Smart video doorbells have transformed from novelty gadgets into essential home security devices. Whether you're checking for packages, screening visitors, or keeping an eye on your entryway, these devices offer peace of mind through advanced monitoring capabilities. Let's dive deep into comparing two popular options: the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro and Google's Nest Hello.
Both devices were released in 2018, but they've taken different paths through software updates and feature additions. The SimpliSafe Pro ($169) launched with basic motion detection and has gradually added AI-powered person detection and enhanced motion sensing. The Nest Hello (originally $229, now often available around $120) started with more advanced features like facial recognition and has mainly refined its existing capabilities through software improvements.
Before getting excited about features, it's crucial to understand the installation requirements. Both doorbells require existing doorbell wiring, but their needs differ:
The power requirement difference is significant - SimpliSafe's wider voltage range means it's compatible with more existing doorbell setups. However, Nest's dual-band WiFi support can mean more reliable connectivity in areas with crowded 2.4GHz networks.
Both doorbells deliver excellent video quality, but there are notable differences:
While the raw resolution numbers might suggest similar performance, Nest's image processing produces notably better results in challenging lighting conditions. The aspect ratio is specifically designed to show packages on your doorstep while still capturing faces clearly.
This is where the devices really differentiate themselves:
The Nest's continuous recording means you never miss an event, while SimpliSafe only records when triggered. However, this comes with higher bandwidth requirements and storage costs.
Both devices require subscriptions for full functionality:
The ecosystem consideration is crucial for many users:
Having tested both devices extensively, here are some practical observations:
Choose the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro if:
Choose the Nest Hello if:
Both devices continue to receive updates, but Nest's development pace has been more aggressive. SimpliSafe focuses on reliability and core features, while Nest pushes the envelope with AI capabilities and smart home integration.
The smart doorbell category continues to evolve, with newer models offering 4K resolution and battery options. However, both these wired models remain solid choices in 2024, particularly the Nest Hello at its current pricing.
For most users, the decision will come down to ecosystem and budget. If you're already invested in Google's smart home products, the Nest Hello is a natural choice. If you value simplicity and lower costs, the SimpliSafe offers excellent core functionality without the premium price tag.
Remember that while features are important, reliability and practical usefulness should be your primary considerations. Both devices excel at their core function - letting you know who's at your door and providing peace of mind.
| SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro | Google Nest Hello |
|---|---|
| Price & Value - Initial investment and ongoing costs | |
| $169 MSRP, $5/month basic plan | $229 MSRP (often $120), $6/month basic plan |
| Video Resolution - Determines image clarity and detail | |
| 1080p HDR (1920x1080) - Sharp enough for most needs | 1600x1200 HDR - Taller aspect ratio shows packages better |
| Field of View - How much area the camera can see | |
| 162° - Slightly wider coverage | 160° - Very similar coverage |
| Power Requirements - Affects installation compatibility | |
| 8-24V AC (works with more existing systems) | 16-24V AC (more restrictive, needs chime connector) |
| WiFi Connectivity - Impacts connection reliability | |
| 2.4GHz only (more limited but longer range) | Dual-band 2.4/5GHz (more flexible, potentially faster) |
| Motion Detection - Affects alert accuracy | |
| Dual-sensor (heat + visual), basic person detection | AI-powered with facial recognition, package detection |
| Recording Capability - How events are captured | |
| Event-based recording only | 24/7 continuous recording with subscription |
| Storage Options - How long you can keep footage | |
| 30 days cloud storage with basic plan | 30-day event history or 10-day continuous with plans |
| Smart Home Integration - Ecosystem compatibility | |
| Limited, works best with SimpliSafe security | Extensive Google Home/Nest ecosystem integration |
| Night Vision - Performance in darkness | |
| Standard infrared LED night vision | Enhanced infrared with noise reduction |
| Weather Resistance - Durability concerns | |
| -4°F to 122°F operating range | -4°F to 104°F operating range |
| Installation Complexity - Setup difficulty | |
| Simpler installation, minimal extra hardware | More complex, requires chime connector kit |
| Additional Features - Extra capabilities | |
| Two-way audio, custom motion zones | Pre-recorded responses, familiar face alerts, package detection |
For most users, the Google Nest Hello offers better overall value, especially at current pricing around $120. It provides superior video quality and more advanced features like facial recognition. However, the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro is an excellent choice if you already use SimpliSafe security systems or prefer simpler operation.
Yes, both require subscriptions for full functionality. The SimpliSafe Pro starts at $5/month for basic recording, while the Nest Hello starts at $6/month. Without subscriptions, both devices offer live viewing but limited recording capabilities.
The Nest Hello edges out with superior HDR processing and a 1600x1200 resolution optimized for viewing packages and visitors. The SimpliSafe Pro's 1080p resolution is still excellent for most uses, but doesn't handle extreme lighting conditions quite as well.
Both can be DIY installed if you have existing doorbell wiring. The SimpliSafe Pro has simpler installation requirements, working with 8-24V AC systems. The Nest Hello needs 16-24V AC and requires installing a chime connector, making it slightly more complex.
The Nest Hello offers extensive integration with Google Home ecosystem and third-party devices. The SimpliSafe Pro has more limited smart home integration but works seamlessly with SimpliSafe security systems.
The Nest Hello provides superior night vision with better noise reduction and image processing. While the SimpliSafe Pro offers good infrared night vision, it doesn't quite match the Nest's clarity in low-light conditions.
Yes, both can detect packages, but the Nest Hello offers more advanced package detection with better accuracy and longer history tracking. The SimpliSafe Pro provides basic package detection as part of its motion sensing capabilities.
The SimpliSafe Pro uses dual-sensor technology combining heat and visual detection. The Nest Hello employs more sophisticated AI-powered motion detection with facial recognition and customizable zones.
Both perform well in cold weather. The SimpliSafe Pro operates from -4°F to 122°F, while the Nest Hello works from -4°F to 104°F. Both are weather-resistant and suitable for most climates.
The SimpliSafe Pro works with most mechanical chimes without additional hardware. The Nest Hello requires a chime connector kit (included) but is compatible with both mechanical and digital chimes.
The Nest Hello offers dual-band WiFi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), providing more flexible connectivity options. The SimpliSafe Pro only works with 2.4GHz networks, which may be limiting in some situations but offers better range.
Both remain solid choices. The Nest Hello offers excellent value at current pricing (~$120) with advanced features. The SimpliSafe Pro at $169 is worth considering if you value simplicity or use SimpliSafe security. Both receive regular updates and maintain good support.
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: trustedreviews.com - jeffgeerling.com - security.org - support.simplisafe.com - security.org - simplisafe.co.uk - consumerreports.org - bestbuy.com - support.simplisafe.com - simplisafe.com - simplisafe.com - safehome.org - bestbuy.com - beachcamera.com - youtube.com - cnet.com - walmart.com - jacksonsystems.com - shoplineusa.com - safehome.org - energywisemnstore.com - walmart.com - support.google.com
