Google Nest Hub vs Nest Hub Max: The Ultimate Smart Display Showdown (2025 Edition)

• Release Timeline: The Nest Hub Max launched in September 2019, while the second-generation Nest Hub arrived in March 2021, marking Google’s two main smart displays on the market theverge.com.
• Size & Display: Nest Hub Max boasts a 10-inch HD (1280×800) touchscreen, dwarfing the Nest Hub (2nd Gen)’s 7-inch (1024×600) screen businessinsider.com store.google.com. The larger display makes the Max better for videos/recipes, whereas the smaller Hub is ideal for nightstands or desks.
• Audio & Camera: The Hub Max packs a stereo sound system with a 75mm woofer and two tweeters plus a 6.5MP wide-angle camera for video calls and security store.google.com store.google.com. The Hub 2nd Gen has no camera and a single 1.7-inch full-range speaker, making it less suited for video calls but fine for bedside music businessinsider.com store.google.com.
• Smart Features: The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) introduced Google’s Soli radar for gesture control and Sleep Sensing, tracking your sleep from the bedside with impressive precision businessinsider.com. The Hub Max lacks radar but uses its camera for Face Match and Quick Gestures (e.g. pausing media with a hand wave) businessinsider.com businessinsider.com.
• Performance & Interface: Both run Google Assistant with the same interface, but the Hub 2nd Gen can feel laggy and slow to respond despite a refreshed CPU theverge.com. The Hub Max’s older hardware still holds up for basic tasks, but neither offers the snappy responsiveness of a modern tablet.
• Smart Home Hub: Both devices now support the new Matter standard and have Thread radio built-in, letting them act as Thread border routers for connecting smart gadgets store.google.com store.google.com. They serve as central hubs in the Google Home ecosystem, controlling lights, cameras, thermostats, and more with voice or touch.
• Pricing & Availability: At launch the Nest Hub Max cost around $229 and the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) $99 businessinsider.com businessinsider.com. As of 2025, both are often heavily discounted (the Hub often ~$50–$80, Max ~$150–$200 when on sale). Inventory is drying up with stock shortages in some regions store.google.com, suggesting potential replacements on the horizon.

Introduction to Nest Hub (2nd Gen) and Nest Hub Max

Google’s smart display lineup consists of two main models: the Nest Hub Max (released September 2019) and the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) (released March 2021). These devices combine a touchscreen with Google Assistant voice control, aiming to be the central command centers for your smart home. The Nest Hub Max was Google’s first large smart display, introduced after rebranding the Google Home Hub under the Nest banner techradar.com. With its 10-inch screen and camera, the Hub Max was positioned as a kitchen or living-room device for communal use, video calls, and entertainment. Two years later, the second-gen Nest Hub (maintaining the 7-inch form factor of the original 2018 Home Hub) arrived with new tricks like sleep tracking – targeting bedside or personal desk use where a camera isn’t needed. Google now markets these as complementary options: the petite, camera-free Nest Hub for privacy-conscious areas like bedrooms, and the larger Nest Hub Max for shared spaces businessinsider.com. Despite their age (the Hub Max is over 6 years old, Hub 2nd Gen over 4 years), they remain Google’s flagship smart displays as of 2025 theverge.com, anchoring the Google Home ecosystem amid increasing competition.

Both devices share Google’s design language of a minimalist tablet-like screen mounted on a fabric-covered base. They function similarly at a high level – showing visual answers to “Hey Google” queries, cycling through photo slideshows when idle, and giving touch controls for smart home devices – but differ significantly in hardware and intended usage. Below, we’ll dive into a side-by-side comparison of their specifications, followed by insights from expert reviews, the latest updates on Google’s smart display software and future models, how they stack up against rival products from Amazon, Apple, Lenovo, and Meta, and guidance on which model (if either) is best for you in various use cases.

Side-by-Side Specs and Features Comparison

Image: The 7-inch Nest Hub (2nd Gen) (left) versus the 10-inch Nest Hub Max (right). The Nest Hub Max’s larger screen and built-in camera make it better suited for communal spaces and video calls, while the smaller Nest Hub fits neatly on nightstands or desks (no camera, but adds a sleep-tracking radar) .

To get a quick overview, here’s a specification breakdown of the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) vs. Nest Hub Max:

Design & Build: Aesthetically, both Nest Hubs have the same friendly design: a tablet-like display seamlessly attached to an angled fabric-covered base. There are no physical buttons on the front – just an ambient light sensor and (on the Max) the camera centered above the screen. Volume buttons and a privacy switch are located on the back of each device theguardian.com theguardian.com. Sliding the switch will cut power to the microphones on both units, and to the camera on the Hub Max (since the smaller Hub has no camera) theguardian.com. Notably, neither device includes a physical camera shutter, a conscious choice by Google that drew some criticism pcworld.com pcworld.com. The bases come in soft, neutral colors that blend into home décor. Overall dimensions and weight mean the Nest Hub Max takes up significantly more space – at nearly 10″ wide and 7″ tall, it’s like a small picture frame or tablet on a stand, whereas the Nest Hub 2nd Gen is more compact than an iPad Mini. Despite the “Max” moniker, reviewers found the big unit “surprisingly svelte” and easy to fit on a kitchen counter without dominating the space pcworld.com pcworld.com. The smaller Nest Hub is even less obtrusive, ideal for tight spots like a bedside table.

