Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen vs Max: Which Smart Display Wins?
Tired of juggling multiple devices and craving a smarter home experience? You’re in luck! Google’s Nest Hub lineup offers a fantastic entry point into the world of smart displays, but choosing between the Google Nest Hub (2nd gen) and the Google Nest Hub Max can be tricky.
Both devices boast impressive features, seamlessly integrating with your Google ecosystem. They offer voice control, streaming capabilities, and the ability to manage your smart home devices. However, significant differences exist that cater to varying needs and preferences.
This comparison dives deep into the specifications, features, and overall performance of the Nest Hub 2nd Gen and the Nest Hub Max. We’ll explore their strengths and weaknesses, helping you decide which smart display is the perfect fit for your home and lifestyle. Get ready to discover which Google Nest Hub reigns supreme!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Nest Hub (2nd Gen) | Nest Hub Max |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 7-inch | 10-inch |
| Display Type | LCD | LCD |
| Built-in Camera | No | Yes |
| Speakers | Full-range speaker | Stereo speakers + woofer |
| Microphones | 3 far-field microphones | 3 far-field microphones |
| Motion Sense | Yes | Yes |
| Ambient EQ | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
| Video Calling | No | Yes (Google Duo/Meet) |
| Physical Dimensions | 4.7 x 6.9 x 2.7 inches | 7.19 x 9.85 x 3.9 inches |
| Weight | 1.15 lbs | 2.91 lbs |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen: Features a 7-inch touchscreen display. It’s suitable for viewing photos, videos, and interacting with the Google Assistant. The smaller size makes it ideal for bedside tables or kitchens, but can feel cramped for some.
- Max: Boasts a 10-inch HD touchscreen, offering a significantly larger and more immersive viewing experience. This is great for watching videos, video calls, and displaying more information at once. The larger size requires more space.
- Winner: Max
Audio Quality
- Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen: Provides decent audio quality for its size, suitable for casual listening. It’s fine for podcasts, news, and background music. Lacks the depth and richness of larger speakers.
- Max: Offers superior audio with stereo speakers and a subwoofer, delivering richer sound with more bass. It’s a better choice for enjoying music and movies.
- Winner: Max
Camera
- Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen: Does not have a built-in camera.
- Max: Includes a 6.5MP camera that can be used for video calls via Google Duo/Meet and also acts as a Nest Cam. This adds a layer of security and convenience.
- Winner: Max
Motion Sense
- Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen: Includes Motion Sense, which uses radar to detect motion and gestures for controlling media and snoozing alarms.
- Max: Does not have Motion Sense.
- Winner: google nest hub 2nd gen
Video Calling
- Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen: Does not have a camera, so video calling is not possible.
- Max: Supports video calls through its built-in camera, making it easy to connect with family and friends.
- Winner: Max
Size and Design
- Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen: Has a compact design, making it suitable for various locations. Its small footprint is a plus for space-saving.
- Max: Is larger and more prominent, requiring more space. Its design still blends well with most home decor.
- Winner: google nest hub 2nd gen
Price
- Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen: Is more affordable.
- Max: Is more expensive.
- Winner: google nest hub 2nd gen
Smart Home Control
- Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen: Offers full smart home control through its integrated Google Assistant, allowing you to control compatible devices with voice commands or the touchscreen.
- Max: Also provides full smart home control, working with the same Google Assistant integration as the smaller Nest Hub.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | Nest Hub Max |
| Audio Quality | Nest Hub Max |
| Camera | Nest Hub Max |
| Portability | Nest Hub (2nd Gen) |
| Compact Design | Nest Hub (2nd Gen) |
| Value | Nest Hub (2nd Gen) |
What They Have in Common
- Voice Assistant: Both devices utilize Google Assistant, allowing you to control smart home devices, play music, set alarms, and more with voice commands.
- Smart Home Control: Both the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) and Max seamlessly integrate with other smart home devices, letting you manage lights, thermostats, and other compatible gadgets.
- Streaming Services: You can stream music, videos, and podcasts from various popular services like YouTube Music, Spotify, and Netflix on both devices.
- Ambient Eq: Both displays feature Ambient EQ, which automatically adjusts the screen’s brightness and color temperature to match the room’s lighting.
- Connectivity: Both devices offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling them to connect to your home network and other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen Vs Max Buying Guide
Price and Value
The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) typically comes at a lower price point than the Nest Hub Max. This makes it an attractive option for those on a budget or looking to add smart home functionality to multiple rooms without a significant investment. However, the Nest Hub Max offers a larger display and superior features, potentially justifying the higher cost for users prioritizing those aspects. Consider your budget and the features you need before making a decision.
