When it comes to protecting your home's entrance and managing deliveries, video doorbells have become incredibly popular. Let's dive deep into comparing two leading options: the Ring Wired Doorbell Plus ($149) and the Google Nest Hello Video Doorbell ($229).
Smart doorbells have come a long way since their introduction. What started as simple video intercoms has evolved into sophisticated security devices with artificial intelligence, package detection, and seamless smart home integration. Both Ring and Nest have been at the forefront of this evolution, each taking slightly different approaches to solving common challenges.
The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus boasts a higher resolution at 1536p HD, while the Nest Hello offers 960x1280 with HDR (High Dynamic Range). But these numbers don't tell the whole story. HDR makes a significant difference in real-world performance, especially in challenging lighting conditions. For example, when someone stands at your door with bright sunlight behind them, HDR helps you see their face clearly instead of just a dark silhouette.
Ring's higher resolution provides more detail in optimal conditions, which is particularly useful for reading package labels or identifying faces at a distance. However, Nest's HDR capability often results in more usable footage throughout the day, especially in challenging lighting situations.
Here's where things get interesting. Without any subscription:
This difference in base features is significant. Nest's approach of including more advanced features in the base package makes it more immediately useful without additional costs. However, both devices really shine with their respective subscription services.
Ring Protect ($3-10/month) and Nest Aware ($6-12/month) add significant capabilities:
Ring Protect adds:
Nest Aware adds:
The facial recognition feature from Nest is particularly impressive - it can learn to recognize frequent visitors and announce them by name through Google Home speakers. While Ring's package detection works well, Nest's AI generally feels more sophisticated in real-world use.
The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus offers more flexibility in installation. It can be hardwired to existing doorbell wiring (16-24 VAC) or used with a plug-in adapter. The backup battery ensures functionality during power outages - a feature the original Nest Hello lacks.
Nest's installation is more restrictive but typically results in a more reliable connection. The hardwired-only approach means no worrying about battery life or recharging, but it does limit installation options for homes without existing doorbell wiring.
Your existing smart home ecosystem should heavily influence your choice:
Ring's integration with Alexa allows for:
Nest's Google Home integration enables:
Weather resistance and performance in extreme conditions are comparable between both devices. Both handle rain, snow, and temperature extremes well, though the Nest Hello has shown slightly better durability in long-term testing.
Night vision performance differs:
Since their releases, both companies have regularly updated their devices:
Ring has added:
Nest has introduced:
Consider these key factors:
The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus stands out for its flexibility and value, while the Nest Hello excels in AI features and video processing. Both are excellent devices, but your specific needs and existing smart home ecosystem should guide your choice.
For most users, I recommend choosing based on their existing smart home platform first, as the integration benefits significantly enhance the overall experience. If starting fresh, Nest's superior included features make it more immediately useful, while Ring's lower price point and flexible installation options make it more accessible for many homes.
| Ring Wired Doorbell Plus | Google Nest Hello |
|---|---|
| Price - Initial investment cost | |
| $149 MSRP | $229 MSRP |
| Video Resolution - Affects identification clarity and detail | |
| 1536p HD, clearer for package labels and distant objects | 960x1280 with HDR, better for high-contrast scenes |
| Field of View - Determines how much of your doorstep you can see | |
| 180° horizontal view, captures full doorstep area | 145° diagonal view, slightly more limited coverage |
| Free Features - What you get without subscription | |
| Basic motion alerts and live view only | Person, package, vehicle detection + 3hr history |
| Subscription Cost - Monthly ongoing expenses | |
| Ring Protect: $3-10/month | Nest Aware: $6-12/month |
| Power Options - Installation flexibility | |
| Hardwired or battery backup | Hardwired only |
| Smart Home Integration - Ecosystem compatibility | |
| Amazon Alexa, Ring ecosystem | Google Home, Nest ecosystem |
| Night Vision Capabilities - Low-light performance | |
| Standard infrared, black and white | HDR-enhanced infrared with color processing |
| Installation Requirements - What you need to set up | |
| 16-24 VAC, existing doorbell or adapter | 16-24 VAC, requires existing doorbell wiring |
| Weather Resistance - Durability in elements | |
| -5°F to 120°F operating range | -4°F to 104°F operating range |
| Storage Options - How footage is saved | |
| Cloud only with subscription | 3-hour free cloud, extended with subscription |
| Advanced AI Features - Smart detection capabilities | |
| Basic with free tier, improved with subscription | Advanced AI included free, enhanced with subscription |
The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus is better for Alexa users and those wanting flexible installation, while the Google Nest Hello is superior for Google Home users and those prioritizing AI features without a subscription.
The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus at $149 is more affordable than the Nest Hello at $229. However, consider subscription costs: Ring Protect starts at $3/month, while Nest Aware starts at $6/month.
Yes! The Ring Doorbell Plus works with Fire TV devices, while the Nest Hello integrates with Chromecast and Google TV. Both are great for home theater integration.
The Nest Hello offers superior night vision with HDR and color processing, while the Ring Doorbell Plus uses standard infrared for black and white night vision.
The Nest Hello offers more features without a subscription, including person and package detection. The Ring Doorbell Plus requires a subscription for most advanced features beyond basic motion alerts and live view.
The Ring Doorbell Plus works best with Amazon Alexa devices, while the Nest Hello integrates with Google Home systems. Choose based on your existing smart home ecosystem.
Both can be self-installed if you have existing doorbell wiring. The Ring Doorbell Plus offers more flexibility with battery backup options, while the Nest Hello requires hardwiring.
The Ring Doorbell Plus has higher resolution at 1536p, but the Nest Hello offers HDR for better handling of challenging lighting conditions.
The Nest Hello includes package detection in its base features, while the Ring Doorbell Plus requires a subscription for package alerts.
Yes, both doorbells support multi-screen viewing. The Ring Doorbell Plus works across Fire TV devices, while the Nest Hello can display on any TV with Chromecast capability.
The Nest Hello includes 3 hours of free cloud storage, while the Ring Doorbell Plus requires a subscription for any video storage. Both offer extended storage with paid plans.
The Ring Doorbell Plus offers a wider 180° horizontal view compared to the Nest Hello's 145° diagonal view, providing better coverage of your entryway.
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: blackwiredesigns.com - homedepot.com - ring.com - ring.com - youtube.com - de-de.ring.com - ring.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - beachcamera.com - youtube.com - cnet.com - walmart.com - jacksonsystems.com - shoplineusa.com - safehome.org - energywisemnstore.com - walmart.com - support.google.com