Display Quality: Both displays use similar LCD technology with wide viewing angles, but the Nest Hub Max’s 10.1-inch panel is much better suited for video and recipe viewing at a distance. Its 1280×800 resolution stretched over a larger area results in the same modest pixel density (~150 ppi) as the 7-inch 1024×600 Nest Hub, meaning neither screen looks particularly sharp by modern tablet standards techradar.com. Text and images are perfectly adequate when glanced at from a few feet away (typical use case for a countertop smart display), but up close you can notice pixels. Brightness on both is managed by the Ambient EQ sensor, which magically tunes the screen’s brightness and color warmth to match your room – a standout feature that makes the display look almost like a printed photo on paper pcworld.com pcworld.com. This means the Nest Hubs can dim down at night or in low light to an ultra-soft glow (great for bedrooms), and ramp up during day or bright conditions. In use, the consensus is that Google’s Ambient EQ makes photos and clock faces “look great no matter the time of day or lighting in the room” theverge.com. The touchscreen responsiveness, unfortunately, is an issue on the 2nd Gen Nest Hub: despite Google using a supposedly faster processor in 2021, multiple reviewers noted the smaller Hub feels sluggish. “It is slow. Compared to almost any other touchscreen device you might own, the Nest Hub is laggy… with stuttering animations all over” theverge.com wrote The Verge, and that sentiment is echoed by users who experience a slight delay in registering swipes and taps. The Hub Max, with similar internals (just more RAM), isn’t a speed demon either, but it doesn’t have to juggle the Soli radar processing – its performance is described as serviceable for basic tasks, though the UI on all Google smart displays has been criticized as “increasingly busted” in recent years theverge.com theverge.com. In short, neither device offers silky-smooth tablet-like interaction, and Google assumes you’ll use voice commands more often than touch for complex tasks theverge.com.

Audio Quality: This is a category where the Nest Hub Max clearly outshines its smaller sibling. The Nest Hub Max features a proper 2.1 speaker system built into its base: two front-facing tweeters for stereo highs, and a rear-facing woofer for bass theguardian.com. This allows it to produce room-filling sound that’s richer than what most small smart displays can manage. “It sounds good enough to act as a mini hi-fi,” TechRadar noted, saying you could use it as a kitchen music player comfortably techradar.com. The bass is notably stronger on the Max, thanks to that 75mm woofer – it can deliver fuller low-end response for music and more authoritative voice tones. By comparison, the Nest Hub 2nd Gen has a single 1.7-inch full-range driver (no separate tweeters or subs). Google did improve this speaker over the first-gen model – the driver is larger, yielding 50% more bass than the original Nest Hub, and a fuller overall sound theverge.com. For its size, the little Nest Hub’s audio is decent: fine for listening up close in a small room at moderate volume. It excels for things like alarm clock sounds, Google Assistant responses, podcasts, or background music while you work. But it can’t match the volume or depth of the Hub Max. In a medium-sized room, the Hub Max can fill the space with music without sounding tinny, whereas the small Hub is better at near-field audio. The Guardian’s review found the Hub Max “able to fill a room without sounding overly shrill,” though it still wasn’t quite on par with Amazon’s Echo Show 10 in pure audio power theguardian.com. For many users, the Nest Hub Max’s audio is “surprisingly robust” – one reviewer was impressed that this slim device could produce such sound, calling it one of the most compelling aspects of the device pcworld.com. Microphone performance on both is strong, with multiple far-field mics to pick up “Hey Google” from across the room. Interestingly, the Hub Max sometimes requires a slightly louder call to wake (perhaps due to its larger room placement) – “it has a harder time hearing you… you have to speak more directly to it,” noted The Guardian theguardian.com. But both models feature Google’s advanced voice processing and support Voice Match, which recognizes different household members by voice to deliver personalized answers.

Expert Reviews: What Tech Critics Say

Both Nest Hub models have been examined by tech reviewers since their debut, painting a picture of each device’s strengths and weaknesses. Here we compile some hands-on impressions from reputable sources:

