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Not long ago, a debate on Nest cam outdoor vs Nest cam IQ outdoor has caused a stir of confusion amongst the fans. One of them is the latest creation, which is an upgrade of its counterpart. Of course, to some eyes, the two look nothing more than different lines of a surveillance system. But for someone who had come across the original model, you might notice some likeliness even if it’s not very much.
The majority of aspects are different since the newer model, Nest cam IQ Outdoor has higher specs than its predecessor. Therefore, you should have a better and more thrilling experience with your smart home security system.
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But the real question remains; is it true the Nest cam IQ outdoor is more superior to the first Nest cam Outdoor? Is it worth it to get the newer version, or should you just stay with your old-but-original version?
Well, that will be our topic of the day, whereby we will discuss a comprehensive comparison of the duo. We will discuss the features, pointing out the crucial ones that made the initial model a success. And those that made the security solution brand to think of recreating a product which was already doing quite well.
Then, we can decide on the final answer for the ongoing nest cam IQ outdoor vs nest cam outdoor operational fight.
Anyhow, before we come to that, nonetheless, is it true that Nest is no longer an independent brand?
Introducing Nest Security technology Company
Funny enough, most people know Nest as a home automation company. The brand produces some of the best and innovatively designed thermostats and safety equipment [like smoke detector].
So, very few know the company also offers security solutions.
Originally, the Nest brand [officially called Nest Labs] started slow. As a matter of fact, we don’t think CEO and Co-founder Tony Fadell had hopes of getting into video surveillance technology.
After the initial debut in 2010, the company used the first and second year to launch and perfect its first Learning Thermostat. It was not until 2014 that Nest became a property of Google and then acquired Dropcam.
In 2015, the home automation company released the Nest Cam Indoor, which borrows its design from the Dropcam models. After its stunning performance on the market, the brand now upped its ploy and launched the Nest Cam Outdoor.
In 2018, Google finally took over control of the Nest Company as the second co-founder, Matt Rogers, announced his exit. Since none of the two founders was now present, the telecommunication giant rebranded its daughter to Google Nest.
Google also rebranded the original Nest logo. Then, transferred all the products from the original website to theirs.
This explains why Nest dot com will redirect you to the Google store whenever you click to view a particular product.
An overview of Nest Cam Outdoor and Nest Cam IQ Outdoor
As we’ve just said, Nest Cam Outdoor and Nest Cam IQ Outdoor are similar models but different versions. Both are spectacular products that you’ll live to enjoy while sitting on the gable wall of your suburban house.
Before the coming of the original Nest Cam Outdoor, the Nest Cam indoor has inspired Nest labs so well after its stirring success. They came to realize some people were hoping to use the device out but [sadly] it was for indoor use only.
At that time, they added weatherproof features on the camera so that their clients would use it in open environments. hence, the birth of the Nest Cam Outdoor, which also performed so well due to its numerous features. Amongst these functions is the DIY support that offers you the advantage of doing the installation by yourself.
On its end, the Nest Cam IQ Outdoor is unquestionably smart and high performing. When you check its demand on the market, though, the piece is selling so slowly. This has pushed many buyers to the edge since they are afraid of what other buyers are afraid of.
To understand what that is, let’s now look at the essential features that Nest Cam Outdoor and Nest Cam IQ Outdoor share or possess individually.
Comparing the Features and Capability of Nest cam IQ outdoor vs Nest cam outdoor
Design
The style of a security camera usually depicts a lot. Of course, some creators focus on the usefulness of a system instead of beauty. But what they forget is that some owners won’t dare pick something that will compromise their home décor.
Lucky, might and smartness is the true theme with Nest. Hence, they offer something that you will cherish to install even in a lakeside villa or deluxe apartment.
Both the Nest Cam Outdoor and Nest Cam IQ outdoor have a sleek design created with robust weatherproof materials. As such, the duo can’t promise you a lifetime guarantee but they will serve you for a longer period.
