Google Nest Doorbell Wired Review

A Smart Addition to Your Front Door

Updated Jun 12, 2023

By Eric Patterson

Founder and Editor Eric Patterson

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4.4/5

Smart Home by Design’s Verdict - The Google Nest Doorbell Wired is a cutting-edge smart doorbell that offers high-definition video monitoring, intelligent alerts distinguishing between people, packages, animals, and vehicles, and two-way communication, all designed to enhance home security and convenience. Its easy installation and sleek design make it an ideal addition to any modern smart home ecosystem.

PROS

High-Quality Video: See who’s visiting in crisp, clear detail, day or night.

Smart Alerts: Know the difference between a person, package, animal, or vehicle at your door.

Talk and Listen: Chat with visitors without opening the door, thanks to HD talk and listen.

24/7 Streaming: Check on your front door anytime with continuous video recording.

Familiar Face Alerts: Recognizes family and friends and notifies you.

Easy Setup: Simple installation process that you can do yourself.

CONS

Requires Wired Connection: Needs to be connected to your home’s doorbell wiring.

Subscription for Full Features: Access to video history and more requires a Nest Aware subscription.

  • ◦ Superior Video Quality: Delivers crisp, clear video footage, enhancing the visibility and detail of every interaction at your doorstep.

    ◦ Intelligent Notifications: Employs advanced algorithms to send smart alerts, distinguishing between people, packages, and animals to provide relevant notifications.

    ◦ Interactive Communication: Enables direct communication with visitors through its talk and listen feature, adding convenience and enhancing security.

    ◦ Continuous Monitoring: Offers the ability to stream video 24/7, ensuring you never miss a thing happening at your front door.

    ◦ Recognition Capabilities: Identifies familiar faces to provide personalized alerts, making it easier to know when friends and family arrive.

    ◦ Simplified Installation Process: Designed for easy setup, allowing for quick integration into your home security system.

    ◦ Reliable Power Source: The requirement for a wired connection ensures consistent power and operation without the need for battery replacements.

  • ◦ Enhanced Doorstep Security: Ideal for monitoring and interacting with visitors or delivery personnel, ensuring a secure and responsive front door environment.

    ◦ Family and Friend Recognition: Helps in quickly identifying known visitors, making it convenient to greet them or grant access remotely.

    ◦ Package Delivery Monitoring: Useful in keeping an eye on packages left at your doorstep, reducing the risk of theft or misplacement.

    ◦ 24/7 Home Surveillance: Perfect for those who want continuous coverage of their front entrance, offering peace of mind with round-the-clock streaming.

    ◦ Smart Home Integration: Easily integrates with other smart home devices for a comprehensive security system, enhancing overall home safety and convenience.

  • What makes the Google Nest Doorbell (Wired) different from other smart doorbells?

    The Google Nest Doorbell (Wired) stands out for its continuous power supply, ensuring uninterrupted operation and constant surveillance. It features 24/7 streaming and recording, HDR video for clear images in bright and dark areas, and familiar face recognition with a Nest Aware subscription. Its integration with the Google Home ecosystem allows for advanced smart home connectivity and automation.

    Does the Nest Doorbell (Wired) require a professional installation?

    While DIY installation is possible and instructions are provided, the Google Nest Doorbell (Wired) does require wiring into your existing doorbell system. Some users may prefer to hire a professional electrician to ensure the installation is completed safely and correctly, especially if they are not comfortable working with electrical wiring.

    Can I use the Nest Doorbell without a subscription, and what do I gain with Nest Aware?

    The Nest Doorbell (Wired) can be used without a subscription, offering live video streaming, two-way talk, and motion alerts. A Nest Aware subscription enhances its capabilities by adding continuous video recording, familiar face recognition, and more detailed event history, providing a more comprehensive home security solution.

    What are the key features of the Google Nest Doorbell (Wired)?

    Key features include HD video with HDR, night vision, two-way audio communication, 24/7 live streaming, motion and sound alerts, and integration with the Google Assistant. With a Nest Aware subscription, it also offers familiar face recognition and continuous video recording.

    How does the familiar face recognition feature work, and is it secure?

