Customer Ratings & Reviews

The second-generation Nest Cam Outdoor is a powerful camera in a small, inobtrusive package. But how much of that power you’ll have access to is entirely dependent on what tier of subscription you can afford. While this may sound like a knock, among subscription cameras Google Home Premium (Formerly Nest Aware) is one of the more liberal. It allows a single sub for unlimited devices. Many, if not most of its competitors, have tier limitations that call for a price increase as soon as you get about an arbitrary number of devices. And while you can run this camera without a subscription, it does limit event storage to 6-hour event history, so a sub is highly suggested. I have Google Home Premium as part of my Google One subscription, so I was eager to test my first Nest Cam. This second-generation cam has improved the resolution to 2k and a wider field of view than its predecessor and I found the coverage to be great for the front of my home. I was able to see from one property line to the other all the way to the street. Mounting was easy and I liked the fact that they included a decent-sized power cable, something that was an added accessory on the previous camera. Setup in the Google Home app was quick and easy as well – something Google gets better at with each iteration whether it’s a home device, a watch or a phone. Speaking of phones, I appreciated the Nest Cam’s animated notifications with clear labels for each type of activity you’ve set up to track. On my Premium account, my notifications were titled for people, animals or vehicles, but if you opt for the next level up you can get even more descriptive AI notifications from Gemini. Detections are quick and decisive, and in my testing, I didn’t get any false positives; people were people, animals were animals and waving branches or car headlights didn’t trigger anything. Low light and night vision was surprisingly clear without having any IR lights on the cam though it is black and white as opposed to some of the new cams that use a color night element. As expected, connecting on Google Home/Nest speakers was quick and reliable. Many of my other cams that are supported on my Google Home/Nest smart speakers do work, but there is always a bit of lag before they connect and display, where the Nest Cam just works. The Home app is easier to use these days thanks to improvements from Google and allows you to access some of the camera’s AI features. While some of the cooler stuff like voice searching for specific events or getting a rundown of the days events are locked behind the higher tier subscription level, things like creating automations by explaining what you want to accomplish worked surprisingly quickly and accurately. Something like turning on a supported light when a person entered a defined zone worked first time and I was even able to specify that I only wanted this to happen at night. All in all, the camera is well designed, and quality built for the price and represents a great value. While I’m not a fan of cloud devices or subscriptions, I’d be more inclined to get a Google cloud device than most other brands and if you have the inclination and abilities, there are ways to get access to the Nest API for some more local abilities. For most people though, the Nest Cam with a basic subscription is an easy choice to make and one you won’t regret down the line.

I just moved into a new townhouse and wanted to place a camera inside my garage so I can check to make sure the door is closed. I was torn between two the new Indoor and Outdoor Nest Cams. I'm glad I chose the Outdoor Cam since it is easy to set up and mount and will stand up better to the elements (heat and dust). The video quality is excellent and the camera does an incredible job at recording events and detecting an open/closed garage door. === PROS === - The Outdoor camera includes an 18-foot, outdoor-rated power cable which gives you flexibility to mount the camera almost anywhere. It also includes 6 cable clips, though I wish it came with a few more for the long power cable. - The camera is IP65 rated and can stand up to the outdoor elements, including dust and water. It is rated to operate in temperatures from -4°F to 104°F. I live in a very hot desert climate, so it remains to be seen how well this will operate on 110°+ days. - If you already use Google/Nest smart home devices, this camera integrates seamlessly with your other Google devices. As soon as I scanned the setup QR code, the camera automatically connected to my Wi-Fi network and appeared in my Google Home app. - Video is sharp and vivid at all hours of the day. I previously used an older Nest Cam IQ Outdoor, and the video quality on this new Nest Cam Outdoor 2nd Gen seems just as good if not better than the IQ camera. The night vision feature lets you see clearly even when it's pitch black outside. - The camera's intelligent alerts are the real selling point for me. After mounting the camera in my garage (facing the garage door), I turned on the alerts for "garage door" in the Google Home app settings. Now, the app alerts me when the garage door opens/closes and if I've left the door open for more than a set period of time. It's also smart enough to recognize faces and animals, and all of these recorded events are neatly organized in the video feed timeline. === CONS === - The 18-foot cable is great if your power outlet is far from where you plan to mount the camera. But unfortunately, there aren't any short power cables available, so if you don't need the entire length of the 18-foot cable, you'll have to find a way to hide all the excess slack. - To fully take advantage of this camera's features, you'll have to subscribe to one of Google's new Home Premium subscriptions which start at $10/month. Otherwise, without a subscription, you'll only be able to see six hours of event video history. You'll also need a subscription for access to intelligent detection abilities for familiar faces, garage doors, and packages. If you want 24/7 video recording, you'll have to opt for the top-tier Home Premium Advanced plan starting at $20/month. === OVERALL === This is an excellent outdoor camera, especially for those already in the Google/Nest ecosystem of smart home products. The video quality is great and the intelligent features are very helpful. But to truly make the most of this camera, you'll need to purchase a Google Home Premium subscription, so that cost should factor into your decision-making process.

