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Author: Kaitlyn Short

LAST UPDATED: January 13th, 2024

Nest was founded in 2010 and has become of the more respected names in home automation. The company was acquired by Google in January 2014, allowing Nest more resources to continue its growth. One of Nest's mottos is that it "(takes) the unloved products in your home and make simple, beautiful, thoughtful things." The "unloved" home products that Nest focuses on are thermostats, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and home security cameras. Using a smartphone, Nest allows users to control the temperature of their home, monitor the air quality, and view/record real-time video. The Nest products have received mixed reviews and customers seem to overwhelmingly like their Nest Learning Thermostats, Nest Cams and Nest Protect smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These products work together without the need for a hub, which is unique to the industry. There are several products which also will work with Nest to make one's home more connected. An investment in Nest can be more expensive than one with another product line, and some customers have reported significant wait times or problems with customer service.

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The Good

  • Many places to buy
  • The Nest Learning Thermostat
  • Nest Protect Smoke Alarm
  • Full HD Nest Cams
  • Partner companies

Many Places to Buy

Built to make your home safer and more energy efficient, Nest's products are made for the current buyers who lean toward simple design with impressive specs. Their products can be purchased online at retailers such as Amazon, directly from Nest or from other retailers. Pricing for products is consistent across retailers, so customers need not worry that they will miss a better deal elsewhere. Nest creates products that are designed to save consumers money over time by protecting their home and allowing them to control everything remotely. All of their products can be installed easily with the help of video tutorials. Customers may also select professional installation from one of the hundreds of certified Nest Pro professional installers.

The Nest Learning Thermostat

While most thermostats today are programmable, the process is usually complicated, meaning that most users do not fully use the capabilities of their programmable thermostats to save energy and money. The Nest Learning Thermostat is simple to program and the interface is intuitive. Additionally, the thermostat can be controlled from one's smartphone or online through a Google account. The Nest Learning Thermostat remembers preferences and programs itself automatically after the user adjusts their thermostat for a few days. After a few days of turning the thermostat up or down based on their preferences, it will begin to set those temperatures on its own. The device can even differentiate between weekdays and weekends and make proper adjustments. Another helpful tool is the "Auto-Away" feature which notices when residents leave, and switches to energy-efficient mode. The ability to control the temperature from a smartphone also allows users to protect themselves against sudden temperature changes that could cause burst pipes or overheat a pet.

Nest Protect Smoke Alarm

With the smart smoke and carbon monoxide monitor, Nest creates an added piece of mind. Alerts are sent directly to smartphones identifying the location of the issue and distinguish between fast or slow-burning fires. In the event of a false alarm, the device can be silenced the alarm with the connected smartphone. This product works (less a few features) even if it's not connected to WiFi. While not as fully interactive, it will still keep the home and family safe.

Full HD Nest Cams

Nest offers a 1080p HD camera that streams securely to a phone, tablet, or laptop. The Nest Cam is able to show a 130-degree, wide-angle view of the room. With such high resolution, users can zoom and enhance images easily. Even more so than with the other products, the camera is simple to self-install and its portability allows users to set them up in any room in the house.

Partner Companies

In addition to the products which are sold by Nest, Nest works with other manufacturers which allows similar automation with a variety of products. Nest maintains a listing of all of current partnerships on the website:
  • Hue (colored light alerts)
  • August (smart lock)
  • Whirlpool
  • Kevo (smart lock)
  • Lifx (lighting)
  • Ooma (phone)
  • Rachio (sprinklers)
  • Mercedes-Benz
  • Big Ass Fans
  • Automatic (car adapter)
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The Bad

  • Slow return in investment
  • Reports of equipment failure
  • Display interface issues
  • Installation and charging issues
  • Long wait times for customer service
  • Privacy concerns with Android app

Slow Return in Investment

While Nest's products are designed to save money in the long term, the upfront cost is rather expensive, especially considering that users probably already have a fully functional thermostat and a smoke detector. Adding to the cost is that many houses will need more than one of each product-larger homes may need a thermostat upstairs and downstairs, smoke alarm on each floor, and camera for multiple rooms, etc.

