A reliable wi-fi network is essential for powering smart devices, streaming high-definition content, and ensuring seamless online experiences. Two popular options from Google, the Google Nest Wifi and the Google Nest Wifi Pro, offer robust solutions for different needs. But which one is right for your home?
Feature | Nest Wifi (2nd Gen) | Nest Wifi Pro | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Number of units in pack | 1, 2, 3 | 1, 2, 3 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Coverage | Up to 2,200 sq ft per unit | Up to 2,200 sq ft per unit | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Maximum speed | AC2200 | AX4200 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Wi-Fi bands | Dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) | Tri-band (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Wi-Fi 6 support | No | Yes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mesh compatibility | Yes | Yes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Wired backhaul | Yes | Yes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Smart Assistant | Google Assistant | Google Assistant | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Price | Starting at $99.99 | Starting at $199.99 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Buy now | Amazon | Amazon | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Overview of Google Nest Wifi and Google Nest Wifi Pro
The Google Nest Wifi and Google Nest Wifi Pro are both designed to provide fast and reliable internet throughout your home. However, they cater to different needs and have distinct features that set them apart.
Key Differences and Similarities
While both devices aim to boost your home network, they diverge in several aspects, such as Wi-Fi technology, speed, and range. It’s important to understand these details to make an informed decision.
Features and Specifications
Design and Dimensions
Google Nest Wifi
The Google Nest Wifi features dimensions of 108.4 x 118 mm and weighs 427g. It comes with a clean, minimalistic design that blends seamlessly with home decor.
Google Nest Wifi Pro
In contrast, the Google Nest Wifi Pro is slightly more compact with dimensions of 90 x 85 mm but heftier at 695g. It also offers more color options to match your style.
Table: Dimensions and Weight
You can find more information on Nest Wifi Pro Not Connecting? Troubleshooting Tips and Solutions
Dimensions | Weight | |
---|---|---|
Google Nest Wifi | 108.4 x 118 mm | 427g |
Google Nest Wifi Pro | 90 x 85 mm | 695g |
Tri-Band Technology
Google Nest Wifi
The Google Nest Wifi supports dual-band technology, operating on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. This is suitable for basic home use and moderate internet demands.
Google Nest Wifi Pro
The Google Nest Wifi Pro takes it further with tri-band technology, adding a 6 GHz band. This provides greater bandwidth and less interference, ideal for high-demand activities.
Tri-Band vs Dual-Band
- Dual-Band (Google Nest Wifi)
- Tri-Band (Google Nest Wifi Pro)
Wi-Fi Speed and Range
Google Nest Wifi
The Google Nest Wifi offers speeds up to 1.2 Gbps (AC1200) and covers an area of up to 2,200 sq ft.
Google Nest Wifi Pro
With the Google Nest Wifi Pro, you get blazing fast speeds up to 4.2 Gbps (AX6600) and an expansive coverage of up to 6,000 sq ft.
Number of Devices Supported
Google Nest Wifi
The Google Nest Wifi can support up to 100 devices, making it suitable for typical households.
Google Nest Wifi Pro
On the other hand, the Google Nest Wifi Pro can handle up to 200 devices, perfect for tech-savvy homes with numerous smart gadgets.
Comparison Table
Speed | Range | Devices Supported | |
---|---|---|---|
Google Nest Wifi | Up to 1.2 Gbps | 2,200 sq ft | Up to 100 |
Google Nest Wifi Pro | Up to 4.2 Gbps | 6,000 sq ft | Up to 200 |
Ethernet Ports
Google Nest Wifi
The Google Nest Wifi is equipped with 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports per router.
Google Nest Wifi Pro
The Google Nest Wifi Pro includes 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports on the primary unit and 1 Gigabit Ethernet port on each extender, providing more flexibility.
Parental Controls and Google Assistant Integration
Google Nest Wifi
The Google Nest Wifi offers basic parental controls and comes with a built-in Google Assistant.
Google Nest Wifi Pro
The Google Nest Wifi Pro steps up the game with advanced parental controls via the Google Home app and also integrates Google Assistant.
Features Comparison
- Basic parental controls: Google Nest Wifi
- Advanced parental controls: Google Nest Wifi Pro
Price and Availability
Google Nest Wifi
Currently, the Google Nest Wifi starts at $169.
Google Nest Wifi Pro
The Google Nest Wifi Pro starts at a slightly higher price of $199.