• Overall Verdicts: Upon its launch, the Nest Hub Max received glowing praise as perhaps the best smart display of its generation. “The Google Nest Hub Max is the best smart display you can buy because it’s simply smarter than the rest,” declared The Guardian in late 2019 theguardian.com, highlighting Google Assistant’s intelligence and the effective integration of the camera features. PCMag’s review (via TechHive) similarly lauded the Hub Max’s all-in-one capabilities, calling it “one of the most compelling smart displays we’ve tested,” thanks to its combination of a camera, powerful speakers, and Google’s adaptive screen tech pcworld.com. By contrast, the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) was seen as a more modest upgrade; its standout Sleep Sensing feature was well-received, but performance issues kept it from being a slam dunk. The Verge’s Dan Seifert appreciated the new capabilities but noted bluntly: “Here’s the thing about the new $99 Nest Hub: it is slow…laggy to respond, with stuttering animations” theverge.com. Still, for many reviewers the value proposition of the smaller Hub remained strong – at $100 (often less on sale) it undercut many rivals. Insider’s 2023 comparison put it succinctly: “Google Nest Hub is the better overall smart display for most people, thanks to its compact design and Soli radar sensor… while the Max is a good pick if a camera is non-negotiable” businessinsider.com businessinsider.com. In short: experts typically recommend the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) as the go-to for bedside or personal use, and Nest Hub Max for communal areas where its screen size and camera shine.
• Design and Screen: Reviewers universally liked Google’s design approach. The devices feel solid and well-built, with a clean aesthetic. “Neat design, well-priced,” noted TechRadar’s pros list for the Hub Max techradar.com. The lack of a camera shutter on the Max did garner criticism in some reviews (especially given that Lenovo’s competing smart display included a physical cover techradar.com), but Google’s counter was the electronic kill-switch and on-screen indicators (a green LED lights when the camera is active for Nest Cam) theguardian.com. The display quality was generally found acceptable: not pin-sharp, but with good colors and adaptive brightness. TechRadar pointed out that the Nest Hub Max’s 1280×800 screen would be sub-par “if it were packed into a tablet” you hold close, but for a smart display you glance at, it’s fine techradar.com. The smaller 7″ Hub’s screen, while lower-res, was considered adequate for its size and usage range – with one big compliment being its utility as a digital photo frame. In fact, many reviewers from CNET to PCWorld commented that both Nest Hubs excel as photo frames when idling, cycling through Google Photos albums. “It’s still an excellent Google Photos digital photo frame,” The Verge wrote about the Nest Hub 2nd Gen theverge.com, a role where slower performance doesn’t matter. This use – displaying family photos on a mantle or bedside – is a major selling point that reviewers say Google does better than most, due to Ambient EQ and integration with Google Photos cloud.
• Audio and Video Calls: Audio quality feedback aligns with what we detailed earlier: the Nest Hub Max delivers impressively strong sound for its size, while the small Nest Hub is just okay. PCWorld’s review highlighted the Max’s “surprisingly robust sound” that can even handle party music in a kitchen pcworld.com. On the camera and video calling, reviewers were intrigued by Google’s approach. The Nest Hub Max introduced a feature called Auto-Framing, where the 6.5MP camera will digitally pan and zoom to keep you centered during video calls – similar to Amazon’s Echo Show 10 tracking or Apple’s Center Stage. It worked “well enough” in tests theguardian.com, though not as dynamically as a moving camera. Most calls are done via Google Duo / Meet on the Hub Max, and those worked reliably. That said, some reviewers admitted they didn’t use video calling much after initial tests theguardian.com – a common refrain for smart display owners unless video calls are already part of their routine. The Nest Hub (2nd Gen), with no camera, cannot initiate two-way video calls (it can still make audio calls or receive video — for instance Google Meet can display the caller’s video on the Hub while your side is audio-only). This was seen as a reasonable trade-off for a bedroom-oriented device. Reviewers like Tom’s Guide praised the lack of camera on the smaller Hub in the context of privacy for personal spaces, suggesting it’s “an ideal nightstand companion” precisely because you know it’s not watching you. At the same time, the camera on Hub Max unlocked new features: The Guardian found the Face Match facial recognition “really rather impressive…genuinely useful rather than a gimmick” theguardian.com theguardian.com. By recognizing who is in front of the display, the Hub Max can show personalized info (calendars, reminders, messages) for that person – a capability Amazon’s displays didn’t have at the time. Voice Match already did this via voice, but having it happen passively by face felt futuristic and convenient to many reviewers. Of course, those sensitive about privacy might disable Face Match, but Google designed it to process locally (no facial images are sent to cloud) theguardian.com. Another gesture feature was Quick Gestures: wave your hand to pause or play music or timers. On the Nest Hub Max, this uses the camera to detect an open-palm gesture; on the Nest Hub 2, the Soli radar detects a “tap” in the air. Reviewers found the radar-based gestures on Nest Hub 2 more reliable than the camera-based ones on Hub Max businessinsider.com. “On the Hub Max, the camera often only detects gestures some of the time, with a noticeable lag,” Insider’s review noted, whereas the Nest Hub’s Soli hand-waves were instant and “feel like second nature” businessinsider.com.
• Performance and Software: No one buys a Google Nest Hub expecting smartphone-like processing power, but the UI performance did come up frequently in reviews. As noted, The Verge and others criticized the Nest Hub 2’s slowness – “did I mention it’s slow?” was literally listed in the cons theverge.com. They pointed out that when you try to navigate via touch, the experience can be frustrating: “There’s a noticeable delay whenever I touch the screen… switching between functions has stuttery animations” theverge.com. Even voice commands could occasionally lag on the new Hub, with Google Assistant sometimes taking a beat too long to respond, which can be annoying theverge.com. By contrast, the Hub Max being a 2019 product had fewer expectations and seemed to run about the same as the smaller one. Both run a specialized interface (more on that in the next section) that isn’t as dynamic as Android or iOS. CNET’s long-term notes indicated that as Google has added more features, the UI on these smart displays has become “increasingly janky”, partly because “most interface elements actually just send voice commands in the background” rather than directly executing actions theverge.com theverge.com. Despite these quirks, experts still generally value what the devices can do. They multitask as photo frame, smart speaker, home control panel, and more. “A competent, if slow, smart home dashboard” is how The Verge summed up the Nest Hub theverge.com – implying that once you get past the occasional lag, it serves its purpose as a central screen for your smart home.

In reviewers’ pros/cons lists, some points stood out:

• For Nest Hub Max, typical Pros cited were its impressive audio, large useful display, Nest Cam functionality, and Google Assistant’s intelligence pcworld.com. Typical Cons were the missing camera shutter, lack of an audio-out jack (you can’t wire it to bigger speakers), and at the time, Google’s smart home platform not yet as extensive as Alexa’s (e.g. Amazon Echo Show could act as a Zigbee hub for devices, whereas Google was just starting to adopt the new Matter/Thread approach) pcworld.com pcworld.com.
• For Nest Hub (2nd Gen), Pros often included affordability, compact size, no camera (for privacy), and the unique Sleep Sensing abilities. Cons included sluggish performance, and the fact that Sleep Sensing would only be free for a limited time (more below), plus an observation that it didn’t do much that the original 2018 Hub couldn’t aside from sleep tracking and slightly better sound.

Overall, the expert consensus is that both Nest Hubs are excellent ambient smart home devices – they are best at seamlessly blending into your life (showing your photos, answering questions out loud, controlling devices with minimal fuss) rather than being general-purpose tablets or computing devices. Many reviewers noted that having a screen actually adds a lot of value to a smart speaker: for example, when you ask for weather, you see the forecast; when you ask for a recipe, you can read along; when you play music, you see album art and controls. Google Assistant was often praised for being very capable on these displays (“one of the smartest assistants we’ve tried,” as PCMag put it pcworld.com), though Alexa still held an edge in some smart home integrations.

