Charging a Ring Doorbell Battery Takes 5 to 10 Hours

Ring doorbells with rechargeable batteries charge through a USB cable connected to the battery pack itself, not through the doorbell mounted on your door. You remove the battery from the device, plug the USB cable into the battery's charging port, and connect the other end to a power adapter or computer. A full charge typically takes between 5 and 10 hours depending on the battery model and the power source you use.

The battery does not charge while installed in the doorbell. If your doorbell is hardwired to your home's electrical system, it will continue to work during charging — the hardwired power keeps it running. If your doorbell is battery-only with no hardwired connection, it will be offline while the battery charges.

Key Takeaways

  • Remove the battery from the doorbell by pressing the release button on the bottom of the device and sliding the battery out.
  • Plug the USB cable into the small charging port on the battery pack, then connect the other end to a USB power adapter or computer.
  • Charging takes 5 to 10 hours; a light on the battery or charger will change color or turn off when fully charged.
  • Ring batteries last 6 to 12 months between charges depending on how many motion events and doorbell presses your doorbell records.
  • If your doorbell is hardwired, it stays online during charging; if it is battery-only, it will be offline until you reinstall the charged battery.

How to Remove the Battery from Your Ring Doorbell

The battery release button is located on the bottom of the doorbell, facing downward toward the ground. Press and hold this button while gently sliding the battery downward and out of the device. The battery is held in place by a magnetic connection, so it will slide out smoothly once you press the release button.

After removal, set the doorbell aside in a safe place. If your doorbell is battery-only with no hardwired backup, it will go offline when ready. If it is hardwired, it will continue to function normally using the electrical connection to your home.

Connecting the Charger and Monitoring Charge Status

The USB charging cable comes with your Ring doorbell. Locate the small charging port on the battery pack — it is typically a micro-USB or USB-C port depending on your model. Insert the USB cable into this port until it clicks or sits flush.

Connect the other end of the cable to a USB power adapter (the kind used for phones and tablets) or directly to a computer's USB port. A light on the battery or charger will indicate charging status. Most Ring batteries show a red or amber light while charging and turn green or turn off when fully charged. Check your doorbell's manual or the Ring app for the specific light behavior of your model.

Charging Times and Battery Life Between Charges

A full charge takes 5 to 10 hours. Charging speed depends on the power source: a standard 1-amp USB adapter charges more slowly than a 2-amp adapter. Using a computer's USB port is typically slower than using a wall adapter. If you are in a hurry, use a higher-amperage power adapter to speed up charging.

After a full charge, your battery will last 6 to 12 months depending on activity. A doorbell in a high-traffic area with frequent motion detection and doorbell presses will drain the battery faster than one in a quiet location. Cold weather also reduces battery life. Ring's app shows your current battery percentage, so you can monitor when the next charge will be needed.

What to Do If Your Doorbell Is Hardwired

Hardwired Ring doorbells have a battery that backs up the system during power outages. These batteries charge automatically through the hardwired connection and do not need manual charging under normal circumstances. However, if you want to charge the battery faster or if the hardwired connection is not working, you can remove and charge the battery using the USB cable method described above.

While the battery is out for charging, your hardwired doorbell will continue to work using only the electrical connection to your home. Once you reinstall the charged battery, it will resume its backup role. This setup means you can charge the battery on your schedule without losing doorbell service.

Reinstalling the Battery After Charging

Once the battery is fully charged, align it with the slot on the bottom of the doorbell. The battery has a specific orientation — the charging port should face downward. Slide the battery upward into the device until you hear or feel a click, indicating the magnetic connection has engaged.

Check the Ring app to confirm the battery percentage has updated and the doorbell is back online. If the doorbell does not appear online within a few minutes, remove and reinstall the battery again to may support it is fully seated.

Troubleshooting Slow or Failed Charging

If your battery is charging very slowly, try using a different USB power adapter with a higher amperage rating (2 amps or higher). The charger that came with your Ring may be lower amperage. Avoid charging through a computer's USB port if possible, as these typically provide less power than wall adapters.

If the battery will not charge at all, check that the USB cable is fully inserted into the charging port and that the power adapter is plugged in and working. Try a different USB cable or power adapter to rule out a faulty charger. If the battery still will not charge after trying multiple cables and adapters, the battery itself may be defective and may need replacement through Ring's support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge the battery while it is still in the doorbell?

No. Ring batteries only charge through the USB port on the battery pack itself, not through the doorbell. You must remove the battery from the device to charge it. The battery cannot charge while installed.

How often do I need to charge my Ring doorbell battery?

Most Ring batteries last 6 to 12 months between charges. The exact timing depends on how much activity your doorbell records — more motion events and doorbell presses drain the battery faster. Check your battery percentage in the Ring app to monitor when the next charge will be needed.

What happens to my doorbell while the battery is charging?

If your doorbell is hardwired to your home's electrical system, it stays online and continues to work normally. If it is battery-only with no hardwired connection, it will be offline until you reinstall the charged battery. Plan charging during times when you do not need the doorbell to be active.

Why is my battery charging very slowly?

The power adapter you are using may have low amperage. Try a different USB adapter rated for 2 amps or higher. Charging through a computer's USB port is also slower than using a wall adapter. Using a higher-amperage charger will speed up the process.

Do I need to fully drain the battery before charging it?

No. Ring batteries use lithium-ion technology and do not require full drainage before charging. You can charge the battery at any time, even if it still has charge remaining. Charging at partial levels does not harm the battery or reduce its lifespan.