Original price was: $155.99.$119.99Current price is: $119.99.
Since its launch in 2018, the Nest Hello has evolved into one of the most sophisticated video doorbells on the market. While newer competitors have emerged, Nest's continuous software updates and rock-solid performance keep it highly competitive in 2023. Let's dive into what makes this smart doorbell stand out and who it's best suited for.
The Hello's 1600 x 1200 HD resolution might not sound impressive compared to 4K doorbell cameras, but in our testing, the quality difference is negligible at typical viewing distances. What really matters is the HDR (High Dynamic Range) capability - a feature that helps balance bright and dark areas. When we tested it facing our west-facing porch, the Hello handled harsh afternoon sunlight remarkably well, keeping faces clearly visible instead of appearing as dark silhouettes.
The 160-degree diagonal field of view hits a sweet spot - wide enough to see your entire porch and any packages, but not so wide that distant objects become too small to distinguish. The fisheye effect common in ultra-wide doorbell cameras is minimal here.
Night vision, powered by infrared LEDs (invisible to the human eye), provides clear black-and-white footage after dark. We found it consistently outperforms most competitors in low-light conditions, maintaining crisp image quality up to about 15 feet.
What sets the Nest Hello apart is its AI-powered features. The facial recognition technology, while requiring a Nest Aware subscription, learns to recognize frequent visitors over time. After a few weeks of use, it could reliably distinguish between family members, regular delivery drivers, and neighbors.
Package detection has become increasingly valuable with the rise of online shopping. The Hello not only alerts you when packages arrive but also if they're picked up - helpful for tracking deliveries and deterring porch pirates. The system can even announce who's at the door through Google Home speakers, a feature we found particularly useful when working in other parts of the house.
Custom activity zones allow you to focus on specific areas, reducing false alerts from passing cars or swaying trees. In our testing, setting up zones for the porch and walkway dramatically improved the relevance of notifications.
Let's be upfront: installation isn't as simple as battery-powered alternatives. The Hello requires:
While DIY installation is possible for those comfortable with basic electrical work, we recommend professional installation ($100-200) for most users. The included chime connector can be tricky to wire correctly, and proper placement is crucial for optimal performance.
The Hello shines in the Google smart home ecosystem. Integration with Google Assistant enables features like:
While it works with some third-party platforms, the experience is most seamless within the Google/Nest ecosystem. Amazon Alexa support is limited compared to Ring doorbells, something to consider if you're heavily invested in Amazon's ecosystem.
Nest Aware subscription tiers ($6/month basic, $12/month plus) unlock:
The free tier includes:
In our experience, the basic Nest Aware subscription offers the best value, providing essential features without the higher cost of Plus.
After extensive testing in various weather conditions, the Hello consistently impresses with its reliability. The camera handles temperature extremes well (-4°F to 104°F operating range), and the HDR feature manages challenging lighting situations better than most competitors.
Response time - the delay between someone pressing the doorbell and receiving a notification - averages under 3 seconds with a good network connection. Two-way audio is clear and natural-sounding, though there's a slight delay typical of all video doorbells.
Battery backup is limited but sufficient to send a final alert during power outages. The device automatically recovers when power returns without requiring manual intervention.
Since its 2018 release, software updates have brought significant improvements:
The Nest Hello remains one of the most capable video doorbells available, particularly for those already using Google smart home products. While the upfront cost and installation requirements may seem daunting, the superior video quality, reliable performance, and thoughtful features justify the investment for many users.
Strong points:
Consider alternatives if:
For those prioritizing image quality and smart features over initial setup simplicity, the Hello delivers exceptional value. The continuous recording capability and advanced AI features make it particularly well-suited for security-conscious homeowners who want comprehensive monitoring of their entryway.
Yes, the Nest Hello is worth the investment if you prioritize reliable video quality and smart features. While it's more expensive than basic video doorbells, its HDR video, continuous recording, and advanced AI features justify the cost. It's particularly valuable for those already using Google Home devices or wanting to integrate doorbell alerts with their home theater system.
Yes, you can view the Nest Hello feed on your TV using a Chromecast device or Google TV. This integration is particularly useful for home theater setups, allowing you to see who's at the door without interrupting your viewing experience.
Yes, the basic features work without a subscription, including live video streaming, two-way audio, and a 3-hour snapshot history. However, advanced features like facial recognition, package detection, and extended video history require a Nest Aware subscription.