When it comes to the size, the newer version of the camera has larger dimensions and sizes than its counterpart. They both come in only a white shiny body, which is smart for sure.
However, the one color option leaves you without the means to choose your favorite pigment or match the camera with your house styling.
Lastly, the Nest Cam IQ Outdoor and the Nest Cam Outdoor has a lighting system to advise when they are working. The former has an RGB light ring that will glow when active and ready to pair with your app.
The function is a new one and it replaced the little LED light on the top center of the initial Nest Cam Outdoor.
Image Quality
While the design shares the beauty, the image quality shows the necessary specifics. Actually, it’s the most essential feature for any CCTV meant for security purposes. It often determines the level of details of the captured images, which can be very helpful in the event of an incident.
As a brand powered by innovation and a strong desire to offer solutions, Nest designed both cameras with a stunning resolution. The original cam has a 1080p sensor that delivers sharp and crystal, colored images during the day.
All the lenses of the camera are glass. So, the captured videos are so clear that you can read a license plate at 20 – 30 feet away. You can even zoom the distant objects up to 8x.
When we now come to the Nest cam IQ, the offered image resolution is about 4 times that of the 1080p HD. It has an 8MP camera that delivers bright and vivid images that are rich in detail and clarity.
Even so, the produced footage is not as clear as the movie pictures on your UltraHD TV. They are just clearer than those from lower resolution cameras, allowing up to 50ft viewing range. In case it’s a distant object, you can even zoom up to 12x without drastically reducing the image quality.
Since its image sensor is a bit more sensitive, the newer cam also incorporates the advanced HDR [High Dynamic range] technology. This is to help balance the images captured in high contrast or dark backgrounds.
At nighttime, the Nest cams have some high-power infrared LEDs that ensure you can still see everything in the dark. Sadly, the cameras capture black and white images but even those at a distance.
Focal Length And The Field Of View
Usually, the lens used on a security camera does determine the image resolution and the field of view to expect. It is available in various sizes, which we formally call a focal length.
The focal length is often directly proportional to the field of vision. In simple words, high image quality means the particular surveillance camera has a wide-angle lens. This is to enable coverage of wide scenes and still retain vivid image resolution.
Therefore, we can firmly conclude the Nest cam IQ Outdoor has a wider lens than its counterpart.
With the field of view, the setup is usually inversely proportional to the focal length. This is to mean, with an increase in the focal length, the field of view will decrease, or vice versa.
In case you’re wondering, the field of view is a measure of how far a security camera can see. Depending with if the fitted lens, the field of view can be a permanent setting [fixed lens] or an adjustable one [varifocal lens].
In our case, the two Nest outdoor cameras have a fixed 130° super wide viewing angle. Hence, they will monitor a large scene of your environment.
Audio Functions
Sometimes, viewing video surveillance footage can be boring. The majority of the systems provide videos without audio, which is just like playing YouTube while in mute mode.
Therefore, we can say an audio function can make your CCTV experience enjoyable while at the same time enhancing security. It allows the recording of video plus audio. Hence, capture more details of an activity.
Both Nest Cam Outdoor and Nest Cam IQ Outdoor do support audio. They have an inbuilt mic and speaker that records sound and you can listen. So, you can receive a video footage that you can see and as well hear what those next to the camera are saying.
Furthermore, you can enjoy a smooth two-way conversation from your phone to the person on the other end of the cam.
Unlike its predecessor, the Nest cam IQ Outdoor has a 3-microphone array to help in the echo cancellation and noise suppression. As such, the talk and listen is seamless and super clear, with no background interference.
Audio Analytics
The biggest advantage with Nest is that the brand focuses on making your smart home experience better and more rewarding. For instance, the two Nest cameras do trigger notifications when they detect a loud or unexpected sound.
With an active Nest Aware subscription, you can even set your surveillance camera to detect specific sounds, including dog barking, gunshot, and broken glass. This is so convenient as it means you can still get an alert even if the camera’s lens can’t see anything.
