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Ring vs Nest: Which Video Doorbell Is Right for You?

Do you have a doorbell at your house? Well, the answer from most of you would be Yes. 

Who does not have a doorbell at home, right? But the real question for today is, with the advancement in technology and new inventions being launched every day, the doorbells are no more just a bell that rings in your home with a press of a button.

You will find the most advanced DIY doorbells that act entirely as a security system. They have real-time alerts, video, and audio monitoring, etc.

The doorbell we are talking about is the two popular DIY sets of smart devices, i.e., Ring and Nest. If you are all into tech, you will know that Ring has been designed by Amazon, while the tech giant Google owns Nest.

While most smart doorbells require professional assistance to install, these two are DIY projects and can be easily installed at your home all by yourself.

Home security has been one of the major concerns for everyone. A lot of residents choose to go for CCTV cameras on their porches.

But all these methods are dated now, and using Smart Doorbells has become the new trend and the need of the hour.

Choosing between Ring and Nest isn’t easy, but we have made sure you can choose whichever suits you best.

Here is a detailed comparison of Ring vs Nest smart home doorbells with every aspect we can cover. Let us see what we have here.

Ring Doorbell – Overview

Ring Doorbell is one of the most advanced and best smart home automation devices that lets you know about unwanted guests and secures your home.

Ring vs Nest

Amazon owns the brand and has been leading among the names for its home security and smart home products. You will find multiple versions of the Ring Doorbell project that has added features as it advances.

We are here talking about the most basic version, i.e., Ring Video Doorbell. You can also check out the Video Doorbell 3, Video Doorbell 3 Plus, Video Doorbell 3 Pro, etc. All of these share the same concept with multiple added features.

The basic version has an amazing design and is pretty simple for anyone to set up. It has been preferred because of its lower cost than any other doorbell.

It can detect any motion arriving on your porch area or entering your property, receive real-time notifications on your device connected to the doorbell, and watch, hear, and talk to the person on the door.

All these are available on all versions of the Ring Video Doorbell. Furthermore, many customizations can take place with these video doorbells based on your home and what you are looking for.

The Power of Whole-Home Security Packed Into an Affordable Security System | Ring Video Doorbells

Besides this, you can also get access to special software, i.e., Ring Protect, with the help of which you can capture images and record videos so that they can be reviewed later in need of emergency.

However, this service is paid, and you may have to take the subscription at an affordable price.

Nest Doorbell – Overview

Nest Doorbell is another company by Google and was founded in 2010. It is popularly known for its home security products and devices, such as thermostats, smoke detectors, routers, security systems, speakers, etc.

Nest Hello is the doorbell you have been waiting for. The design is impeccable, and the features are stunning. With a very compact structure, it helps you to provide HD videos and capture images.

Ring vs Nest: Which Video Doorbell Is Right for You?

Whether you are concerned about your child coming home or having to receive a package, you can easily talk to or hear the person on your porch with the help of the smart home doorbell. It is very useful in keeping your home safe from burglary.

There have been hundreds of cases of packages being stolen from the door itself. With the help of these doorbells, the burglar can be immediately warned, and the crime might be stopped.

You can check the history of about 3-hour shots or look for 24/7 streaming on the app. It even has night vision so that nothing goes wrong for you no matter what.

Instead of checking your phone for a package to arrive, you can make changes, and the app will alert you when the package arrives.

It even looks cool on the wall as compared to other video doorbells. Similar to what we saw in Ring, this also has multiple aspects, such as detecting person, motion, and sound.

Furthermore, you can pre-record certain messages for your children on the door or even the package using the app.

Ring vs Nest – Comparing Features, Pricing, and Performance

Here’s a table that compares some of the key features of both smart home security systems:-

Features Ring Nest
Video resolution 1080p 1080p
Field of view 160 degrees 160 degrees
Two-way audio Yes Yes
Night vision Yes Yes
Motion detection Yes, customizable zones Yes, customizable zones
Live streaming Yes Yes
App support iOS, Android iOS, Android
Smart home integration Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
Subscription required Optional Optional
Cloud storage Paid (starting at $3/month) Paid (starting at $6/month)
Local storage No Yes (with a Nest Aware Plus subscription)
Doorbell camera Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available
Indoor cameras Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available
Outdoor cameras Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available
Smart locks Yes, the Ring Alarm system required Yes, Nest x Yale or other compatible
Environmental monitoring Yes, with the Ring Alarm system Yes, with Nest Protect smoke detector
Price range (starter kit) $199-$499 $399-$498 (depending on configuration)

Ring vs Nest Doorbell – Design

Ring vs Nest comparison has been going on for a decade now, and with more and more models coming up, it can get a little competitive.

