Choosing between Google's second-generation Nest Hub and Amazon's Echo Show 8 will depend on a number of factors, considering both smart displays come with their own set of key features and cater to different types of people. The latest iteration of the Nest Hub was only recently unveiled by Google, arriving with a handful of improvements over the previous generation. While the second-gen Nest Hub might have more color options to choose from, here's a look at how else it differs from the Echo Show 8.
The Nest Hub 2nd Gen might look pretty identical to its predecessor, but Google made numerous changes inside, such as adding Quick Gestures to its repertoire, a feature that allows users to control the device using nothing other than hand motion. The new Nest Hub also received some audio upgrades as well, with Google claiming that the bass has now been increased by 50-percent. Of course, the headline selling point with the new Nest Hub is that it's the first smart display to come with sleep-tracking.
The latest Nest Hub comes with an exclusive new feature not found in its predecessor, nor the bigger Nest Hub Max, called Sleep Sensing. The feature tracks and monitors the person closest to the display as they sleep, and determines how well they've slept using motion and sound tracking technology. The Echo Show 8, on the other hand, comes with its own unique features, such as an integrated 1-megapixel front-facing camera and Alexa's ever-growing skills library.
Is Nest Hub 2 Or Echo Show 8 A Better Buy?
Both smart displays basically come with the same standard features one would expect from a product like this, such as the ability to control other smart home devices and streaming media, as well as schedule organizers. Not to mention, privacy features like toggles for turning the mic on or off, and options for deleting user history. However, the 7-inch Nest Hub 2nd Gen does not support any type of video calling whatsoever, since it doesn't come with a built-in camera. Those hoping to utilize their smart displays for video conferencing will either want to consider the Nest Hub Max or Amazon's Echo Show 8 instead. Amazon's smart display comes with a slew of video-calling features including support for Zoom meetings and Amazon Chime. Although those who constantly utilize YouTube or Google's other services might be disappointed as accessing them on an Echo Show can feel more cumbersome, and takes additional steps than on the Nest Hub.
In terms of pricing, the new Nest Hub costs $99, while the Echo Show 8 can range in price between $74.99 and $129, depending on the time and whether bundling with other products. Overall, the Nest Hub offers a simplistic, no-frills experience for users looking for basic smart display functionality and better optimization of Google's many services, along with the newly added sleep monitoring support. In contrast, Amazon's Echo Show 8 is better suited to those who want video-calling, access to Alexa, and a (slightly) larger display, but don't mind lesser support for Google-owned services, including YouTube.