Recent Updates and Future Outlook (2025)

In the fast-moving smart home sector, a lot has changed since 2019/2021 when these Nest Hubs launched. Google’s software and ecosystem have evolved, and there are persistent rumors about what’s coming next. Here’s the latest as of September 2025:

• Google Home Software Overhaul: Google has been working on a major refresh of the smart display software experience. The interface on current Nest Hubs has remained largely the same since 2019–2020 and has started to show its age theverge.com. In late 2022 and 2023, Google rolled out a new Google Home app for phones/tablets that allows much more customization (like rearranging device tiles and creating favorites) – features that early smart displays lacked theverge.com. While these improvements were initially not mirrored on the Nest Hub devices themselves, Google hinted at unifying the experience. At Google I/O 2023, there were “hints of something new on the way” for smart displays theverge.com. Indeed, Google began public previews of a revamped Fuchsia-based interface in 2023–24. By mid-2025, some Nest Hub Max units in preview reportedly got a new UI more akin to the Home app, with customizable quick controls and a simpler dashboard. Google hasn’t officially launched this to all users yet (perhaps waiting for new hardware), but it’s clear that “Google is gearing up for a big overhaul of the Google Home ecosystem” and the Nest Hub’s “dilapidated, half-busted interface” is a prime target theverge.com. For users, this means the existing Hubs could soon get a software update that makes them more intuitive and less laggy to use. It also signals that Google hasn’t forgotten these devices even as they aged.
• Matter and Thread Update: One of the biggest changes in smart home tech has been the introduction of Matter (a universal smart home standard) and Thread (a low-power mesh networking protocol). In late 2022, Google updated both Nest Hub (2nd Gen) and Nest Hub Max to be Matter controllers and to enable their built-in Thread radios matteralpha.com store.google.com. This means your Nest Hub(s) can act as the hub for connecting Matter-compatible devices from various brands, and serve as a Thread Border Router to extend your network to Thread-enabled smart gadgets. Google confirmed that “Thread border routers are already built into Nest Hub (2nd gen) and Nest Hub Max”, which makes them forward-looking despite their age store.google.com. For example, if you buy new smart bulbs or sensors with the Matter logo, your Nest Hub can directly connect and help control them without needing any proprietary bridges. Both Nest Hubs also work with Google’s new Home Routines and continued to receive general Assistant updates. However, one limitation noted at launch – the Nest Hub 2’s temperature sensor was not initially usable in routines – has been addressed in updates: as of 2023 Google allowed the Hub’s temp readings to trigger certain automations (like turning on a fan if your room gets too warm).
• Sleep Sensing Subscription: Google’s Nest Hub (2nd Gen) introduced Sleep Sensing, leveraging the Soli radar to track your breathing, movement, and even coughing/snoring during the night. It provides a sleep report each morning on the screen. At launch, Google made this a free “preview” feature, with plans to integrate it into Fitbit Premium down the line. That time has come – as of 2024, Google announced that full Sleep Sensing would require a Fitbit Premium subscription (around $80/year) 9to5google.com support.google.com. The free preview was extended through 2023 googlenestcommunity.com, but by 2025 new users are expected to pay if they want in-depth sleep analysis on the Hub. The device will still track basic sleep data for free, but advanced insights might be limited. This is important for prospective buyers: the Hub’s most unique feature is technically a paid add-on long-term. If you already pay for Fitbit or just use the free trial, it’s a neat offering – reviewers found the Nest Hub’s sleep tracking highly accurate and effortless (nothing to wear or charge) businessinsider.com. Just know that continuing beyond trial periods could incur a cost.
• Next-Gen Nest Hubs? Given it’s been 4+ years since the Hub Max and 2+ years since the Hub 2nd Gen, many have expected Google to release new models. So far, Google’s strategy has been surprisingly patient. There was chatter in rumor mills: for instance, in 2022 it was rumored Google was working on a Nest Hub with a detachable tablet screen – this ultimately materialized as the Pixel Tablet (more on that later). In 2023, Google explicitly stated the Pixel Tablet was “not a replacement for the Nest Hub” androidcentral.com androidcentral.com, leading to speculation that a dedicated Nest Hub refresh might be coming. Some community leaks even suggested a Nest Hub 3rd Gen was planned for 2025 but got canceled or delayed reddit.com reddit.com, possibly due to Google focusing on other form factors (like tablets) and AI features (Project “Gemini” AI integration, etc.). However, evidence has emerged that new hardware is at least being tested: a teardown of the Google Home app in late 2024 revealed references to an unreleased “Nest Hub Max” device, as well as a new Nest Audio, implying Google is preparing updated models starlinghome.io. Forbes reported this in early 2024, noting the code strings strongly suggest a second-gen Nest Hub Max in development starlinghome.io. It’s possible we’ll see an announcement at Google I/O 2025 or a fall 2025 Made by Google event if these products are ready starlinghome.io. Expected upgrades could include a faster processor (perhaps something like a Tensor G-series chip for AI capabilities), an improved display or camera, and deeper integration with Google’s AI assistant upgrades (see below). Until then, though, the 2019/2021 hardware soldiers on.
• Google Assistant & AI Evolution: In 2023–2024 Google has been revamping Assistant, including injecting generative AI capabilities (as seen with Bard and others). It’s likely that future smart displays (or even these current ones if they get firmware updates) will leverage those upgrades. There’s talk of more conversational, proactive Assistant features that could benefit devices like the Nest Hubs. For example, Google is working on letting Assistant handle more complex requests and even possibly display conversational chat responses on screens. Additionally, with Google’s new emphasis on visual-first interfaces (the revamped Home app etc.), the role of a smart display could expand. This all ties into whether Google sees standalone Nest Hubs in the future or merges them with tablets. Right now, they insist the lines are separate.
• Google Pixel Tablet – The Elephant in the Room: Although not a Nest-branded product, Google’s Pixel Tablet (2023) has had a big impact on the discussion of Nest Hubs. The Pixel Tablet is an Android tablet that docks onto a speaker base, effectively acting like a Nest Hub when idle (Google even calls its docked state “Hub Mode”) androidcentral.com androidcentral.com. It has an 11-inch screen, runs full Android (meaning you can watch anything, run apps, etc.), and has a speaker that’s on par or better than the Nest Hub Max’s in sound. However, notably the Pixel Tablet lacks Thread/Matter hub capabilities – it cannot be a Thread border router or always-listening Assistant device in the same way (you have to tap its screen or use voice when docked, but it doesn’t respond when undocked). Google says the Pixel Tablet is not meant to replace Nest Hubs androidcentral.com, partly for those reasons. Still, tech pundits see it as the direction Google is heading: a more flexible device that’s tablet by day, smart display by night. Some enthusiasts who bought the Pixel Tablet have indeed used it to replace a Nest Hub Max in their kitchen, enjoying the ability to undock and use it as a normal tablet. But as one Reddit user pointed out, you do lose the Nest Hub’s Matter controller and Thread router functions if you switch to Pixel Tablet reddit.com reddit.com, meaning smart home connectivity could be reduced. In 2025, Google’s lineup thus has an overlap: the aging Nest Hubs that are great hub devices but not full computers, and the Pixel Tablet which is a modern device but not as good as a dedicated hub (no always-on mic when undocked, no Thread, etc.). How this plays out will determine if Nest Hubs get successors. Some analysts speculate Google might converge these product lines – possibly a future Pixel Home device that combines the best of both. For now, if you’re invested in Google’s smart home, the Nest Hub Max and Hub (2nd Gen) still have unique roles that the Pixel Tablet alone doesn’t completely fill.