To start with the very basic visual idea about both these devices. Ring Video Doorbell has a rather rectangular-shaped structure that you can either mount on the wall beside your door or the wooden plank made for the doorbell.

Ring vs Nest

It has a small camera in the doorbell itself that monitors and records every action outside the door. Well, no one can suspect the camera’s presence since the design has been made to make it look like a bell.

On the other hand, we have a Nest home security system with a pretty compact design that looks stunning. It has an oval structure, and the installation is pretty on the side of the wall.

Ring vs Nest: Which Video Doorbell Is Right for You?

The doorbell has been designed with perfect ease and made in a way that covers anyone coming on the door and records the video on the go.

It weighs pretty light, about 122g, and is smaller than the Ring doorbell. Compared to both in terms of design, we would surely say both are incredibly good, but for overall appearance, you can go for Nest.

Ring vs Nest – Installation

Both these allow you to install the device in your home by yourself. It does not require any professional assistance; rather, with only a few steps on the way, you can do it all by yourself within minutes.

Ring doorbells are a perfect replacement for removing the boring old bell in your home. You can remove the old one and disconnect the wires carefully.

The package contains a circuit board; you must screw in it first and connect the wires to the screws as instructed in the manual.

You can check out several videos on YouTube to learn the step-by-step idea of how it’s done. Once you installed the back panel. First, you must download their app and connect it to the main panel before installing it. 

How to Install Ring Video Doorbell 2 | Connect to Existing Doorbell

Next, ensure you have a stable wifi connection since it will work on it. Choose the right wifi connection and connect your doorbell cum security system to the network.

Once you are done, you can also check out the tutorial on how to mount the bell. After this, put up the panel on the wall where it belongs.

Nest Hello is another perfect representation of the smart home doorbell you need the most. Here the installation and the setup are pretty straightforward, which you can check out once you open the package.

There has been proper instruction on how you can install the doorbell. Check the compatibility from their site since these doorbells require low voltage.

How to set up and install the Google Nest Hello video doorbell

The main criteria will be explained here using the Nest app at every step. Download the app, which will guide you through installing the Nest Chime and the doorbell outside.

🤴Winner- Nest Hello 

Ring vs Nest – Video Recording and Quality

One of the most important aspects of this comparison truly determines which one you can go for. A smart home doorbell’s main purpose is to have a good security system. Every security system must have good video quality; hence this has a good weightage.

Ring Video Doorbell has a superb 1080p HD Video quality with a 155° Field of View. In comparison, the Nest doorbell has a resolution of HD UXGA 1600 x 1200 and up to 30 frames/sec.

This is only about the resolution where Nest has the upper hand—speaking of the other properties of recording videos and capturing images. 

Ring vs Nest: Which Video Doorbell Is Right for You?

Ring provides services such as Ring Protect, where you must buy a subscription to record videos and take images.

On the other hand, with Nest Hello, you can enjoy 24/7 streaming and continuous video recording.

You can also get the Nest Aware Subscription that gives an intelligent alert, activity zones, video history, etc.

🤴 Winner- Nest Hello

You may like to read our guide on 11 Of The Best Ring Doorbell Alternatives.

Ring vs Nest – Smart Home functionalities

When we say Smart Doorbell, it is bound to have smart home compatibilities. You might have also come across other smart home gadgets and understand how the concept works.

The ring is owned by Amazon, making it compatible with Alex, a voice assistant by the tech giant. You can connect multiple smart home devices and make them even more desirable.

For example, add security cameras, sensors, thermostats, In-Wall Toggle Dimmers, floodlights, etc.

Ring vs Nest

This is very useful, especially when you do not wish to get out of bed, and can command Alexa or even Google Assistant to view the activity on the front door. As we know, Amazon has way more options to add or connect to your doorbell than any other company.

On the other hand, Nest Hello is compatible with Google Assistant. You can also connect other devices to this but have fewer options directly provided by Google, so you may have to get hold of other third-party options.

Hence this particular option has more options for Ring as compared to Nest.

🤴 Winner- Ring

Ring vs Nest- Other Features

There is no doubt that both Ring and Nest have a massive collection of features apart from just doorbell functions and video integration. Well, here is everything you can know about them.

