Smart Home Upgrade: Google Nest Hub 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen – Which Generation Dominates?

Google Nest Hub is a smart display that offers a convenient and hands-free way to control your smart home, access information, and stay entertained. With two generations available, the Google Nest Hub 1st Gen and 2nd Gen, it’s important to understand their differences to make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Design and Display

The Google Nest Hub 1st Gen features a 7-inch display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. The 2nd Gen, on the other hand, boasts a larger 8-inch display with a higher resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. This improved display provides sharper images and better viewing angles.

Audio Quality

Both the 1st Gen and 2nd Gen Nest Hubs offer decent audio quality. However, the 2nd Gen has an improved speaker system that delivers richer and more immersive sound. It features a full-range driver and a dedicated tweeter for clearer highs and deeper lows.

Features

The Google Nest Hub 1st Gen offers a wide range of features, including:

• Voice control with Google Assistant
• Smart home control
• Video streaming
• Information display (weather, news, recipes)
• Photo frame
• Alarm clock

The Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen expands on these features by adding:

• Sleep tracking (via Soli radar)
• Gesture control
• Thread support

Sleep Tracking

One of the key differences between the two generations is the addition of sleep tracking in the 2nd Gen. This feature uses Soli radar technology to monitor your sleep patterns and provide insights into your sleep quality. It can detect when you go to bed, wake up, and even track your sleep stages.

Gesture Control

The Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen also introduces gesture control. This allows you to control the device by simply waving your hand in front of it. You can use gestures to pause or resume music, skip tracks, or adjust the volume.

Thread Support

Thread is a low-power wireless communication protocol designed for smart home devices. The Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen supports Thread, which allows it to connect directly to other Thread-enabled devices, such as smart lights and smart locks. This provides a more reliable and energy-efficient connection.

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between the Google Nest Hub 1st Gen and 2nd Gen depends on your specific needs and preferences.

• If you prioritize display quality, audio performance, and sleep tracking, the Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen is the better option.
• If you’re looking for a more affordable option with a smaller display and basic features, the Google Nest Hub 1st Gen is a good choice.

Final Thoughts

Both the Google Nest Hub 1st Gen and 2nd Gen are excellent smart displays that offer a convenient and user-friendly experience. The 2nd Gen offers several improvements over the 1st Gen, such as a larger display, better audio quality, sleep tracking, and gesture control. However, the 1st Gen remains a solid option for those on a budget or who don’t need the additional features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen worth the upgrade?
A: If you value improved display quality, audio performance, sleep tracking, and gesture control, then the Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen is worth the upgrade.

Q: Can I use the Google Nest Hub without an internet connection?
A: Yes, you can use the Google Nest Hub to control smart home devices, set alarms, and display the time even without an internet connection. However, you will need an internet connection to access streaming services, information, and other online features.

Q: Does the Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen have a camera?
A: No, the Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen does not have a built-in camera.