Price Overview
- Google Nest Wifi: Starting at $169
- Google Nest Wifi Pro: Starting at $199
Performance and Range
Tri-Band Advantage of Nest Wifi Pro
The tri-band technology of the Google Nest Wifi Pro provides an extra layer of performance by utilising a third 6 GHz band. This band is less crowded compared to the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, ensuring more stable and faster connections.
Read more on Google Nest Wifi Pro Blinking Yellow Light: Troubleshooting Guide
Range and Coverage Comparison
While the Google Nest Wifi offers solid coverage for medium-sized homes, the Google Nest Wifi Pro extends this significantly, making it a better choice for larger environments with many walls.
Speed and Reliability Tests
In various speed and reliability tests, the Google Nest Wifi Pro consistently outperforms its predecessor, thanks to its advanced technology and additional frequency bands.
Smart Home Features and Compatibility
Google Nest Wifi Pro’s Wi-Fi 6E Support
One major advantage of the Google Nest Wifi Pro over the Google Nest Wifi is its support for Wi-Fi 6E. This makes it future-proof and capable of handling the increasing demands of modern smart homes.
Compatibility with Smart Home Devices
Both models integrate well with a range of smart home devices. However, the Google Nest Wifi Pro offers greater bandwidth and more stable connections for devices like smart speakers, cameras, and IoT devices.
Security and Updates
Security is another area where the Google Nest Wifi Pro shines. It receives more frequent software updates and includes advanced security features to protect your network from threats.
Which One is Right for You?
Google Nest Wifi: Ideal for Smaller Homes or Those With Less Demanding Wi-Fi Needs
If you live in a smaller home or have less demanding Wi-Fi needs, the Google Nest Wifi is a practical and cost-effective choice. Its dual-band technology and robust features make it suitable for typical households.
Google Nest Wifi Pro: Best for Large Homes, Multiple Devices, and Demanding Wi-Fi Applications
For larger homes or households with many devices, the Google Nest Wifi Pro is the better option. Its tri-band technology, increased speed, and greater range make it ideal for demanding applications and future-proofing your home network.
Summary Table
Google Nest Wifi | Google Nest Wifi Pro | |
---|---|---|
Ideal For | Smaller homes | Large homes |
Technology | Dual-band | Tri-band |
Speed | Up to 1.2 Gbps | Up to 4.2 Gbps |
Range | Up to 2,200 sq ft | Up to 6,000 sq ft |
Devices Supported | Up to 100 devices | Up to 200 devices |
Final Comparison and Recommendation
After examining the specifications, performance, and features, it’s clear that both the Google Nest Wifi and Google Nest Wifi Pro have their own strengths. Your choice depends largely on your specific needs and the size of your home.
Overarching Standout Features and Benefits of Both Devices
In summary, the Google Nest Wifi is perfect for those looking for a reliable, cost-effective solution for standard household use. Conversely, the Google Nest Wifi Pro is ideal for larger homes and tech enthusiasts requiring top-tier performance and future-ready technology.
By considering factors such as your household size, internet usage, and the number of devices, you can choose the most suitable Google Nest Wi-Fi system to meet your needs. Both options ensure that your home network is strong, secure, and ready for the future.
Feel free to explore more about these devices on Amazon:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Google Nest Wifi and Google Nest Wifi Pro?
Google Nest Wifi is designed for smaller homes with its coverage up to 2200 square feet, while Google Nest Wifi Pro is built for larger homes with coverage up to 3800 square feet. The Pro version also offers faster speeds and more capacity for multiple devices.
Read more about this on Eero Pro 6 vs Google Nest Wifi Pro 6E Specs: Detailed Comparison
Do both Google Nest Wifi and Google Nest Wifi Pro come with built-in Google Assistant?
Yes, both Google Nest Wifi and Google Nest Wifi Pro have built-in Google Assistant that allows you to control your smart home devices, play music, and ask questions right from your router.
Can you mix and match Google Nest Wifi and Google Nest Wifi Pro units?
Yes, you can mix and match Google Nest Wifi and Google Nest Wifi Pro units to create a custom network that fits your home’s size and layout. This allows for greater flexibility in extending your network coverage.
Are there any additional features that come with Google Nest Wifi Pro compared to Google Nest Wifi?
Google Nest Wifi Pro offers advanced security features such as WPA3 encryption, automatic updates, and device scanning to protect your network from potential threats. It also has more Ethernet ports for wired connections.
Which one should I choose for my home, Google Nest Wifi or Google Nest Wifi Pro?
If you have a smaller home and don’t require extreme speeds or advanced security features, Google Nest Wifi should suffice. However, if you have a larger home, need faster speeds, and prioritize enhanced security, Google Nest Wifi Pro would be the better choice.