Google’s new Nest Doorbell (wired) is here and, if you’re looking to upgrade over the existing model, the good news is that it’s a truly effortless upgrade.
The Nest Doorbell (3rd gen, wired) with 2K is a notable upgrade for a few reasons. First and foremost, it has that upgrade 2K resolution, which delivers improved low-light as well as that overall boost to resolution. Google uses that to deliver smarter, zoomed-in notifications that help you focus on the part of the frame that’s actually important.
Also new with this model is a wider view. Where the previous wired Nest Doorbell had a vertical view, the newer model is a square shot which shows far more the left and right of the main view. It’s a major difference, as pictured below. It’s pretty crazy just how much more the new model (pictured on the right) can see.
After just a few hours with the new Nest Doorbell installed, I was already a huge fan of the upgraded notifications and view.
But the thing that made the biggest impact for me was the installation.
Prior to this, I was using the second-generation wired Nest Doorbell that I’ve had installed since 2022. Switching to the new model took literally 5 minutes, mainly because the hardware here is identical. The size of the two wired cameras is unchanged between generations, and so is the mounting mechanism. This means you can detach the wires from your old Nest Doorbell, attach them to the new one, and then just drop the new one on the mount. After the quick Google Home setup process, it’s all up and running. It took me quite literally five minutes to do.
In a world where smart home upgrades often mean making big changes, I love this. I wish the same applied for those looking to upgrade from a battery-powered Nest Doorbell or the original Nest Hello, but I’m at least glad to see this continuity between generations.
Is the $179 Nest Doorbell (3rd gen, wired) worth an upgrade after barely 3 years?
That’s a hard call. I wasn’t really asking for this, but I was sold on the upgrade within just a few hours of installation. I wouldn’t say anyone should rush out the door to make this upgrade, especially as there’s no trade-in option, but if the wider POV solves an issue or you’re just ready for a new color, I think it’s a worthy jump.
Stay tuned for a more in-depth review in the coming weeks, and let me know if there’s anything specific you want to know about the Nest Doorbell (3rd gen, wired) in the comments below.
The new Nest Doorbell is now available from Amazon, Best Buy, the Google Store, and other retailers. Notably, Best Buy is offering a form of trade-in, as you can bring in old smart home gear to score a 15% discount on a new Nest device.
More on Google Nest:
Follow Ben: Twitter/X, Threads, Bluesky, and Instagram
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
