over a dozen different battery-powered models, each with different battery capacity. The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd generation) typically charges in about two hours with a standard charger, while the Ring Video Doorbell Pro takes roughly 90 minutes because it has a smaller battery. The Ring Stick Up Cam and Ring Indoor Cam fall somewhere in the middle, usually taking two to three hours.

You can check your specific model's charging time in the product manual that came with your device, or by searching your model number on Ring's support website. The manual will also tell you the minimum wattage required — some newer Ring models recommend at least a 10-watt charger for faster charging.

Key Takeaways

  • Ring battery devices charge in two to four hours depending on the model and charger wattage you use.
  • A standard 5-watt USB charger works but takes longer than a 10-watt or higher-wattage charger.
  • Turning off the device while charging can reduce charging time by 15 to 30 minutes on some models.
  • You can find your specific model's exact charging time in the product manual or on Ring's support pages.

What charger you need and where to find it

Ring devices charge via USB-C or micro-USB depending on the model. Check which port your device has before buying a replacement charger — the wrong connector type will not fit. Most Ring cameras come with a USB cable in the box, but not always a power adapter (the brick that plugs into the wall).

A standard phone charger works fine if it has the right connector type. If you do not have one, any USB-C or micro-USB charger rated for at least 5 watts will work. Ring recommends 10 watts or higher for faster charging on newer models. You can buy replacement cables and adapters from Ring's website, Amazon, or any electronics retailer that carries phone accessories.

Charging time with different power levels

The wattage of your charger directly affects how fast your Ring device charges. A 5-watt charger (common with older phone chargers) will take the full two to four hours. A 10-watt charger can cut that time by 20 to 30 percent on most models. A 20-watt or higher charger will charge even faster, though Ring devices have built-in limits that prevent them from charging beyond their safe maximum speed.

If you are charging multiple Ring devices at once using a multi-port charger, each device will charge more slowly because the power is split between them. Charging one device at a time is always faster than charging two or more simultaneously.

Whether turning off the device speeds up charging

Turning off your Ring device before charging can reduce charging time by 15 to 30 minutes on most models. When the device is powered on, it continues to use battery power even while plugged in, which slows the charging process. Turning it off eliminates that drain and lets all the charger's power go toward filling the battery.

To turn off a Ring device, open the Ring app, go to the device settings, and look for a power or standby option. Some models have a physical power button on the device itself. Check your manual to see if your specific model supports this feature.

How to know when charging is complete

Most Ring devices show a green light or a full battery indicator in the Ring app when charging is complete. Some models display a blue light while charging and switch to green when done. The Ring app will also show the battery percentage — when it reaches 100 percent, the device is fully charged and you can unplug it.

Leaving a Ring device plugged in after it reaches 100 percent does not damage the battery, but it is not necessary. Ring batteries are designed to stop charging once they are full, so you can safely leave the device connected without worry.

Charging time for wired Ring devices

Some Ring models are hardwired to your home's electrical system instead of using batteries. These include the Ring Video Doorbell Pro and Ring Video Doorbell Elite. Hardwired devices do not need to be charged — they draw power directly from your home's wiring. If you have a hardwired Ring device, charging time is not a concern.

If you have a hardwired device with a backup battery (some models include this), that backup battery charges automatically whenever the device is powered on. You do not need to do anything to charge it.

What to do if your Ring device charges slowly

If your Ring device is taking much longer than the stated charging time, try these steps: use a different USB cable (the original cable may be damaged), try a higher-wattage charger, make sure the device is turned off, and check that the charging port is clean and free of dust or debris. A bent or corroded charging port can prevent proper power transfer.

If the device still charges slowly after trying these steps, the battery itself may be degraded. Ring batteries typically last two to three years before they start holding less charge. You can contact Ring support to discuss a replacement battery or device if yours is still under warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a fast charger with my Ring device?

Yes, fast chargers are safe to use with Ring devices. Ring batteries have built-in protection that prevents overcharging, so a 20-watt, 30-watt, or higher charger will not damage the battery. The device will simply charge at its maximum safe speed and then stop, even if the charger could deliver more power.

Does my Ring device charge while it is recording?

Yes, Ring devices can charge while recording or in use. However, charging will be slower because the device is using some of the incoming power to run its camera and sensors. Turning off the device or putting it in standby mode speeds up charging.

What if my Ring battery will not charge at all?

First, try a different USB cable and charger to rule out a faulty cable or adapter. Check that the charging port is clean and the connector is fully inserted. If the device still will not charge, the battery may be defective. Contact Ring support — devices under warranty may be replaced at no cost.

How often do I need to charge my Ring device?

Charging frequency depends on how much activity your device records. A Ring doorbell in a quiet area might need charging every few months, while one in a busy location might need it every few weeks. The Ring app shows your battery percentage, so you can charge whenever it drops below 20 percent.

Can I charge my Ring device in the cold?

Ring recommends charging devices in temperatures between 32 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Charging in very cold temperatures may slow the process or prevent charging entirely. If your device is cold, bring it inside to room temperature before plugging it in.