In summary, current Nest Hub owners can expect continued software support (security updates until at least 2026 in the Hub’s case support.google.com) and possibly a big interface update soon. New buyers should just be aware that these models are late in their lifecycle. If Google launches a new Nest Hub Max in 2025 with improved specs or a new design, it could be worth waiting for if you demand the latest. On the other hand, the maturity of these products means they’re often on deep sale, and for the price, they remain very capable smart displays that will only get better with Google’s Matter and software upgrades.

Competing Smart Displays: How Nest Hubs Stack Up

The smart display market has several players in 2025, and anyone considering a Nest Hub or Hub Max should also weigh the alternatives. Google’s chief rival is Amazon’s Echo Show series, and there are other options including Meta’s Portal (for video calling), Lenovo’s Smart Displays (which also run Google Assistant), and potentially offerings from Apple in the future. Here’s a look at the major competitors:

• Amazon Echo Show (5, 8, 10, 15): Amazon offers the most extensive lineup of smart displays under the Echo brand, all powered by Alexa. The numbers correspond roughly to screen size: Echo Show 5 (a 5.5″ mini display, great as a smart alarm clock), Echo Show 8 (8″ display, balanced for bedside or kitchen), Echo Show 10 (10″ display mounted on a swiveling base that can rotate to face you), and Echo Show 15 (a large 15.6″ HD display meant to hang on a wall or fridge like a family bulletin board). Compared to Nest Hubs, Echo Shows have some distinct differences:
  • Voice Assistant: Alexa vs Google Assistant – Alexa historically works with more third-party smart home devices out-of-the-box (and Alexa’s skill ecosystem is huge), but Google Assistant is often regarded as better at general knowledge queries and natural conversation. One reviewer noted that Google Assistant’s smart home compatibility “still lags Alexa (though it’s catching up fast)” pcworld.com – a gap that Matter is closing.
  • Smart Home Hub Protocols: Echo Shows (except the 15) include a Zigbee hub built-in on many models (Show 10 and Show 8 2nd-gen, for example). This lets them directly connect to Zigbee devices (sensors, smart plugs, etc.) without extra hubs – a legacy advantage from before Matter existed. Nest Hubs lack Zigbee, but now have Thread/Matter. Alexa devices also support Matter now, and some newer Echo models have Thread too (Echo 4th-gen speaker, etc.), but Google went all-in on Thread. If you have older Zigbee-only gadgets, an Echo Show could connect to them more easily, whereas Nest Hub would need a separate bridge or Matter update.
  • Audio/Video: Echo Show devices generally have good speakers, often comparable or better in raw output than Google’s. For instance, Echo Show 10 has a beefy speaker system and can definitely out-bass a Nest Hub Max. The Echo Show 8 (2nd gen) also got praise for sound quality in its size class. The Echo Show 15, being so thin, has weaker audio by comparison. In terms of video calling, all larger Echo Shows have cameras (Show 8 and 10 have 13MP cameras with auto-framing; Show 5 (2023) has a smaller camera). They integrate with Amazon’s Alexa Calling/Drop In, Skype, and Zoom, but notably not Google Duo/Meet. So if your family uses Alexa or Zoom, Shows are great; if you rely on Google Meet, Nest Hub Max is better.
  • Screen and UI: Alexa’s display interface is different – some prefer Google’s cleaner look, while others like Alexa offering custom skills and widgets. The Echo Show 15 introduced a widget-based home screen for calendars, notes, etc., whereas Google’s approach has been more of an adaptive content feed. The Echo Show 10’s rotating screen is a unique feature – it physically moves to face you as you walk around on calls or when reading recipes, which no Nest Hub can do. That said, some find it gimmicky or worry about the motor longevity.
  • Privacy: Amazon built in camera shutters on most Echo Shows (the 8, 10, and 5 all have physical sliding covers for the camera). If a built-in shutter is important to you, Amazon wins there – Google opted not to include those, relying on electronic disable and an LED indicator.
  • Price: Amazon aggressively discounts Echo Shows. For example, the Echo Show 8 (2nd gen) often goes on sale for ~$70–90 (list $130), and the Echo Show 5 can be as low as $40 on sale. The Echo Show 10 is pricier (list $249, often ~$200 on sale), similar to Nest Hub Max’s bracket. The large Echo Show 15 lists at $279 but frequently around $200. So pricing between comparable Echo and Nest models is often close, but sales can swing it.
  In summary, Echo Shows vs Nest Hubs: If you’re deep in Alexa ecosystem and want Zigbee support or prefer Amazon’s services (Prime Video, etc.), an Echo Show might fit better. Amazon’s devices also integrate things like Amazon Prime Video and (in the US) Hulu, etc., whereas Google’s integrate YouTube natively and rely on casting for some services. As one reviewer noted in 2019, “other services can be cast to the Hub Max… which makes it more versatile than Amazon’s Echo Show devices” because Google’s support of Chromecast means any cast-enabled app can send video to Nest Hubs theguardian.com. However, Amazon has since added some casting (AirPlay on Show 15, for example) and includes apps on Show 15. It’s a complex comparison, but both families are excellent – many smart home enthusiasts consider Google’s photo frame and Assistant prowess versus Alexa’s compatibility and multiple form factors.