Reports of Equipment Failure

And while many people feel that Nest improved their home and way of life, there are a number of negative reviews where the Nest technology failed completely. Reports of this are less frequent than the positive ones, but there are enough negative customer experiences of this sort that they bear mentioning.

Display Interface Issues

Many customers are ultimately unhappy with the interface of the Nest Learning Thermostat, saying that this device will only display the target temperature, rather than the current one. Nest has responded with explanations that the current temperature is displayed on the device, simply smaller and that if the device is functioning properly, there should not be a difference between the two readings.

Installation and Charging Issues

Customers also report some issues with charging the Nest Learning Thermostat. While there are some installations which require two wires only, others are finding that three are required to properly charge the device. The company has responded to these claims, often reiterating that two wire installation is sufficient.

Long Wait Times for Customer Service

Customers have reported long hold times for live customer support-sometimes in excess of ninety minutes.

Privacy Concerns with Android App

In order to use the Nest App for Android, the app requires several several permissions which customers find concerning. Among these are: access to photos, media, files, camera and contact list of the Android device.
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The Bottom Line

Most users are very happy with the look and performance of all of their Nest products with the most popular being the automated thermostat. While it may take time for the upgrade to actually start saving customers money, none of the products are so expensive to as be cost prohibitive. The standalone functionality of Nest products means that customers do not have to purchase a hub for the products to function; however, products which work with Nest are not necessarily as extensive as those offered by other home automation companies, the list of partner companies is very impressive. Many of the products which work with Nest do things that other home automation systems simply can't do. We recommend Nest for those looking for a simple and forward-thinking home automation provider with some reservations, since the technology remains glitchy and not guaranteed to work.
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Star Rating

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4.6

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54 Reviews

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5 grade

74%

4 grade

19%

3 grade

4%

2 grade

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1 grade

4%

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Sharifay Sharif Salt Lake City, UT

I have a thermostat that is connected to my Wi-Fi that I could turn down from the mobile app nest while I’m away from home while I’m away from home it uses the ECO to save energy and every time I walk past it it will turn on and tell me what the temperature is it has a schedule icon that you can go in and create a schedule for your thermostat it is very fast as soon as you put it on 64 I’ll go straight to 64 or I’ll tell you the whole house would be at this temperature within one hour or 45 minutes

1 year ago

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Dawn Grover

Nest is a great service to replace outdated, locking key for your home. It has many features all are coordinated with each other very well, very user-friendly app, and everything works as expected.

10 months ago

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Ricardo Ortiz Fredericksburg, VA

I got Nest with my new house, it's a life saver, I control my house from my phone, what, just simply fantastic. Customer services helped me setup the new Nest step by step. I highly recommend this company they are an A++++++++++++

1 year ago

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Carlos M. Hercules, CA

I love my nest thermostat. it's pretty easy to hook up to my heather. comes with all the instructions on how to hook it up a teenager can do it. their thermostats are simple and easy to use. all you got to do its turn the knob and bamm! it's on.

2 years ago

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Angie L Hanzel Saratoga Springs, UT

When my husband ordered solar panels we received a free Nest. I Love it! My favorite thing to do is lay in bed and be able to control the temperature from my phone without having to go to the thermostat. I also love the feature where you can program the nest to run at different temperatures throughout the day. Amazing product!

6 years ago

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Joanna Hester Gilbert, AZ

There was a Nest system installed in the most recent home we bought. I didn't think anything of it, but we have lived in the home for two years and use the system on a consistent basis. We love controlling the thermostat when we are on vacation!

6 years ago

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Cassidy Gundersen Orem, UT

I have a Nest thermostat, and it’s great! I love being able to adjust the temperature from my phone. When I was pregnant during the summer it was a lifesaver! I would get so hot at night but could adjust the temperature from bed. And then over time, it would just learn our schedule.

7 years ago

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Thomas Nuffer Orem, UT

We have had the Nest Protect Smoke Detectors for quite a while now; they are very good looking, and they always recognize when there is even the slightest amount of smoke in a room. It's kind of nice that they light up at night when somebody walks by them. Our only dissapointment is when the carbon monoxide detector part expires, it won't stop beeping until you completely remove it.