The Nest Hello records in 1600 x 1200 HD resolution with HDR support. While not 4K, the video quality is excellent for its purpose, offering clear, detailed footage even in challenging lighting conditions.
Yes, the device features infrared LED night vision that provides clear black-and-white footage in darkness up to approximately 15 feet. The quality is consistently good enough to identify visitors and monitor activity.
While DIY installation is possible, professional installation is recommended due to the required hardwiring. The device needs a 16-24V AC power supply, and proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.
The Nest Hello integrates seamlessly with Google Home devices and can trigger smart home routines. It can announce visitors through speakers, display video on smart screens, and work with other Nest products.
Free features include live viewing, basic motion alerts, and two-way audio. Paid Nest Aware subscribers get additional features like 30-day video history, facial recognition, package detection, and intelligent alerts.
The device operates reliably in temperatures from -4°F to 104°F and is weather-resistant. Our testing shows it maintains performance in rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
Yes, multiple family members can access the Nest Hello through the Nest app using shared account access. This allows everyone in the household to receive alerts and check the video feed from their own devices.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research has used advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: tomsguide.com - youtube.com - techradar.com - cnet.com - safewise.com - support.google.com - drivenbydecor.com - youtube.com - safehome.org - cdn.hibuwebsites.com - beachcamera.com - security.org - youtube.com - acerenttoown.com
The Nest Doorbell Wired 2nd Gen ($179) represents Google's evolution in smart doorbell design, particularly in its approach to practical features and value. While it offers a slightly lower 960p resolution, its improved 3:4 aspect ratio provides a more useful vertical view that captures packages and full-height visitors more effectively. The standout improvement is the inclusion of free intelligent detection for people, packages, animals, and vehicles, along with three hours of event history storage - features that require a subscription on the Hello. The newer model's improved HDR processing and enhanced night vision capabilities also deliver better real-world performance in challenging lighting conditions.
The 2nd Gen also benefits from modern hardware architecture and integration with the newer Google Home app, making it more future-proof and user-friendly. While its higher initial price point might seem steep compared to the Hello's clearance pricing, the inclusion of previously subscription-only features provides better long-term value for most users. The faster notification response times and more reliable smart detection make it a more capable security device, even if you never opt for a Nest Aware subscription. For anyone building or upgrading their smart home system, the 2nd Gen's modern platform compatibility and regular software updates make it a more logical choice despite the higher upfront cost.
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👌Google Nest Doorbell Wired 2nd Gen Doorbell Camera Details
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The Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell ($59.99) stands out with its competitive pricing and impressive 180-degree viewing angle, which offers better coverage of your doorstep than the Nest Hello. Its built-in siren adds an extra security dimension that the Nest lacks, and the 1536x1536 square format video provides excellent coverage for package monitoring. The Arlo also offers broader smart home compatibility, working seamlessly with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, making it more flexible for homes not committed to a single ecosystem.
While the Arlo Essential doesn't match the Nest Hello's HDR video quality or sophisticated AI-powered detection, it delivers solid core functionality at nearly half the price. Its optional Arlo Smart subscription ($3/month) costs less than Nest Aware, and the doorbell remains highly functional even without a subscription. For most users seeking reliable video monitoring and two-way communication without premium features like facial recognition, the Arlo Essential provides better value while maintaining good video quality and reliable performance. The simpler motion detection and standard dynamic range are reasonable trade-offs given the significant cost savings.
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👌Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell Details
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The Wyze Video Doorbell v2 stands out as a compelling alternative, particularly for budget-conscious buyers seeking core video doorbell functionality without the premium price tag. At just $45, it actually surpasses the Nest Hello in raw video specs with its 2K (2048x1536) resolution and slightly wider 166.8° field of view. The inclusion of local storage via microSD card eliminates the need for costly subscription fees, while its color night vision capability provides more detailed footage in low-light conditions when ambient lighting is present. The Wyze v2's straightforward DIY installation and basic but effective person detection make it an excellent value proposition for most homes.
However, the Wyze Video Doorbell v2 does make some compromises to achieve its aggressive price point. It lacks the Nest Hello's sophisticated AI features and HDR processing, which can make a real difference in challenging lighting conditions. The single-band 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity might result in less stable connections compared to the Nest Hello's dual-band support, and its smart home integration isn't quite as polished. While advanced features like package detection are available, they require a subscription - though at $1.99/month, it's still considerably more affordable than Nest Aware.