The Google Nest Cam Outdoor 2K Camera has an excellent viewing window with its 152-degree diagonal field of view. It is by far the most precise capture of any security camera I have owned, and I have had several brands, including a few wired and wireless options. This wired Google Nest Cam is a newer 2nd-gen version that incorporates the use of Gemini AI. It features a 6x zoom that enables it to provide very precise, up-to-date security video captures. The video is sharp and clear and can be recorded at up to 2K resolution at 30 frames per second (FPS). The High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology incorporated into this camera enables excellent contrast between black and white in very low-light conditions. Night vision can record up to 20 feet by using the two high-powered 859-nanometer RGB infrared LEDs that are incorporated. It performs well in nighttime conditions, providing details that exceed those of most security cameras. The security camera’s most important feature is that it can provide a 24/7 live view. The Audio is equally high quality and features noise-cancelling capabilities, as well as a 2-way speaker. The installation process is straightforward. It requires that you download the Google Home App, and that this app and your Google account be connected to the same Wi-Fi as your phone and other Google smart devices. Through the use of the App and Bluetooth, setting up the camera connection with your phone app is easy. The Wi-Fi connection also allows the camera device to receive automatic security updates. Overall, personal Wi-Fi security is enhanced because the camera connects using 128-bit AES encryption with TLS/SSL security measures. The camera features a two-piece design, with the connection secured by a strong magnet that holds the actual camera in place. This magnetic section comes with the necessary hardware to install on various surfaces, including brick. Specifically designed to work with Google’s Gemini AI, it is the smartest of all Google cameras to date. The camera can be used without an extra subscription, but to fully utilize all the capabilities of the camera’s design, a Google Home Premium subscription is required. The Google Home Premium subscription can connect all of your Google Smart Devices and even alert the authorities if needed. The benefits of the subscription for use with the security camera include extras such as extended video storage, advanced alerts, and AI-generated, detailed event descriptions. The camera can be asked detailed questions and, with the use of Gemini AI, respond with detailed answers. This is just a few of the many features it offers. A 30-day trial is available for the Premium subscription. I like the wired version very much. I have had battery-operated security cameras and still do, but the weather in my geographical area tends to drain the batteries frequently. With the wired version, this is not a concern. The camera operates between -4F and 104°F and is weather-resistant. It also works well as an inside camera if that is a better placement for your needs.

TLDR; if you have an older model may not be worth the upgrade, but if you are in a market for a camera, this is the one to get. I've been using the nest cams for some time now for the security of my family. I enjoy these cameras as they are easy to set up, easy to use, and has nice integration with alot of the home networking hubs. They are very user friendly to install, just plug it in, follow the instructions in the included app, and you will have to download an app just follow the instructions on the app. Once set up, you can access the camera with your phone. If you choose not to have the subscription, it is still useable it will just not have some of the features, like video history for 30 days or face id. I really did not want to pay for another subscription, but now that I have it I can't go back. Having that face id, although it's not always accurate, it's nice to have if you have alot of people going in and out of your secured areas. The video quality is improved. I feel the generation before is a little slower and muddier, I have included photos so everyone can look for themselves. The night time contrasted whites/blacks are well done, the colors during well lit times are clean and crisp. I am very happy with the improvement. Finally the sound I dont' think there's a big difference, it's not great, it's not bad, definitely a nice feature to have. Very handy when you just need to send a quick message across the video. Highly recommend it if you're in the market for one. Don't be intimidated, it's very easy to set up.

The Google nest outdoor camera is very sleek, has a solid feel and very easy to set up. Not just within the app but physically install as well. Plugging the camera in and opening the Home app, I didn't even need to go to add a device, I was prompted that a new camera showed up and asked if I wanted to set it up. It took almost no time at all and immediately was up and running. Installation outside was easy. There is a pretty long cord so should reach whereever you're mounting. Mine went from the center of my garage where my door opener is plugged into, to the front corner of my garage. Just screw in the plate, then twist on the magnet base and snap on the camera and adjust to your liking. Image is very crisp and there are many options that you can customize. I set driveway zones so that I can be alerted when a car or person comes up my driveway. There's enough cats outside that I turned off animal alerts. We'll see how well this holds up with Midwest winters, but given how solid the indoor ones are, I'm sure these are built well as well

