Google Nest Hub Review
Google's original smart display comes with Google Assistant for hands-free commands.
What We Like
- Easy to use: You can ask Google Assistant to makes calls, read your daily schedule, set cooking timers, and tons of other things — hands-free. The Nest Hub is a breeze to set up as well.
- Integrated YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify: YouTube is built in, but the Nest Hub also lets you stream Netflix, Spotify, and a bunch of other services from connected mobile devices via built-in casting.
- Now Matter-ready: If you’re already in the Nest ecosystem, you’ll be able to easily control your next-gen smart home devices and smart home security systems. As of January 2022, your Nest Hub should also have received a firmware update that lets you control Matter-ready devices. Read on for more on that.
What We Don't Like
- No video calling: Frustratingly, the Nest Hub doesn’t have a camera. Practically speaking, this means that if you make a video call with Duo or Meet, you can see who you’re talking to, but they can’t see you.
- No Google Workplace: Amazon did it, so why not Google? Adding Google Workplace (formerly G-Suite) compatibility would let busy folks check emails or access Gdocs from anywhere in the house without lifting a finger.
- Smallish display: The Nest Hub, which was originally designed for bedrooms, is cute and portable. But its 7-inch display can feel like a shrimp next to the 10-inch Nest Hub Max, especially when you’re trying to catch up on Netflix while you do the dishes!
Bottom Line
The Google Nest Hub is an affordable smart display with a decent screen size (7 inches) and pretty good streaming options. It’s also compatible with Matter-enabled smart devices now. But if you’re looking for a better sound experience and want to use your Nest Hub to make video calls with family and friends, you might be better off paying a hundred bucks more for a Nest Hub Max.
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Links to Google Nest Hub