What's the difference between Google/Nest Video Doorbell and Rings Video Doorbell Pro?
- Matt Peavy
- Jan 25, 2024
- 10 min read
Updated: Feb 1, 2024
Everyone needs to have a good video doorbell as their first line of security. Having a 24/7 lookout at your front door is essential these days. These devices are more affordable than ever now that the competition for this space has grow significantly over the past several years. Recording capabilities and notifications have proven to be an invaluable asset in the pursuit to guard our homes and Amazon deliveries! We'll check out the difference in how these doorbell cameras record and alert you. This comparison should help you decide which of these great products is right for your home or business.
The 2 Best Video Doorbells in 2024
In the ever-evolving landscape of smart home technology, two giants stand out in the realm of home security: the Google Nest Video Doorbell (Wired) and the Ring Video Doorbell Pro. Both devices have earned their stripes in the smart home security market, offering homeowners a blend of convenience, monitoring, and peace of mind. However, as similar as they may seem in their quest to revolutionize home security, each brings its own unique features and capabilities to the table.
What they look like?
The Google Nest Video Doorbell and the Ring Video Doorbell Pro differ noticeably in their appearance and design, reflecting the distinct aesthetic philosophies of their respective brands. Here's a breakdown of their visual differences:
Google Nest Video Doorbell:
Design: The Google Nest Video Doorbell has a sleek, minimalist design. It is known for its clean lines and modern look.
Shape: It typically features a more elongated, rectangular shape, which is somewhat taller and slimmer compared to many traditional doorbells.
Color Options: It often comes in various color options, allowing it to blend well with different home exteriors.
Materials and Finish: The Nest doorbell generally has a matte finish, giving it a contemporary and understated appearance.
Ring Video Doorbell Pro:
Design: The Ring Video Doorbell Pro has a more traditional doorbell look but with a modern twist. It's designed to be compact and unobtrusive.
Shape: The Pro model is relatively smaller and more box-like compared to the Google Nest, with a more squared appearance.
Color Options: Ring typically provides different color faceplates for the Pro model, allowing some level of customization to match your home's exterior.
Materials and Finish: The Ring Pro usually features a glossy finish on the faceplate, giving it a slightly more pronounced presence.
In essence, the Google Nest Video Doorbell tends to emphasize a taller, more streamlined look that aligns with Google's overall design language of simplicity and modernity. On the other hand, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro offers a more classic doorbell appearance with a focus on compactness and adaptability to different home styles through interchangeable faceplates.
The choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the aesthetic of the home where the doorbell will be installed. Some homeowners might prefer the more futuristic and minimalist look of the Google Nest, while others might favor the traditional yet sleek design of the Ring Pro.
Difference in Resolution:
Google Nest Video Doorbell vs. Ring Video Doorbell Pro
In the world of smart home security, the clarity of video footage is important. Two major players, Google Nest Video Doorbell and Ring Video Doorbell Pro, both offer advanced video capabilities, but they differ significantly in terms of resolution. This difference can be a deciding factor for homeowners looking to choose the right doorbell camera for their needs.
1. Google Nest Video Doorbell - A High-Definition View:
Google Nest Video Doorbell comes equipped with a 3:4 aspect ratio and a resolution of 1600 x 1200 pixels. This resolution may seem unconventional compared to the standard 1080p, but there's a reason behind this choice. The 3:4 aspect ratio is specifically designed to show more of the doorstep area, allowing you to see packages on the ground or get a fuller view of visitors. The 1600 x 1200 resolution, though not full HD, provides a clear and detailed image, ensuring that you don't miss any critical details.
2. Ring Video Doorbell Pro - The 1080p Gold Standard:
On the other hand, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro boasts a 1080p HD resolution, which has become a sort of gold standard in video quality. This resolution, combined with a 16:9 aspect ratio, offers a wider field of view. While it might not capture as much vertical space as the Google Nest, the 1080p resolution ensures that the footage is crisp and detailed, making it easier to identify faces and other important details.
3. Real-World Implications:
So, what does this difference in resolution and aspect ratio mean for the average user? It primarily affects how you view visitors and monitor your front door area. With Google Nest's higher vertical field, you're less likely to miss a package delivery on your doorstep. However, Ring's wider field might be more beneficial for monitoring a broader area, like a front yard or a wider porch.
4. The Verdict:
Choosing between these two depends on what you value more: Do you prefer a wider horizontal view that captures more of your front yard (Ring), or do you need a detailed vertical view to keep an eye on deliveries (Google Nest)? The answer to this will largely depend on your specific home setup and security needs.
