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Ring and Nest are two of the biggest consumer-grade security camera providers.

Ring and Nest are owned by Amazon and Google respectively. They offer a variety of Wi-Fi cameras enhanced with cloud features and online storage.

  • Ring is manufactured by Amazon and integrates very well into the Alexa ecosystem.
  • Nest is owned by Google and integrates seamlessly with Google Home and other Nest products.
  • Nest cameras tend to be a bit more expensive than Ring cameras overall.
  • Also, Nest devices tend to have smarter AI detection algorithms.

Ring vs Nest Security Cameras Compared (2024) at a Glance

Battery Powered Security Camera Head to Head

Indoor Camera Head to Head

Video Doorbell Head to Head

Floodlight Camera Head to Head

Ring vs Nest Security Cameras Compared (2024) Overview

Ring and Nest are both well-known security camera brands. They both specialize in Wi-Fi cameras and video doorbells.

Also, both brands require a monthly cloud subscription to unlock many advanced features.

Year Founded
2012
2010
Customer Focus
Consumer Leaning
Consumer Leaning
Aggregate App Reviews
3.6/5
4.4/5
Cloud Platform Name
Ring Protect
Nest Aware
Cloud Subscription Features
Cloud StorageSmart / AI NotificationsExtended WarrantyRich App Previews
Cloud StorageSmart / AI NotificationsRich App PreviewsAdvanced App Features
Cloud Subscription Costs
Basic from $3/month or Plus from $10/month
In its standard US version, Nest Aware costs $6 per month or $60 per year, the latter option saving you $12
Note: PoE & Coax cameras typically require a connected NVR, DVR or surveillance software package (like Blue Iris) to gain access to desktop, mobile or browser apps along with availing of Intelligent Video Surveillance (IVS) Features. The specs below are based on integration with the manufacturers recommended NVR / DVR.

Battery Powered Security Camera Head to Head

Both the Ring Stick Up Cam Battery and the Nest Cam Battery are wireless and have similar capabilities, including night vision, two-way audio, and the ability to integrate with mobile apps for Android and iOS. They also have a 1080P resolution and a fixed focus lens.

However, there are some key differences between the two models that make them suitable for different types of users. The Ring Stick Up Cam Battery has a power source that can be either battery or solar panel, while the Nest 2MP Bullet has battery or can be AC powered. Additionally, the Ring model has an integrated siren/alarm, while the Nest model does not. The Nest camera also has continuous recording capabilities when powered by AC, while the Ring camera does not.

Another differentiator is the Nest camera's advanced smart motion detection features, which include person, vehicle, face, and animal detection, while the Ring camera only has person detection. Finally, the Ring camera has Alexa and Echo Show integrations, while the Nest camera has Google Assistant and Google Nest Hub integrations.

Key Differences

Price
Power Options
BatterySolar Panel
BatteryAC Power
Data Transmission
2.4GHz WiFi
2.4GHz WiFi5GHz WiFi
Integrated Siren / Alarm
Yes
No
Smart Motion Detection Features
Person Detection
Person DetectionVehicle DetectionFace DetectionAnimal Detection
IP Rating
Weather-resistant
IP54
Smart Integrations
AlexaEcho Show
Google AssistantGoogle Nest Hub
Apps
AndroidiOS
AndroidiOS

Key Features in Common

Case Type(s)
Bullet
Bullet
Camera Location
IndoorOutdoor
IndoorOutdoor
Data Type
IP
IP
Camera Wire Type
Wireless Data & Battery Power
Wireless Data & Battery Power
Integrated Microphone
Yes
Yes
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Lens Type
Fixed Focus
Fixed Focus
Night Vision Functionality
Yes
Yes
Night Vision Type
Infrared
Infrared
Storage Options
Cloud
Cloud
Motorized Pan Feature
No
No
Motorized Tilt Feature
No
No
Optical Zoom Feature
No
No
Are Camera Features Limited without a Cloud Subscription?
Yes
Yes

Indoor Camera Head to Head

Ring Indoor Cam Bullet Security Camera and Nest 2MP Bullet Security Camera are two highly rated security cameras that are designed to keep you connected to your home, even when you're away. Both cameras come with a fixed focus lens, night vision functionality, and 2MP 1080P resolution, ensuring high-quality video footage. Additionally, both cameras come with integrated microphones and two-way audio, allowing you to communicate with people and pets in your home.

