β‘οΈ Quick Verdict - GOOGLE Nest Hub (2nd Gen, 2021)
- Best For: Smart home control, ambient media display, non-contact sleep tracking.
- Strengths: Enhanced audio quality, innovative Sleep Sensing, intuitive gesture controls.
- Drawbacks: Lacks a camera for video calls, display resolution not top-tier for detailed viewing.
- Verdict: A versatile smart display excelling in sound and unique health monitoring.
βοΈ Pros & Cons Explained
Aspect | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Audio Quality | Users generally reported improved bass response and a fuller sound profile compared to the first generation, making music playback more enjoyable. | Some found the audio quality sufficient for background music but not comparable to dedicated audio systems for critical listening. |
Sleep Sensing (Soli) | Many appreciate the non-contact sleep tracking capabilities, offering insights into sleep patterns without requiring a wearable device. | A minority of users expressed privacy concerns regarding the continuous presence sensing technology, despite the absence of a camera. |
Display & Interface | The adaptive display brightness and the intuitive touch interface were widely praised for ease of use and visual comfort. | A few users mentioned that the screen resolution could be higher for better clarity when viewing detailed photos or text. |
Smart Home Control | The device offers seamless integration with a wide range of smart home devices and provides a centralized control hub for Google Assistant commands. | Occasional voice command misinterpretations were noted by some users, a common challenge with smart assistants. |
π§ Whatβs Included? & Why It Matters
Component | Why It Matters |
---|---|
Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) device | Serves as the central hub for smart home automation, media consumption, and Google Assistant interactions, featuring a 7-inch display. |
Power Adapter | Provides continuous power to the device, ensuring it remains operational 24/7 for smart home control, notifications, and media playback. |
Quick Start Guide | Offers essential instructions for initial setup and basic usage, helping users get the device up and running quickly and efficiently. |
π° Is It Worth It? β Value & Cost Efficiency
Aspect | Positive | Negative |
---|---|---|
Features for Price | Many users felt the inclusion of Sleep Sensing and enhanced audio justified the cost, providing a comprehensive smart display experience. | Some users believed the value was less compelling if they did not intend to utilize the non-contact sleep tracking feature extensively. |
Longevity & Updates | Google's ongoing commitment to software updates and feature enhancements for its smart home devices suggests good long-term usability and support. | Concerns were occasionally raised about the potential for smart display technology to evolve rapidly, possibly rendering older models less feature-rich over time. |
Ecosystem Integration | Its deep integration within the Google ecosystem provides significant added value for users already invested in Google services and smart home products. | Users primarily within other smart home ecosystems (e.g., Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa) might find cross-platform integration less seamless without additional bridges. |
π‘ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Does it have a camera?No, the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) does not include a camera, prioritizing privacy in spaces like bedrooms.
- Can it track my sleep?Yes, it features Sleep Sensing technology, utilizing its Soli sensor to track sleep patterns and disturbances without requiring a wearable.
- Is it compatible with Zigbee or Z-Wave devices directly?No, the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) does not have a built-in Zigbee or Z-Wave hub. It primarily controls devices via Wi-Fi or through compatible third-party hubs.
- Can I watch videos from streaming services?Yes, it supports video streaming from services like YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, and more, controlled via voice or touch.
π Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- The audio improvements are noticeable; music sounds much fuller and clearer than the original Nest Hub.
- Sleep Sensing is a game-changer. It's so convenient to get sleep insights without having to wear anything to bed.
- Controlling my smart lights and thermostat from the display or with voice commands is incredibly convenient and responsive.
- The adaptive screen brightness is fantastic; the display always looks good and never too harsh, even at night.
- Gesture controls for quick actions like pausing music are surprisingly useful when your hands are busy.
π Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- I really wish it had a camera for video calls; that's a significant missing feature compared to some competitors.
- While the sleep tracking is innovative, I don't use it consistently enough to feel it adds significant value for me.
- The screen resolution isn't the sharpest for photos, and I notice some pixelation when viewing images up close.
- Occasionally, Google Assistant doesn't quite understand my commands, requiring me to rephrase or repeat myself.
- I found the selection of pre-installed apps and third-party integrations a bit limited compared to a tablet.
π Key Details & Specifications
Aspect | Detail |
---|---|
Display | 7-inch LCD touchscreen |
Audio | Full-range speaker, 3 microphones |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4GHz/5GHz), Bluetooth 5.0 |
Sensors | Soli sensor for Sleep Sensing and Quick Gestures, Ambient EQ light sensor, Temperature sensor |
Dimensions | 177.4 mm (W) x 120.4 mm (H) x 69.5 mm (D) |
Weight | 558 g |
Power | 15W power adapter |
Ports | DC power jack |
Processor | A53 Quad-core 64-bit 1.9GHz |
π Summary β Is This the Right Choice for You?
- The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen, 2021) refines the smart display experience, offering a solid upgrade with notable enhancements.
- Its most distinct features are the improved audio output and the innovative, non-contact Sleep Sensing, making it particularly well-suited for bedside tables or common areas where ambient information and music are desired.
- The absence of a camera is a deliberate choice, providing an assurance of privacy, though it means foregoing video calls directly from the device.
- As a central hub for controlling a Google-centric smart home, it performs commendably, offering intuitive voice and touch controls.
- For individuals seeking a versatile smart display that integrates seamlessly into the Google ecosystem, provides meaningful sleep insights, and delivers respectable audio for its size, the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is a strong contender.