Nota bene: Your Nest Camera can only detect sounds when the microphone is on and working.
Video Analytics
Just like with the audio, the video analytics will help keep you in the loop with real-time alerts. It’s only difference, however, is that it relies on the movements of an object, rather not the sounds.
For the original Nest cam, it has an advanced motion sensor that triggers recording and also pushes instant alerts to your phone. The alert will even come with a key image from what has triggered it, thereby giving you a chance to act accordingly before an incident.
This cam even allows you to set specific activity zones that you can be receiving receive alerts. It can also push a special alert when a person passes past the camera lens.
Also, the newer Nest Cam IQ can detect movements and then alert you with a real-time notification plus an image screenshot. you can even set the motion sensor to detect only activities from your most important areas. And when it comes to the person alerts, the feature is even better as it can identify your sons plus other familiar faces.
Remote Access
First, for a surveillance camera to send the intrusion alerts, it has to be capable of working remotely. The function usually relies on internet connection on both the CCTV system and the viewing device.
Luckily, we are in an era of smartphones and tablets, plus our two Nest Cameras utilize WiFI for data transmission.
Therefore, you can easily and efficiently stream live video footage from any location in the world. You can even communicate with the friend at your door, as well as scare off the stranger trying to look through your glassed patio door. Hence, deterring his evil motive.
Storage
Even if you can view real-time footage from miles away, a surveillance cam is entirely worthless if it can’t keep the captured footage. Without the recording history, it means you can’t playback to view what you might have missed. Also, you might be unable to identify the guy who broke into your house or recover your stolen items since there’s no credible evidence.
Therefore, a storage system is very crucial in every surveillance cam that is for security purposes. That’s why Google Nest now offers the Nest Cam Outdoor and the Nest cam IQ Outdoor with a fantastic cloud space.
The cloud server is very convenient as you can playback your compound’s video history anytime, anywhere.
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For you to enjoy the best from the service, though, you have to subscribe to a renewable Nest Aware plan.
This subscription plan includes a basic package that costs $6/ mo to give you event video history [triggered by movements/ audio]. In case you would like to have both the activity-triggered and continuous recording video history, you can choose the Nest Aware Plus that charges $12/ mo or $120/ Yr.
If you feel these two plans as nonessential, you can as well go for the 3-hour free cloud storage. With the non-paid plan, nonetheless, you’ll only get history of the sound and motion-activated recordings.
Additionally, be aware that the advanced functions like the familiar face and person alerts only work with an active Nest Aware plan.
Power Supply
When it come s to comparing the nest cam outdoor vs nest cam IQ outdoor in terms of power utilization, there is no difference. The duo relies on wired power to run. Hence, the reason each of them comes with an AC power adapter that can connect with 100 – 240V AC.
If the mounting position is inaccessible to the wired AC power, you can connect with a rechargeable solar battery of 15V DC.
So, whichever you opt to use, you’ll still have a wire to pass through the wall or mounting pole.
Smart Integration
For this one, Google Nest is a home automation brand that brings you smart solutions to solve your day-to-day situations. The company work on simplifying things for you by bringing all Google and Nest home products under one roof.
One of the ways the brand has been able to do this is by the intelligent Google Assistant, which helps support hands-free control. The feature is usually very useful as you can operate various functions of your cam while still cooking or doing other chores.
Despite its effectiveness, though, the Google Assistant function is only available for the nest cam indoor. The outdoor models, including out two products, don’t support it for now and we don’t even think it will be anytime soon.
Google is very cautious when it comes to safeguarding their clients’ comfort. The Google Assistant function usually link all the supported smart home devices under one roof. And so, they wouldn’t want a passerby to start controlling your smart lights or thermostats from the outdoor camera.
Setup and Installation
Google Nest Labs designed the first cam outdoor and its upgraded model with the ability to transmit data wirelessly. As such, the security camera does not require a video cable to transmits its footage.
