Google recently unveiled the latest security devices from Nest — including the new Google Nest Cam. But is the 2021 version worth buying?
Google’s Nest has long been one of the best ways to get started in the smart home, through its much-loved Learning Thermostat, but also through its range of cameras, the new Nest Mini speaker, and more. Recently, Google expanded the Nest smart home device family, with the new Google Nest Doorbell, and Google Nest Cam. For our review of the Google Nest Doorbell, you can head here. For this review, however, we’re focusing on the battery-powered Google Nest Cam. It replaces the previous-generation Nest Cam, has a battery for wired or wireless use, and works indoors and outdoors. But does it actually perform in a world of more and more smart home products? I’ve been using the Google Nest Cam to find out. Note, the device is available in a wired-only model for $99.99, and in a floodlight model for $279.99. Both of those will be available for purchase “soon.” We’re focusing on the battery-powered model in this review. Google seems to be unafraid of making a big, unapologetic device these days. The Nest Doorbell is much bigger than you might assume — and the same is true for the Google Nest Cam. For most, the size of the Nest Cam shouldn’t be an issue, but some might find it a little unwieldy. The camera itself is a little over 3 inches wide, but with the table-top stand it measures around 5.5 inches tall. By default, in the box, you’ll get a wall mount that works magnetically and allows you to articulate the camera to point exactly in the direction you want. It works really well — but you will need to keep in mind that there’s really nothing stopping someone from simply walking up to the camera and detaching it from its magnetic base, as long as they can reach it. It’s probably worth placing it out of reach, if possible. You can get a table stand as an optional accessory, which keeps the camera powered as well. It costs extra though, and if you plan on using your camera in this way, it may be worth simply waiting for the cheaper wired option. The camera offers an all-white design with a black face, and it looks good. It’s clearly built from premium plastic, and never felt cheap or easily breakable. It’s also weather-proof, so you can use it indoors or outdoors. In the box, apart from the camera itself, you’ll get a USB charging cable and power brick. You’ll also get the appropriate accessories to attach the mount to a wall. The table mount is optional, and it comes with its own charging cable that allows you to constantly power the camera. The 2021 Google Nest Cam is a little bulky, but it looks good, and is well-built.
