Remember when doorbells just went "ding dong"? Today's smart video doorbells have transformed this simple device into a home security command center. Let's compare two popular options: the Google Nest Hello ($180) and the newer Roku Smart Home Video Doorbell & Chime SE ($79).
Since the Nest Hello's 2018 debut, smart doorbells have become essential home security tools. They've evolved from simple video intercom systems to sophisticated AI-powered guardians that can recognize faces, detect packages, and integrate deeply with our smart homes. The Roku SE, released more recently, represents a more budget-conscious approach to this technology.
The Nest Hello leads with impressive 2K resolution (1600 x 1200 pixels) and HDR (High Dynamic Range) support. HDR is particularly important for doorbell cameras because it helps balance bright backgrounds (like sunny porches) with darker foregrounds (like visitors standing in shadows). The 160-degree diagonal field of view means you can see both your visitors and any packages they might leave.
The Roku SE offers standard HD resolution, which is adequate for most situations but doesn't quite match the Nest's clarity. This difference becomes most noticeable when you're trying to read package labels or identify visitors from further away.
Here's where the price difference really shows its impact. The Nest Hello includes:
The Roku SE offers more basic motion detection and alerts, though it does include:
Both doorbells require hardwiring to your existing doorbell system (16-24V AC), which means:
The Nest Hello includes a more comprehensive installation kit and better documentation, which can make DIY installation more manageable.
If you're already using Google Home products, the Nest Hello integration is seamless:
The Roku ecosystem is newer but offers:
Having tested both systems, here are some practical observations:
The Nest Hello's HDR capability really shines during bright days, maintaining clear images of visitors even with harsh backlighting. The Roku SE performs adequately but struggles more with contrast and detail in challenging lighting.
Both use infrared LEDs for night vision, but the Nest Hello's higher resolution and better processing provide clearer nighttime images. The Roku SE's night vision is functional but produces grainier footage.
Both doorbells show similar response times when:
However, the Nest Hello's pre-buffering feature means you catch more of what happened before motion triggers an alert.
The Nest Hello represents a premium investment:
The Roku SE offers budget-friendly value:
Choose the Nest Hello if:
Choose the Roku SE if:
The smart doorbell category continues to evolve, with both companies regularly adding features through software updates. The Nest Hello has maintained its position as a premium option, while Roku's entry shows how the technology is becoming more accessible to budget-conscious consumers.
While the Nest Hello remains the more capable device, the Roku SE represents an interesting value proposition that might be perfect for those just starting their smart home journey. The choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and existing smart home ecosystem.
| Google Nest Hello Smart Video Doorbell | Roku Smart Home Video Doorbell & Chime SE |
|---|---|
| Resolution - Higher resolution means clearer identification of people and packages | |
| 2K (1600 x 1200) with HDR | 1080p HD (standard) |
| Field of View - Wider angles show more of your porch and surroundings | |
| 160° diagonal view | 140° diagonal view (estimated) |
| Smart Features - AI capabilities affect security effectiveness | |
| Advanced AI with facial recognition, package detection, person/vehicle/animal differentiation | Basic motion detection, person alerts |
| Subscription Costs - Monthly fees impact total ownership cost | |
| Nest Aware: $6-12/month (required for advanced features) | Roku Smart Home: $3.99/month (optional) |
| Power Requirements - Affects installation complexity | |
| 16-24V AC hardwired connection required | 10-24V AC hardwired connection required |
| Storage Options - Determines how long you can review footage | |
| 3-hour snapshot history free, 30-60 days with subscription | 14-day cloud storage with subscription |
| Night Vision - Critical for security monitoring | |
| Advanced IR with HDR processing | Standard IR night vision |
| Smart Home Integration - Important for ecosystem compatibility | |
| Full Google Home ecosystem, works with Assistant | Basic Roku ecosystem integration |
| Base Price - Initial investment consideration | |
| $180-230 | $79 |
| Operating Temperature Range - Affects reliability in extreme weather | |
| -4°F to 104°F (-20°C to 40°C) | -5°F to 120°F (-20.5°C to 48.5°C) |
| Audio Features - Important for visitor interaction | |
| HD audio with noise/echo cancellation, pre-recorded messages | Two-way audio with basic noise cancellation |
| Warranty Coverage - Protection for your investment | |
| 2-year limited warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
The Google Nest Hello integrates better with home theater setups, displaying visitor alerts on Google Home Hub displays and Chromecast-enabled TVs. The Roku Smart Home Video Doorbell only shows notifications on Roku TVs.
The Nest Hello offers superior 2K resolution with HDR, while the Roku SE provides standard 1080p HD. For viewing on large home theater screens, the Nest's higher resolution is noticeably better.
The Roku Smart Home Video Doorbell at $79 is significantly cheaper than the Nest Hello at $180. However, both require monthly subscriptions for full features.
Yes, both can display on TVs but differently. The Nest Hello works with any TV using Chromecast, while the Roku SE only displays on Roku TVs.
Both doorbells work without subscriptions but have limited features. The Nest Hello requires Nest Aware ($6-12/month) for advanced features, while the Roku SE offers optional cloud storage for $3.99/month.
The Nest Hello offers superior night vision with HDR processing, providing clearer nighttime images than the Roku SE's standard IR night vision.
Yes, both the Nest Hello and Roku SE work with standard doorbell wiring (16-24V AC), though professional installation may be recommended.
The Nest Hello offers broader smart home integration with Google Home ecosystem, while the Roku SE primarily works within the Roku ecosystem.
The Nest Hello provides a wider 160° viewing angle compared to the Roku SE's estimated 140° field of view.
The Nest Hello includes advanced package detection with specific alerts, while the Roku SE only offers basic motion detection.
The Nest Hello works extensively with Google Assistant voice commands, while the Roku SE has limited voice control capabilities.
Both the Nest Hello and Roku SE are low maintenance, but the Nest typically receives more frequent software updates and has a longer warranty period.
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 - consumerreports.org - forums.wyze.com - community.roku.com - discussions.apple.com - consumerreports.org - ring.com - securitysystemsnews.com - community.roku.com - image.roku.com - droneupdelivery.com - lukoilmarine.com - roku.com