Customizable Privacy Zone:- Both devices have customizable privacy zones that they can set up using the app. You can choose the zone you would like to view on your devices and hide the areas you do not wish to see so that particular areas are visibly better.

Customizable Motion Zone:- We also have a motion Zone that can be set up for both Nest and Ring through their apps. This is needed to choose the area where you would like the device to monitor using the motion sensors.

However, Nest has a wider approach and broader area to select from compared to Ring, with limited zones.

Person Alert:- Both devices send alerts to your smartphones whenever someone is at your door. It can even send a customized message to the delivery guys, which you can set up using the app.

However, Nest takes this feature up a notch since it can detect a particular person and package and send an alert as a notification based on it.

Video Recording:- We know that both devices enable video recording features that can be best assessed with a subscription.

However, you can only take a live video view with Ring and check the recorded ones later. With Nest Hello, it records video 24/7, even during the dark.

Package Recognition:- Nest Hello has a special interface recognizing packages and familiar faces. It will immediately alert you once the package is dropped at your front door. It also sends you to alert if someone has picked up the package.

Pre-recorded Messages:- Nest Hello also has a feature where you can pre-record messages such as “Thank You” or anything else for particular people or even the package delivery people.

When the camera detects the package, it will deliver your message to the door.

With all the features mentioned above, we are quite convinced that if we compare Rings vs Nest, Nest Hello has much more to offer than the latter.

The ring is not left behind regarding features and security; however, added features in the same price range give Nest Hello the edge.

🤴Winner- Nest Hello

Ring vs Nest – Pricing and Subscription

There are multiple models of the Ring Video Doorbell compared to Nest Hello, so the price varies on a massive scale.

Still, we can ensure you get the price for each one and choose for yourself. Also, we have subscription costs as well for both Nest and Ring devices. 

Ring Video Doorbell has multiple options to go for in terms of pricing (Check Latest Price on Amazon). It is listed below.

  • Video Doorbell (2nd Gen)– $79
  • Video Doorbell 3- $149
  • Video Doorbell 3 Plus- $179
  • Video Doorbell Pro- $189
  • Video Doorbell Elite- $349

Other than this, you will find multiple other package options as well. They have different price ranges too, which you can check out on their official site.

The subscription cost of Ring Protect has two versions that you can check out. Both have different features, and you can choose one based on your money.

  • Basic (Activate video recording for one device): $3/month or $30/year
  • Plus (Activate video recording for all devices): $10/month or $100/year

Nest Hello has a rather simple yet intrusive price range. Since there aren’t a lot of models of this current version, it has only a fixed price of $229. Check Latest Price on Amazon

You can get a subscription to Nest Aware, and with an annual plan, the company is giving out a free Nest Mini. Here is the Nest Aware plan you can select from.

  • Nest Aware (30 days of event video history): $6/month or $60/year
  • Nest Aware Plus (60 days of event video history + 10 days of 24/7 video history): $12/month or $120/year

With more options and price ranges, we can clearly say that Ring has much more to offer in this domain than Nest Hello.

🤴Winner- Ring

Ring vs Nest- Home Security System (Bonus Comparison)

We discussed everything we knew, or you should know, about the Ring Video Doorbell and Nest Hello.

However, both brands or companies have major in-home security systems, and not comparing them with each other for their flagship devices will not be fair.

Hence here is a small comparison between them so that you can know more about what they offer.

Ring Home Security System:-

Ring offers a variety of alarm systems pre-built just for you. You will find several devices to add to your package to cover up your entire home. You have three kits to choose from, marked as S, L, and M. Here is how it has been made.

  • 5-Piece Kit ($159.99): This kit covers 1 window or door, adds motion detection to 1 room, and ~1,000 sq. ft.
  • 10-Piece Kit ($209.99): This kit covers 5 windows or doors, adds motion detection to 2 rooms, and ~1,000-2,000 sq. ft (1-2 bedrooms).
  • 14-Piece Kit ($259.99): This kit covers 8 windows or doors, adds motion detection to 2 rooms, and ~2,000+ sq. ft (3+ bedrooms).

Each kit contains Base Station, Keypad, Contact Sensor, Motion Detector, and Range Extender. These are easy to set up and also customizable based on your needs. Simply look over the instructions, and within minutes, you can set up your security system without any professional help.

Once you have set everything, download the app from the store and get all the alerts and control all from it. Furthermore, you can also add other devices and pair them with doorbells and security cams and enable Alexa.

