What We Really Like
Clear Image and Audio
The image quality and features of this camera are hard to find in any other camera on the market. Not only does this small and sleek doorbell cam provide the most high-quality imaging and video, but it also picks up audio very well. Most doorbell cameras have to sacrifice one or the other, but Google figured out how to make the Nest Doorbell a champion of both.
Modern and Sleek Design
The design of the Nest Doorbell is also extremely marketable. It is small, sleek, and modern, and looks great with every style of home, from colonial to gothic. Its thin design allows the device to take up only a small amount of space next to your door.
Smart Alerts
If you subscribe to the Nest Aware app, you can modify your notifications to inform you when certain things occur. For example, if a package arrives, the app will alert you that your package has come. If you set it to remember familiar faces, it will notify you when that familiar face shows up. It is super intuitive and makes understanding who is at your house easier.
Set Pre-Recorded Responses
If you have an unexpected visitor and want to let them in, you can use pre-recorded quick responses to alert them to something they may need. For example, if your package arrives and it detects the delivery driver, it can automatically provide a quick response to tell them where to leave the package. Or if you see a familiar face, tell them where the spare key is.
What Could Be Better
As with every device, there are, unfortunately, some things we think the Google Nest Doorbell could have done better. This is par for the course, and not detrimental to the doorbell overall, but is important to note because these cons can make a difference, depending on your needs.
No Local Storage
This beautiful doorbell does not allow the user to use an SD card, or any other memory device, for local storage. This means that all of the data, video, and audio needs to be stored in cloud storage. While this is as simple as connecting a Google account or using the app that comes with the doorbell, it can add to its overall expense, which can be a con if you are on a budget.
Requires a Monthly Subscription
In order to gain the full functionality of this doorbell, you must subscribe to Nest Aware. This is the app that the doorbell uses to monitor motion, store video and audio, and use its artificial intelligence capabilities. While most plans start at as little as $8 per month, it can become costly over time, especially if you pay for separate home security protection.
On the Expensive Side
At $229, this is not exactly the world’s least expensive video doorbell. If you are on a budget, then this price tag may not be the right fit for you. The new wireless, battery Google Nest Doorbell comes with a lower price tag (a $50 difference), but it doesn’t have the same features as the wired version. This can be a dealbreaker for those not economically comfortable with a purchase this large.
Setup Isn’t Easy for Everyone
If you are not a do-it-yourself type of individual, then this might not be the best doorbell for you. The Nest Doorbell requires a hardwired connection to properly function. This means if you are not comfortable touching electrical wires, you will need to call an electrician. Additionally, you will need to do some drilling to get it to sit properly along the exterior wall next to your door.
Final Thoughts
The wired Google Nest Doorbell is a great device. It has top-quality imaging, a sleek and modern look, and a user-friendly app. It also does not drive its users crazy with tons of motion notifications, thanks to its smart artificial intelligence features. If you can afford the splurge, this is one of the best doorbells to buy for your smart home and security needs.