    Familiar face recognition uses advanced algorithms to identify and remember faces that frequently appear at your door. This feature, available with a Nest Aware subscription, enhances security by notifying you when familiar people arrive and alerting you to strangers. All facial recognition data is processed and stored securely to protect your privacy.

    Is the Google Nest Doorbell (Wired) compatible with other smart home devices?

    Yes, it integrates seamlessly with other devices in the Google Home ecosystem and works with numerous third-party smart home devices for comprehensive home automation. This integration allows for routines and commands that can enhance security and convenience, like turning on lights when someone is detected at the door.

    How does the night vision capability of the Nest Doorbell function?

    The Google Nest Doorbell (Wired) uses high-quality sensors and infrared LEDs to provide clear video footage in low-light conditions and complete darkness. This ensures that you can see visitors and potential security threats even at night.

    What privacy controls are available with the Google Nest Doorbell (Wired)?

    Google provides robust privacy controls, including the ability to turn off the camera or microphone, customize activity zones to reduce unnecessary notifications, and manage data storage and sharing preferences. Users have control over their video history and can delete footage directly from the Google Home app.

    What happens during a power or internet outage?

    During a power outage, the Google Nest Doorbell (Wired) will not function due to its reliance on a wired power connection. In the case of an internet outage, it cannot stream or record video until connectivity is restored. Event history stored in the cloud prior to the outage will remain accessible.

    How do I manage and view footage from the Nest Doorbell?

    Footage from the Nest Doorbell can be viewed and managed through the Google Home app, available on both Android and iOS devices. The app allows for live video streaming, reviewing recorded events, and customizing settings for alerts and privacy zones.

Specifications

Specifications Details
Dimensions 4.6" x 1.7" x 1.0"
Weight 4.28 oz
Power Requirements 12 VAC - 24 VAC, requires 8 VA transformer and wired doorbell
Camera 1/3", 3 MP (2K) Color Sensor, 8x Digital Zoom
Video HD UXGA 1600 x 1200, up to 30 frames/sec, H.264 encoding, HDR
Field of View 160° diagonal
Night Vision 850 nm infrared LEDs
Operating Temperature -4°F to 104°F
Weather Resistance IPx4 Rating
Connectivity 802.11b/g/n (2.4 GHz) Wi-Fi, 802.15.4 (2.4 GHz), Bluetooth
Warranty 2 yr Limited Warranty

Introduction: Embracing Smart Home Security with Google Nest Doorbell

In today's digital age, the concept of home security has evolved beyond traditional alarm systems and lock-and-key measures. Enter the Google Nest Doorbell Wired, a revolutionary device that combines the functionality of a traditional doorbell with the advanced features of a modern security system. This smart doorbell is designed to provide homeowners with peace of mind through enhanced security, convenience, and control. By integrating cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design, the Nest Doorbell offers a seamless way to monitor your front door, whether you're at home or away. In this review, we'll explore the features, installation process, and overall performance of the Google Nest Doorbell Wired, highlighting how it stands out in the crowded smart home market.

Design and Build Quality

What Makes It Stand Out

The Google Nest Doorbell Wired shines in the world of smart home devices with its blend of sophisticated security and user-friendly design. Unlike traditional security systems that can be complex and intimidating, the Nest Doorbell simplifies keeping an eye on your home. Its standout feature is the intelligent recognition technology, capable of distinguishing between a person, package, animal, or vehicle. This means you get accurate alerts that matter to you, reducing the noise of unnecessary notifications.

Another remarkable aspect is its integration with the Google Home app, which turns your smartphone into a remote control for your front door. Whether you're at the grocery store, at work, or on vacation, you can see and speak with visitors at your doorstep with just a few taps. This level of connectivity ensures you never miss an important delivery or surprise visit again. The app also allows for custom settings, like setting up activity zones or turning off notifications when you're home, giving you complete control over your doorbell's functionality.

Design and Durability

The Google Nest Doorbell Wired is not just about functionality; it also brings an element of style to your home’s exterior. Its sleek, futuristic design complements any architectural style, from classic to contemporary, making it a versatile choice for any homeowner. Available in various colors, it offers the flexibility to match or accent your home’s aesthetic, ensuring it looks like an integral part of your home rather than an afterthought.

