Choosing Between Ring and Nest Video Doorbells: A Complete Guide

Smart video doorbells have become an essential part of the modern home, transforming how we monitor our doorsteps and interact with visitors. Let's dive deep into comparing two popular options: the Ring Wired Doorbell Plus ($149) and Google Nest Hello Smart Video Doorbell ($179).

The Evolution of Smart Doorbells

Video doorbells have come a long way since their introduction. What started as simple video intercoms has evolved into sophisticated devices with artificial intelligence, package detection, and integration with broader smart home systems. Both Ring and Nest have been at the forefront of this evolution, consistently updating their products to meet changing consumer needs.

Installation and Power Requirements

Both doorbells require hardwiring, which might seem daunting but actually provides more reliable performance than battery-powered alternatives. The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus needs a 16-24 VAC connection, while the Nest Hello works with 12-24 VAC power supplies. This means both will likely work with your existing doorbell transformer, but it's worth checking the voltage before purchase.

If you don't have existing doorbell wiring, you'll need to factor in professional installation costs, typically ranging from $100-200. The good news is that once installed, these devices are essentially maintenance-free.

Video Quality and Field of View

Here's where things get interesting. The Nest Hello boasts a 2K resolution (1600x1200), while Ring offers 1080p HD. In real-world use, this difference is noticeable but not dramatic. The Nest's higher resolution helps with facial recognition and reading package labels, especially when zooming in.

Both offer impressive fields of view:

• Ring: 160° horizontal view
• Nest: 160° diagonal view

This slight difference in how the view is measured means Ring actually captures a bit more of your doorstep area horizontally, which can be helpful for package monitoring.

HDR (High Dynamic Range) capability in both models helps balance bright and dark areas in the frame, crucial for doorways that are partially covered or in strong sunlight. Nest's implementation of HDR tends to produce more natural-looking results, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Smart Home Integration

Your choice between these doorbells might largely depend on your existing smart home setup:

Amazon Ecosystem (Ring)

• Seamless Alexa integration
• Works with Fire TV devices
• Echo Show displays can act as monitors
• Ring app provides unified control of other Ring devices

Google Ecosystem (Nest)

• Native Google Assistant integration
• Chromecast compatibility for TV viewing
• Nest Hub displays work as monitoring stations
• Better AI features without subscription

Subscription Services Deep Dive

Both companies have moved toward subscription-based models for advanced features:

Ring Protect ($3-10/month)

• Basic Plan ($3): 60-day video history, sharing
• Plus Plan ($10): Extended warranties, professional monitoring
• Required for video recording and package detection
• Affordable entry point for basic features

Nest Aware ($6-12/month)

• Basic ($6): 30-day event history, familiar face detection
• Plus ($12): 60-day event history, 24/7 recording
• More sophisticated AI features included free
• Better value if you want advanced features

Technical Features Comparison

Motion Detection and AI

Both doorbells use advanced motion detection, but their approaches differ:

Ring's system allows for customizable motion zones - areas you specifically want to monitor. It's straightforward but effective. The more recent updates have improved person detection accuracy, though it still occasionally triggers on passing cars or large animals.

Nest takes a more sophisticated approach with its AI-powered detection. It can:

• Distinguish between people, packages, and animals
• Recognize familiar faces (with subscription)
• Learn patterns to reduce false alerts
• Provide more specific notifications

Night Vision Capabilities

Night vision performance can make or break a video doorbell's usefulness. The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus offers color night vision, while the Nest Hello uses a combination of HDR and infrared LED illumination.

Nest's approach typically provides clearer images in very low light conditions, while Ring's color night vision can be more useful in areas with some ambient lighting, like porch lights or street lamps.

Audio Quality and Communication

Both devices offer two-way audio with noise cancellation, but there are subtle differences:

• Ring uses standard noise cancellation
• Nest implements more sophisticated echo cancellation
• Both allow pre-recorded responses
• Nest's audio tends to be clearer in windy conditions

Recent Updates and Improvements

Since their initial releases, both devices have received significant software updates:

Ring has improved:

• Motion detection accuracy
• Night vision performance
• Integration with other Ring devices
• Quick reply features

Nest has enhanced:

• AI detection capabilities
• HDR processing
• Storage options
• Power efficiency

Value Analysis

When considering value, factor in:

1. Initial Purchase Cost
   • Ring Wired Doorbell Plus: $149
2. Nest Hello: $179
3. Subscription Costs (Annual)
   • Ring: $36-120
4. Nest: $72-144
5. Installation Costs (if needed)
   • Professional installation: $100-200
6. DIY: Free if you're comfortable with basic wiring

How to Decide

Choose Ring if:

• You're already invested in the Amazon/Alexa ecosystem
• Want lower subscription costs
• Need wider horizontal viewing angle
• Prefer color night vision
• Want basic but reliable features

Choose Nest if:

• You use Google Home devices
• Need superior video resolution
• Want better AI features included free
• Prefer more sophisticated facial recognition
• Need better performance in very low light

Final Thoughts

Both the Ring Wired Doorbell Plus and Nest Hello represent excellent choices in the video doorbell market. Your decision should primarily be based on your existing smart home setup, budget considerations (both upfront and subscription), and specific feature requirements.

For most users, the ecosystem compatibility will be the deciding factor. If you're starting fresh, Ring offers a more budget-friendly entry point with solid features, while Nest provides more sophisticated technology at a higher price point.

Remember that whichever you choose, both devices will significantly upgrade your home's security and convenience, providing peace of mind and practical functionality that older doorbell systems simply can't match.

Ring Wired Doorbell Plus Video Doorbell Deals and Prices

Google Nest Hello Smart Video Doorbell Deals and Prices