• Lenovo Smart Display (and others with Google Assistant): Before Google made the Nest Hub Max, Lenovo was a launch partner for Google Assistant-powered smart displays. The Lenovo Smart Display 10 (and 8-inch model) came out in 2018 with a side-mounted speaker and a stylish design (bamboo back on the 10”). These run essentially the same software as Nest Hubs (Google’s platform) and offer similar functions. Lenovo’s 10-inch had a 1080p full HD screen, which still beats the Nest Hub Max’s resolution techradar.com techradar.com. It also included a physical camera shutter and a 5MP camera. In reviews back then, the Lenovo’s display was praised for sharpness, but the device overall was bulkier and the software is identical to Google’s. Lenovo also later released the Smart Display 7 (a smaller 7″ version with a front-facing speaker bar) and Smart Clock products. As of 2025, Lenovo hasn’t released new Google displays recently; their models are still around (often on clearance sale) but not actively being updated. They lack the newer Thread/Matter support that Google added to Nest Hubs. If you find a great deal on a Lenovo Smart Display, it can do 90% of what a Nest Hub Max does (since Google updates the Assistant software on all of them), but note that it’s essentially older hardware – for instance, the Lenovo 10 runs a Snapdragon 624 chip from 2018, which might feel even more sluggish with new features. It also might not integrate with the newest Nest features like the revamped home controls. JBL was another partner (JBL Link View, an 8″ assistant display with great speakers) – also discontinued. These third-party Assistant displays were important a few years ago, but Google hasn’t opened its newer features like Soli or Sleep Sensing to them, and none have been announced with Matter support. So while they are competitors, their relevance in 2025 is fading.
• Meta Portal: Formerly known as Facebook Portal, the Meta Portal devices were focused on video calling and social connection. Portal launched a 10-inch model (very similar size to Hub Max), an 8-inch “Mini”, a large 14-inch “Portal+” with rotation, and even a battery-powered portable model. They feature a smart camera that auto-pans and zooms (Meta’s version of auto-framing) which is arguably even more advanced, since Facebook’s expertise in AI tracking is strong. For strictly video calling experience, Portal was top-notch, especially for Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp calls – you could literally walk around the room and the camera keeps you in frame. They also have Alexa built-in (so you can use them as Alexa smart displays to an extent), but not Google Assistant. However, by 2022 Meta decided to discontinue consumer Portals and focus on business use. As of 2025, Portal devices are no longer being sold to consumers (and software support is winding down). This effectively removes Portal from the mainstream buyer’s choice set, but it’s worth noting in context: the Nest Hub Max also offers a Nest Cam feature (you can use the Hub Max’s camera as a security camera when you’re away, streaming the feed to the Nest app). The Portal didn’t quite do security, but was aimed at video comms and some entertainment (it could do Facebook Watch, etc.). With Meta stepping out, Google and Amazon remain the big names in smart displays. Microsoft’s attempt (the Surface Duo acting as an Echo Show when docked) never took off similarly.
• Apple HomePod / iPad (and rumors): Apple does not yet have a dedicated smart display. The Apple HomePod (2nd gen) and HomePod mini are audio-only smart speakers with Siri. They compete more with Nest Audio or Amazon Echo in that realm. However, Apple has been rumored to be exploring a device that is essentially a HomePod with a screen or a dock for iPads. Reports from Bloomberg and others have suggested Apple could launch an iPad-like smart home hub that sits on a counter, possibly in 2024 or 2025. If it materializes, it would likely run a variant of iPadOS or tvOS with a HomeKit-focused interface (some speculate a low-end iPad + magnetic speaker dock accessory). For now, Apple users often use an iPad with a stand as a pseudo smart display – iPadOS 17 even introduced a StandBy mode that shows a clock and widgets when an iPhone is docked, hinting Apple sees the use-case. So in competition terms, Apple’s ecosystem is a bit behind for dedicated always-on displays. If you are an Apple HomeKit household, a Nest Hub Max won’t integrate as deeply (though it can now, through Matter, control some HomeKit gadgets and Apple’s AirPlay 2 is supported on Nest Hub Max for audio casting starlinghome.io). Apple’s eventual device might leverage Siri and FaceTime, and tie in with Apple Music and Photos – likely a strong competitor, but until it’s real, Google and Amazon have a head start. In absence of an Apple display, some Apple users choose Nest Hubs specifically for things like Google Photos or YouTube which Apple’s HomePods can’t do. Others just repurpose old iPads with smart display apps.

In essence, Google’s Nest Hubs hold their own particularly well if you’re entrenched in Google services (Gmail, Calendar, YouTube, Nest cams, etc.), whereas Amazon’s Shows are better for Amazon services (Prime Video, shopping, Ring cams integration, etc.). Lenovo’s and other Assistant displays gave some hardware variety but offer nothing substantially different in capability since they use Google’s system. And Apple/Meta either don’t have products or are out of the game for now. One interesting competitor to mention is Google’s own Pixel Tablet (discussed above) – it’s not marketed as a “smart display” but functions as one when docked. The Pixel Tablet (2023) undercuts the Nest Hub Max in some ways (it has a sharper 2560×1600 screen, a newer Tensor G2 chip, and can be a full tablet), but it lacks always-on hub features like Thread, and costs $499 (much higher). Depending on a user’s needs, a Pixel Tablet could be an alternative to a Hub Max, but Google deliberately left out things that Nest Hubs have – likely to not obsolete the Nest Hub Max until a true next-gen hub comes.

