Google Nest Doorbell – (Wired, 2nd Gen) – Wired Video Doorbell Camera – Doorbell Security Camera – Ash

The Google Nest Doorbell 2nd-Gen stands out as a top-tier smart doorbell with advanced surveillance features, sleek design, and seamless integration with smart home ecosystems. With its high-definition resolution, 24/7 availability, and intelligent alerts, this doorbell is a solid investment for those seeking to enhance their home security.

Pros:

Cons:

Features & Functionality

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The Google Nest Doorbell 2nd-Gen is packed with features designed to enhance home security and provide convenience. At its core, this wired doorbell offers a 145° diagonal field of view with a 3:4 aspect ratio, allowing users to see a wide area of their front porch and beyond. This wide angle is particularly useful for capturing individuals from head to toe or monitoring deliveries placed close to the door, which can be as near as 8 inches. The HDR (High Dynamic Range) capability ensures that video footage remains clear and detailed regardless of lighting conditions, while night vision allows for effective monitoring even in complete darkness.

One of the standout features of the Nest Doorbell is its advanced motion detection and smart alerts. The doorbell can differentiate between people, packages, animals, and vehicles, sending notifications only for the events that matter most. This intelligent alert system helps reduce unnecessary notifications, making it easier for users to focus on important activities. Additionally, the doorbell includes a feature that allows users to view up to 3 hours of event video history for free, providing a quick way to check what has happened recently.

Two-way audio is another notable feature, enabling users to communicate with visitors in real-time through the Google Home app or compatible smart devices. This functionality is especially useful for situations where users need to instruct delivery personnel or respond to visitors without having to open the door. For more in-depth monitoring, a Nest Aware subscription expands the capabilities to include up to 30 days of event video history, familiar face detection, and even continuous video recording for up to 10 days with the Nest Aware Plus plan.

Design & Build Quality

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The Google Nest Doorbell 2nd-Gen presents a sleek, modern design that seamlessly integrates with various home exteriors. It is available in four color options: Snow, Linen, Ash, and Ivy, allowing users to choose a finish that best complements their home’s aesthetics. The doorbell features a minimalist design with rounded edges and a prominent doorbell button, giving it a clean and unobtrusive appearance.

Constructed with 43% post-consumer recycled materials, the Nest Doorbell is an environmentally conscious choice, reflecting Google’s commitment to sustainability. Despite its eco-friendly design, the doorbell is sturdy and built to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring reliable performance over time. The installation process is designed to be straightforward, with the Google Home app providing a step-by-step guide. The inclusion of a 20-degree wedge mount in the box helps users angle the camera more effectively, addressing any issues with the field of view.

However, it’s worth noting that the wired model requires installation near existing doorbell wiring and may necessitate additional hardware like a compatible chime and transformer. This could be a consideration for users who prefer a more flexible installation location, in which case the battery-operated model might be a more suitable option.

Power & Performance

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The wired design of the Nest Doorbell 2nd-Gen offers a significant advantage in terms of power and performance. Unlike battery-operated models, this wired doorbell eliminates the need for periodic recharging, providing continuous monitoring without interruptions. This constant power supply ensures that the doorbell remains operational 24/7, offering peace of mind for users who want to keep a close watch on their front door at all times.

In terms of performance, the Nest Doorbell delivers high-quality video with a resolution of 1280×960 pixels, ensuring that footage is clear and detailed. The inclusion of HDR helps improve visibility in varying lighting conditions, while night vision ensures that the camera remains effective even in complete darkness. The doorbell’s advanced motion detection capabilities are powered by a combination of local processing and cloud-based algorithms, enabling accurate and timely alerts for significant events.

For users who opt for a Nest Aware or Nest Aware Plus subscription, the doorbell’s performance is further enhanced with features like continuous video recording and extended event video history. These subscriptions also provide access to additional AI-driven features, such as familiar face detection, which can help users identify known individuals and enhance the overall security experience.

Compatibility & Connectivity

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The Google Nest Doorbell 2nd-Gen is designed to integrate seamlessly with a range of smart home systems, enhancing its versatility and ease of use. It requires the Google Home app and a free Google account for setup and management, marking a shift from the older Nest app. This integration allows users to control and monitor the doorbell from their smartphones, tablets, or compatible smart displays.

The doorbell supports connectivity with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa devices, enabling users to stream live video feeds, receive notifications, and interact with visitors through voice commands. This compatibility extends to various smart home ecosystems, making it easy to incorporate the doorbell into existing setups. Users can also connect the doorbell to compatible Nest and Alexa speakers, which can function as a doorbell chime, adding another layer of convenience.

However, it’s important to note that the Nest Doorbell is not compatible with the older Nest app or the Nest site, which may require users to transition to the Google Home app if they have previously relied on Nest’s ecosystem. This shift might be a consideration for users who prefer the legacy app or have an established Nest system. Overall, the doorbell’s broad compatibility with modern smart home devices and ecosystems enhances its functionality and user experience.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the Google Nest Doorbell 2nd-Gen?

The Google Nest Doorbell 2nd-Gen is a feature-rich, high-performing smart doorbell that offers excellent value for its price. Its intelligent alert system, high-definition video quality, and seamless integration with Google and Alexa ecosystems make it an ideal choice for homeowners looking to enhance their security. While the free video storage is limited, the option to subscribe to Nest Aware for additional features and extended storage ensures flexibility to meet different needs. If you’re seeking a reliable, user-friendly, and eco-friendly smart doorbell, the Nest Doorbell 2nd-Gen is a compelling option.