Display and Design
The Nest Hub Max features a larger 10-inch display compared to the 7-inch screen of the Nest Hub (2nd Gen). This larger display is better for viewing photos, watching videos, and video calls. Design-wise, both devices boast a minimalist aesthetic, seamlessly blending into various home environments. The Nest Hub Max’s larger footprint might be a factor if you have limited space.
Audio Quality
The Nest Hub Max offers significantly improved audio quality with its stereo speakers and a larger, more powerful sound profile. This is ideal for listening to music, podcasts, or enjoying media content. The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) provides decent audio for its size, suitable for basic voice commands and ambient listening. Audiophiles or users prioritizing sound will likely prefer the Max.
Camera Capabilities
The Nest Hub Max includes a built-in camera, enabling video calls, face match recognition, and gesture control. This adds a layer of convenience and functionality. The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) lacks a camera, which means no video calling. Consider whether video calling and related features are crucial for your usage. The Max offers more interactive experiences.
Smart Home Features
Both devices function as smart home hubs, controlling compatible devices through voice commands or the touchscreen interface. They support Google Assistant and integrate seamlessly with other Google services. The Nest Hub Max’s camera provides additional features like face match and gesture controls for a more personalized experience. They both offer solid smart home control.
Usage Scenarios
The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is well-suited for bedside tables, kitchens, or any space where a compact smart display is needed. The Nest Hub Max is ideal for living rooms, kitchens, or areas where a larger display and superior audio are desired. Consider your typical usage, the size of the room, and the features you prioritize when choosing between the two devices. The Max is better for shared spaces.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Nest Hub (2nd Gen) If…
- You want a compact and affordable smart display for your bedside table or kitchen counter.
- You don’t need a built-in camera for video calls or home monitoring.
- You prioritize a sleek design and a focus on sleep tracking features.
Buy Nest Hub Max If…
- You want a larger screen for watching videos, making video calls, or viewing photos.
- You need a built-in camera for video calls and home monitoring features like Nest Aware.
- You want better audio quality with stereo speakers and a woofer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) and the Nest Hub Max?
The main differences are the display size, audio quality, and the presence of a camera. The Nest Hub Max has a larger 10-inch screen, superior stereo speakers, and a built-in camera for video calls and facial recognition. The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) has a 7-inch screen, lacks a camera, and features a smaller speaker system. Price is also a factor.
Which device is better for video calls?
The Nest Hub Max is the clear winner for video calls, thanks to its built-in camera and larger display. The camera enables you to make and receive video calls via Google Duo or Google Meet. The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) cannot make video calls because it lacks a camera. Consider video calling needs.
Does the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) have sleep tracking?
Yes, the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) includes sleep tracking functionality using its built-in Soli sensor to detect your movements and breathing patterns. It provides insights into your sleep quality. The Nest Hub Max doesn’t have the Soli sensor, so it doesn’t offer the same level of sleep tracking.
How does the Nest Hub Max’s camera enhance the user experience?
The Nest Hub Max’s camera enables video calls, face match recognition (allowing personalized content based on who is in front of the display), and gesture controls (like pausing music). These features provide a more interactive and personalized experience. The camera also works with Google Meet.
Can both devices control smart home devices?
Yes, both the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) and Nest Hub Max function as smart home hubs, allowing you to control compatible devices using voice commands or the touchscreen. They support a wide range of smart home devices that work with Google Assistant. Setting up is easy.
Which device offers better audio quality?
The Nest Hub Max provides significantly better audio quality due to its stereo speakers and larger speaker chamber. This results in a fuller, richer sound, making it more suitable for listening to music and enjoying media content. The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) offers decent audio for its size.
Is the Nest Hub Max worth the extra cost?
Whether the Nest Hub Max is worth the extra cost depends on your needs. If you prioritize a larger display, superior audio, video calling capabilities, and face match, the Max is a better choice. If you’re on a budget and don’t need those features, the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) offers excellent value.
Final Verdict
The Google Nest Hub Max excels due to its superior display, audio, and camera functionalities, offering a more comprehensive smart home experience. While the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) provides good value, the Max’s additional features and performance advantages make it the preferred choice for those seeking a premium smart display.
Winner: Google Nest Hub Max