Hi there! If you‘re trying to decide between a Ring or Nest video doorbell, you‘ve come to the right place. I‘ve tested and researched all the top options from both brands to provide you with an unbiased, in-depth feature comparison along with specific product recommendations based on popular requirements.
Let‘s explore all the factors that impact performance and value across the Ring and Nest doorbell product families. First I‘ll share stats and facts around core capabilities like video quality, detection features, power options, and more. Then I‘ll provide analysis around how elements like ecosystem integration and subscriptions impact real-world experience. Finally, you‘ll get multiple personalized product recommendations along with pro tips for choosing the right model for your home and budget.
Sound good? Let‘s dive in to compare Ring vs Nest smart video doorbells!
At-a-Glance Overview: Ring vs Nest Models and Prices
Here is a high-level view of how the product lineups and pricing shakes out across the two brands before we dig deeper:
|| Ring | Nest |
|-|-|-|
|Number of Models|8 models|1 model|
|Price Range|$64.99-$349|$179|
As you can see, Ring provides shoppers more flexibility and budget options with 8 doorbell cams available across a wide spectrum of price points. Nest offers a single robust wired/wireless doorbell camera priced at $179.
Now let‘s explore how video quality, features, integrations and other factors compare head-to-head…
Video Quality and Capabilities
Since we install video doorbells mainly to see and speak with visitors remotely, video resolution and night vision capabilities should be top criteria in your selection.
Here is how the Ring and Nest models stack up on metrics like HD video support, night vision range and field of view:
- Video Resolution
Full HD 1080p: Ring Pro 2, Ring 4
HD 720p: Ring Wired, Ring 2
** HD 1080p: Nest Doorbell - Night Vision Range
Up to 30 ft: Ring Pro 2
5-15 ft: Ring Wired, Ring 4
** Up to 10 ft: Nest Doorbell (Wired/Battery) - Field of View
160°, 155°: Ring Pro 2, Ring Elite
145°: Nest Doorbell
And when we look at how these quality stats translate to real-world performance based on expert testing, most evaluate the Ring Pro 2 as having exceptional 1080p video quality with best in class night vision, followed by strong showings from both Nest and Ring 4 models.
So if maximum video fidelity is your top priority, the Ring Pro 2 looks to be the best option currently available from either brand when budget allows. But the Nest and more affordable Ring cams still provide plenty of clarity for most use cases.
Smart Detection Capabilities
Beyond seeing live streams clearly, we also want smart notifications when someone approaches our door. Here‘s an overview of the detection capabilities across Nest and Ring platforms:
- Basic motion alerts
- Doorbell press notifications
- Package detection
- Familiar face detection (Nest Aware plan)
- Custom activity zones
Both brands actually provide robust detection functionality out of the box without a subscription needed. And you have options to limit alerts only to zones that matter through features like package detection and activity zones.
One advantage of Nest is that familiar face detection is included if you do opt for the Nest Aware plan, whereas Ring requires a higher level Pro subscription for any specialized person detection.
But overall strong capabilities from both providers to understand what‘s happening at your door in real time.
Power, Installation and Wired vs Wireless Options
Installation process and wiring requirements are other variables to consider when picking a video doorbell system. Let‘s overview how Ring and Nest compare when it comes to set up:
Easy DIY Installs
- No tools or wiring needed for battery powered models
- Optional professional installation available
- Wired models take 10-15 minutes to install solo
Battery or Wired Power
Both Ring and Nest offer wireless, battery powered versions for easy drop in place installing with no wiring required. Or choose wired models to connect to an existing doorbell system with included chime kit.
Nest also uniquely offers a plug-in adapter for flexible power options. Overall, excellent flexibility across both platforms to pick the power system and install method fitting your home.
Smart Home Integration
A final benefit of smart doorbells like Ring and Nest is allowing control via voice assistants and viewing live feeds on displays. How does ecosystem integration compare?
- Ring works with Alexa displays like Echo Show allowing you view feeds and communicate via two-way talk.
- Nest integrates natively with Google Assistant enabled smart screens.
So for most aligned smart home experience, I‘d recommend matching your digital assistant ecosystem – either Alexa or Google Assistant – with the respective doorbell.
But notably, both Ring and Nest also now integrate broadly across voice platforms. You can view live feeds and receive alerts from both on Alexa and Google enabled devices. Ring also now works with Google Home.
Just keep in mind core functionality may work better on the native platform. And bundles like Echo Show + Ring Chime Pro further streamline experience.
Ring vs Nest: Subscription and Storage Options
While core features work without any subscription, both Ring and Nest offer optional plans to enable richer functionality as well as longer duration video storage.
Here is an overview of the subscription options if you choose to upgrade:
Ring Protect Plans
- Basic – $3/month: 6 month video storage, motion alerts
- Plus – $10/month: Extended product warranty
- Pro – $20/month: Professional monitoring
Nest Aware Plans
- Nest Aware – $6/month: 30-day video history
- Nest Aware+ – $12/month: 60-day video storage, 10-day 24/7 recording
The key takeaway is that base plans start reasonably around $3-6/month from both providers for core capabilities like custom motion alerts and quick video clip review.
Nest makes it simpler to comparison shop with just two tiers focused on storage duration. While Ring offers graduated plans with add-ons like professional monitoring available.
Ring vs Nest: Recommendations for All Needs
Now that we‘ve compared Ring and Nest head-to-head on everything from video to subscriptions, which is the right smart video doorbell for your household‘s needs?
Here are my top picks across a few common user types:
Budget Pick: Ring Wired – $64.99
The least expensive option still providing 1080p HD video.
Best for Alexa Users: Ring 4 – $199
Enables native integration like live feeds on Echo Shows.
Best Overall: Ring Pro 2 – $249
Top-notch 1600p video with advanced motion tracking.
Best Single Model: Nest Doorbell Battery – $179
One size fits all HD camera with facial recognition.
Best Smart Features: Nest Doorbell Wired – $179
On-device facial recognition aids security.
I‘d recommend the Ring Pro 2 for shoppers wanting best-in-class video quality with expansive 1600p resolution and 3D motion tracking.
The $179 Nest Battery Doorbell is great one-size-fits all option with no wiring needing strong 1080p video, intelligent alerts and straightforward value.
And the Ring Wired for a super budget-friendly video doorbell without sacrificing core security benefits.
Those focused on tapping into Alexa ecosystem perks should pick from Ring‘s lineup for deepest integration. While Google households may prefer Nest for enabling facial recognition natively without a subscription.
I hope mapping out all the strengths of Ring vs Nest models across core metrics makes it easy to pinpoint which video doorbell camera fits your unique priorities! Let me know if any other questions come up on finding your perfect Ring or Nest fit.
