PSA Centrii Vs Ring: Which Intercom System is Best for Your Home
When it comes to securing your home, a smart intercom system is an invaluable addition. It has transformed the way we protect our residences, not only offering convenience but also acting as an extra layer of security.
In the home security market, two contenders stand out: PSA Centrii and Ring. Choosing between either for your home requires a thorough understanding of both their features and functionalities, and picking the one that best meets your needs.
In this article, we’ll break down the key considerations and differences between the top two smart intercom systems in the market to help you make an informed decision.
What to Consider When Buying a Smart Intercom System
Before delving into the specifics of PSA Centrii and Ring, it’s essential to understand the key factors to consider when investing in a smart intercom system.
Purpose and Usage Patterns
Assess how you intend to use the intercom. Are you primarily concerned with monitoring who comes to your front door, or do you want a more comprehensive system that covers multiple entry points?
Display Preferences
Determine if you prefer an internal monitor or smartphone access. An internal monitor offers immediate visual access, while smartphone access provides flexibility but may have a slight delay.
Subscription Costs
Consider if you’re comfortable with ongoing subscription fees. Some systems, like Ring, require a subscription for full access to features; others, like PSA Centrii, operate on a subscription-free model.
Data Storage Options
Decide whether you need cloud storage or if local storage is sufficient (usually on an SD card). Cloud storage offers convenience, but local storage can be more cost-effective in the long run.
Camera Quality
Assess the camera’s field of view and any potential distortion. Some smart video intercom systems, like Ring, may have a fish-eye effect, which could influence your viewing experience.
Integration with Smart Home Ecosystem
If you have an existing smart home ecosystem, ensure the smart intercom system you’re considering can seamlessly integrate with your other devices and platforms.
Installation and Compatibility
Consider if the intercom system is compatible with your existing doorbell wiring or if it requires professional installation. Also, check if it’s compatible with your Wi-Fi network.
Additional Features
Explore any supplementary features that may enhance your experience, such as two-way audio, motion detection, gate release, access keypads or facial recognition.
PSA Centrii Vs Ring
PSA Centrii and Ring, the two leading intercom smart systems in the market, offer high-end features for both commercial and residential use. Refer to the table below for a comparison between the two systems.
| PSA Centrii | Ring | |
| Display Type | Multiple internal monitors (up to 6) and smartphone access via the PSA Centrii app | Smartphone access. Monitor available at an extra cost. |
| Subscription Fees | Cloud storage subscription available, but not required | Subscription required for full features |
| Data Storage | Local storage (SD card) or cloud storage (Subscription) | Cloud storage (Subscription) |
| Camera Quality | 1080P (2.0MP sensor) | 1080p HD |
| Field of View | 110° horizontal | 155° horizontal, 90° vertical |
| Integration with Smart Home | Yes (PSA Centrii app) | Yes (Ring, Alexa, Google Assistant) |
| Existing/Old System Upgrade | Easy upgrade for those with compatible wiring (4 wires) | Upgrade depends on limited compatible existing systems |
| Installation | Installer required | DIY installation |
| Two-Way Communication | Yes | Yes |
| Motion Detection | Yes | Yes (Subscription) |
| Facial Recognition | No | No |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) |
| Video History Access | Via SD card and cloud storage (subscription) | Via cloud storage (Subscription) |
| Night Vision | Yes (IR LEDs) | Yes |
| Remote Access | From the PSA Centrii app and monitor | From the Ring app only |
| Weather | IP65 Rating | Weather-resistant |
| Mobile Notifications | Yes (visitor alerts) | Yes (motion alerts) |
| Ringtones | Multiple ringtone options and is customisable | Multiple ringtone options and is customisable (subscription) |
| Privacy Settings | None | Customisable privacy zones |
| Intercom Range from door station to monitor | Using Cat5e/6 – 50m | No internal monitor |
| Power Source | Wired | |
| Additional Features |
– Multiple entry points support
– 2-door stations – Up to 6 extra monitors – Supports up to 200 unique access codes or RFID tags. – Gate release feature for opening pedestrian or car gates from the monitor or PSA App. |
– Enhanced security features (subscription) |
* Please note that the information in this table is based on the general features and capabilities of PSA Centrii and Ring smart intercom systems. Specific models within each brand may have additional features or variations in performance.