In conclusion, both the Google Nest Video Doorbell and the Ring Video Doorbell Pro offer exceptional video quality, but their different approaches to resolution and aspect ratio cater to different user needs. It's not just about the number of pixels; it's about how those pixels are used to provide the most effective and comprehensive view of your home's entry points. When making your choice, consider the layout of your entryway and what you need to monitor most effectively.
Recording Capabilities:
Google Nest Video Doorbell vs. Ring Video Doorbell Pro
When it comes to smart video doorbells, one of the most critical features to consider is their recording capabilities. The Google Nest Video Doorbell and the Ring Video Doorbell Pro both offer robust recording features, but they approach video recording and storage in different ways. Understanding these differences is key to selecting a doorbell that aligns with your security needs and preferences.
1. Google Nest Video Doorbell - Continuous Recording:
A standout feature of the Google Nest Video Doorbell is its ability to record continuously, but this requires a Nest Aware subscription. With Nest Aware, the doorbell records 24/7, allowing you to review everything that happened at your doorstep, not just the events triggered by motion or sound. This can be invaluable for comprehensive security monitoring, as it ensures you don’t miss any activity.
There are different Nest Aware subscription tiers, which offer varying lengths of video history. The basic plan provides access to event history for the past 30 days, while the more premium plan extends this history. It’s important to note that without a subscription, the Google Nest only provides still images snapped every few minutes, not continuous video.
2. Ring Video Doorbell Pro - Event-Based Recording:
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro, on the other hand, operates on an event-based recording system. It captures and stores video clips only when motion is detected or when someone rings the doorbell. This approach can be more storage-efficient, as it only records when there is potential activity of interest. However, it might miss moments that occur just outside the parameters of its motion sensors.
To access recorded videos, Ring users need a Ring Protect Plan subscription. Without the subscription, you can still get real-time notifications and live view, but you won’t have access to saved video recordings. The Ring Protect Plan also offers additional features like video sharing and saving.
3. Comparing the Approaches:
The choice between continuous and event-based recording depends on your security needs. Continuous recording (Google Nest with Nest Aware) offers a more comprehensive security solution, capturing every moment of the day. This is particularly useful in high-traffic areas or for those who want maximum coverage. However, it requires a larger investment in subscription services.
Ring’s event-based recording is more budget-friendly and storage-efficient, as it only records when it detects motion or doorbell rings. This can be sufficient for general home security needs but might miss activities that don’t trigger the sensors.
4. The Bottom Line:
In summary, the Google Nest Video Doorbell, with its continuous recording feature, is ideal for those seeking thorough, around-the-clock monitoring. Meanwhile, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro's event-based recording is a great fit for users who prefer a more selective recording approach that focuses on specific incidents. Both systems require a subscription for full functionality, so it's worth considering the ongoing cost when making your choice.
Ultimately, the decision between Google Nest and Ring comes down to how much coverage you need and what type of recording capabilities best suit your home security requirements.
The subscription costs:
The Google Nest Video Doorbell and the Ring Video Doorbell Pro differ, each offering various features at different price points:
Google Nest (Nest Aware Subscription):
Nest Aware: This plan typically offers 30 days of event video history (i.e., recordings of events detected by the doorbell), and its cost may be around $6 per month or $60 per year.
Nest Aware Plus: This higher tier includes 60 days of event video history and 10 days of 24/7 continuous video history. The cost for Nest Aware Plus might be approximately $12 per month or $120 per year.
Ring (Ring Protect Plan):
Ring Protect Basic: This plan covers one device and typically includes 60 days of video history for events, such as motion detections or doorbell rings. The cost is usually around $3 per month or $30 per year.
Ring Protect Plus: This plan covers all devices at one location and includes the same video history features as the Basic plan, along with additional benefits like extended warranties and professional monitoring for Ring Alarm systems. The cost for Protect Plus is generally about $10 per month or $100 per year.
Please note that these prices and features might have changed since my last update. It's always a good idea to check the latest information on the respective websites of Google Nest and Ring for the most current subscription details and pricing.