3 years ago

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David Anderson Providence, UT

We bought doorbells and security cameras for around the entire house. For emergency preparedness I have always felt that food, shelter and security are the most important. By purchasing these cameras I feel like I can travel for work and know that the family is safe. Drop the Glock for protection and make the smart choice like I did and buy cameras. My peace of mind is so much better now knowing that I can check on the house anytime anywhere.

4 years ago

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David Martin San Diego, CA

I love our Nest Thermostat. I bought it 2 years ago when we moved into our home. Literally, the very first thing that I did after closing on the home was install my Nest Thermostat. I love that it is a learning thermostat that automatically regulates the temperature based on occupancy in the house and based on my desire to be eco-friendly. It is hard to say whether or not we have saved money using it because we have never lived in this house without it, but just the simple and intuitive interface as well as the sleek look make it worth having.

4 years ago

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peggy cherry Fayetteville, NC

Love my Nest. I have had it for 3 years now. It has a program that learns your habit and adjusts accordingly. During the fall keep it on COOL/Heat. So I do not have to change it constantly form one to the other.

1 year ago

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Michele Dezuzio St Louis, MO

I have used a Nest camera in my family room for a few years and it let me know my pets were fine while I was not home. I was able to watch the front door and see anyone approaching outside.

1 year ago

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Heather H Sanford, FL

Nest provides reliable, real-time monitoring that is incredibly valuable for security purposes. The Nest applications are easy to use and customize, making it incredibly user friendly.

1 year ago

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Tanner Cook Gilbert, AZ

My wife and I recently put Nest thermostats in our home! We love being able to change the temperature right from our phone. The install wasn’t too hard either. Overall - very satisfied!

5 years ago

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CJ Milke Olney, MD

I use nest for my heating and air conditioning. I love being able to adjust the temperature from my phone. I can also set a schedule for when I want me heating/ac to turn on and off. Very convenient and an efficient way to save energy too! The company was happy to help me replace my item when it unexpectedly broke before my warranty was up.

3 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Steve Ashby Portland, OR

We have a Nest thermostat and we LOVE it! It connects really well with Amazon Alexa which we have throughout our home. I really like how it creates a history and programs forward, and being able to control with my phone from anywhere is great.

3 years ago

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Anoushka Ahuja Orlando, FL

I use a nest thermostat and I totally love it I adjust the temperature from my phone just before I’m about to arrive at this condo and it’s perfect every time I come in

2 years ago

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Joseph K Atchison, KS

Nest is an awesome product. It saved me once when my furnace went out in my condo. I do not understand why they have a low score here, but my score is as high as they come.

6 years ago

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Megan Milke Laurel, MD

All of my air conditioning/heating is run through nest systems. It is awesome that I can set certain times for my house to be a certain temperature so that I am not wasting energy when I am not home. Great products!

3 years ago

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Heather Greenburg ,

My son gave us the nest a couple of years ago to manage our heating and cooling. We purchased another one for the other floor. It is great that you can set the temperature parameters for daytime and night time.

3 years ago

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Mary Alice M. Orem, UT

It took me a while to figure out how to use it. I was surprised that it wasn't more user friendly. I was getting really frustrated when we first bought it because when we would leave the house it would turn off and the temp would get super low. But we changed the settings and it has been working much better for us.

3 years ago

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Max Winkel Lindon, UT

I like the Nest system but I have a few issues. First, I feel they try to cram environmental stuff down your throat. Just let me set the numbers. I realize the input device is limited but I think it could be made easier. I would like to be able to setup more than one in a house, rather than them being disjointed.

4 years ago

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Crystal Logan, UT

This was really easy to install. I was prepared to have to hire someone but a friend promised me I could do it. I did and it works better than our old thermostat. I like that I can control it from my phone anywhere

4 years ago

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Jessica Archuleta Riverton, UT

We got a really got deal on a nest. I was worried about it, but it has been great! I love that is small and doesn't take up much space. I love that we can check and adjust the temp on our phones.

4 years ago

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Danny Reeder Ogden, UT

I put 2 Nest products in my home 3 years ago. Using the smart thermostat has saved me money on my power/gas bills. I love that I can control it from my phone while in a different state.

4 years ago

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Tara Hammond Draper, UT

I've enjoyed my Nest thermostat and sensor. I love the sleek design and it's nice to change the temperature via the app. The sensor has helped a lot as we can have it go off the upstairs temperature at night time. My only wish is that I would easily connect it to my Google Home app.

