A smart video doorbell is a simple way to upgrade your home security, offering features like motion detection, two-way audio, and video recording. The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro and Google Nest Doorbell are among the top contenders, each catering to different smart home ecosystems and user preferences. This comparison explores their design, video quality, motion detection, power options, smart home integration, and subscription plans to help you determine the best choice for your home.
Price & Subscription Plans
Ring Doorbell Pro:
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro is available for $229.99 at Ring.com. The Ring Home Subscription Plans offer three tiers:
- Premium: $19.99/month or $199.99/year, adding Smart Video Search, 24/7 Recording, and SOS Emergency Response.
- Basic: $4.99/month or $49.99/year for 180-day video history, person and package alerts, and video preview alerts.
- Standard: $9.99/month or $99.99/year, including everything in Basic plus Doorbell Calls and Extended Live View.
Google Nest Doorbell:
The Google Nest Doorbell can be purchased for $179.99 at the Google Store. The Nest Aware Subscription starts at $8 per month, covering all Nest devices. It includes a 30-day event history, with an option for 60 days through Nest Aware Plus. Google Nest also offers free 3-hour event clip storage, which Ring does not provide without a subscription.
Design & Build
Ring Doorbell Pro:
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro features a compact, modern rectangular design with a Satin Nickel interchangeable faceplate for customization. It is built to withstand outdoor conditions with an operating temperature range of -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C). The doorbell measures 5.1 inches by 2.4 inches by 1.1 inches (12.8 cm x 6.2 cm x 2.8 cm).
Google Nest Doorbell:
The Google Nest Doorbell, on the other hand, has a sleek, vertical design with a minimalist aesthetic. It is available in Snow, Linen, Ivy, and Ash, allowing homeowners to match it with their exteriors. With an IP54 weather resistance rating, it provides moderate protection against the elements. It measures 6.3 inches by 1.8 inches by 0.95 inches (160 mm x 46 mm x 24.1 mm).
Video Quality & Field of View
Ring Doorbell Pro:
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro captures 1536p HD+ video with HDR, ensuring clear images. It has a 150-degree horizontal and 150-degree vertical field of view, offering a more comprehensive perspective of visitors and packages at the door. The device includes Color Night Vision for improved clarity in low-light conditions and features Color Pre-Roll, which records short clips before motion events for added context.
Google Nest Doorbell:
The Google Nest Doorbell records in 960 x 1280 HD resolution with HDR, ensuring well-balanced and enhanced visuals. It has a 145-degree diagonal field of view with a 3:4 aspect ratio, allowing it to capture full-body images of visitors. Equipped with infrared LEDs for Night Vision, the device ensures better visibility in low-light conditions up to 10 feet.
Motion Detection & Alerts
Ring Doorbell Pro:
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro includes 3D Motion Detection with Bird’s Eye View, which provides a more precise motion alert system by mapping movement across a top-down view of the property. It also features Package and Person Detection, allowing users to receive tailored notifications for different motion types. These features are enhanced with Camera Motion Zones and Bird’s Eye Zones, enabling customization of monitored areas.
Google Nest Doorbell:
The Google Nest Doorbell is equipped with AI-powered motion detection, which can differentiate between people, packages, animals, and vehicles. Users can define Activity Zones to monitor specific areas. Unlike Ring, the Nest Doorbell does not require a subscription for basic motion alerts, making it a more cost-effective option.
Audio & Two-Way Communication
Ring Doorbell Pro:
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro features Two-Way Talk with Audio+ and advanced noise cancellation, ensuring clear communication with visitors. It also includes a Quick Replies feature, allowing users to set up automated responses when they cannot answer the door.
Google Nest Doorbell:
The Google Nest Doorbell provides two-way talk with high-definition audio clarity. It also includes pre-recorded messages, allowing users to respond to visitors even when they are unavailable. Additionally, it offers free 3-hour event video storage, which Ring does not provide without a subscription.
Power & Installation
Ring Doorbell Pro:
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro can be powered by a Rechargeable Quick Release Battery Pack or hardwired to an 8-24 VAC, 50/60Hz transformer for continuous power and chime compatibility. It can also be connected to additional Ring accessories, including a Plug-In Adapter, Solar Charger, or Solar Panel, for alternative power sources.
Google Nest Doorbell:
The Google Nest Doorbell comes with a built-in rechargeable Li-Ion battery (6 Ah, 3.65V) and can also be hardwired to an 8-24 VAC, 10VA, 50/60Hz transformer. Under normal conditions, the battery typically lasts 3 months. Like the Ring model, it offers an easy, hub-free installation process.
Smart Home Integration
Ring Doorbell Pro:
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro is designed for Amazon Alexa users and works seamlessly with Ring Alarm, Echo Show, and Fire TV. However, it has limited compatibility with Google Assistant and does not support Apple HomeKit.
Google Nest Doorbell:
The Google Nest Doorbell is built for Google Assistant and Google Home users. It integrates smoothly with Nest Hub, Chromecast, and the Google Home app. Additionally, it supports Matter, making it compatible with a broader range of smart home devices.
Pros & Cons
Ring Battery Doorbell Pro
Pros:
✔ 1536p HD+ video resolution with Color Night Vision.
✔ 3D Motion Detection and Bird’s Eye View for enhanced security.
✔ Multiple power options, including battery, hardwired, and solar.
