Smart doorbells have evolved from simple chimes to sophisticated home security devices. As more of us shop online and care about home security, these devices have become almost essential. Let's dive deep into Google's two main offerings: the Nest Hello ($229) and Nest Doorbell Battery ($180), breaking down everything you need to know to make the right choice.
When the Nest Hello launched in 2018, it set new standards for video quality and smart features in doorbell cameras. Its 1600x1200 resolution and HDR (High Dynamic Range) capabilities - which help balance bright and dark areas in the same image - were groundbreaking at the time. Fast forward to 2021, and Google released the Nest Doorbell Battery, focusing on installation flexibility and reduced dependency on subscriptions.
The most significant difference between these models is how they're powered and installed. The Nest Hello requires existing doorbell wiring (16-24V AC), which means it needs professional installation in many cases. If you're replacing a traditional wired doorbell, it's straightforward. If not, you're looking at electrical work that could cost $100-200.
The Nest Doorbell Battery, however, can be installed anywhere you can drill a few holes. Its rechargeable battery typically lasts 2.5 months with normal use (about 13-16 events per day). You can also wire it to existing doorbell cables if you want continuous power. This flexibility is a game-changer for renters or homes without existing doorbell wiring.
Here's where things get interesting. The Nest Hello, despite being older, actually offers superior video quality:
The Nest Doorbell Battery offers:
In real-world use, these differences are noticeable. The Hello's higher resolution means you can zoom in further to read package labels or identify faces. Its wider field of view helps you see more of your porch and surrounding area. The superior night vision is particularly valuable for security monitoring.
Both doorbells offer intelligent alerts, distinguishing between people, packages, vehicles, and animals. However, their approach to video storage differs significantly.
The Nest Hello can record continuously, capturing everything that happens. This requires a Nest Aware subscription ($6/month), but means you never miss an event. It includes:
The Nest Doorbell Battery takes a more subscription-independent approach:
Weather resistance and performance in challenging conditions matter. Both devices are weather-resistant, but the Nest Hello's continuous power supply means it maintains full functionality in all conditions. The Battery model must conserve power in cold weather, which can affect performance and battery life.
For night vision, the Hello's infrared system provides clearer images at greater distances. The Battery model's night vision is adequate but not quite as detailed. In direct sunlight, both perform well thanks to HDR, though the Hello's higher resolution gives it an edge.
Both doorbells work seamlessly with Google Assistant and Nest smart displays. When someone rings the doorbell, your Google Home devices can announce visitors and show the video feed on compatible displays. Neither works directly with Amazon Alexa or Apple HomeKit, though there are workarounds using third-party services.
Let's break down the total cost of ownership:
Nest Hello:
Nest Doorbell Battery:
Choose the Nest Hello if:
Choose the Nest Doorbell Battery if:
While the Nest Hello has been discontinued by Google, it's still available through some retailers. The Battery model represents Google's current direction, focusing on accessibility and reduced subscription dependency. However, the Hello's superior video quality shows how sometimes newer doesn't mean better in every way.
A final note: If you're building a comprehensive smart home security system, consider how these doorbells fit into your larger ecosystem. The Nest Hello and Nest Doorbell Battery both integrate well with other Google products, but their different approaches to power, storage, and features might align better with different security strategies.
Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, installation preferences, and how you plan to use the doorbell in your overall home security setup. Both are capable devices that can significantly enhance your home's security and convenience - it's just a matter of choosing the right tool for your situation.
| Google Nest Hello Smart Video Doorbell | Google Nest Doorbell Battery Video Doorbell Camera |
|---|---|
| Video Resolution - Higher resolution means clearer details for identifying people and packages | |
| 1600x1200 HD with 3MP sensor | 960x1280 HD with 1.3MP sensor |
| Field of View - Wider angles show more of your porch and surroundings | |
| 160° diagonal view (superior coverage) | 145° diagonal view (adequate for most doors) |
| Power Source - Affects reliability and maintenance needs | |
| Hardwired only (16-24V AC) | Battery (2.5 month life) or optional wiring |
| Recording Capabilities - Determines how much activity you can review | |
| 24/7 continuous recording with subscription | 3 hours free event-based recording |
| Night Vision - Critical for security monitoring after dark | |
| Enhanced IR LEDs with superior range | Standard IR night vision |
| Digital Zoom - Important for reading package labels or identifying faces | |
| 8x digital zoom | 6x digital zoom |
| Installation Requirements - Impacts total cost and flexibility | |
| Professional installation often needed ($100-200) | DIY-friendly, no wiring required |
| Storage Options - Affects ongoing costs and features | |
| Requires Nest Aware subscription ($6/month) | Free 3-hour history, optional subscription |
| Smart Detection Features - Helps reduce false alerts | |
| Advanced AI with facial recognition (subscription) | Basic person/package/vehicle detection included |
| Backup Capabilities - Important during power/internet outages | |
| None - requires constant power | Local storage backup, battery backup |
| Price - Total initial investment | |
| $229 + potential installation costs | $180, no installation needed |
The Nest Hello offers superior video quality (1600x1200) and continuous recording, while the Nest Doorbell Battery provides more flexible installation and free basic features. The Hello is better if video quality is priority, while the Battery model is ideal for easier installation.
The Nest Hello costs $229 plus potential installation costs, while the Nest Doorbell Battery is $180 with no required installation fees.
The Nest Doorbell Battery can be easily installed DIY. The Nest Hello requires existing doorbell wiring and often needs professional installation, which can add $100-200 to the cost.
The Nest Hello has superior 1600x1200 resolution with a 3MP sensor, while the Nest Doorbell Battery offers 960x1280 resolution with a 1.3MP sensor. The Hello provides noticeably better image quality.
The Nest Hello requires a Nest Aware subscription ($6/month) for most features. The Nest Doorbell Battery includes basic features and 3 hours of event history free, with optional subscription for advanced features.
Both doorbells can display video feeds on Google-compatible smart displays and TVs. They work particularly well with Google TV devices, allowing you to view your doorbell feed on your home theater screen.
The Nest Hello features enhanced IR LEDs with superior range and clarity, while the Nest Doorbell Battery has standard IR night vision that's adequate but not as detailed.
The Nest Doorbell Battery typically lasts about 2.5 months with normal use (13-16 events per day). Cold weather can reduce battery life.
Both doorbells work seamlessly with Google Assistant and Nest devices. Neither directly supports Amazon Alexa or Apple HomeKit without third-party workarounds.
The Nest Hello has a wider 160-degree field of view, compared to the Nest Doorbell Battery's 145-degree view.
The Nest Doorbell Battery offers 3 hours of free event history. The Nest Hello requires a Nest Aware subscription to view any recorded footage.
The Nest Doorbell Battery continues working during power outages thanks to its battery power and local storage. The Nest Hello stops working completely during power outages since it's hardwired.
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: 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 - youtube.com - build.com - bestbuy.com - security.org - aesindianamarketplace.com - googlenestcommunity.com - abt.com - ny.home.myorustore.com - support.google.com - target.com