The 2nd generation of Google Nest Cam for Outdoor and Wired at first impression is almost the same hardware and look and feel compared to the previous version that is based on battery support. Some of details to remark at high level that I find relevant to installation and features: 1. New type of connector that is not plugged to the camera, instead it is plugged adaptor that is part of connecting cable. Hence the connection doesn’t plug to the camera like the battery version. Its port is 4-pin connector. 2. It includes 18 ft power cable that is outdoor rated. 3. Camera has 2k Sensor, 152 degree diagonal field view, 6x digital zoom and 16:9 aspect ratio. 4, Video history includes up to 6 hours of events video preview for non paid plan. The clips record up to 10 seconds. 5. Weather resistance is IP65 In the package includes, aside of the camera - Magnetic mount - Wall plate - 8 wall anchors - 8 wall screws - 6 cable clips - Weather-resistant power adapter with 18ft (5.5 m) cable - Quick start guide - Safety and warranty document Setting up It is simple and not much different from all of other smart home security devices work. Once it is installed in the desired spot, need to be added to the Google Home via scanning the QR code included for the cam. If there is existing Google Nest device, during the WiFi setting it automatically use the already selected WiFI network and not having to enter password. This little step was big help as not having to type extra in the screen prompt. On installation per se of the Camera and cable, Google has included 18 ft of cable and it is modular in a sense the long cable’s end is and adaptor for 4 pin to the other end that is attached to the camera. If we compare to the battery version, the adapter goes to the camera and it has bigger connector. Using it: The camera delivers more clear image and later view field compared to the battery version. Hence more details can be seen as zoom in. Video captured during the night retains more colorful and sharp pixels and again the impact of larger view field helps to have different perspective like form bigger view to be able to zoom in to more details compared to the battery version. Aside of the clarify of images, rest of functionalities like automatically recognizing familiar faces and intelligence alerts can be used if it is used on paid services Standard and Advanced plans. Otherwise, big benefit as is out of the package and installed as is without any plans is the 6 hours event previews although limited to 10 seconds. What I wish it would have better done: 1. 4 pin adaptors were removable such that for case of having to make hole in the wall only have to make enough only for the thickness of the cable. 2. Cable attached to the camera location is right on the top of the speaker and spot magnet for the base. Hence at the moment of adjusting the angle, in certain angle the cable interfere with the base. 3. Use of USB-C for instead of 4pin to make ease of finding adaptor for different installation option. Proprietary connector doesn’t help to find easier way to install and plug to the power outlet. 4. For being a magnetic attachment to the base, it doesn’t include a spot to hook for security cable to avoid someone take away. In overall, the security camera in in line to what Google has done with previous version with enhancement on the quality of camera per se and made available a bit longer duration for preview of captured video without being in a paid plan. It could have designed a more universally used power connectors but the 2nd generation of camera does what it intended and well. Hence if the details is not actual issue and need of paid plan for full features to be taken advantage of, it is recommended.

Being already in the Google family of security cams, I am pleased with the quality of the newest cam. I repurposed my 1st Gen outdoor cam from 2020 that I had monitoring my driveway from my garage to other spot around my house with this new 2K version and couldn't be happier. Unboxing and Setup ------------------------------ Inside the box you get the camera, wall mount, cable clips, mounting hardware and a ridiculously (in a good way) long power cord. Setup is super easy and people new to it just need to download and use the Google Home App. Within the app, all you need to do is add new device, scan the QR code when prompted and follow the on screen instructions. Simple as falling down. Installation is easy as all I did was replace my older cam with this. Though it seems to be compatible with the older mount, I played it safe to be sure to use all it's hardware it came with. If you are new to Nest and worried about the strength of the magnet mount, rest assured that you can know your camera won't change position by any weather short of a tornado or Cat 5 hurricane. It's that strong. Performance ------------------------------ Going from viewing and monitoring in FHD 1080P content to 2K makes a world of difference. This is especially true when zooming in. I can actually finally be able to read license plates instead of them being blurry and even smaller fonts on like the sides of cars or bins. Night vision to me is the exact same as my older 1st gen camera, but that's a compliment. Clarity is no issue at night and looks good. One thing to note is that all new users get a 30 day trial of the Nest subscription so you can see if you like what Google has to offer in terms of self monitoring. As I have been a long time subscriber already, I personally think it's worth it to have 24/7 video history saved for 10 days and 60 days for Event Based notices. Just remember there are different tiers of pricing to see if a certain one is right for you.