While there are similarities between the two cameras, there are also key differences. The Ring Indoor Cam is equipped with an integrated siren/alarm, while the Nest 2MP Bullet Security Camera does not have this feature. Furthermore, the Ring Indoor Cam is weather-resistant, while the Nest 2MP Bullet Security Camera is not weatherproof or weather-resistant. Another difference is in the smart integrations offered, as the Ring Indoor Cam is compatible with Alexa and Echo Show, while the Nest 2MP Bullet Security Camera is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Google Nest Hub.

Both cameras come with cloud storage options and the option to purchase a cloud subscription. This means that without a cloud subscription, some camera features may be limited. Ultimately, both the Ring Indoor Cam and Nest 2MP Bullet Security Camera are highly rated and offer robust features, but the decision of which camera to purchase ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

Key Differences

Price
Data Transmission
2.4GHz WiFi
2.4GHz WiFi5GHz WiFi
Integrated Siren / Alarm
Yes
No
Smart Motion Detection Features
Person Detection
Person DetectionVehicle DetectionFace DetectionAnimal Detection
IP Rating
Weather-resistant
Not Weather Proof / Resistant
Smart Integrations
AlexaEcho Show
AlexaGoogle AssistantGoogle Nest Hub
Apps
AndroidiOS
AndroidiOS

Key Features in Common

Case Type(s)
Bullet
Bullet
Camera Location
Indoor
Indoor
Data Type
IP
IP
Camera Wire Type
Wireless Data & Wired Power
Wireless Data & Wired Power
Power Options
AC Power
AC Power
Integrated Microphone
Yes
Yes
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Lens Type
Fixed Focus
Fixed Focus
Night Vision Functionality
Yes
Yes
Night Vision Type
Infrared
Infrared
Storage Options
Cloud
Cloud
Motorized Pan Feature
No
No
Motorized Tilt Feature
No
No
Optical Zoom Feature
No
No
Are Camera Features Limited without a Cloud Subscription?
Yes
Yes

Video Doorbell Head to Head

When it comes to home security, video doorbells have become a popular option for keeping an eye on your front door. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro and the Nest 2MP Video Doorbell are two of the most well-regarded models on the market. Both cameras offer high-quality video, two-way audio, and smart integrations, but there are some key differences between the two.

One of the most notable differences is in the price. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro is priced in the mid-range, while the Nest 2MP Video Doorbell is on the higher end. Another difference is the power options, with the Ring Video Doorbell Pro being able to run on both DC and AC power, while the Nest Doorbell requires AC power.

In terms of video quality, both cameras offer a resolution of 2MP and 1080P, but the Nest 2MP Video Doorbell has a slightly higher resolution of 1600x1200.

When it comes to smart motion detection features, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro has person detection, while the Nest 2MP Video Doorbell has a wider range of detection options including person, vehicle, face, and object detection. Both cameras are rated weather-resistant, but the Nest Doorbell has a higher IP rating of IPX4.

Both cameras have a wide range of smart integrations, with the ability to stream the Ring doorbell to FireTV devices or stream the Nest doorbell to Chromecast devices.

In terms of storage options, both cameras have cloud storage as an option, with the possibility of a cloud subscription for even more features. However, the camera features are limited without a cloud subscription for both cameras.