Recommendations: Which Should You Choose?

Picking between the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) and Nest Hub Max – or deciding if either is right for you – ultimately comes down to how you plan to use it. Here are some scenario-based recommendations:

• For Media Consumption (Videos & Music): Nest Hub Max is the clear choice if you want to watch videos (YouTube, Netflix, etc.) or listen to music on a louder speaker. The 10″ screen and much stronger speakers make it far more enjoyable for kitchen cooking videos, streaming news clips, or playing songs while you do chores. The Nest Hub Max can even function as a small TV in a kitchen or dorm – for example, you can cast YouTube or Disney+ to it, and in some regions use apps like Spotify video or even hacky ways to view other streams theguardian.com. The smaller Nest Hub’s 7″ screen is fine for quick YouTube how-tos or a glance at Google Maps, but it’s not great for long video watching (and some services like Netflix will play audio-only on it or were initially unsupported, though YouTube works well). If music is a priority, the Hub Max’s woofer gives it a big edge – it won’t rival a dedicated hi-fi, but it’s comparable to a decent mid-size Bluetooth speaker. The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is okay for personal listening in a quiet room, but lacks bass and distortion becomes noticeable at higher volumes theverge.com theverge.com. Recommendation: Choose Nest Hub Max for kitchens, living rooms or anywhere you’ll regularly watch videos or want louder music. The Nest Hub 2nd Gen might suffice for background music at your desk or checking YouTube occasionally, but it’s not a media powerhouse.
• For Video Calls and Home Monitoring: This is a major deciding factor – do you need a camera? If you want to make video calls (Google Meet / Duo) with family, or you like the idea of using your smart display as a security camera when you’re away, then only the Nest Hub Max offers that. Its 6.5MP camera can be pulled up from the Nest app just like a Nest Cam, letting you peek into your home remotely theguardian.com. It also sends motion/sound alerts and can record footage with a Nest Aware subscription. The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) has no camera, so it cannot do video calls (beyond just voice or receiving a call where you only see the other person) and obviously no home viewing. Some people explicitly want no camera (e.g. for a bedroom – many find Hub 2 perfect for that to avoid any lens in a private space). But if your use case is a kitchen hub where you can quickly call grandma or check on the baby’s room while you’re at work (using Hub Max as an additional cam), then the Max wins. Also consider that Hub Max’s camera enables features like Face Match (personalized info when you walk up to it) and Look-and-Talk (you can opt to just look at it and ask without saying “Hey Google” as a hotword – though this feature is still hit-or-miss) businessinsider.com. If those futuristic touches appeal, Hub Max is your device. Recommendation: If you plan to do any video calling, want another Nest Cam viewpoint, or are intrigued by camera-driven features, go with Nest Hub Max. If you actively prefer not having a camera (for privacy or because it will live in a bedroom/bathroom), the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is the safer bet.
• For Bedroom Alarm Clock / Sleep Tracker: The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is almost tailor-made for bedside use. Its lack of camera means no awkward concerns in the bedroom. It has a gentle screen that can dim to very low at night (the clock can even turn off completely in a dark room if you enable “dark screen” at night). Its speaker is decent for soft music or nature sounds to lull you to sleep. And of course, Sleep Sensing is a unique feature if you want to quantify your rest. Users have found it surprisingly insightful, tracking not just movement but also breathing rate, and detecting disturbances like coughing or snoring. In the morning it can give you a brief summary – e.g. “You slept 7 hours 32 minutes, with a suggestion to go to bed earlier for more consistent sleep” (this ties into Google Fit / Fitbit data). Over time it can provide tips. If you have no interest in sleep tracking or already wear a smartwatch that does it, this might not matter. But even apart from that, the Nest Hub is an excellent smart alarm clock: you can use gentle alarm routines (with sunrise mimicking screens), program Google Assistant to slowly brighten your smart lights as you wake, etc. The Hub Max, on the other hand, is overkill for bedside – too large and bright, and a camera staring at you in bed isn’t appealing to most. Also, Hub Max lacks the Soli radar, so it cannot do Sleep Sensing at all. Recommendation: For bedroom or personal office use, the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is recommended. It covers all the basics (news, weather, voice assistant, controlling lights from bed) and adds sleep tracking if you want it. It’s also cheaper to have one per bedroom if you have a family. The Nest Hub Max is not intended as a personal sleep monitor – skip it for that purpose.
• For Smart Home Control Hub: Both devices serve as visual controllers for smart home devices, but there are slight nuances. Both support the same Google Home interface – swipe down from the top to get your home control panel of lights, thermostats, cameras, etc. Both can be the “assistant” that you talk to for routines (“Good night” to turn everything off, etc.). However, thanks to recent updates, both are equally capable Matter controllers and Thread border routers, meaning either can act as your smart home hub for the new generation of connectivity store.google.com. Initially, only the Nest Hub 2 had Thread, but Google also enabled it on Hub Max via updates. So in terms of connectivity, they’re on par – each will connect to Wi-Fi devices, Thread devices, and control others over cloud. The difference might come in performance: the Nest Hub Max has a slight edge with more RAM, so it might handle a dashboard with many devices slightly more stably. But truthfully, the limiting factor is the software, not hardware. Some power users with dozens of devices found the Nest Hub interface a bit sluggish to scroll on both. Google’s upcoming redesign might fix that. Also consider the visibility: if you want a wall-mounted control panel, the 10″ Hub Max obviously shows more info (bigger tiles, etc.) at a glance. The Hub Max can display a live camera feed (like your Nest Doorbell) in a more viewable way – e.g., when someone rings the Nest Doorbell, the Hub Max will automatically show the video and it’s large enough to see from across the room theguardian.com. The 7″ Hub will also show it, but from far away it might be harder to make out. Another angle: if you rely on the Hub’s screen as a cooking assistant (reading recipes or timers), the bigger screen of Max is beneficial. On the flip side, if you just want a simple interface in a hallway to turn lights on/off, the smaller Hub could suffice and be less conspicuous. Recommendation: For a central smart home dashboard in a main area, the Nest Hub Max is superior simply due to screen size and sound (you’ll hear responses or alerts louder, and see more). If you only need a secondary controller in a smaller room, the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) will do the job and save money/space.
• For Privacy and Security Focus: If privacy is a top concern, the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) has the advantage of no camera and a mic-mute switch – it’s one of the few smart displays on the market without a camera at all. Google also emphasizes that on the Hub Max, Face Match data stays on-device and the mic/cam can be disabled any time via switch, but understandably some people just prefer not having the hardware present. Both devices show visible indicators when they are active (e.g., the Hub Max will show a green light and on-screen message when its camera is streaming theguardian.com). Google’s data policy for Sleep Sensing is also worth noting: the audio data (cough/snore) is processed locally and only summary info goes to the cloud – and you must opt-in. Nevertheless, those wary of any sensors might lean toward simpler devices. Also, consider that Amazon and Meta devices incorporate cameras too; if that’s a no-go, your choices are Nest Hub 2, Lenovo 7 (has a camera but you can shutter it or disable it), or just a smart speaker with no display. Recommendation: For the privacy-conscious or camera-shy, the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is the recommended pick. It delivers all Google Assistant functions without ever having a camera in the mix. If you do get a Nest Hub Max, use the physical switch to disable camera/mic when needed and remember you can turn off features like Face Match if uncomfortable.
• For Multi-Room and Family Use: Many families actually use multiple devices – one Hub Max in a living space and smaller Hubs in bedrooms. If you’re choosing one to start, think of where it will be used most by everyone. If it’s a shared kitchen/living area, the Nest Hub Max will have a greater impact (for family photo slideshows, group video calls, hearing it from across the room, etc.). The Hub Max’s Face Match can even show each family member their own info when they walk up, which in a busy household is neat: e.g. dad sees his calendar events, then when daughter steps up it switches to show her school schedule – this simultaneous multi-user awareness is something only Google currently does. Meanwhile, the smaller Hub might be better as an personal assistant for one person. Recommendation: For a family hub, go with Nest Hub Max in the common area. You can later add Nest Hub 2nd Gen units to bedrooms or an office for individual use. Google’s ecosystem supports broadcasting messages to all Hubs (like “Dinner’s ready!” announcements) and using them as intercoms, so having a mix can be beneficial.
• Budget Considerations: If price is a major factor, the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) obviously is usually much cheaper – often available under $70 on sale. The Nest Hub Max being around $150–$200 on sale is more than double the cost. If you don’t truly need the camera or bigger sound, you might find the smaller one provides great value. However, also consider longevity: the Hub Max, being a higher-end device, might satisfy needs longer (especially if a new smart display UI comes, the extra RAM might handle it better). But given how Google’s hardware ages, it’s likely both will receive similar update life spans. It’s also possible that 2025 could bring new models – if you’re budget-conscious, you may find steep discounts on these if/when Google announces successors.