As illustrated, both systems share several key features: two-way communication, motion detection, night vision, connectivity, DIY installation, privacy settings, and power source. These shared features highlight the fundamental capabilities that both PSA Centrii and Ring bring to enhance home security and convenience.
Now we’ll look into their main differences:
Display Options: A Dedicated Viewpoint
One of the primary distinctions between PSA Centrii and Ring lies in their display options. PSA Centrii provides multiple internal monitors (up to six internal monitors) and smartphone access via their app – which comes with a shared access feature. This gives the option to have immediate visual access to your visitor at the door or utilise the flexibility and mobility of a smartphone. It’s a notable advantage having two display options to choose from.
Additionally, PSA Centrii’s monitors can be used as a digital photo frame – a feature that is perfect for homeowners who wish to have their security systems blended in with their home’s aesthetics.
On the other hand, Ring relies solely on smartphone access. This means you need to grab your phone to view who’s at the door. While this offers mobility and flexibility, it may not be as instantaneous as having a dedicated internal monitor. Furthermore, Ring does not provide the option to choose between display types, which may limit user experience.
Subscription Fees and Data Storage: A Financial Consideration
The next striking difference to consider is the financial commitment associated with these systems. Ring requires a subscription fee to access all of its features. This includes options like cloud storage, video history, and advanced motion detection. Without a subscription, some of these features may be limited or unavailable.
PSA Centrii, however, operates on a subscription-free model for local data storage on an SD card (up to 128GB), allowing users to save money without monthly expenses. If cloud storage is preferred, PSA Centrii offers this option for a small subscription fee. This flexibility makes PSA Centrii appealing for budget-conscious consumers as it provides a choice, allowing you to opt in or out of cloud storage, while still being able to use a smart intercom to its full potential.
Camera Quality: With Effect or Without Effect?
When it comes to video quality, clarity and field of view are essential considerations. Ring offers 1080p HD video with a 155° horizontal field of view and advanced motion detection. However, some users report a slight fish-eye effect due to its wide-angle lens.
In contrast, PSA Centrii also provides 1080p resolution but with a 110° horizontal view angle. Users may find this less distorted than Ring’s offering, which could be crucial for those prioritising accurate representation in their smart video intercom.
Additional Features: For A Complete Package
While some features enhance an already perfect smart intercom system, they are not necessarily essential, but rather a nice-to-have addition. One such feature is the integration with your smart home ecosystem. PSA Centrii is compatible with various other devices such as a smart security surveillance system, smart floodlight, smart keypad and smart lighting, while Ring only works well with its own ecosystem, Alexa, and Google Assistant.
Additionally, PSA Centrii provides an easy upgrade if your existing or old intercom system has the same wiring, typically four wires. On the other hand, users of Ring intercom systems can only upgrade their existing or old systems based on the availability of limited compatible options.
Other compelling features include multiple customisable ringtone options for both the PSA Centrii and Ring intercom systems. However, the latter’s customisation options fall under their subscription package. As for extra security features, PSA Centrii’s smart intercom systems provide tamper-proof features and support multiple entry points. Meanwhile, Ring’s enhanced security features require a subscription.
PSA Centrii also offers a keypad for secure, keyless entry, allowing up to 200 unique access codes or RFID tags. This provides secure access for multiple users without the need for physical keys. While the Ring does also have a physical keypad, it is primarily used to arm and disarm your security system — not to gain access — and must be purchased with a alarm security kit to use.
Furthermore, PSA Centrii’s intercom system provides door lock and gate control from their app and monitor, whereas Ring only offers remote viewing via their app.
Which Intercom System Is Right for You?
Both systems offer reliable and innovative smart intercom solutions, but your choice ultimately depends on your priorities. PSA Centrii is ideal if you prefer an internal monitor and want a cost-effective, long-term option. On the other hand, Ring appeals to those who value smartphone accessibility and are willing to invest in advanced features, though keep in mind the potential for the fish-eye effect on its camera.
By carefully considering the pros and cons based on your specific needs, you can choose the intercom that best enhances your home’s security and convenience. The right intercom is one that seamlessly integrates into your lifestyle, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.