Editor’s Note: Google officially discontinued support for its Nest Secure system as of April 2024. The company no longer recommends using the Nest Secure system. All facts and figures were correct at the time of ranking and the above scoring reflects our ranking prior to that discontinuation. You can find other options on our best home security systems list.
Google’s Nest suite is a popular home security option. The company offers three convenient packages: the Front Door Monitoring Package, Outdoor Monitoring Package and Total Security Package, and each can easily be tailored to your specific needs.
Google Nest stands out with its advanced technology and user-friendly design, aiming to make your home smarter, safer and more energy-efficient. Plus, seamless integration into the Google ecosystem is a major plus. Here’s a quick rundown to help you learn all you need to know about Google Home security options
Pros
- Easy installation
- No monthly fees
- Great smart home integrations
Cons
- Limited packages
- Expensive equipment
- Many features are only available with a subscription
Table of Contents
- Google Nest Home Security at a Glance
- What Can You Expect From Google Nest Home Security?
- Google Nest Home Security Components
- Google Nest Home Security Smart Home Integration
- Google Nest Home Security Plans and Pricing
- Google Nest Home Security Add-ons
- Installing Google Nest Home Security
- What We Like About Google Nest Home Security
- What We Didn’t Like About Google Nest Home Security
- How Google Nest Stacks Up
- Google Nest vs. Ring
- Google Nest vs. Cove
- What Are People Saying About Google Nest
- Is Google Nest the Right Home Security System for You?
- Methodology: How We Rated Home Security Systems
Google Nest Home Security at a Glance
Google Nest has carved a niche in the smart home industry with its innovative and user-friendly products. Established in 2010 and acquired by Google in 2014, Nest initially focused on smart thermostats but soon expanded to include a comprehensive range of smart home devices, including security systems, cameras, doorbells and more. These devices, such as cameras, doorbells and smoke alarms, are equipped with advanced technology like motion detection and facial recognition.
Google discontinued the Nest Secure system and ended support for the system in April 2024. It currently does not recommend the system. However, it does offer front door monitoring, outdoor monitoring and total security packages.
Google Nest is ideal for tech-savvy users and those already invested in the Google ecosystem. However, the premium pricing might not suit budget-conscious consumers, and those unfamiliar with smart technology may find the setup process challenging. Despite these considerations, Google Nest remains a top choice for enhancing home security and efficiency.
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What Can You Expect From Google Nest Home Security?
When you choose Google Nest Home Security, you can expect a range of high-quality, innovative products to enhance your home’s security. Seamless integration with the Google Home ecosystem and Google Assistant allows you to easily control your security system and other smart devices through voice commands or the Google Home app.
The user-friendly installation process makes it easy to set up your system independently. However, professional installation is also available if preferred. Google Nest offers smart features like customizable alerts and familiar face recognition. With Google Nest, you get a comprehensive, tech-savvy security solution that protects your home and integrates smoothly with your existing smart home devices.
Google Nest Home Security Components
Google Nest offers a range of components to create a comprehensive home security system, each designed to enhance your home’s protection.
Nest Cameras
These cameras, available in indoor and outdoor models, provide high-definition video, night vision, two-way audio and intelligent alerts to inform you of any unusual activity. They help monitor your property, communicate with visitors or alert you to unusual activity.
Nest Doorbell
This video doorbell offers HD video and motion detection, allowing you to see and speak with visitors at your front door through your smartphone, even when you’re not home.
Nest Protect
Nest Protect combines a smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detector with advanced dual-sensor technology. It interfaces with the Nest app, sends alerts to your phone and offers voice notifications to help keep your family safe from fire and gas hazards, even when you are not around.
These components work together to provide a customizable and effective security solution tailored to your home’s needs.
Google Nest Home Security Smart Home Integration
Google Nest Hub seamlessly integrates with the Google Home ecosystem, allowing users to control and manage their security devices through the Google Home app or via voice commands with Google Assistant. It also integrates with Amazon Alexa.
This integration provides a cohesive smart home experience, enabling users to connect Nest cameras, doorbells and other devices with other smart home products like lights, thermostats and speakers, making home management more straightforward and more efficient.
