Google Nest Smart Home & Security Review (2026)

What Google Nest Does Well

Google Nest covers cameras, video doorbells, smart displays, thermostats, and speakers. The hardware is well designed and fits into the Google Home app and, increasingly, the ADT+ app when you have an ADT system. ADT now uses Nest cameras and doorbells in many of its packages, and you can also buy Nest devices on their own for a DIY setup. The result is a path for both pure-DIY Nest users and those who want ADT professional monitoring with Nest equipment.

Nest Aware is the subscription that adds person, animal, and vehicle detection, event history, and 24/7 recording on supported cameras. Pricing is per device or per home. Without it, you get live streaming and a short history, but you miss most of the smart alerts and long-term storage. For homes already using Google Assistant, Nest Hub, and Chromecast, Nest cameras and doorbells slot in naturally.

Equipment and Integration

The Nest lineup includes indoor and outdoor cameras, battery and wired doorbells, and the Nest Doorbell (wired). Displays like Nest Hub Max can show camera feeds and act as a control point. There is no Nest-branded alarm panel or sensors; for a full alarm system with professional monitoring, you pair Nest with ADT, which supplies the panel, sensors, and monitoring. Standalone Nest is best for video-focused security and smart home control without a traditional alarm.

Setup is app-driven: add a device in the Google Home or ADT+ app, follow the steps, and mount. Nest uses Wi-Fi; some products have battery options for doorbells where wiring is difficult. Integration with Google Assistant is deep: you can view cameras on displays, get alerts on phones and speakers, and build routines. There is no Apple HomeKit support; Alexa support exists but is less central than on Ring or other Amazon-oriented brands.

Pricing and Nest Aware

Nest devices are sold at a premium compared to Wyze or some Ring models. Nest Aware adds ongoing cost. The per-home tier can make sense if you have several cameras. When Nest is bundled with ADT, equipment may be financed and monitoring is through ADT; you need to factor in ADT's contract and monthly fees. For DIY-only Nest, you avoid contracts but pay upfront for hardware and, if you want full value, for Nest Aware.

Who Google Nest Is Best For

Nest fits households invested in Google and those considering ADT who want Nest cameras and doorbells. It is a strong option if you value design, the Google Home app, and compatibility with Nest thermostats and displays. If you want the widest camera selection at the lowest cost, or a full DIY alarm with no ADT involvement, Ring or SimpliSafe may be better. If you want ADT monitoring with modern, well-integrated cameras, the ADT + Nest combination is one of the better choices.

FAQs

Can I use Nest without ADT?

Yes. Nest cameras and doorbells work stand-alone with the Google Home app and Nest Aware. For a full alarm with pro monitoring, you need ADT or another provider.

What is Nest Aware?

Nest Aware is a subscription that adds person/animal/vehicle detection, longer event history, and 24/7 recording on supported devices. It's required to get the most out of Nest cameras.

How does Nest compare to Ring?

Nest is more aligned with Google and ADT; Ring is Amazon-centric and has a larger DIY alarm and camera ecosystem. Choose Nest if you prefer Google; Ring if you prefer Amazon and more DIY options.

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