Nest Doorbell (wired 2nd Gen) and Ring wired: Two heads from the same coin

Nest Doorbell (wired, 2nd Gen)

Google’s new Nest Doorbell features a fresh design, faster processing, improved optics, better AI detection, and much more. Some basic functions, other than the cost, are not included in the subscription.

ForImproved designEasy setupSolid video qualityHelpful AI detection features24/7 recording without a subscriptionAgainstA subscription is necessary if you want more than 3hrs of event historyNight vision could be betterThe speaker is a little weak

Ring Audio Doorbell Wire

The Ring Video Doorbell WIRELESS is the cheapest option, but it’s still a good option for many people. It integrates well with other Ring devices, and has helpful features. Access to all features is available for a monthly fee, even if there are many.

ForAffordable price pointRing Protect is less than Nest AwareCrisp HD videoHelpful detection featuresAgainstDetection features aren’t as advanced as Google’sOnly comes in blackDated design

Both Google and Ring have been producing video doorbells since a while. Ring was the first to market in this segment and has made many versions of its popular video doors. Google, on the other hand has chosen to use its software to update its devices instead of offering new hardware. The new Nest Doorbell (2nd generation) has a new design as well as new features. It is ready to compete with the Ring Video Doorbell Wired. How does this all work? Let’s dive in.

Nest doorbell (wired, 2nd generation) vs. ring wired: They are similar, but not identical

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Nest Video Doorbell (wired, 2nd gen)

(Image credit: Chris Wedel/Android Central)

On the surface, these two excellent video doorbells couldn’t look more different. Ring uses its traditional industrial rectangular design in black. Google uses a modern design with a rounded bottom and top. There are four color options available to match your home’s exterior.

Google has done an excellent job guiding users through the process of installing their doorbells. Ring relies on its extensive experience in the video doorbell industry for easy instructions via the Ring app. Google’s Nest Doorbell can be set up via the Google Home app, rather than the Nest app. I was able to follow the steps clearly during the installation.

Google has a lot of experience in helping users set up and install their devices.

While Ring does offer a chime extensioner, it’s not included in a standard package like the Nest Doorbell.

A wedge is included with the Nest Doorbell to help you position the device exactly where it should be. Ring sells accessories for the Video Doorbell Wired. These accessories include a faceplate and a wedge.

Swipe horizontally to navigateNest Doorbell (wired), 2nd GenerationRing Video Doorbell(wired)Damage 5.2 x 1.75 x 1.1 in. (42 x 28 x 131 mm)3. 98in x 1.8in x 0. 88 in (101 x 45.7 x 22.4 mm)ColorsSnow, Ash, Linen, IvyBlackConnectivity2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi (802. 11b/g/n), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)2.4GHz Wi-Fi (802. 11b/g/n)Wireless SecurityWEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3 encryption supportedStorage encrytion, Transmission encryption, End-to-end encryptionExpandable storageTwo-way communicationSpeakerCamera resolutionHD, 960×1280 pixels 3:4 aspect ratio, up to 30 FPS, HDR, 1/3-inch 1.3-megapixel color sensor, 6x digital zoom1080p HDViewing area145deg diagonal155deg horizontal, 90deg verticalNight vision10 850 nm IR LED up to 10 ft IR LED Night visionSmart featuresSmart intelligence detection for: person, package, vehicle, animal, familiar faces (paid feature)Pre-Roll Video Previews, Motion detection, Advanced features require a subscriptionWeatherproofIP54Weather-resistantPowerHardwired (16V AC ~ 24V AC, 10 VA Minimum, 50/60Hz)Hardwired (10V AC ~ 24V AC, 10 VA Minimum, 50/60Hz)Wireless chime

Looking at the specs above, there are a lot of similarities between the two video doorbell hardware. Both have 1080p video and can communicate with your home. The software and smart features are what makes the difference.

Much like its stellar Android phones like the Pixel 7, Google can take less than stellar hardware, and make it extraordinary with software. Nest Doorbell (2nd generation wired) uses machine learning to provide impressive motion detection and other features. Although you will get custom detection zones and event recording for free, some of the most impressive features require a subscription.

Unfortunately, Ring and Google have chosen to lock many of the best features, some basic ones, too, behind subscriptions.

The Nest Doorbell is capable of 24/7 recording, but unless you pay the minimum of $6/mo, you only get three hours of event recording. The base subscription gains you 30/days of event recording, while the $12/mo Nest Aware Plus nets you the full 24/7 history. These subscriptions include access to Familiar Faces, vehicle, pet and package detection.

Ring is the same as Ring with basic motion detection, two-way communication and basic motion detection. The base price is $3. 99/mo Ring Protect subscription, you’ll get person alerts, improved notifications, and a few other perks. However, neither the video doorbells offer on-device storage. You will need to pay a fee to store your video doorbell recordings in the cloud.

Ring Video Doorbell Wired

(Image credit: Android Central)

Both services offer enhancements that are almost necessary for some instances, like getting extended recording access. Depending on your situation, the enhanced detection features may be a necessity. You can still use the Ring Video Doorbell Wired or Nest Doorbell (wired 2nd generation) without any additional fees.

The Familiar Faces feature on the Nest Doorbell is quite reliable. It can detect faces and let you know if they are someone you know. You will be notified when the person arrives at your door by hearing the bell. The smart detection features worked well in my tests of the device.

Nest Video Doorbell (wired, 2nd gen)

(Image credit: Chris Wedel/Android Central)

While the Ring Video Doorbell Wired doesn’t offer as advanced detection features, the device itself does cost a fair bit less than Google’s option. The subscription is also not as costly. However, the Nest Doorbell’s video doorbell is more robust than the Ring Protect.

Ring’s Video Doorbell Wired works well with Alexa and other Ring devices. You can get notifications from your smart speakers when someone presses the button, and if you use an Alexa smart display like the Echo Show 15, you can also see a live view from your doorbell.

The Nest Doorbell (2nd generation wired) offers the same integration, but with Google Assistant. You can now have your Google Assistant smart speakers tell you when someone is at your door, or you can see who’s there using something like the Nest Hub Max.

Nest doorbell (wired, 2nd generation) vs. Ring: Which one should you purchase?

Nest Video Doorbell (wired, 2nd gen)

(Image credit: Chris Wedel/Android Central)

Which is best for you really comes down to two things — budget and ecosystem. Ring Video Doorbell Wired is cheaper upfront and monthly. It has the same 1080p resolution and two-way communication as the Ring Video Doorbell Wired. You get a few more useful features with the subscription. If you prefer Google Assistant to Alexa, you might be better off going with the Nest Doorbell (wired 2nd generation).

The Nest Doorbell has a more advanced detection system. The Nest Doorbell can filter out specific situations and notify you when they are detected. It will not just tell you that motion has been detected. You’ll have to pay more to get started, and for the advanced detection features you will receive each month. As Google tends to use hardware, you will probably get more software updates over time.

No matter what you choose, you will have a great video doorbell that can monitor your door and keep you informed of visitors who come.

Nest Doorbell (wired, 2nd-gen)

The Nest Doorbell (wired, 2nd gen) pick up the design from its battery-powered sibling, but gains the ability to record 24/7. Advanced detection features such as pets, vehicles, packages and familiar faces will be available. To get these options, you will need to subscribe to Nest Aware.

Ring Audio Doorbell Wire

A low-cost method to get a great video doorbell. Although it does not have the most advanced motion detection capabilities, it still provides excellent video and good motion detection. Ring Protect is a monthly subscription that will allow you to enjoy the full benefits of the device.