Smart video doorbells have transformed from simple notification devices into sophisticated home security hubs. Today's models combine high-resolution cameras, artificial intelligence, and smart home integration to create a virtual doorman that never sleeps. Let's compare two leading contenders: the Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation ($79.99-$129.99) and Google Nest Doorbell Wired 2nd Gen ($179.99).
Video quality makes or breaks a doorbell camera's usefulness. The Arlo Video Doorbell stands out by offering both 1080p HD and 2K options. The 2K model captures 1536x1536 pixels, providing significantly more detail than standard HD. This matters when you need to read package labels or identify faces clearly.
The Nest Doorbell maxes out at 1080p, which is still good for most purposes but noticeably less detailed than Arlo's 2K offering. In real-world testing, the difference becomes apparent when digitally zooming into footage - Arlo's 2K footage maintains clarity while Nest's HD image becomes pixelated more quickly.
Both doorbells use a tall aspect ratio to show more of your doorstep vertically, but Arlo's 180° field of view edges out Nest's 160°. Those extra 20 degrees make a surprising difference in coverage, especially for wide porches or offset doorbell placements. The wider view helps catch package thieves trying to stay out of frame.
Here's where things get interesting. While both devices offer motion detection and night vision, their approaches to artificial intelligence differ significantly:
The Arlo doorbell offers both wireless and wired installation options in a single device, while Nest requires choosing between separate wired or battery models. Arlo's flexibility is particularly valuable if you might want to change your setup later.
For wired installation, both require:
This is where the Nest Doorbell really shines. Its deep integration with Google Home enables features like:
Arlo works with multiple platforms but lacks the same level of deep integration. However, this platform-agnostic approach offers more flexibility for homes not committed to Google's ecosystem.
Both devices require subscriptions for advanced features:
Arlo Smart ($2.99-$14.99/month):
Nest Aware ($6-$12/month):
After extensive testing, both doorbells perform reliably but excel in different areas:
Since their releases (Arlo in September 2023, Nest in October 2022), both devices have received software updates improving performance and adding features. Arlo's newer release date shows in its more modern battery technology and dual installation options.
The price difference is significant. At $79.99 for HD or $129.99 for 2K, the Arlo offers better core specs at a lower price point. The Nest at $179.99 charges a premium for its Google integration and refined software experience.
For most users, the Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation's combination of better specs and lower price makes it the smarter choice. Its 2K resolution option and wider field of view provide tangible benefits for security monitoring.
However, if you're already invested in Google's smart home ecosystem or prioritize AI features, the Nest Doorbell's premium price might be justified by its smoother integration and more sophisticated software features.
Remember that both devices require ongoing subscription costs for advanced features, so factor that into your long-term budget calculations. Your choice might ultimately depend on your existing smart home setup and whether you value raw performance or ecosystem integration more highly.
| Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation | Google Nest Doorbell Wired 2nd Gen |
|---|---|
| Price - Total cost of ownership is a key factor | |
| $79.99 (HD) / $129.99 (2K) | $179.99 |
| Video Resolution - Higher resolution means clearer identification | |
| Choice of 1080p or 2K (1536 x 1536) | 1080p only |
| Field of View - Wider angles capture more activity | |
| 180° diagonal view (superior coverage) | 160° diagonal view |
| Monthly Subscription Cost - Required for advanced features | |
| $2.99-$14.99/month (Arlo Smart) | $6-$12/month (Nest Aware) |
| Installation Options - Flexibility matters for different setups | |
| Both wired and wireless options in one unit | Wired-only (separate battery model available) |
| Smart Home Integration - Affects ecosystem compatibility | |
| Works with multiple platforms but less integrated | Deep Google Home integration, superior AI features |
| Motion Detection Range - Impacts alert accuracy | |
| Up to 3m (2K version), 5m (wired version) | Up to 3m with more accurate person detection |
| Special Features - Additional security capabilities | |
| Built-in siren, quick replies, package detection | Advanced facial recognition, 3-hour free event history |
| Weather Resistance - Durability in outdoor conditions | |
| IP65 rated | IP54 rated (less water resistant) |
| Night Vision - Critical for 24/7 monitoring | |
| Infrared LED with color night vision option | Standard infrared LED night vision |
| Free Features - What you get without subscription | |
| Basic motion alerts, live view | Smart object detection, 3-hour event history |
| Storage Options - How footage is saved | |
| Cloud only (requires subscription) | Cloud only (requires subscription) |
The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation offers better value with 2K resolution and wider field of view at $129.99, while the Google Nest Doorbell excels in Google Home integration and AI features at $179.99. For pure performance, Arlo is better, but Nest is superior for Google ecosystem homes.
Both doorbells can stream to your home theater setup. The Nest Doorbell works seamlessly with Chromecast-enabled displays, while the Arlo requires additional steps through its app or compatible smart TV platforms.
The Arlo Video Doorbell offers superior 2K resolution (1536x1536), while the Nest maxes out at 1080p. For viewing on larger screens like home theater displays, Arlo's higher resolution provides noticeably better detail.
Yes, both require subscriptions for advanced features. Arlo Smart ($2.99-$14.99/month) and Nest Aware ($6-$12/month) are needed for video recording and smart detection features.
The Arlo Video Doorbell offers more flexibility with both wireless and wired options in one unit. The Nest Doorbell comes in separate wired and battery models, requiring you to choose at purchase.
Both doorbells feature infrared night vision, but the Arlo offers color night vision in well-lit areas. Both perform reliably in dark conditions.
The Nest Doorbell offers superior integration with Google Home devices. The Arlo works with multiple platforms but lacks the same deep integration level.
The Arlo Video Doorbell has superior IP65 weather resistance compared to the Nest's IP54 rating, making it more durable in harsh weather conditions.
The Arlo Video Doorbell at $129.99 (2K version) offers better value with superior specs, while the Nest Doorbell at $179.99 charges more for its Google integration and refined software experience.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses 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: security.org - arlo.com - bestbuy.com - androidcentral.com - arlo.com - community.arlo.com - youtube.com - community.arlo.com - community.arlo.com - arlo.com - t-mobile.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - consumerreports.org - youtube.com - the5krunner.com - camelcamelcamel.com - support.google.com - security.org - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - wasserstein-home.com - googlenestcommunity.com - googlenestcommunity.com - support.google.com
