Google WiFi vs Nest WiFi comparison: Which is Best?

This week, we’ve been researching and comparing some of the available devices, and have come to a decision on our favorite: Google WiFi vs Nest WiFi. If you are new to the Nest community and the technology behind the devices, we have an in-depth review on the Nest WiFi here.

The Nest WiFi is arguably the most affordable of the big Wi-Fi names, and the Nest Wi-Fi Plus has some of the perks of the Nest Thermostat and Nest Secure. But, there are still quite a few things about the Wi-Fi network and the devices that may not be that attractive to some.

To cut right to the chase, Google WiFi is cheaper than Nest WiFi . We will explain why you should be looking at this comparison, and why Google WiFi is a better option overall.

We tested the two services side-by-side to see which one offered the best coverage. Here’s what we found.

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Google WiFi vs Nest WiFi comparison – the big differences

If you’re new to the Nest community, you probably already know that the Nest Wi Fi (and the Nest Thermostat) is a set-it-and-forget-it system that can help save you from all kinds of headaches with heating or cooling. With Google Wi Fi, however, the setup process is a bit more in-depth, but it can still be done manually.

If you are unfamiliar with setting up a traditional wireless system, you probably think that you need to hire a technician or at least have them help you set up your Google Wi Fi. While this is true, it is possible to do it yourself. You just need to make sure that you have the right hardware.

The setup process for the Nest Wi Fi is fairly easy, and is explained nicely in the instruction manual that comes with it. The only difference is that you must go into the Nest app on your smartphone and give it the Wi Fi network password.

You will also need to go to your Google Home app, where you will be able to use the Google Assistant and configure Google Wi Fi. When you first set up Google Wi Fi, the Assistant will not be able to operate it. Once you change the WiFi network settings and set the device to a password-protected network, you’ll be able to start using Google Wi Fi.

However, you should also be aware that you need to be within about 4 feet of the device to use Google wireless technology. At that distance, you will only be able to control Google Wi Fi and not your whole home WiFi. Also, you won’t be able to use it if the device is out of your house.

You will be able to use a Google Wi Fi device at home or in any other location, as long as you are within the service area of that location. The Google Wi-Fi is a pretty big range of about 1000 feet or so, which includes a couple thousand square feet. This is more than enough for a typical home, and the setup process is easy enough that you can do it on your own.

If you have to leave the house with a Nest device, you can still be connected. The system automatically goes back into its sleep mode after a certain amount of time, so if you walk out of the house and leave the Nest device with the network and password enabled, you will still be able to use it as long as it is within range.

The Nest Thermostat and the Nest WiFi work in tandem to let you set the temperature at a certain point in the house. Google Wi Fi works very similarly, although you can’t use it to turn on or off a fan or air conditioning unit, which is something that the Nest Thermostat and Nest cannot do. However, you can use it to turn on the temperature in different rooms of your house.

Google WiFi vs Nest WiFi – which one is better?

With the setup process being so similar, you’d probably assume that these devices would be pretty similar. In many ways, they are, but the Nest devices have some extra perks that you won’t find on the Google Wi Fi. For starters, the Nest Wi-Fi Plus costs $50 more, but you get a few additional features that aren’t as essential.

Software

We’ll start with the software. The Google and the Nest both come with the Google Assistant. The Google Wi Fi does not offer multi-room controls or temperature controls like the Nest. The Nest Wi-Fi also offers an added set of voice-controlled features that you will get with the Nest Thermostat, while the Google Wi Fi doesn’t offer any additional voice commands.

Hardware

On the hardware side of things, the Nest Wi-Fi uses Qi wireless charging. This means that you can charge it using the included base station or use it with the Qi compatible wireless chargers from the likes of Mophie and Xiaomi.

On the hardware side of things, the Google WiFi will connect to the router that is closest to it. The Nest also does not support routers that are too old. On the whole, the Nest comes with a pretty high-quality hardware build, while Google doesn’t have quite as nice of a hardware build.

Charging

The Nest Thermostat on the other hand has its own charging method, using micro USB. There are some third-party options like the Nest Power Bank, which is a great option that is compatible with the Nest. This means that it will support the Qi wireless charger and can even act as a way to store a home’s power.

To help with the security of your Nest Wi-Fi system, it is the Nest Secure that comes with it. This is a home automation hub that not only has added security features for your home, but it also has Alexa built-in.

With Google WiFi, you are going to need to buy the Wi-Fi extender that comes with it to extend the range of the connection. This is different than the Nest device, and you can set the Wi-Fi extender as a bridge to extend the range, which means that your Nest and your Wi-Fi extender are separate networks.

You’ll also be able to add a Nest Mini to the Nest Wi-Fi. This is just a glorified version of the Google device, and it’s great for when you’re on the go. The added voice features, and voice-controlled home features are all there.

Which one is right for you? Conclusion

Google WiFi is an interesting choice if you’re looking to set up a home network that can be controlled remotely. The setup process of Google device can be a bit more difficult, but if you do it yourself, you can save some money.

If you’re not as worried about the setup process and can deal with a device that isn’t quite as stylish, then the Nest will save you some money. It is really the best of both worlds, offering some added features without adding a lot of extra expense.

If you would like to see an example of both of these devices in action, you can see a video of Zachus testing them out.