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👌Wyze Video Doorbell v2 Smart Doorbell Camera Details
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The Google Nest Doorbell Battery offers notable advantages in flexibility and ease of installation compared to the Nest Hello. Its battery-powered design eliminates the need for existing doorbell wiring, making it accessible to renters and homes without doorbell infrastructure. While its 960x1280 resolution and 145-degree field of view don't quite match the Hello's specs, it compensates with practical features like built-in backup storage and three hours of free event recording without a subscription. The battery typically lasts 2.5 months with normal use, and the device continues functioning during power outages - a significant advantage over the Hello's hardwired dependency.
Where the Nest Doorbell Battery really shines is in its value proposition. At $180, it's more affordable than the Hello and includes smart detection features like person, package, and vehicle alerts without requiring a subscription. While the lower resolution and narrower field of view are noticeable in direct comparisons, the image quality remains perfectly adequate for most users' needs. The freedom from mandatory subscription fees and professional installation costs makes it a compelling alternative, especially for those prioritizing easy setup and lower total ownership costs over maximum video quality.
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👌Google Nest Doorbell Battery Video Doorbell Camera Details
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While the Roku Smart Home Video Doorbell & Chime SE enters the market at a more accessible $79 price point, it offers surprisingly capable performance for budget-conscious buyers. The doorbell delivers reliable 1080p HD video, basic motion detection, and two-way audio with noise cancellation - covering the essential features most homeowners need. Its integration with Roku TVs provides a unique advantage for existing Roku users, instantly displaying doorbell feeds on compatible screens, and the optional $3.99 monthly subscription is notably cheaper than Nest's plans.
However, the Roku doorbell's limitations become apparent in more demanding situations. Its standard HD resolution and basic night vision can't match the Nest Hello's 2K HDR footage, especially in challenging lighting conditions or when trying to identify visitors from a distance. While it handles basic motion detection adequately, it lacks advanced AI features like facial recognition, package detection, and custom activity zones that make the Nest Hello more versatile as a security device. The narrower field of view and simpler smart home integration options reflect its position as an entry-level option rather than a premium contender.
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👌Roku Smart Home Video Doorbell & Chime SE Wired Doorbell Details
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The Google Nest Hello Video Doorbell matches the core feature set and performance specifications of its counterpart exactly, as they are fundamentally the same product under different marketing names. You'll experience the same high-quality HDR video output, advanced AI-powered detection capabilities, and robust Google Home integration. The key features that users value most - including the clear two-way audio, reliable motion detection, and comprehensive 160-degree field of view - are identical between both versions.
When evaluating real-world performance and value, the Google Nest Hello Video Doorbell delivers the same dependable experience, requiring identical power specifications, offering the same temperature tolerance range (-13°F to 104°F), and providing equivalent smart home functionality. The pricing structure, including both hardware costs and Nest Aware subscription options, remains consistent between both models. Users can expect the same level of reliability, feature access, and overall performance regardless of which product name they encounter during their purchase decision.
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👌Google Nest Hello Video Doorbell Details
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The Ring Battery Doorbell ($149) stands out with its flexible installation options and user-friendly approach to video doorbell functionality. Its battery-powered design eliminates the need for existing doorbell wiring or professional installation, making it an ideal choice for renters or homes without doorbell circuits. The removable battery pack is particularly clever - you can keep your doorbell operational by swapping in a charged spare while recharging the depleted one. With 1536p HD resolution and a 150° field of view, it delivers crisp, clear video that's more than adequate for most users, though it doesn't quite match Nest's HDR processing in challenging lighting conditions.
Where Ring's approach really shines is in its practical, security-focused feature set and lower total cost of ownership. The basic subscription plan at $3/month is half the price of Nest Aware, while still providing essential features like video recording and basic motion detection. The Quick Replies feature lets you set pre-recorded responses for visitors, and integration with the broader Ring security ecosystem makes it a natural choice for those already using Ring cameras or alarms. While the Ring Battery Doorbell may sacrifice some advanced AI capabilities and video processing sophistication, its combination of installation flexibility, reasonable subscription costs, and solid core performance makes it a compelling alternative, especially for those prioritizing ease of use and value.