Durability is where the Nest Doorbell truly excels. Engineered to withstand the elements, it operates flawlessly in a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions. Whether facing the intense heat of summer suns, the chilling frost of winter, or relentless rainstorms, this doorbell has been rigorously tested to ensure it keeps working, giving you a reliable set of eyes at the front of your home all year round. This resilience means you can install it with confidence, knowing it’s designed to endure and maintain its sophisticated appearance over time.

Smart Alerts and Features: A Closer Look at What Sets the Wired Google Nest Doorbell Apart

The Google Nest Doorbell Wired redefines what we expect from a doorbell, transforming it into a central hub of home security and convenience. This smart device is designed to offer homeowners peace of mind through a suite of advanced features that are both innovative and easy to use. At the heart of its capabilities are the smart alerts, which are a game-changer in managing home security with finesse and precision.

Intelligent Recognition for Tailored Alerts

The standout feature of the Nest Doorbell is its intelligent recognition technology. Unlike traditional security systems that might alert you to any and all motion, potentially leading to a barrage of unnecessary notifications, the Nest Doorbell distinguishes between different types of visitors. Whether it's a person, a delivery package left at your doorstep, a pet wandering into your yard, or a vehicle pulling into your driveway, this doorbell knows the difference and notifies you accordingly. This level of detail in alerts means you're always informed about what matters most, without the clutter of false alarms.

Two-Way Communication: A New Way to Interact

Beyond merely notifying you about the activity at your front door, the Nest Doorbell Wired also allows for two-way communication with visitors. Whether it's a delivery person needing instructions on where to leave a package, or a friend stopping by for a visit, you can speak with them directly from your smartphone through the doorbell's HD talk and listen feature. This capability adds a layer of convenience and security, allowing you to interact with visitors without needing to open the door—or even be home at all.

Crystal Clear Video, Any Time of Day

The clarity of the video captured by the Nest Doorbell is another of its strengths. With HD video quality that remains sharp in any lighting condition—from bright daylight to the depths of night—you have a clear view of your doorstep at all times. The doorbell's night vision ensures that even in the absence of external lighting, you can still see who's at your door. This feature is essential for round-the-clock security, giving you confidence that your home is monitored effectively, day and night.

Always Connected with Live View and Video History

Accessibility is a key component of the Nest Doorbell's design. Through the accompanying app, you can access live video feed of your front door at any time, from anywhere. This constant connectivity means you can check in on your home whenever you feel the need, providing an ongoing sense of security. For moments that you might miss in real time, the doorbell records video history, allowing you to review footage of events that triggered the alerts. This comprehensive video history is invaluable for keeping a record of activities and can be crucial in the event of a security incident.

A New Standard in Home Security

In sum, the Google Nest Doorbell Wired stands as a pinnacle of modern home security technology. Its blend of smart alerts, two-way communication, high-definition video, and 24/7 connectivity not only makes it a powerful tool for enhancing home security but also adds a layer of convenience to everyday life. These features, combined with the intuitive use of the app, ensure that homeowners have full control over their front door security, making the Nest Doorbell a must-have for any

Installation Made Easy: A Deep Dive into Setting Up Your Google Nest Doorbell Wired

The Google Nest Doorbell Wired is designed with user convenience in mind, especially when it comes to installation. This approachable setup process ensures that enhancing your home security with this advanced doorbell is as painless as possible. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or someone who prefers the assurance of professional help, the Nest Doorbell accommodates your preference, ensuring a smooth transition to a smarter, safer home.

DIY Installation: Empowering Homeowners

For those who enjoy a hands-on approach to home improvement, the Google Nest Doorbell Wired is a perfect match. The package comes complete with all the necessary tools and a detailed, step-by-step guide that walks you through the installation process from start to finish. This guide is designed to be user-friendly, breaking down each step into manageable parts, making it accessible even for those who might not be technically inclined.

The installation process involves a few straightforward steps: mounting the doorbell to your home's exterior, connecting it to your existing doorbell wiring, and setting it up with your Wi-Fi network through the Google Home app. The app itself provides additional guidance, ensuring you're never left guessing what to do next. This level of support is designed to make the setup experience not only easy but also satisfying, as you take an active role in enhancing your home's security.