Some other security devices you can add to your kit include Smoke detectors, Ring Alarm Flood and Freeze Sensors, Panic Button, and others. With the app, you can enable and disable alarms and sensors to move around easily.

Nest Home Security System:-

Nest Home Security System is equally amazing as Ring; however, it does not have a selection of kits for better understanding. You have different products that you can collect together and install in your home. In the base package, you will get the below devices.

  • Nest Guard: Alarm, keypad, and motion sensor with Google Assistant built-in.
  • Nest Detect: Motion-activated sensors to look out for any movement.
  • Nest Tag: Arm and Disarm without any need for a passcode.

That is all you will be getting with this system. Everything is too simple to understand, yet it does not have a wide variety of options as Ring provides its users. This home security system helps you arm or disarm using the app from anywhere.

Also, you need not rush in or out to be careful with the alarm; it has the option to set a timer that you can set on your most used door for 5 minutes. 

The system will immediately alert your device if your alarm goes off during an emergency. You can then check what caused the alert and take necessary action.

Besides this, you can add on other devices such as Nest Hello, Nest Hub Max, Nest Wifi, and more.

Ring vs nest vs blink:-

Here’s a detailed table comparing the features of Ring, Nest, and Blink smart home security systems:-

Features Ring Nest Blink
Video resolution 1080p 1080p 1080p
Field of view 160 degrees 160 degrees 110 degrees
Two-way audio Yes Yes Yes
Night vision Yes Yes Yes
Motion detection Yes, customizable zones Yes, customizable zones Yes, customizable zones
Live streaming Yes Yes Yes
App support iOS, Android iOS, Android iOS, Android
Smart home integration Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
Subscription required Optional Optional Optional
Cloud storage Paid (starting at $3/month) Paid (starting at $6/month) Paid (starting at $3/month)
Local storage No Yes (with Nest Aware Plus subscription) No
Doorbell camera Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available
Indoor cameras Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available
Outdoor cameras Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available
Smart locks Yes, Ring Alarm system required Yes, Nest x Yale or other compatible Yes, compatible with select models
Environmental monitoring Yes, with Ring Alarm system Yes, with Nest Protect smoke detector No
Price range (starter kit) $199-$499 $399-$498 (depending on configuration) $79.99-$279.99
Battery life (cameras) Wired or battery-powered Wired or battery-powered Up to 2 years (depending on usage)
Zones and scheduling Yes, with Ring Protect Plus subscription Yes, with Nest Aware Plus subscription Yes, with Blink Subscription
Artificial intelligence No Yes, with Nest Cam IQ and Nest Hello No
Third-party integrations Yes, with Z-Wave and Zigbee Yes, with Z-Wave and Zigbee Yes, with Amazon Echo and Google Home

Ring vs nest vs adt:-

Here’s a detailed table comparing the features of Ring, Nest, and ADT home security systems:-

Features Ring Nest ADT
Video resolution 1080p 1080p 720p or 1080p (depending on package)
Field of view 160 degrees 160 degrees 90 degrees to 180 degrees (depending on package)
Two-way audio Yes Yes Yes
Night vision Yes Yes Yes
Motion detection Yes, customizable zones Yes, customizable zones Yes, with varying levels of sensitivity
Live streaming Yes Yes Yes
App support iOS, Android iOS, Android iOS, Android
Smart home integration Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
Subscription required Optional Optional Required for monitoring and some features
Cloud storage Paid (starting at $3/month) Paid (starting at $6/month) Included with some packages, paid for others
Local storage No Yes (with a Nest Aware Plus subscription) Yes
Doorbell camera Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available
Indoor cameras Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available
Outdoor cameras Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available Yes, multiple options are available
Smart locks Yes, the Ring Alarm system required Yes, Nest x Yale or other compatible Yes, with certain packages
Environmental monitoring Yes, with the Ring Alarm system Yes, with Nest Protect smoke detector Yes, with certain packages
Price range (starter kit) $199-$499 $399-$498 (depending on configuration) Varies depending on the package
Professional monitoring Optional Optional Included with some packages, paid for others
Installation DIY or professional installation is available DIY or professional installation is available Professional installation required
Customer service and support Mixed reviews; support via phone and chat Mixed reviews; support via phone and chat Mixed reviews; support via phone and chat
Warranties and guarantees 1-year limited warranty; 30-day returns 2-year limited warranty; 30-day returns Varies depending on the package

Ring vs nest market share:-

Here’s a table comparing the market share of Ring and Nest in the smart home security industry:

Features Ring Nest
Overall market share 19.7% 17.8%
Market share by product Ring Doorbell – 62.7% Nest Cam – 32.6%
  Ring Alarm – 33.2% Nest Hello – 24.6%
  Ring Camera – 4.1% Nest Secure – 13.7%
  Ring Smart Lighting – 0.1% Nest Thermostat – 2.2%
Growth rate (year-over-year) 62.2% 26.4%
Top-selling region North America North America

✅FAQ

Is Nest camera or Ring camera better?

