{"id":111,"date":"2021-10-28T16:06:25","date_gmt":"2021-10-28T15:06:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.smarthomewinner.com\/?p=111"},"modified":"2022-08-22T16:49:47","modified_gmt":"2022-08-22T15:49:47","slug":"nest-devices-without-subscriptions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.smarthomewinner.com\/nest-devices-without-subscriptions\/","title":{"rendered":"Which Nest Devices Will (& Won\u2019t!) Work Without Subscription?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Most Google Nest devices are controlled through a paid subscription service called Nest Aware. This subscription helps you get more out of your Nest doorbells, cameras, displays, speakers, and others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

With that said, it’s still entirely possible to use your Nest devices without a subscription. Although you won’t get 100% of the device’s features, it’ll still be functional enough to work without paying extra every month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this article, we’ll discuss which Nest devices will (and won\u2019t) work without a subscription to help you make an informed decision when buying one of Google’s products. Let’s dive right in!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is Nest Aware? <\/h2>\n\n\n
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A Nest cam has just been installed in Elgin IL by a homeowner wanting more security<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Nest Aware<\/a> is a paid subscription service powered by Google. Essentially, it’s a product add-on that gives you access to the full features of your Nest devices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The exact features available depend on the product and the region your home is in, but the main feature you gain is that all recordings are now safely stored away in the cloud – ready for you to watch back later on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Is Nest Aware Worth It?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There’s always been a debate on whether the Nest Aware subscription service is worth the cost. Personally, I find the additional features extremely useful and even crucial for my security system. Even so, I\u2019d be lying if I said the extra cost isn’t inconvenient, especially as there are cheaper subscription services out there. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The cost of Nest Aware can quickly add up for a single Nest device. For a single Nest Cam, you’ll end up paying $6 a month or $60 a year at the very minimum<\/strong>. That’s after the initial product investment, too, which can cost anywhere between $50 to $300 depending on the product. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For some people, the Nest Aware subscription isn’t worth the cost. In fact, some would go out of their way to avoid the brand entirely so they won’t have to use the subscription service. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, others believe that the cost is justified and that they get more for their money. Nest Aware plans cost between $6 to $12 but will cover all your Nest devices in a single home<\/strong>. If you have multiple Nest products, this package definitely offers a good bang for your buck.<\/p>\n\n\n

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The Nest Aware webpage showing the two subscription plans<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Nest Devices That Will (and Won\u2019t) Work Without a Subscription<\/h2>\n\n\n
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A Google Nest Mini smart speaker in listening mode<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Google offers a variety of Nest devices, including doorbells, speakers, cameras, displays, Wi-Fi, and even thermostats<\/a>. Luckily, most of these products have standard features that don\u2019t require third-party subscriptions. However, it\u2019ll severely limit the device\u2019s functionality.     <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nest Cams (Indoor and Outdoor)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although Nest Aware is required to access the more “premium” features, Nest Cams work without a subscription. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nest Cams<\/a> are nothing short of top-notch; they’re high-quality, functional, and responsive. Plus, they come with several free features, including the ability to watch your camera’s video stream whenever and wherever you want through the application. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nest cameras also notify you of important motion-based alerts and image snapshots of the person standing outside your home<\/strong>. These images are saved on your device for three full hours. Moreover, the application delivers immediate notifications whenever anyone rings the doorbell. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For many, these features are more than enough. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these products are fairly expensive. For over $150, you’d expect more than a simple sensor and a motion capture. While they do offer a ton of other features, you can only access them through a Nest Aware subscription. These features<\/a> include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n