Once installed, the Google Nest Doorbell Wired seamlessly integrates into your smart home ecosystem. The same app that guides you through the installation process also becomes the central hub for managing your doorbell and adjusting its settings to suit your preferences. Whether it's customizing alert types or setting up activity zones, the control is at your fingertips, making your doorbell a truly integrated part of your home security system.

Professional Installation: For Peace of Mind

Recognizing that some homeowners may prefer not to deal with electrical wiring or simply want the assurance that their new doorbell is installed perfectly, Google offers the option of professional installation. This service connects you with certified professionals who have the expertise to handle the installation process efficiently and safely. Opting for professional installation can be particularly advantageous for those who are unsure about the wiring aspect or who want to ensure that their doorbell is set up for optimal performance and aesthetics.

Professional installers can also provide valuable advice on the best placement for your doorbell to ensure maximum coverage and functionality. They can assess your home's existing setup and make recommendations that might not be immediately apparent to the average homeowner. This expert insight can enhance the overall effectiveness of your Nest Doorbell, ensuring that you get the most out of your investment.

Google Nest Aware Plan

Google Nest Aware emerges as a pivotal enhancement to the Google Nest ecosystem, offering homeowners an advanced level of protection and peace of mind. This service enriches Nest's already powerful suite of security devices with additional features such as event video history, intelligent alerts that can distinguish between people, animals, and vehicles, and customizable activity zones. Moreover, with options for 24/7 emergency calling in the U.S., Nest Aware transforms standard home monitoring into a comprehensive security solution. By providing detailed insights and controls over your home's security, Google Nest Aware ensures that homeowners can enjoy a safer living environment, tailored to their unique needs and preferences.

Choosing between the Nest Aware and Nest Aware Plus subscription plans allows users to balance their desire for detailed monitoring with the specific security concerns of their homes. Whether it's opting for 30 days of event video history or extending this to 60 days with additional 24/7 video history, Nest Aware offers flexibility and customization. This service not only amplifies the effectiveness of Nest devices but also integrates seamlessly into the daily lives of users, providing a user-friendly and highly effective home security system. Investing in Google Nest Aware signifies a commitment to enhanced home safety, leveraging cutting-edge technology to secure your space against potential threats and offering unparalleled convenience and security in the digital age.

Conclusion

The Google Nest Doorbell Wired is more than just a doorbell; it's a comprehensive security solution that brings the future of home monitoring into the present. With its intelligent alerts, crystal-clear HD video, two-way communication, and easy installation, the Nest Doorbell offers an unparalleled combination of convenience, security, and peace of mind. Whether you're looking to deter potential intruders, keep an eye on deliveries, or simply stay connected with visitors, this smart doorbell has you covered. Its sleek design and robust construction ensure it not only functions effectively but also enhances the aesthetic of your home exterior. The Nest Doorbell Wired represents a significant step forward in smart home technology, offering a powerful, user-friendly system that integrates seamlessly into the modern smart home ecosystem. As we embrace this new era of home security, the Google Nest Doorbell Wired stands out as a must-have device for any homeowner looking to upgrade their home security system.

4.4/5

Smart Home by Design’s Verdict - The Google Nest Doorbell Wired is a cutting-edge smart doorbell that offers high-definition video monitoring, intelligent alerts distinguishing between people, packages, animals, and vehicles, and two-way communication, all designed to enhance home security and convenience. Its easy installation and sleek design make it an ideal addition to any modern smart home ecosystem.

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I'm Eric, the founder of Smart Home by Design. Coming from a strong leadership background at GameStop, I discovered my true calling in bridging the gap between technology and everyday convenience, sparking my venture into the smart home industry. These experiences ignited my passion for smart technology and led me to create a company that focuses on enhancing people's lives through innovative smart home solutions. At Smart Home by Design, we do more than just install devices; we integrate technology into homes in ways that are meaningful and user-friendly, making your home smarter and your life easier.

Note, when you make a purchase through the retail links in our content, our team might receive a modest commission. Smart Home by Design never takes payment for editorial reviews, promoting only those products we have personally installed and evaluated in our homes. Read more about our policies here.