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👌Ring Battery Doorbell Video Doorbell Details
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The $79.99 TP-Link Tapo TD25 represents the latest generation of smart doorbell technology, offering impressive 2K 5MP resolution and a wider 180° field of view that captures more of your entryway. Its standout features include flexible power options, with either an 8-month battery life or hardwired installation, and full-color night vision with built-in LED spotlights that provide superior after-dark monitoring. The inclusion of comprehensive AI detection for people, pets, vehicles, and packages without requiring a subscription, combined with free local storage via microSD card (up to 512GB), makes it a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious buyers.
While the Tapo TD25 excels in core features and value, it doesn't match the Nest Hello's tight Google ecosystem integration or sophisticated facial recognition capabilities. Its app experience and smart home integration feel less polished, particularly with Google Home devices. However, the significantly lower price point, superior video resolution, and lack of required subscription fees make it an attractive alternative for users who prioritize image quality and flexible installation options over ecosystem integration. The ability to avoid ongoing costs while still accessing advanced features makes it a more economical long-term investment for most users.
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👌TP-Link Tapo TD25 Smart Video Doorbell 2K 5MP Details
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The Eufy Security E340 2K Dual Camera Video Doorbell ($179.99) distinguishes itself with an innovative dual-camera system that solves the common blind spot issue plaguing traditional video doorbells. Its 2K main camera combined with a dedicated 1080p downward-facing camera provides comprehensive coverage of both visitors and packages, offering superior monitoring capabilities. The absence of subscription fees and inclusion of 8GB local storage makes it a more cost-effective solution over time, while features like color night vision with dual-light system and AI-powered detection come standard without additional costs. The flexibility of battery or hardwired installation options also makes it more accessible for various home setups.
While the Eufy E340 may have a higher upfront cost, its value proposition becomes clear when considering the total cost of ownership and included features. The dual-camera system's real-world benefits are particularly evident in package monitoring and delivery verification, though it doesn't match the Nest Hello's deep Google ecosystem integration or sophisticated facial recognition capabilities. For users prioritizing comprehensive doorstep monitoring and subscription-free operation over smart home integration, the Eufy E340's approach offers distinct advantages. Its battery-powered option and local storage also make it a more flexible and privacy-conscious choice, though users heavily invested in the Google ecosystem might miss the seamless integration features of the Nest Hello.
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👌Eufy Security E340 2K Dual Camera Video Doorbell Details
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The Ring Wired Doorbell Pro ($249) distinguishes itself with advanced motion detection capabilities, including innovative 3D Motion Detection and Bird's Eye View tracking. These features provide a comprehensive understanding of movement patterns around your entryway, displaying visitor trajectories on a top-down map. The Ring Pro also offers more flexible installation options with its included angle adjusters and operates in a wider temperature range (-5°F to 120°F), making it more reliable in extreme weather conditions. Its dual infrared and color night vision system adapts to ambient lighting, providing color footage when possible.
Where the Ring Pro really shines is in its value proposition, with subscriptions starting at just $3/month compared to Nest's higher rates. While it may not match the Nest Hello's HDR processing and AI capabilities, the Ring Pro excels in practical features like customizable motion zones and Quick Replies. For users in the Amazon ecosystem, the Ring Pro offers seamless integration with Alexa devices and Fire TV, allowing for convenient viewing on multiple screens and automated responses through Alexa Greetings. The lower ongoing costs and robust motion tracking make it an particularly appealing choice for those prioritizing practical security features over advanced AI capabilities.
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👌Ring Wired Doorbell Pro Details
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The Ring Peephole Cam ($129.99) takes a uniquely practical approach with its battery-powered, peephole-replacing design that's perfect for apartments and rental properties. Unlike the Nest Hello, it requires no permanent modification or wiring, making installation a simple 15-minute process that won't void your rental agreement. Its knock detection feature, which isn't available on the Nest Hello, provides an extra layer of visitor awareness, while the optional $3 monthly subscription makes it more economical for long-term use. The ability to maintain traditional peephole functionality while adding smart features makes it an ingenious solution for renters.
While the Ring Peephole Cam can't match the Nest Hello's video quality or advanced AI capabilities, it delivers reliable 1080p HD video that's more than adequate for everyday use. The battery-powered design means you'll need to recharge every 6-12 months, but this trade-off brings the freedom to install it anywhere without electrical concerns. For Amazon Alexa users, the seamless integration with Echo Show devices and Fire TV makes it a natural choice, though Google Assistant users will miss the lack of cross-platform support. It's a compelling alternative that prioritizes practical installation and affordability over premium features.