Bottom Line: The 2nd-gen Nest Hub is the better choice for most people’s first smart display, particularly for private spaces or if you’re interested in sleep tracking and a lower cost. The Nest Hub Max is the better choice if you want a more feature-packed communal device – ideal for those who will utilize its larger screen, superior audio, camera for calls/security, and don’t mind the higher price. In fact, Business Insider’s head-to-head conclusion mirrored that: “After using both devices over the years, we can confidently recommend the Nest Hub as the better smart display for most people, with the Max a good pick for those for whom a camera is non-negotiable.” businessinsider.com.

For those deeply integrated into Google’s ecosystem, either Nest Hub will serve as a natural extension of your Google Assistant experience, tying together your calendar, doorbell, thermostats, and media. If you’re on the fence, consider where in your home a smart display would give you the most benefit and choose accordingly. And if you’re curious about waiting for the next generation: rumors suggest new models are in the pipeline starlinghome.io, but as of September 2025 nothing official has been announced – so if you have a use for these capabilities now, both Nest Hubs remain solid buys (especially at discounted prices) to upgrade your smart home experience.

Sources and Further Reading:

• Seifert, Dan. “Google Nest Hub (2nd-gen) review: sleep on it.” The Verge, Mar. 30, 2021. theverge.com theverge.com
• Coehlo, Steph. “Google Nest Hub (2nd gen) vs. Nest Hub Max: Which smart display should you buy?” Business Insider, Apr. 6, 2023. businessinsider.com businessinsider.com
• Patterson, Ben. “Google Nest Hub Max review: A great cook’s companion.” PCWorld / TechHive, Oct. 24, 2019. pcworld.com pcworld.com
• Gibbs, Samuel. “Google Nest Hub Max review: bigger, better and smarter display.” The Guardian, Nov. 6, 2019. theguardian.com theguardian.com
• Edwards, Nathan. “It’s time for Google to fix the Nest Hub.” The Verge, May 8, 2023. theverge.com theverge.com
• McGregor, Janhoi. Forbes via Starling Home Hub: “Evidence of new Nest Hub Max and Nest Audio in Google code,” Feb. 2024. starlinghome.io
• Google Store – Nest Hub (2nd Gen) Tech Specs (official product specs). store.google.com store.google.com
• Google Store – Nest Hub Max Tech Specs (official product specs). store.google.com store.google.com
• Google Nest Help – “Matter and Thread in Google Nest devices.” store.google.com (Google Store article on Matter)
• Additional sources: CNET, Tom’s Guide, Android Central, 9to5Google (for context on Pixel Tablet and ecosystem updates) androidcentral.com reddit.com.