The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is the latest addition to the smart display market. With its sleek design and innovative features, it is quickly becoming a popular choice for smart home enthusiasts. In this review, we will delve into the features, performance, and overall user experience of the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) to help you determine if it is the right choice for you.
Design and Build
The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) has a 7-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. It is available in four colors: chalk, charcoal, mist, and sand. The device has a fabric-covered base that houses the speakers and is mounted on a plastic stand. The stand is adjustable, so you can tilt the screen to a comfortable viewing angle. The device is compact and lightweight, making it easy to move around the house.
Display
The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) has a bright and vibrant display that is perfect for viewing photos, videos, and recipes. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, and the device has ambient light sensors that adjust the screen brightness based on the room’s lighting conditions. The device also has a feature called “adaptive brightness,” which adjusts the screen’s color temperature based on the time of day, making it easier on your eyes.
Sound Quality
The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) has a 1.7-inch driver and a 2.95-inch passive radiator that produce rich and clear sound. The device’s bass response is impressive, and it has a maximum volume of 75 decibels. The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) also has a feature called “Media EQ” that automatically adjusts the sound based on the content you are listening to.
Google Assistant Integration
The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is powered by Google Assistant, which means you can control your smart home devices, ask questions, and perform other tasks using your voice. The device has far-field microphones that can pick up your voice from across the room, even when music is playing. The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) also has a feature called “Quick Gestures” that allows you to control the device without using your voice. You can pause or resume music, snooze alarms, and stop timers by waving your hand in front of the device.
Smart Home Integration
The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) works seamlessly with a variety of smart home devices, including lights, thermostats, and cameras. You can control your devices using your voice or the touchscreen display. The device also has a feature called “Home View” that allows you to control all of your smart home devices from a single dashboard.
Privacy
The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) has a physical switch that turns off the microphone and camera, ensuring your privacy when you don’t want to use the device. The device also has a “Guest Mode” that limits the device’s access to your personal information.
Performance
The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) has a fast and responsive processor that can handle multiple tasks simultaneously. The device’s Google Assistant integration is seamless, and the touchscreen is easy to navigate. The device also has a feature called “Live Caption” that provides real-time captions for videos and audio, making it easier for people with hearing impairments to enjoy the content.
Price
The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is priced at $99.99, making it one of the more affordable smart displays on the market.
Conclusion
Overall, the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is a great smart display for Google fans. It has a sleek design, vibrant display, impressive sound quality, and seamless integration with Google Assistant and smart home devices. The device’s privacy features and accessibility options are also noteworthy. At its price point, the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) offers great value for its features and performance.
If you are in the market for a smart display and are already invested in the Google ecosystem, the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is a solid choice. However, if you prefer a larger screen or want more advanced features such as video calling or a built-in camera, you may want to consider other options.
FAQs
- Can I use the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) with non-Google smart home devices?
Yes, the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is compatible with a variety of smart home devices from different brands.
- Does the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) have a camera for video calling?
No, the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) does not have a built-in camera.
- Can I connect my phone to the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen)?
Yes, you can connect your phone to the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) using Bluetooth.
- How do I turn off the microphone and camera on the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen)?
There is a physical switch on the back of the device that turns off the microphone and camera.
- Does the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) support multiple users?
Yes, the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) can recognize up to six different voices and personalize responses accordingly.