![]() ![]() If you heavily rely on Google Assistant, having everything integrated within one app can be advantageous. This differs from some Eero models that have built-in Zigbee units, eliminating the need for an external bridge. However, it's worth noting that you still need to have your Hue Bridge connected, so you won't be saving an Ethernet switch port. After installing the new hardware, the app promptly asked if I wanted to connect to my Philips Hue and iRobot products. The Nest WiFi Pro supports Matter and Thread protocols, allowing control of smart home devices through the Google Home app. On average, my speed tests hovered around 250 Mbps, and the connection provided a smooth experience for my needs. I tested the network with multiple devices, and as my kids and I moved throughout the house, including the furthest points, while streaming videos, no issues were reported. The WiFi performance was more than sufficient for work and video calls.ĭespite having fewer nodes, the connectivity remained stable, and I never noticed any drops However, even in that room, where speeds dipped to 63 Mbps, I experienced no dropouts or performance issues. The only location where the Nest WiFi Pro's connection wasn't impressively fast was in my back bedroom, known for its challenging connectivity due to surrounding Victorian and modern plumbing. However, compared to the WiFi module in my office, which is connected via Ethernet to my modem, I observed my speeds jumping from around 120 Mbps to an average of 240 Mbps. Since I don't own many WiFi 6E-compatible devices and there was a considerable distance between the nearest node and my office, I wasn't expecting significant improvements by switching to the new system. While this advice suffices, novice users might appreciate more detailed guidance, especially if they are dealing with structural challenges that affect signal strength in adjoining rooms. Google's website suggests placing a node halfway between the primary router and areas in your home that require WiFi coverage. The app does not provide much guidance on optimal node placement or identifying potential weak spots. Installing the additional nodes took another ten minutes, with the process involving scanning QR codes and following on-screen instructions. It took me about ten minutes to get the first node up and running, including a minor issue with my cable modem that required a restart. The Google Home app quickly detects the new product awaiting installation and guides you through the setup process. Once that's done, you simply connect the first node to your modem using the supplied ethernet cable and let the app take care of the rest. If you already have a Google mesh system in place, like in my case, you'll need to factory reset, wipe, and deactivate everything before starting fresh. However, I did appreciate being able to use Spotify Connect on the original Nest WiFi without needing an additional speaker in my kitchen.īeing a Google product, the Nest WiFi Pro is relatively easy to install using your phone, for the most part. Personally, I prefer this as I was never keen on having a speaker within my WiFi setup. Unlike the previous model, the Nest WiFi Pro does not offer a built-in smart speaker option. The Nest WiFi Pro is available in four colors: Snow, Linen, Fog, and Lemongrass. Internally, it houses a Cortex A35 dual-core 64-bit ARM CPU paired with 1GB of RAM and 4GB of storage, similar to its predecessor. At the back, there is a jack for the barrel power cable and two ethernet ports that Google claims support 1 Gbps wired speeds per router. In terms of appearance, the Pros have a distinctive ovoid shape and stand taller than their predecessors, demanding more space. However, this means it cannot be integrated with your existing Google/Nest WiFi hardware, requiring a fresh setup for any upgrades. The Nest WiFi Pro is the first from Google to support WiFi 6/6E, which was absent from the previous model due to cost considerations. Having used Google's first-generation mesh WiFi and reviewed the second-generation Nest WiFi, I consider myself well-versed in this domain. ![]()
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