Key Differences

Price
Power Options
DC PowerAC Power
AC Power
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
2MP: 1600x1200
Smart Motion Detection Features
Person Detection
Person DetectionVehicle DetectionFace DetectionObject Detection
IP Rating
Weather-resistant
IPX4
Smart Integrations
AlexaEcho ShowFire TV
Google AssistantChromecastGoogle Nest Hub
Apps
AndroidiOS
AndroidiOS

Key Features in Common

Case Type(s)
Video Doorbell
Video Doorbell
Camera Location
IndoorOutdoor
IndoorOutdoor
Data Type
IP
IP
Camera Wire Type
Wireless Data & Wired Power
Wireless Data & Wired Power
Data Transmission
2.4GHz WiFi5GHz WiFi
2.4GHz WiFi5GHz WiFi
Integrated Microphone
Yes
Yes
Integrated Siren / Alarm
No
No
Lens Type
Fixed Focus
Fixed Focus
Night Vision Functionality
Yes
Yes
Night Vision Type
Infrared
Infrared
Storage Options
Cloud
Cloud
Motorized Pan Feature
No
No
Motorized Tilt Feature
No
No
Optical Zoom Feature
No
No
Are Camera Features Limited without a Cloud Subscription?
Yes
Yes

Floodlight Camera Head to Head

The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro and the Nest 2MP Floodlight have a number of similarities, such as a 2MP resolution, fixed focus lens, night vision functionality and motion-activated recording. However, there are also several differences between the two cameras that are worth considering.

One of the main differences is the power options available. The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro is designed to be powered by AC power, while the Nest 2MP Floodlight Security Camera has the option of being powered by either AC power or battery. This can be an important consideration for those who want a security camera that can be easily moved from one location to another, or for those who want a camera that can be placed in areas where AC power is not readily available.

Another difference between the two cameras is the integrated siren. The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro has an integrated alarm, while the Nest 2MP Floodlight Security Camera does not. This can be a crucial feature for those who want an extra layer of protection for their home, as the siren can be used to deter intruders and alert neighbors.

The smart motion detection features are also different between the two cameras. The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro has person detection, while the Nest 2MP Floodlight Security Camera has person, vehicle, face, and animal detection. This can be an important factor for those who want a security camera that can detect more than just people, such as vehicles or animals that may enter their property.

The smart integrations available for each camera also differ. The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro can be integrated with Alexa, Echo Show, Fire TV, and Amazon Sidewalk, while the Nest 2MP Floodlight Security Camera can be integrated with Google Assistant and Google Nest Hub. This can be an important consideration for those who have a preference for a specific smart home platform.

Key Differences

Price
Camera Location
Outdoor
IndoorOutdoor
Camera Wire Type
Wireless Data & Wired Power
Wireless Data & Battery Power
Power Options
AC Power
BatteryAC Power
Integrated Siren / Alarm
Yes
No
Smart Motion Detection Features
Person Detection
Person DetectionVehicle DetectionFace DetectionAnimal Detection
IP Rating
Weather-resistant
IP54
Smart Integrations
AlexaEcho ShowFire TVAmazon Sidewalk
Google AssistantGoogle Nest Hub
Apps
AndroidiOS
AndroidiOS

Key Features in Common

Case Type(s)
Floodlight
Floodlight
Data Type
IP
IP
Data Transmission
2.4GHz WiFi5GHz WiFi
2.4GHz WiFi5GHz WiFi
Integrated Microphone
Yes
Yes
Resolution
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
2MP: 1080P / HD: 1920x1080
Lens Type
Fixed Focus
Fixed Focus
Night Vision Functionality
Yes
Yes
Night Vision Type
InfraredFull Color (via Spotlight)
InfraredFull Color (via Spotlight)
Storage Options
Cloud
Cloud
Motorized Pan Feature
No
No
Motorized Tilt Feature
No
No
Optical Zoom Feature
No
No
Are Camera Features Limited without a Cloud Subscription?
Yes
Yes

The Ring vs Nest Security Cameras Compared (2024) - Verdict

In conclusion, both Ring and Nest offer great security camera options for keeping your home safe. Both brands offer a range of cameras that cater to different security needs and preferences. While Ring offers weather-resistant cameras with sirens and a wide range of smart integrations, Nest offers a wider range of smart motion detection features.

Ultimately, the choice between Ring and Nest cameras will come down to your specific security needs, budget, and preferred smart integrations or smart home platform.

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