Google has upgraded the video quality, navigation, and integration of the Nest doorbell. The 3rd-Gen Nest doorbell has a 2k resolution video camera compared to 960 x 1280 pixels of the 2nd-Gen. The video event recordings for the free version are expanded to 6 hours. Google Nest doorbell provides better zoom-in alerts and Matter support with smart displays. The package, animal, vehicle, and motion detection features are enhanced. Nest doorbell has a 1:1 ratio to record head-to-toe. It is lightweight and made up of 45% recycled plastic. Unlike Arlo, the Google Nest doorbell has a facial recognition system. It wins in design, shape, and ease of installation.
What’s New in 2025 for the Nest Doorbell?
Here are the five new upgrades to the Nest doorbell in 2025:
- App Integration Upgrades: Google Home App got a customized upgrade of favorites. It allows people to separate the frequently used devices from the list. It makes it easy to access and check the live view of the Nest doorbell from a mobile device. Video loads smoothly and is easy to drag. Google Home is compatible with many devices apart from the Google ecosystem due to Matter compatibility.
- Expanded Smart Display Support: Google has worked on the picture-in-picture view on Google Streamer. They made sure the Nest doorbell does not lag when someone rings the doorbell or commits porch piracy.
- Vertical Video Aspect & Wider Field: Arlo was leading the Nest doorbell due to its 180-degree diagonal view and 1:1 aspect ratio. Google has also upgraded the aspect ratio to 1:1 from the old 3:4 and field of view to 166 degrees. This doorbell now covers a wider area in front of the door.
- Improved AI Alerts: Gemini integration in the 3rd-Gen Nest doorbell uses the language processing units to understand the context behind events. It is not going to provide random alerts of "Person seen". This Nest doorbell shares an alert of "Person rides bike outside" after analyzing activity with Gemini. Google Nest doorbell provides zoomed-in notifications with 2k video resolution. It detects everything happening and provides a precise alert.
- Broader Mounting Flexibility: Google has added a 20-degree mounting plate to adjust the angle as an accessory. They are also offering a “Made for Google” mounting wedge for adjusting the angle according to the requirements. The wired Nest doorbell got an alternative adapter as a power option. It does not require wiring to set up.
How Does the Design & Build Hold Up?
Google Nest doorbell has the standard pill-shaped design with a button at one edge. The wireless doorbell is slim due to the built-in battery. Nest doorbell is available in ivy, white snow, and gray colors. It resists water, dust, and dirt mites. Prefer a battery-powered doorbell if renting a home, as it's easy to remove and set up.
How Good Is the Video & Detection Performance?
Google Nest doorbell records videos in better quality than Ring and Arlo, despite the resolution differences. It provides clear 12k resolution 6-hour free recording. These recordings act as evidence in case of theft. It records well at night due to infrared LEDs. It’s easy to detect who passed, left a package, and knocked on the doorbell at night.
Nest doorbell package, animal, and motion detection features provide quick alerts. Adjust the motion sensitivity according to the requirements and select the activity zone form notification in the Google Home App. Google's battery doorbell has limitations, and it compromises on quality to last longer. Poor wifi connection leads to lag in video downloads and sharing. It affects the alerts and the two-way audio system.
What Is the Ecosystem & App Experience Like in 2025?
The Google Nest doorbell is convenient to control with the Google Home App. This app gets frequent updates from Google to enhance the user experience. It’s end-to-end encrypted to protect biometric data leaks. Google Doorbell works with Google and the Amazon ecosystem. It does not work with Apple HomeKit. Smart display and Google Assistant provide alerts and live camera view when the owner is busy working. The app makes it easy to communicate, leave a quick reply, and check packages.
How Does Pricing & Subscription Affect Value?
Google Nest doorbell is best when it comes to aesthetics and free version features. It provides unlimited live view, 6-hour event history, and free alerts. Nest doorbell standard prices increased from $8/month to $10/month. The premium bundle surged from $15/month to $20/month. This price increase is valuable if you have a Google ecosystem at home. Choose the Apple HomeKit Secure Video devices to get an extra cloud storage.
Who Should Buy It in 2025?
Nest doorbell suits best those who have a Google ecosystem at home. It integrates well with the smart Nest hub and Nest cam. Google Nest Doorbell works well who are going to purchase a premium subscription as it offers free video recordings. Choose Ring doorbell for a removable battery and Arlo for a budget-friendly doorbell.
