Nest Security Review Roundup

It's no surprise that Google would use Nest to enter the home security market. Nest offers a simple selection of wireless devices that are easy to set up and connect, no outside installation or subscription service required. It's ideal for apartments and new homeowners, but what do the reviewers think?

Features

Nest Secure comes with three core devices – the Guard, the Detect, and the Tag. The Guard is a little round hub with a keypad on it that you use to control the basic system. The Detect is a little sensor gadget: you can buy as many as you want and set them up to monitor doors or motion, etc. The Tag is a fob that you carry on your keychain to automatically disarm the system. They all require the Nest app for you to set up. You can choose to pay a $5 monthly fee for constant cellular access to devices, but if you connect them to reliable Wi-Fi it's not necessary.

Pros

• No subscription service necessary
• Easy to start small and grow
• Effective management through the Nest app

Cons

• Starter pack may be pricey for just a few devices
• No Google Assistant compatibility yet

From Android Police

Android Police notes that the Nest app used to contorl the devices is well-designed and easy for people to pick up and use, plus you access your security system at any time. On the other hand, when you buy device by device to create your system, you will have to make some tough choices about what parts of the house (like windows) you want to protect...and Google Assistant compatibility is still lacking for now.

"Nest has made its name by adding smart features to things that you might already have around the house. It's worked pretty well in the past with devices like the Nest Thermostat, but home security is a more serious business. It's different than a thermostat—people rely on a security system to control access to their homes. The new Nest Secure is trying to take the place of an existing product with an important function. It's a balancing act between convenience and safety, and Nest mostly gets it right. The hardware is capable and innovative, and setup was a breeze for me. However, it's missing a few features, and the price is high at $500. That's just the starter pack, too. If you want to outfit all your doors and windows, get ready to spend a whole lot more."

From Techno Buffalo

Techno Buffalo enjoyed the easy of use as well, especially when it came to features like "no rush" for casually arming the system without fear of alarms. However, they also admited that $500 for a simple starter pack may be a bit much for the homeowner looking to self-manage their home security.

"The system features a Nest Guard, Detect, Tag, and a revamped Nest app, the latter of which allow users to see what’s going on at all times. You can also use the app to arm and disarm the system, a convenient feature if an alarm accidentally goes off, or if you have a visitor who doesn’t have a Nest Tag. Nest really markets Secure’s ease of use. For example, when you arm the system, there isn’t a countdown or loud beeps. With a feature like “No Rush,” users can set how much time they need before leaving. The main hub is the Guard, which features an alarm, keypad, and motion sensor; it basically acts as the brains of the system, working in tandem with the Detect, which is a sensor that can be placed on everything from doors to walls."

From Digital Trends

Digital Trends really appreciated the minimalistic, stylish appearance of the security gadgets, which can blend right into the modern home. They mentioned that the design is also pretty great when it comes to interfaces, although built-in rechargeable batteries could have been used more often for a better experience. They also had a problem with the lack of Google Assistant.

"Unlike a traditional security panel, which sits on your wall, the Nest Guard hub is a puck-shaped device that sits on your table. It’s about as big as an Amazon Echo Dot, but white instead of black. The sensors are subtle but still noticeable. They’re about 2-inches long and will simply stick to your window or door frame. There are two components to these sensors – a main sensor and an accompanying magnet, which is used to detect when a door or window is opened and closed. One of the reasons the sensor is longer in length is because of the battery – the sensor will last two years on a single battery, but once that battery is used up, you will have to replace it."

Bottom Line

Nest offers a great starter kit for a minor home security system that you can self-manage, with no long-term costs. However, if voice control is important to you, you may want to wait for the inevitable Google Assistant compatibility. If you want to get some of the latest reviews and expert home security system choices, check out www.gadgetreview.com/best-home-security-system to learn more.

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