Google Nest Home Security Plans and Pricing
Google discontinued Nest Secure but still offers other types of home monitoring packages for its current smart home and security components.
Front Door Monitoring Package
This package includes a battery-powered Nest Doorbell and a Second-Generation Nest Hub for $249.98 or $20.83 monthly. The installation cost is $135 and you can add a Nest Mini at an extra cost to enable you to hear the doorbell chime anywhere in your home with a speaker.
Outdoor Monitoring Package
This comes with a battery-powered Nest Cam and Second-Generation Nest hub for $249.98 or $20.83 per month with an installation cost of $135.
Total Security Package
This package includes a battery-powered Nest Doorbell, Nest Cam and Nest Hub Max, all for about $523.98 or $43.67 per month. Installation costs $230.
Nest Aware
This is a subscription service for Google Nest devices that enhances their capability with additional features, such as video recording, intelligent alerts and advanced insights, such as distinguishing between people, objects and animals and recognizing familiar faces.
Subscriptions to Nest Aware starts at $8 per month or $80 per year for 30 days of event history, intelligent alerts and e911. Nest Aware Plus is $15 per month or $150 per year for 24/7 video history for up to 10 days and 60 days of event history. You need one of the subscriptions to get more than three hours of video history.
Google Nest Home Security Add-ons
Google Nest Home Security offers several valuable add-ons to enhance your system. You can add extra wired or battery-powered Nest Cams for broader coverage, available in indoor and outdoor models. The Nest Cam with Floodlight integrates motion-activated lighting with surveillance for added security.
The Nest x Yale Lock provides smart locking capabilities, allowing you to manage seamless home entry. Others include Nest Protect smoke and CO detectors. These add-ons ensure comprehensive protection and greater control over your home security.
Installing Google Nest Home Security
Google Nest Home Security is designed with user-friendly installation in mind, allowing many users to set up their systems independently. For example, setting up a Nest Cam involves simply plugging it in, downloading the Google Home app and following the step-by-step instructions to connect the camera to your Wi-Fi network. Mounting the camera can be done using the provided screws and wall anchors or with a magnetic mount for easier placement. The Google Home app guides you in positioning the camera, testing the view and configuring alerts.
Google Nest offers professional installation services for those who prefer a hands-off approach, which is helpful for more complex setups. For example, the Total Security Package might include multiple cameras, a video doorbell and additional sensors. A professional installer will handle everything from mounting devices in optimal locations to ensuring all components are correctly connected and integrated with your home’s Wi-Fi network. They will also walk you through the system’s features, ensuring you understand how to use and manage your new security setup.
What We Like About Google Nest Home Security
The easy installation makes it accessible for DIY users and those opting for professional setups. The products are well-designed, blending seamlessly into home decor while offering high functionality. The multi-purpose sensors provide versatile security options, from detecting motion to monitoring doors and windows.
The system effortlessly integrates with other smart home products, allowing you to manage everything from security cameras to smart locks through the Google Home app or with voice commands on Google Assistant. This combination of design, versatility and integration makes Google Nest a standout choice for home security.
What We Didn’t Like About Google Nest Home Security
What we don’t like about Google Nest Home Security is the high price band, which might be a barrier for budget-conscious consumers. The subscription plans can be overly complex, making it difficult for users to choose the right one.
Additionally, you’re limited to only three hours of recorded history without a subscription, which may not be sufficient for comprehensive security needs. Many advanced features, such as continuous video recording and intelligent alerts, are only available with a subscription. This adds to the overall cost.
*Editor’s Note: Our score above reflects the inclusion of home security features like alarms, which are no longer available directly through Google following the discontinuation of the Nest Secure system. Google has a partnership with ADT, another entry on our list that offers alarms and dedicated sensors.
How Google Nest Stacks Up
Google Nest vs. Ring
Primary Differences Between Google Nest and Ring
When comparing Google Nest and Ring, several key differences and similarities emerge. Both top home security companies offer comprehensive home security solutions, but their approaches and specific features vary.
Price Range
Google Nest products generally have a higher price range than Ring, making Ring a more budget-friendly option for many consumers.