Google - Nest Cam Outdoor (wired, 2nd gen) - 2K Video and Gemini is a great new addition to the Google Nest family of devices. This one builds upon previous generations by introducing both Gemini integration (though Google is bringing this support to older models as well) and 2k resolution. I was most excited to install the wired version of this camera as previous versions I own were battery powered and charge over solar panels. When it gets cold, the devices needed to be brought inside to properly charge. With the new wired camera, this is a thing of the past. The device remains connected even when temperatures drop below freezing. This alone made the upgrade completely worth it! Installation was simple. The magnetic mount is easily screwed into and the power cable is easy to route through the mount in various positions. The camera attaches to the mount with a strong magnetic connection insuring easy positioning with a secure attachment. The Google Home app quickly located my device and added it to my account. I immediately noticed the clearer 2k image over my previous models. Having a clearer image has also allowed the new Gemini integrations to more accurately identify things going on in my space. Gemini further improved the original Google Assistant by adding more detailed descriptions of what it sees (this also varies based on alert/event preferences). For example: when taking out my dogs, I get a notification that I am seen in the backyard with a dog. It has also picked up people walking along the fence, grass mowing, rabbits, wind blowing items, etc. Google Home summarizes the occurrences of the day from all of the cameras and provides a nice "this is everything that went on at your house today" which I find very helpful for days I am away from the house and can still get an idea of what occurred incase I need to go back and further review footage. As a Nest Premium subscriber, I'm able to apply 24/7 recording and get a much more details account of what is happening such as known person detection, package detection and more. The build quality is excellent on these cameras and they easily withstand harsh conditions. Adding additional Nest devices to an existing Nest Premium subscription does not increase costs. I find this removed any hesitation from expanding the monitoring of the home and has been a valuable addition to for my needs. Anyone who is looking for added security or piece of mind to their home should consider the Google Nest cameras. They work great in either a Google or Apple ecosystem as the Home app works great in both platforms. You can also view your video feeds by going to home.google.com from any internet connected device.

I own the previous Nest Outdoor Wireless camera and enjoyed using indoors to view what was going on while I was away. The downside to that camera was of course having to charge it when the battery ran out but the flexibility of putting it anywhere I would like outweighed that inconvenience. Now the next gen Nest Cam is here to replace that one but only comes in a wired version. I did not mind having to plug it in as there is a nearby outlet I could use and now I would not have to worry about it running out of battery. The quality of the camera is the same with the smooth plastic matte finish and now being lighter and smaller due to not having to contain a battery. The picture quality is an improvement. I wouldn’t say night and day difference but definitely an upgrade from the previous gen. The resolution is clearer and sharper. The field of view also seems wider being able to capture more than before. Hardware wise, it’s an improvement in all aspects. Software wise, Google Home will handle the setup process as usual and was smooth for me. The camera brings a trial of their Gemini features which is a monthly subscription after the trial runs out. It’s a nice to have but not necessary to enjoy the camera for what it is. This will always vary by user and I will keep the basic subscription that I had before which lets me keep footage for more than a day. Overall I would say this camera is worth the upgrade if you have the previous gen or even more so if you have the first gen products. For those looking to get their first smart cam, this is a great choice as long as you are aware you are going be in the Google ecosystem. I’ve heard they are compatible with Alexa as well but have not been able to test that out as I have Google products such as the speakers and hubs. Integrating them into that ecosystem is simple and intuitive and done all through the Google Home. Highly recommend for Google ecosystem users

Excellent upgrade over the previous version. The 2k resolution is a solid improvement, and the Gemini AI is absolutely a step up in reducing false alerts and identifying the correct ones. Response time is faster as well. I do have one complaint: I had previously wired my house for the Outdoor/Battery versions, and, of course, Google changed the connections, so I had to rewire everything again. Google needs to create an adapter that can connect to the previous plugs, especially for outdoor cams that require a lot of hiding wires etc.

Easy set up, great ai features and the video quality is great

The latest Google Nest Outdoor Camsare solid, versatile security cameras that are particularly appealing if you're already in the Google smart home ecosystem. They emphasize smart alerts and ease of use over sheer video resolution dominance.

Certainly an upgrade from the previous Outdoor Nest cam. The field of view is much larger, both taller and wider. Thats a most welcome addition. These are a smaller footprint than the older ones, which is nice. Last model's power cord and mount are not compatible, but a definite plus is the power cable is included here. Which is a savings of having to specifically buy the cable separately like in the past. Highly recommend. The AI feature is gimmicky and highly annoying - you'll disable that in the Home app after the first couple of days.

Great video quality, easy install. And I can pull it up on any Google Screen or any TV using chromecast.

the nest cameras are great. the only thing is that you have to protect your cord from fraying when used outdoors.

I had the 1st gen door bell. This is a huge improvement. I can only image the benefit of a 4k version of this with a higher frame rate of recording. That would really be great!

Easy to setup. Smart notifications and great clarity. It does a really good job of letting you know what is going on and gives you a pretty accurate description of the event.

Great night vision & detection with 2K video. Instant notifications via Google Home. Easy to mount & set up with Google Home. I’ll purchase a couple more of these.

All you need to secure your home , business etc … please keep in mind that you good internet speed and a pay subscription since this camera will be recording 24/7 with smart notifications!

It’s a really good camera that integrates with the Google nest ecosystem. Very convenient to use with other Google products for monitoring your home.