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👌Ring Peephole Cam Video Doorbell Details
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The SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro offers a compelling value proposition at $169.99, with its dual-sensor motion detection system combining heat signature and visual detection to effectively reduce false alerts. Its more flexible power requirements (8-24V AC) make it compatible with a wider range of existing doorbell systems, and its straightforward installation process often won't require professional help. For users already invested in the SimpliSafe security ecosystem, it provides seamless integration with other security components and a unified app experience for managing all devices.
While it doesn't match the Nest Hello's sophisticated AI features or video quality, the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro delivers reliable 1080p HDR video that's more than adequate for most users' needs. Its wider horizontal field of view at 162° provides excellent coverage of entryways, and the basic subscription at $5/month is slightly more affordable. The SimpliSafe's weather resistance and night vision capabilities are comparable to the Nest Hello's, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious consumers who prioritize fundamental doorbell camera functionality over advanced smart home features.
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👌SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro Wired Doorbell Camera Details
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The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation brings several compelling advantages to the table, starting with its flexible installation options and superior 2K resolution. Released in 2023, it offers both battery-powered and hardwired setups, making it accessible to renters and homes without existing doorbell wiring. The higher 1536x1536 resolution with a square aspect ratio provides noticeably clearer footage and better vertical coverage for package monitoring. At $129.99 for the 2K model (or $79.99 for 1080p), it represents better value, especially considering that basic features work without a subscription. The wider 180° field of view captures more of your entryway, and the built-in siren adds an active security element that the Nest Hello lacks.
While the Arlo Video Doorbell doesn't match the Nest Hello's sophisticated AI capabilities, it offers broader smart home compatibility, working seamlessly with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. The optional Arlo Secure subscription at $4.99/month is more affordable and provides essential features like cloud storage and smart notifications. The newer technology also shows in its battery performance, with most users reporting 3-6 months between charges. Though its motion detection may be more basic, the customizable activity zones and pre-recorded quick replies provide practical functionality for most users' needs.
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👌Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation Details
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The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus stands out with its more affordable $149 price point and lower subscription costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Its wider horizontal field of view provides better coverage of your doorstep area, which is particularly useful for package monitoring. The color night vision performs exceptionally well in areas with ambient lighting, and the Quick Replies feature offers convenient pre-recorded responses. Ring's integration with the Amazon ecosystem is particularly strong, allowing seamless viewing on Fire TV devices and Echo Show displays, while also offering more flexible third-party smart home compatibility.
While the Ring's 1080p resolution doesn't match the Nest Hello's 2K video quality, it still delivers clear, detailed footage suitable for most users' needs. The $3 monthly subscription requirement for basic features like video recording is a drawback, but it remains more affordable than Nest Aware's pricing. The Ring ecosystem also offers excellent expandability with other Ring security devices, though its AI detection features aren't as sophisticated as Nest's free offerings. For users already invested in the Amazon/Alexa ecosystem or those prioritizing value and wider compatibility, the Ring Wired Doorbell Plus presents a compelling alternative despite lacking some of Nest's premium features.
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👌Ring Wired Doorbell Plus Video Doorbell Details
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The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus distinguishes itself with its versatile power options and user-friendly installation process, making it accessible to any homeowner regardless of existing doorbell wiring. Its head-to-toe 1536p video coverage proves particularly valuable for package monitoring, while the color night vision provides more detailed footage in low-light conditions. The removable battery design eliminates downtime during charging, and the option to hardwire provides flexibility as needs change. Its integration with Alexa devices is comprehensive, though the real advantage lies in its lower total cost of ownership since advanced features remain available without a mandatory subscription.
Where the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus makes compromises is in its AI capabilities and continuous monitoring features. While it offers effective package detection and customizable motion zones, it lacks the sophisticated facial recognition and 24/7 recording capabilities of the Nest. The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus represents better value for those prioritizing installation flexibility and lower ongoing costs, especially in homes without existing doorbell wiring or those already using Alexa devices. Its performance-to-price ratio is compelling, particularly for users who don't need advanced AI features and prefer straightforward, reliable doorbell functionality with solid video quality.
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👌Ring Battery Doorbell Plus Smart Video Doorbell Details
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Original price was: $5,997.99.$5,797.99Current price is: $5,797.99.