✔ Works seamlessly with Alexa and Ring ecosystem.
✔ Advanced Two-Way Talk with Audio+ and noise cancellation.
Cons:
✖ Subscription required for cloud storage and advanced alerts.
✖ No free event video storage.
✖ Limited compatibility with Google Assistant and no Apple HomeKit support.
Google Nest Doorbell
Pros:
✔ AI-powered motion detection with smart alerts.
✔ Free 3-hour event video storage without a subscription.
✔ Seamless integration with Google Home and Nest ecosystem.
✔ Minimalist design with multiple color options.
✔ Customizable Activity Zones for precise motion detection.
Cons:
✖ Lower resolution compared to Ring Battery Doorbell Pro.
✖ Narrower horizontal field of view.
✖ Lacks Bird’s Eye View feature for motion tracking.
Final Verdict—Which One Should You Choose?
Both the Ring Battery Doorbell Pro and Google Nest Doorbell cater to different smart home ecosystems, making them ideal for different users.
- The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro is the superior choice for Alexa-based smart homes, offering 3D Motion Detection, Bird’s Eye View, enhanced HD+ video resolution, and multiple power options. However, it requires a subscription for cloud storage, lacks free event storage, and is less integrated with Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit.
- The Google Nest Doorbell is the preferred option for Google Home users, providing AI-powered motion detection, free 3-hour event storage, and seamless Nest ecosystem integration. However, it has a lower resolution compared to Ring, lacks Bird’s Eye View motion tracking, and has a narrower horizontal field of view.
Ultimately, if you use Amazon Alexa and want advanced motion detection and a wider viewing angle, the Ring Battery Doorbell Pro is the better option. If you prefer Google Home integration, AI-driven alerts, and free event storage, then the Google Nest Doorbell is the smarter choice.
FAQs
How do I remove the battery from the Ring Battery Doorbell Pro?
- Charge or replace the battery as needed before reinserting it and securing the faceplate.
- Unscrew the security screw at the bottom of the doorbell using the included Ring screwdriver.
- Slide the faceplate off carefully.
- Press the release tab on the battery compartment and pull the battery out.
Does the Ring Doorbell Pro have a battery?
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro is a hardwired-only device and does not have a built-in battery. However, the Ring Battery Doorbell Pro is a different model that includes a removable battery pack for flexible installation.
How long does the Ring Battery Doorbell Pro battery last?
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro battery typically lasts 3-6 months per charge, depending on usage, motion detection settings, and weather conditions. Frequent motion alerts and live view usage can shorten battery life.
Can I use Ring Doorbell Pro without a subscription?
Yes, you can use the Ring Doorbell Pro without a Ring Protect subscription, but features will be limited. Without a subscription, you can still receive real-time notifications, live view, and two-way talk. However, you won’t have access to video recordings, advanced motion detection, or smart alerts.
What is the difference between the Ring Battery Doorbell Pro and Ring Battery Doorbell Plus?
- Resolution & Field of View: The Battery Doorbell Pro has 1536p HD+ resolution, while the Plus model offers 150-degree field of view with 1536p resolution for a taller head-to-toe view.
- Features: The Pro model includes 3D Motion Detection and Bird’s Eye View, which the Plus model lacks.
- Power Options: Both models use a removable battery, but the Pro version offers hardwiring for continuous power.
How do I connect the Google Nest Doorbell to Google Home?
- Open the Google Home app on your phone.
- Tap the “+” button in the top-left corner and select “Set up a device”.
- Choose “New Device” and select your home.
- Select “Nest Doorbell” from the list and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Scan the QR code on the doorbell to pair it with your account.
- Complete the setup, and the doorbell will be linked to Google Home.
How do I charge the Google Nest Doorbell?
- Remove the doorbell from its mounting bracket by pressing the release tab.
- Plug in the USB-C charging cable (included with the device) into the charging port on the back.
- Charge fully (this can take about 5 hours).
- Reattach the doorbell to its mounting bracket when fully charged.
Does the Google Nest Doorbell require a subscription?
No, the Google Nest Doorbell does not require a Nest Aware subscription to function. Without a subscription, you get free 3-hour event video storage, motion alerts, and live view. However, a Nest Aware subscription adds longer video history (30 or 60 days), familiar face recognition, and advanced alerts.
How long does the Google Nest Doorbell battery last?
The Google Nest Battery Doorbell lasts 2-6 months per charge, depending on motion activity, settings, and weather conditions. If the doorbell detects frequent motion or live streaming is used often, battery life may be shorter.
Is there a monthly fee for Google Nest doorbells?
There is no mandatory monthly fee for Google Nest Doorbells. However, if you want extended video history, AI-powered alerts, and facial recognition, you can subscribe to Nest Aware ($8/month) or Nest Aware Plus ($15/month).
Does the Google Nest Doorbell work without WiFi?
No, the Google Nest Doorbell requires a WiFi connection to function properly. Without WiFi, it cannot send alerts, stream live video, or record footage. However, the battery version may still record short clips if an outage occurs, which can be accessed when WiFi is restored.
Joyce Elizabeth
Joyce is a writer who loves creating content that connects and inspires. With a background in psychology, she enjoys understanding what drives people and crafting stories that make complex choices feel simple. When she’s not writing, you can find her trying out new coffee spots, getting lost in a good book, or planning her next adventure.
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