Usually, to set up a PoE or BNC cable connection can be boring and time-consuming. It might even become more tedious if you’ll need to provide your wired cameras with AC power.
With a wireless camera like the Nest Cam Outdoor or the Nest Cam IQ Outdoor, though, the installation is quick and straightforward. You just have to ensure the camera is within range with your home wifi. Then, plan on how the particular camera will have power.
As for the wireless internet, you can either use the 2.4GHz or 5GHz connection if you are in the US or Mexico.
If from the rest parts of the world, you’ll only be able to connect with 2.4GHz due to laws differences. Therefore, make sure your camera is not near to the rest of 2.4GHz devices, including microwave or Bluetooth stereos.
Otherwise, you’ll get system interruptions, including low quality image, which is beyond the Nest’s control.
The Nest app for doing the setup is very user-friendly and highly protected from tough Google security algorithms. In case you don’t understand English the mobile app is available in there other languages, including Spanish, French, and Dutch.
Finally, when it comes the time to mount your camera, the process is also quick but you’ll need a Philips screwdriver and drilling equipment. The Nest Cam Outdoor models often come with the rest of the mounting components. This include a wall plate, cable clips, screws [plus their wall plugs], and an guide to enable faster and efficient installation.*
Pricing
Hmm, money is everything in this world. It can determine who you are, what you have, and whom you chill with.
When it comes to the video surveillance camera systems, the same concept applies, whereby your budget determines what you get.
From our subject, we can’t say buying the first nest cam outdoor or the nest cam IQ outdoor is cheap. The former has a price tag of over $150 while its baby sister costs its double.
$300 is quite high for a wireless standalone camera, for sure. If you have a significant budget, though, you can invest in its smarter and tighter security functions. The Nest model has more enhanced functions that will leave you with a smile every time. Some include familiar person alerts, close-up auto motion tracking, crisp 4k images, and up to 12x zooming.
Anyhow, if your wallet is not that thick, you are free to get the original Nest Cam Outdoor or else another cheaper alternative. You might be surprised to find that the $300 is enough to buy up to eight Wi-Fi CCTVs from top brands like Victure.
A Summary On Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera
- 24/7 live video: 130 Degree view shows your home in 1080P HD day and night
- Weatherproof: Camera cable and adapter are all weatherproof
Smart. Convenient. Reliable. These are the words we would have used if we were to explain the outdoor surveillance cam. It has a modish design and a versatile hinge that allows you to adjust it up to 360-degree rotation.
Designed for high-quality surveillance, this security camera capture bright and sharp 1080p HD images that you can zoom up to 8x. It has a superior night vision that guarantees optimal recording in both daytime and darkness.
As a wifi camera, the Nest cam Outdoor transmits its data wirelessly to your phone, PC, or any other viewing screen. As such, it’s very easy to install and setup without even hiring any professional technician.
Key Features:
- It records bright and sharp images of up to 1080p HD
- Has a 130° wide viewing angle to allow an extended coverage
- Features 8 powerful infrared LEDs for nighttime recording
- Supports audio recording and two-way talk
- Has the advanced motion activity zones and person alerts
- Features magnetic installation, which is super easy
- The wireless camera is IP65 weatherproof to allow use in open environments.
Cons
- It doesn’t support Google Assistant or Alexa. Hence, no hands-free control
- No memory card slot for local storage.
What we like about it:
If you’re searching for a product for quality 24/7 surveillance, the security cam has the very best features. It captures images that rich in details and also it has an advanced person detection that triggers special alerts after seeing humans.
A Summary on Nest cam IQ Outdoor Security camera
- Works with Alexa for voice control (Alexa device sold separately).
- Person alerts: Smart enough to tell a person from a thing, then alert you.
This is an upgrade of the first Nest Cam Outdoor. It comes with improved functions that allow you to enjoy double the efficiency while using in your apartment or suburban house.
The wireless security cam has a super-wide field of view and an 8MP image sensor. As such, it provides crisps images, with vivid details and clarity to allow zooming without drastically reducing the image quality.
