What To Know
- In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of Google Nest Aware vs Free to help you make an informed decision about whether the subscription is worth it for your home security needs.
- However, if you are on a budget or only need basic security monitoring, the free features of Nest devices may suffice.
- Some Nest cameras, such as the Nest Doorbell (wired), do not require a Nest Aware subscription for basic features.
Nest Aware is Google’s premium subscription service that enhances the capabilities of your Nest smart home devices. It offers additional features such as extended video history, person detection, and smart alerts. However, it comes at a cost, while the basic features of Nest devices are available for free. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of Google Nest Aware vs Free to help you make an informed decision about whether the subscription is worth it for your home security needs.
Features Comparison: Google Nest Aware vs Free
1. Video History
- Free: 3 hours of event-based video history (motion or sound detection)
- Nest Aware: 30 or 60 days of continuous video history, depending on the subscription plan
2. Person Detection
- Free: Not available
- Nest Aware: Identifies people in video footage and sends alerts specifically for human activity
3. Smart Alerts
- Free: Basic alerts for motion or sound detection
- Nest Aware: Advanced alerts with object detection (e.g., package detection, pet detection) and facial recognition
4. Cloud Storage
- Free: Limited to 3 hours of event-based video history
- Nest Aware: Unlimited cloud storage for video history
5. Activity Zones
- Free: Not available
- Nest Aware: Allows you to define specific areas in your camera’s field of view to receive alerts only for activity in those zones
6. Time-Lapse History
- Free: Not available
- Nest Aware: Creates a time-lapse video of events throughout the day, providing a quick overview of activity
7. Familiar Face Detection
- Free: Not available
- Nest Aware: Recognizes and alerts you when familiar faces are detected, reducing false alerts
Benefits of Google Nest Aware
- Extended Video History: With 30 or 60 days of continuous video history, you can review footage from days or weeks ago to investigate incidents or find missing items.
- Person Detection: By only alerting you when people are detected, Nest Aware significantly reduces false alerts and allows you to focus on potential threats.
- Smart Alerts: Advanced object detection and facial recognition provide more accurate and relevant alerts, giving you peace of mind.
- Unlimited Cloud Storage: No need to worry about running out of storage space for your video footage.
- Activity Zones: Customize your camera’s detection areas to eliminate irrelevant alerts and focus on specific areas.
- Time-Lapse History: Get a quick overview of the day’s events in a convenient time-lapse video.
- Familiar Face Detection: Reduces false alerts and provides personalized alerts when known individuals are detected.
Drawbacks of Google Nest Aware
- Cost: Nest Aware requires a monthly or annual subscription fee.
- Not Essential for Basic Security: The free features of Nest devices provide basic security functionality for many users.
- Privacy Concerns: Some users may be concerned about the potential for privacy breaches with cloud storage and advanced detection features.
Which Option Is Right for You?
The decision of whether to subscribe to Google Nest Aware depends on your individual security needs and budget. If you value extended video history, person detection, smart alerts, and other advanced features, Nest Aware is a worthwhile investment. However, if you are on a budget or only need basic security monitoring, the free features of Nest devices may suffice.
Additional Considerations
- Number of Cameras: The cost of Nest Aware increases with the number of cameras you have.
- Camera Type: Some Nest cameras, such as the Nest Doorbell (wired), do not require a Nest Aware subscription for basic features.
- Local Storage: If you prefer to store video footage locally, you can purchase a Nest Aware subscription with local storage backup.
Alternatives to Google Nest Aware
If Google Nest Aware is not the right fit for you, there are alternative subscription services that offer similar features. Some popular options include:
- Arlo Secure
- Ring Protect
- Wyze Cam Plus
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What is the cost of Google Nest Aware?
A: Nest Aware plans start at $6 per month or $60 per year for a single camera. The price increases with the number of cameras you have.
Q: Does Nest Aware work with all Nest devices?
A: Nest Aware is compatible with most Nest cameras and doorbells. However, some devices, such as the Nest Doorbell (wired), do not require a subscription for basic features.
Q: Can I cancel my Nest Aware subscription at any time?
A: Yes, you can cancel your Nest Aware subscription at any time. You will continue to have access to the features until the end of your current billing cycle.
Q: What happens to my video footage if I cancel my Nest Aware subscription?
A: If you cancel your Nest Aware subscription, you will lose access to all of your video history stored in the cloud.
Q: Is Google Nest Aware worth the cost?
A: The value of Nest Aware depends on your individual security needs and budget. If you value extended video history, person detection, and smart alerts, Nest Aware is a worthwhile investment. However, if you are on a budget or only need basic security monitoring, the free features of Nest devices may suffice.