The answer to this question largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. Nest cameras are known for their higher video quality and advanced features, such as facial recognition and intelligent alerts.

However, Ring cameras are generally more affordable and offer more options for customization, such as the ability to set motion zones.

Ultimately, it’s important to compare the features and prices of both cameras to determine which one is the best fit for you.

What is the difference between Nest and Ring?

One of the biggest differences between Nest and Ring is their ownership: Nest is owned by Google, while Amazon owns Ring.

In terms of features, Nest cameras tend to have higher video quality and more advanced features, such as facial recognition and intelligent alerts.

Ring cameras are generally more affordable and offer more options for customization, such as the ability to set motion zones.

What is the Ring equivalent to Nest?

The Ring equivalent to Nest would likely be the Ring Floodlight Cam, similar to Nest’s outdoor cameras and includes features such as motion detection, floodlights, and two-way audio.

What is the downside to the Nest doorbell?

One potential downside to the Nest doorbell is that it requires a wired connection, which may not be feasible for all homes. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the doorbell’s motion detection and the accompanying app’s reliability.

What are the disadvantages of a Ring camera?

One potential disadvantage of a Ring camera is that the video quality may not be as high as other brands.

Additionally, some users have reported issues with false alarms or missed motion events, and the accompanying app has been criticized for being somewhat difficult to use.

Is there anything better than the Ring camera?

Several alternatives to the Ring camera may offer better features or performance, such as the Nest Cam or the Arlo camera. Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.

Is there a monthly fee for Ring?

Ring has an optional monthly subscription fee, which provides access to additional features such as cloud storage and professional monitoring. However, basic features such as live streaming and two-way audio are free.

Is there a monthly fee for Nest?

Nest has an optional monthly subscription fee, which provides access to additional features such as cloud storage and intelligent alerts. However, basic features such as live streaming and two-way audio are free.

Is there a monthly fee for Nest doorbell?

Nest Hello has an optional monthly subscription fee, which provides access to additional features such as cloud storage and intelligent alerts. However, basic features such as live streaming and two-way audio are free.

Is Nest security being discontinued?

Google has announced that it will discontinue the Nest Secure system, although existing users will continue receiving support and updates for their systems.

Is Google Nest discontinued?

No, Google Nest is not being discontinued. However, certain products and services within the Nest ecosystem may be discontinued or replaced over time.

Does the Nest doorbell Ring in the house?

Yes, the Nest doorbell can be set up to ring in the house through a connected chime or Google Home device.

What stops someone stealing Nest Doorbell?

To prevent theft of the Nest Doorbell, installing it using the included mounting bracket and screws is recommended to ensure that the device is securely attached to the bracket.

Additionally, some users have suggested adding a small security screw to the bottom of the device to make it more difficult to remove.

What happens to Nest Doorbell when power goes out?

If the power goes out, the Nest doorbell will continue to operate using its built-in battery for a short period.

Ring vs Nest Doorbell – Who is the Winner? 🤔

After considering everything, such as Design, prices, automation, security, and other features, we have concluded that Nest Hello is the ultimate winner.

There were multiple instances where Nest took over RIng, and there is no doubt about it. In terms of installation, design, videos, and all the other added features, Nest stood out as outstanding.

However, Ring video doorbell isn’t at all bad; instead has multiple ranges and a variety to choose from, especially regarding the price range. Whereas for Nest, you have only a single option with the subscription.

Either way, you can go for anyone you would like. It need not be what we have decided to be better among them. Since multiple models are available for Ring with a smaller price range and affordability, you can choose Ring Video Doorbell.

However, if the budget is no bar, Nest Hello is not far behind and is much better when seen in multiple aspects.

Furthermore, we did compare the Ring vs Nest security system as well. And to our surprise, Ring was a clear winner.

It has much more to offer its users than what Nest has to offer, It is simple and easy to understand, but Ring gives multiple kits with a much better price range.

Let us know if you are stuck with any options in the comment section. Or share your experience with these devices.