Under its sturdy, shiny shell, this surveillance cam houses a spectacular 3-array speaker system and a microphone. This allows a seamless, high definition two-way talk that you can use to establish conversations or scare away the intruder.
As an upgrade of the origin, the Google Nest Cam IQ Outdoor has a close-up tracking view and familiar face detection. As such it triggers an automatic zoom, follows the object in motion, and then identify and alert you if it’s someone familiar.
Key Features:
- It has an 8MP image sensor and HDR technology to capture quality images
- Delivers 1080p UltraHD videos that you can zoom without drastically lowering the image quality.
- Includes high-performance IR LEDs for clear and even night vision
- Has a 120-degree viewing angle to cover a wider area
- Supports audio recording and seamless two-way talk
- Features motion detection with close-up tracking and familiar face alerts
- The wireless camera has can rotate up to 360 degrees for higher efficiency.
Cons
- It has no local storage to keep recordings when Wi-Fi is down
- Doesn’t support Google Assistant or other hands-free control features
What we like about it:
The Nest Cam IQ Outdoor is ultra-smart and mighty. It delivers crystal-clear images that you can zoom up to 12x without drastically reducing its video quality. The security camera also has several intelligent functions, including auto motion tracking and familiar face detections.
How we wish this camera was using its own improved Nest app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best between Nest Cam Outdoor vs Nest Cam IQ Outdoor?
Usually, the best surveillance camera depends on individual preferences, needs, and budget. For instance, with a significant budget, the Nest cam IQ outdoor will be the best to monitor the driveway or the main gate.
On the other hand, with enough budget and a larger compound, the original Nest Cam outdoor is perfect. It records bright and vivid images and you can get multiple pieces to place at different positions.
My camera has suddenly started recording low-quality images. Why is that?
This can be due to a number of reasons. It can be caused by the presence of dust or debris on the lens. And it can also be due to a slower internet connection. Therefore, clean the camera lens with a soft lint-free cloth and ensure your home Wi-Fi has at least 2Mbps or 4Mbps upload speed.
Why does my Nest Cam Outdoor model have poor night vision?
Similarly, the issue could be from loss of internet speed or a dirty camera lens. Nonetheless, poor night vision [with dark images] mostly occur when the infrared light reflects off a surface closer to the camera.
Why is my Google Assistant not responding?
Well, this issue can occur due to several reasons. It can be because you have muted the mic or it’s faulty [or blocked]. The issue can also occur if the Google Assistant feature didn’t recognize the question correctly. It can even be compatibility issues if you are trying to use it with the Nest cam Outdoor and Nest Cam IQ Outdoor.
Thus, you can try troubleshooting each of them until you get it to work.
How is my Nest cam not detecting sound?
That’s a straightforward one; a muted mic or one that’s blocked or faulty. So, you can try unmuting, cleaning the area around it [mic], or replacing it.
Conclusion
Google Nest is a true brand if you are interested in monitoring your precious items smartly and with higher efficiency. Yes, the brand is still new to the video surveillance technology but the few systems they have in place have already proven reliable.
From our Nest Cam Outdoor vs Nest Cam IQ Outdoor comparison, we have seen the two offer functions without many. Not just for the image quality but through the integration of smart intelligence and functions.
With the original cam, for instance, we have seen you can get advanced motion activity zones and person detection alerts. We have also seen you can get an auto motion tracking and familiar face detection with the recreated Nest cam.
Therefore, we can conclude the performance of both Nest Cam outdoor cameras is truly outstanding and worth a buy. Nonetheless, Google Nest should consider making the products customer-centric by ensuring they’re more accessible.
If it’s the newer Nest Cam IQ Outdoor, the functions are surely worth it. However, the security provider should come up with its special app to deal with the cam’s unique functions. Otherwise, it makes no sense to fit an autonomous vehicle with the same, same old-school ignition keyhole.