APPs USED FOR EACH DOORBELL
The Google Nest Video Doorbell and Ring Video Doorbell Pro each have their own dedicated apps that provide various functionalities to control and monitor the doorbells. While both apps offer many similar features, such as live video streaming, motion alerts, and two-way audio, there are some key differences in their design, user interface, and additional functionalities. Here's an overview of the main differences between the apps for these two doorbells:
App Interface and User Experience:
Google Nest App: Known for its clean and intuitive design, the Google Nest app integrates seamlessly with other Google Nest products. The app provides a straightforward overview of all connected devices and allows users to view live footage, review past recordings (with Nest Aware subscription), and receive notifications. The integration with the Google ecosystem also means better compatibility with other Google services and devices.
Ring App: The Ring app also offers a user-friendly interface but is more focused on community-based features. It includes the Neighbors by Ring feature, which allows users to share videos and safety information with people in their neighborhood. The app provides easy access to live view, event history, and device settings. Additionally, Ring's app integrates with Amazon Alexa, offering enhanced functionalities for users within the Amazon ecosystem.
Feature Set and Customization:
Google Nest App: Offers advanced features like familiar face detection (with a Nest Aware subscription) and zones customization for motion alerts. The app also provides detailed event history, including snapshots when events are detected.
Ring App: Besides the standard features, Ring’s app offers more extensive customization for motion detection settings, including motion zones and sensitivity. It also provides a shared user feature, allowing multiple users to access the doorbell.
Smart Home Integration:
Google Nest App: Works well within the Google ecosystem, offering better integration with Google Assistant and other Google smart home products.
Ring App: As part of the Amazon family, the Ring app is more closely integrated with Alexa and other Amazon smart home devices.
Notification and Alert Options:
Both apps provide real-time notifications and alerts for motion detection and doorbell rings. However, the Google Nest app, with a Nest Aware subscription, can distinguish between people, animals, and vehicles, while the Ring app offers adjustable motion sensitivity and schedules.
Video Playback and Sharing:
Google Nest App: Provides a more streamlined video playback experience, especially with the continuous recording feature available through Nest Aware.
Ring App: Offers easy video playback and sharing, with a focus on community sharing through the Neighbors feature.
App summary, while both apps provide the essential functionalities expected from smart doorbell apps, the choice between them may come down to user preference for the app interface, the level of customization needed, and integration with existing smart home ecosystems. The Google Nest app might appeal more to users already invested in the Google ecosystem, while the Ring app could be a better choice for those who prefer Amazon’s Alexa and value community-oriented features.
Comparing the different Ring Video Doorbell models involves looking at a range of features and capabilities that each model offers. As of my last update in April 2023, here's a general overview of the main Ring Video Doorbell models and their key differences:
Ring Video Doorbell (2020 release):
Resolution: 1080p HD video.
Power: Runs on a rechargeable battery or can be hardwired.
Features: Basic motion detection, two-way talk, night vision.
Ideal for: Users looking for a straightforward, easy-to-install smart doorbell.
Ring Video Doorbell 3 and 3 Plus:
Resolution: 1080p HD video.
Power: Rechargeable battery or hardwired.
Features: Adjustable motion zones, privacy zones, 5 GHz Wi-Fi support (in addition to 2.4 GHz).
3 Plus Exclusive Feature: Pre-Roll technology, which captures four seconds of video before motion is detected.
Ideal for: Users wanting a bit more customization in motion detection and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Ring Video Doorbell 4:
Resolution: 1080p HD video.
Power: Rechargeable, quick-release battery.
Features: Enhanced Wi-Fi, improved video previews, color Pre-Roll video.
Ideal for: Homeowners who want advanced motion detection and video previews.
Ring Video Doorbell Pro:
Resolution: 1080p HD video.
Power: Hardwired only.
Features: Advanced motion detection with customizable motion zones, slimmer design.
Ideal for: Users looking for a sleek, permanent smart doorbell solution with advanced features.
Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2:
Resolution: 1536p HD video.
Power: Hardwired.
Features: Head-to-toe video, 3D motion detection, Bird’s Eye View, enhanced audio and dual-band Wi-Fi.
Ideal for: Those seeking the highest-quality video and cutting-edge motion detection technology.
Ring Video Doorbell Elite:
Resolution: 1080p HD video.
Power: Power over Ethernet (PoE).
Features: Professional-grade build, flush mount, customizable motion zones.
Ideal for: Users desiring a professional-grade, PoE-powered doorbell with a flush-mounted design.
Each model caters to different needs and setups, from basic smart doorbell functionality to advanced features like 3D motion detection and professional-grade hardware. When choosing a Ring Video Doorbell, consider factors such as power options (battery vs. hardwired vs. PoE), video quality, design preferences, and specific features like motion detection capabilities and Wi-Fi connectivity.
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