4 years ago

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Shante Reeder Ogden, UT

We love our Nest! When traveling, it makes it so easy to make sure your home stays at a set temperature. It is so nice to have control via phone! This system has saved us a lot of money on utilities over the years!

4 years ago

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Sathvik Aithala Portland, OR

Have used Nest thermostats in 2 different houses, and both have been fantastic. Cut my electricity bill in half in the summer!

2 years ago

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Jacks Friend Riverton, UT

Our Nest thermostat is so helpful. I love how it can be adjusted from a phone. After a long drive home, I can heat up the house so it is warm when I get home.

2 years ago

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Joseph Amstadt Frisco, TX

Really convenient way to monitor devices and temperature in house. Having contacts and subscriptions linked in the Home app makes it easy to keep everyone connected.

3 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Lukaah Marlowe American Fork, UT

Nest smart home is a great way to control the home. We use a ring thermostat, and it is great. We use Alexa with it and t works well. Another thing that is good is that it is very use friendly.

3 years ago

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Picnicky82 Logan, UT

I just recently moved into a new home that has a nest. I like the ease of the app and the set up. I did have a problem with the first thermostat, but my builder was quick to replace it and I haven’t had a problem since.

4 years ago

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Bchell Midvale, UT

We purchased a nest hoping it would help save money. While it so easy to control and set, which it amazing it doesn't however save energy. Infact our power bill went up. All in all it's easy to manage, definitely takes time to start remembering, but doesn't save on your bill.

4 years ago

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Emily D Herriman, UT

I love our nest. The thermostat can be controlled from my phone. It also adjusts when it can tell no one is home.

2 years ago

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Laurel Dalton Herriman, UT

Nest has been perfect for our home! We love being able to turn the heat on and off from a smartphone while out of town.

2 years ago

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Jennifer Ashby Lehi, UT

We have a Nest doorbell and it's nice to be able to see when someone is at the door, especially when we are out of town. Sometimes it is hard to get a good look, though.

3 years ago

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Nate Ashby Provo, UT

We got a nest at my house I grew up in. Everyone in the family loved it. It makes it real easy to have control over the environment in your house.

3 years ago

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Chelsea Bishop Las Vegas, NV

We love our Nest doorbell! So great to be able to see who is at our door and I feel much safer at home now that we have it.

4 years ago

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Melissa vandenover Saratoga Springs, UT

I love the features that our nest provides us with. We would highly suggest them as we have been very pleased with their service.

4 years ago

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Dre35 West Valley City, UT

Love our ring doorbell, it gives us the peace of mind needed, when we're out. And when we are in the backyard, we know when people are at the door.

4 years ago

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Amanda George IL

The equipment is cheaply made, the sound goes in and out and the video is pixilated. The customer service team is friendly and nice but they don't offer many solutions. Plus these smart devices spy on you

1 year ago

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AlisaD Salt Lake City, UT

App is so easy to use. Love that I can adjust the temperature of my house when I am away.

2 years ago

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Carol Knight Salt Lake City, UT

Nest has been a great user friendly home monitoring system for us. It is the most cost effective way we have found for monitoring our home.

3 years ago

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Sandy Ogden, UT

We've had a nest in our home for 3 years. Love the eco friendly mode, and being apply to set temp's throughout the day.

4 years ago

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Tagg Ogden, UT

I love nest. From the doorbell to the temperature control and lights, Nest helps me feel safe and secure.

4 years ago

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Chrissy Lang Bellevue, WA

I recommend it I love it I used to watch my dogs with it. It was amazing..

1 year ago

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Tony's Babygirl Staton MO

Good products for any home , enjoys how it is wireless and compatible with several things.

1 year ago

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Elisabeth Kinghorn Bangkok, 10

I love my nest! It is such a modernized way of controlling my home and is so easy and convenient.

3 years ago

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James Stone Manchester, MD

Great to control your thermostat and doorbell camera. Everything is all in one and easy to use.

3 years ago

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Mmwlp1315 Pleasant Grove, UT

We love of nest cam and our nest thermostat. Both worked great and the app is super user friendly.

3 years ago