Smart video doorbells have transformed from simple notification devices into sophisticated home security hubs. The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus ($179.99) and Google Nest Hello ($229.99) represent two different approaches to this technology, each with distinct advantages for different types of users.
Before diving into specifics, it's worth understanding what makes these doorbells "smart." Both devices combine HD cameras, two-way audio, motion sensors, and internet connectivity to create a comprehensive door monitoring system. Think of them as your front door's personal security guard that never takes a break.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus released in early 2023, represents the latest in flexible installation technology. Its battery-powered design means you can mount it virtually anywhere, without worrying about existing doorbell wiring. The battery typically lasts 2-3 months between charges, though this varies based on usage and weather conditions.
The Nest Hello, launched in 2018, takes a more traditional approach. It requires hardwiring to your existing doorbell system (16-24V AC), which means professional installation might be necessary for some homes. While this might seem limiting, it ensures constant power and eliminates the need for battery maintenance.
Both doorbells offer impressive video quality, but they approach it differently:
Ring Battery Plus:
Nest Hello:
The Ring's head-to-toe coverage is particularly useful for package delivery monitoring, while the Nest's HDR capability helps with challenging lighting conditions, like bright backlighting during sunset.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus focuses on reliable core features:
The Nest Hello offers more sophisticated AI features:
Both devices require subscriptions for advanced features:
Ring Protect ($4/month):
Nest Aware ($6/month):
Having tested both devices extensively, here are some practical observations:
The Nest Hello typically responds faster to motion and button presses, likely due to its hardwired connection. The Ring's battery optimization can occasionally cause slight delays, though they're usually minimal.
While Ring offers color night vision, the Nest's infrared approach often provides clearer images in complete darkness. However, Ring's color night vision can be more useful for identifying details like clothing colors.
Both devices offer clear two-way audio, but the Nest Hello's noise cancellation seems more effective at reducing background noise during conversations.
Your existing smart home setup should heavily influence your choice:
Ring works best with:
Nest excels with:
After months or years of use, several factors become important:
Both devices are weather-resistant, but the Ring's battery performance can degrade over time in extreme temperatures. The Nest's hardwired design eliminates this concern but makes it more susceptible to power outages.
Ring has committed to providing security updates for at least four years after the last sale date. Google regularly updates the Nest Hello, though they haven't specified a support timeline.
The Ring's newer release date means it's likely to receive feature updates longer. However, the Nest's AI capabilities are more advanced, potentially offering more room for software improvements.
Both the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus and Google Nest Hello are excellent devices that serve different needs. The Ring excels in flexibility and value, while the Nest offers more sophisticated features at a higher price point. Your choice should ultimately depend on your specific installation requirements, existing smart home ecosystem, and whether you prioritize advanced AI features over installation flexibility.
Consider your long-term needs and ecosystem preferences when making your decision. Remember that while both devices require subscriptions for advanced features, they're still fully functional for basic video doorbell operations without them.
| Ring Battery Doorbell Plus | Google Nest Hello |
|---|---|
| Price - Initial Investment | |
| $179.99 | $229.99 |
| Power Source - Affects installation flexibility and maintenance | |
| Battery-powered (2-3 months per charge) with optional wiring | Requires hardwiring (16-24V AC) |
| Video Resolution - Impacts clarity and detail of recordings | |
| 1536p HD with head-to-toe view | 1600x1200p with HDR |
| Field of View - Determines how much area you can monitor | |
| 150° horizontal and vertical | 160° diagonal |
| Night Vision - Critical for after-dark monitoring | |
| Color night vision | Infrared night vision |
| Motion Detection - Affects alert accuracy and battery life | |
| Customizable zones with person/package detection | Advanced AI with person/package/facial recognition |
| Subscription Cost - Ongoing expense for advanced features | |
| Ring Protect: $4/month (180 days storage) | Nest Aware: $6/month (30 days storage) |
| Smart Home Integration - Ecosystem compatibility | |
| Works best with Alexa and Ring devices | Works best with Google Home ecosystem |
| Installation Complexity - Consider setup costs | |
| DIY-friendly, no wiring needed | Professional installation recommended |
| Weather Resistance - Durability in various conditions | |
| -20.5°C to 50°C operating range | IP54 rated |
| Audio Features - Communication quality | |
| Two-way audio with noise cancellation | HD Talk and Listen with enhanced noise reduction |
| Storage Options - How footage is saved | |
| Cloud storage only (with subscription) | Cloud storage with 3-hour snapshot history |
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus ($179.99) is better for flexible installation and value, while the Nest Hello ($229.99) excels in AI features and continuous recording. Ring offers better package detection, while Nest provides superior facial recognition.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus can be installed anywhere using battery power, while the Nest Hello requires existing doorbell wiring (16-24V AC).
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus offers 1536p HD with head-to-toe view, making it superior for package monitoring. The Nest Hello provides 1600x1200p with HDR, better for general viewing but less optimal for packages.
Yes, both doorbells can display on TVs. The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus works with Fire TV devices, while the Nest Hello connects with Chromecast-enabled displays.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus features color night vision, while the Nest Hello uses infrared. Ring's color can be better for identifying details, but Nest's infrared often provides clearer images in complete darkness.
Ring Protect costs $4/month with 180 days of video history, while Nest Aware is $6/month with 30 days of storage. Both are required for advanced features.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus integrates best with Alexa and Ring devices, while the Nest Hello works seamlessly with Google Home products.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus typically lasts 2-3 months per charge, depending on usage and weather conditions. The Nest Hello doesn't use batteries as it's hardwired.
The Nest Hello offers more sophisticated AI-based detection with facial recognition, while the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus provides reliable basic motion detection with customizable zones.
Both doorbells work for live viewing and basic functions without subscriptions, but advanced features like video recording and smart alerts require monthly plans.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus operates from -20.5°C to 50°C, while the Nest Hello is IP54 rated. Both perform well in most weather conditions, though Ring's battery life may decrease in extreme temperatures.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus offers better value with lower initial cost ($179.99 vs $229.99), cheaper subscription, and more flexible installation. However, the Nest Hello provides more advanced AI features if those are important to you.
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 - se-en.ring.com - consumerreports.org - linkdhome.com - se-en.ring.com - ae-en.ring.com - wave-electronics.com - bestbuy.com - pcrichard.com - verizon.com - androidpolice.com - sa-en.ring.com - ring.com - bestbuy.com - beachcamera.com - youtube.com - cnet.com - walmart.com - jacksonsystems.com - shoplineusa.com - safehome.org - energywisemnstore.com - walmart.com - support.google.com