Subscription Plans
Ring’s subscription plans are more straightforward than those of Google Nest. Additionally, Google Nest limits recorded history to three hours without a subscription, whereas Ring offers more flexibility.
Integration
Google Nest integrates seamlessly with the Google Home ecosystem, making it ideal for users already invested in Google products. In contrast, Ring works best with Amazon’s Alexa, offering strong compatibility with Amazon’s range of smart home devices.
Similarities Between Google Nest and Ring
There are a few similarities between both companies.
High-Quality Video
Both Google Nest and Ring offer high-definition video surveillance with night vision, ensuring clear and reliable footage.
Smart Alerts
Both systems provide intelligent alerts that differentiate between people, animals and objects, helping to reduce false alarms and ensure relevant notifications.
Wide Range of Products
Both offer various security products, including cameras, doorbells and smart locks, allowing users to build a customized security system tailored to their needs.
Learn more: Ring review
Google Nest vs. Cove
When comparing Google Nest and Cove, it’s essential to recognize that while both companies offer innovative home security solutions, they cater to different needs and preferences.
Primary Differences Between Google Nest and Cove
Here’s where Google Nest and Cove might seem very different for the average consumer:
Integration
Google Nest integrates with the Google Home ecosystem, allowing for seamless control of various smart home devices through a single app and voice commands. On the other hand, Cove offers a more standalone security system that doesn’t integrate with a wide range of smart home products.
Subscription and Monitoring
Google Nest requires a subscription for advanced features and extended video history, with many capabilities locked behind this paywall. Cove offers a more transparent and often lower-cost monitoring plan that includes 24/7 professional monitoring, which can appeal to those who prefer a simple, all-inclusive approach.
Similarities Between Google Nest and Cove.
User-Friendly Installation
Both Google Nest and Cove emphasize ease of installation, making it accessible for DIY users. Google Nest’s setup is designed to be intuitive with the Google Home app. At the same time, Cove offers simple installation with pre-configured equipment that requires minimal technical expertise.
High-Quality Security Features
Both systems provide motion detection, video surveillance and real-time alerts. They offer reliable protection and keep users informed about their home’s security status.
Customization Options
Both Google Nest and Cove allow for the customization of security solutions. Google Nest’s range of devices and add-ons lets users personalize their system to their needs. At the same time, Cove offers various equipment packages and the ability to add more sensors or cameras based on user requirements.
Learn More: Cove review
What Are People Saying About Google Nest
Google Nest is rated 4.6 on the Apple Store, 4.1 on Playstore and has an average app rating of 4.4 from an average of 1,184,000 reviews. It is not BBB accredited but has a low BBB Reviews rating of 1.15 and a Trustpilot rating of 3.1.
Is Google Nest the Right Home Security System for You?
Google Nest offers a sophisticated home security system that excels in integration with Google’s ecosystem and advanced features. Its high-definition video, intelligent alerts and customizable options make it a strong choice for those invested in smart home technology.
However, the higher price point and complex subscription plans may be a drawback for some. If you prioritize seamless tech integration and cutting-edge features, Google Nest could be an excellent fit. Otherwise, exploring alternative systems might be worth considering to better meet your budget and security needs. If the lack of a dedicated alarm system is a drawback, Google Nest may not be the best option for you either.
Methodology: How We Rated Home Security Systems
To determine the home security systems ranking, the Forbes Home editorial team analyzed 22 companies and 133 systems, with each company’s star rating determined by evaluating a variety of metrics and subcategories, including app reviews, customer reviews and reputation, customer support, pricing, setup and more.
You can find out more about how Forbes Home rates home security systems on our detailed methodology page.
All figures and facts were accurate at the time of first publication.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does Google Nest do?
It offers a range of smart home security products and services to protect your home and keep you informed. These devices, such as cameras, doorbells and smoke alarms, are equipped with advanced technology, including motion detection and facial recognition.
Does Google Nest have a monthly fee?
Google Nest devices can be used without a subscription. Still, Google offers Nest Aware and Aware Plus subscription services for $8 a month. These provide additional features for Nest devices, such as an extended video history, intelligent alerts and camera activity zones.
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