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If you’re in the market for a new Wi-Fi system, you’ve likely come across Google’s offerings: the Google Nest WiFi and Nest WiFi Pro. Both are top-tier mesh Wi-Fi systems designed to blanket your home in fast, reliable Wi-Fi. But when it comes to “Google Nest WiFi vs Nest WiFi Pro,” how do they stack up against each other?
In this article, we’ll delve into the differences between these two systems, from their performance and features to their availability on platforms like Amazon. We’ll also discuss the specifics, such as the Nest WiFi router, the Google Nest WiFi Pro’s advanced capabilities, and the benefits of investing in a three-pack for larger homes.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current Wi-Fi network or setting up a new one, understanding the differences between these two systems can help you make an informed decision. So, let’s dive in and compare the Google Nest WiFi and Nest WiFi Pro.
Gigabit Speeds and Modem Compatibility
If you have a high-speed internet plan, you’ll be pleased to know that both Google Nest WiFi and Nest WiFi Pro can handle gigabit speeds. This means you can take full advantage of your fast internet plan with either router.
They are also compatible with all modems, so you won’t have any issues connecting them to your existing internet setup.
Hardware and Ethernet Ports
When it comes to hardware, both the Google Nest WiFi and Nest WiFi Pro are equipped with powerful quad-core processors and ample RAM to handle multiple devices and heavy network traffic.
However, the Nest WiFi Pro has a slight edge with more advanced hardware, offering better performance under heavy loads. Both routers have two Ethernet ports, but the Nest WiFi Pro also includes a WAN port for connecting directly to a modem, providing more flexibility in setup.
Integration with Smart Home Devices
Both Google Nest WiFi and Nest WiFi Pro can serve as hubs for your smart home devices. They both integrate with Google Assistant, allowing you to control your smart devices using voice commands.
However, only the Nest WiFi points double as smart speakers, not the routers themselves. This means if you want the smart speaker functionality with the Nest WiFi Pro, you’ll need to purchase additional Nest WiFi points or have other Google Assistant-enabled speakers in your home.
Speed and Performance
The standard Nest WiFi provides dual-band speeds up to AC2200, while Nest WiFi Pro supports the latest WiFi 6E standard for tri-band speeds up to AC5400. This makes the Nest WiFi Pro significantly faster, with less congestion and interference. It’s the better option for high-bandwidth uses like 4K/8K streaming, VR gaming, and busy smart homes.
WiFi Range and Coverage
Both systems utilize mesh networking to provide full home coverage. But the Pro can handle larger homes up to 4,500+ square feet, thanks to its higher performance points. The standard Nest WiFi is mostly sufficient for homes under 3,000 square feet (2.79 a). With more satellites, the Nest WiFi Pro can eliminate dead zones in bigger houses.
Wireless Performance and Wi-Fi Signals
Both Google Nest WiFi and Nest WiFi Pro offer excellent wireless performance. They use beamforming technology to direct Wi-Fi signals to your devices, improving signal strength and speed. As mesh routers, they can also work together to cover a large area with a strong and stable Wi-Fi signal.
However, the Nest WiFi Pro supports Wi-Fi 6, the latest Wi-Fi standard, which can provide faster speeds and better performance with multiple devices compared to the Google Nest WiFi’s Wi-Fi 5.
Network Control and Security
The Google Home app allows you to monitor and control your network for both the standard Nest WiFi and Nest WiFi Pro. You can pause WiFi access, run speed tests, prioritize devices, and more.
Furthermore, security features like WPA3 encryption, firewall protection, and automatic software updates are included in both models.
Pricing
The Nest WiFi provides strong value as an affordable mesh system for under $200. But the Nest WiFi Pro costs considerably more at around $200 for a 1-pack, $300 for a 2-pack, and $400 for a 4-pack. Unless you have high WiFi demands, the standard model will likely be enough for most households. But on the other hand, the Nest WiFi Pro offers next-gen performance to those who need it.
Setup and Ease of Use
Both Google Nest WiFi and Nest WiFi Pro are designed with user-friendliness in mind. They both use the Google Home app for setup and management, making it easy to get your network up and running. However, the Nest WiFi Pro offers a few additional features in the app, such as more detailed network analytics and advanced security settings. Both routers connect to your modem via an Ethernet cable and can manage all of your home’s devices effectively.
Conclusion
When it comes to “Google Nest WiFi vs Nest WiFi Pro,” your choice ultimately depends on your specific Wi-Fi needs. The standard Nest WiFi is a solid choice for medium homes, offering reliable Wi-Fi coverage and speeds sufficient for most downloads and uploads. It’s also competitively priced, making it a cost-effective solution for many users.
On the other hand, the Nest WiFi Pro is designed for larger, multi-story homes and modern devices that demand higher speeds. It offers cutting-edge performance, extensive coverage, and features like a guest network and Family Wi-Fi. While it comes at a higher price, its advanced features, including gigabit Ethernet ports and the ability to serve as a Thread border network, make it a worthwhile investment for users with more demanding Wi-Fi needs.
In comparison to other mesh router systems like the Eero Pro, both Google Nest WiFi and Nest WiFi Pro hold their own, offering a blend of performance, features, and value. So, whether you’re looking for a reliable Wi-Fi system for everyday use or a high-performance system for a connected smart home, Google’s Nest WiFi and Nest WiFi Pro are options worth considering.
