Google Nest Cam Battle: 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen – Which One’s Worth Your Money?
What To Know
- The Google Nest Cam 1st Gen features a compact and cylindrical design, while the 2nd Gen has a more modern and angular shape.
- The 1st Gen is powered by a wired connection only, while the 2nd Gen offers both wired and wireless connectivity options.
- While the 1st Gen remains a solid choice for indoor use, the 2nd Gen is the preferred option for users who require a more comprehensive and versatile home security camera.
Nest Cam, a popular home security camera, has undergone significant improvements over the years. With the introduction of the 2nd generation, users are left wondering about the differences between the two models. This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of the Google Nest Cam 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen, highlighting their features, performance, and key distinctions.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Google Nest Cam 1st Gen | Google Nest Cam 2nd Gen |
| — | — | — |
| Resolution | 1080p | 1080p |
| Field of View | 130 degrees | 130 degrees |
| Night Vision | Yes | Yes |
| Two-Way Audio | Yes | Yes |
| Weather Resistance | No | Yes |
| Power | Wired | Wired or Wireless |
| Storage | Cloud or SD card | Cloud or SD card |
Design and Build
The Google Nest Cam 1st Gen features a compact and cylindrical design, while the 2nd Gen has a more modern and angular shape. Both cameras are available in white or black color options. The 1st Gen is wired only, while the 2nd Gen offers both wired and wireless connectivity, providing greater flexibility.
Video Quality and Field of View
Both the 1st and 2nd Gen offer a 1080p resolution, providing sharp and detailed footage. The field of view is also the same at 130 degrees, giving users a wide view of the monitored area.
Night Vision
Both cameras feature night vision capabilities, allowing users to monitor their homes even in low-light conditions. The 2nd Gen is said to have improved night vision performance, but the difference is not significant.
Two-Way Audio
Both the 1st and 2nd Gen come with built-in speakers and microphones, enabling two-way audio communication. This feature allows users to interact with visitors or deter potential intruders.
Weather Resistance
The Google Nest Cam 1st Gen is not weather-resistant, making it suitable for indoor use only. The 2nd Gen, on the other hand, has an IP65 weather resistance rating, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Power and Storage
The 1st Gen is powered by a wired connection only, while the 2nd Gen offers both wired and wireless connectivity options. Both cameras support cloud storage or local storage via an SD card.
Features Comparison
The Google Nest Cam 2nd Gen offers several additional features over the 1st Gen, including:
- HDR Support: The 2nd Gen supports HDR (High Dynamic Range), providing better image quality in high-contrast lighting conditions.
- Person Detection: The 2nd Gen features person detection technology, allowing users to receive notifications only when a person is detected.
- Activity Zones: The 2nd Gen allows users to define specific activity zones within the camera’s field of view, sending alerts only when motion is detected in those zones.
- Time-Lapse Videos: The 2nd Gen can create time-lapse videos of the day’s activities, providing a quick overview of the day’s events.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Google Nest Cam 1st Gen and 2nd Gen depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a basic indoor camera with wired connectivity, the 1st Gen is a suitable option. For those who prefer outdoor use, weather resistance, and additional features such as HDR and person detection, the 2nd Gen is the better choice.
In a nutshell:
The Google Nest Cam 2nd Gen offers significant improvements over the 1st Gen, including weather resistance, additional features, and improved flexibility with wireless connectivity. While the 1st Gen remains a solid choice for indoor use, the 2nd Gen is the preferred option for users who require a more comprehensive and versatile home security camera.
Popular Questions
Q: Is the Google Nest Cam 2nd Gen worth the upgrade from the 1st Gen?
A: If you need outdoor use, additional features, or wireless connectivity, the 2nd Gen is a worthwhile upgrade. For basic indoor use, the 1st Gen may suffice.
Q: Can I use the same power adapter for both the 1st and 2nd Gen?
A: Yes, both cameras use the same power adapter.
Q: Does the 2nd Gen offer a wider field of view than the 1st Gen?
A: No, both cameras have the same 130-degree field of view.
Q: Can I use an SD card with both the 1st and 2nd Gen?
A: Yes, both cameras support local storage via an SD card.
Q: Does the 2nd Gen have better night vision than the 1st Gen?
A: The 2nd Gen is said to have improved night vision, but the difference is not significant.
