A video doorbell is a perfect security accessory or gift for monitoring your front door, porch, driveway and all around your home. Whether you’re traveling, waiting for a package delivery, hosting family and friends — or just want a gift for someone — this Google Nest Doorbell is one of my favorite devices in home security. After reviewing a dozen doorbell models, I still use a version of it myself — and it’s discounted for MLK weekend.
My testing of video doorbells unveiled two very important qualities of the Nest doorbell. First is its AI-powered object detection. Most doorbells have it, and many even offer it for free, like Nest does. I found Nest’s doorbell recognition abilities to be especially accurate. It can recognize people and packages flawlessly while avoiding triggers from vehicles (you can also set motion zones to ignore passersby, etc).
Now, those AI recognition qualities are getting even better as Google incorporates its Gemini AI into Google Home. That now allows me (in the beta program, at least) to ask specific questions about when the trash was taken out and get AI descriptions of exactly what happened to trigger an event. Those are fascinating features if you’re willing to pay for a Nest Aware subscription.
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I also love how Nest handles cloud video storage. I get three free hours of storage without needing a subscription before the video expires. That’s unusual in the doorbell world and gives me plenty of time to check on an event, even if I can’t get to the live view right away. That makes this doorbell a solid pick for those who want to avoid monthly fees altogether.
Nest cams continue to get new features, including Google Home for the web, which allows you to view the cameras through any online device. It’s also tough enough to work in all kinds of weather. The doorbell isn’t completely perfect — the resolution is a bit low, for example, and I wish Nest would release a third-gen model — but it’s my preferred front door device so far.
Technical specs for the Google Nest Doorbell
- Dimensions: 0.95 by 1.8 by 6.3 inches
- Weight: 7.3 ounces
- Video resolution: 960×1,280 pixels
- Video format: H.264
- Video frame rate: 30 fps
- Field of view: 145 degrees
Why this deal matters
Many battery doorbells, including this Nest Doorbell, are available in wired and battery forms, with the battery model usually costing a little more. In this case, it’s no contest: I highly recommend getting the battery doorbell whenever possible. Wiring a doorbell in is usually easy (and gives you access to the built-in chime), a battery model allows you to adjust height and placement so you get the exact view you want.
Video doorbells usually need to be placed right beside the door, around 4 feet up. Not all doorbell wiring allows for this (my house doorbell certainly doesn’t). Also, the Nest Doorbell comes with an angled attachment you can use to point the doorbell away from nearby walls so it covers more of the action.
For more home security savings, remember to review our best home security deals and visit our guide to the best video doorbell cameras on the market today.
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