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Short answer: the Nest Hub (2nd gen) is a worthwhile upgrade for better audio, newer smart-home connectivity, Motion Sense gestures and Sleep Sensing. It is not a major screen upgrade: both models have a 7-inch, 1024 × 600 display, no camera and wall-powered operation. If you mainly use an older Hub for timers, recipes, photos or basic voice commands, keeping it—or buying a substantially cheaper used first-generation unit—can still make sense.
In the US, Google’s Store listed the Nest Hub (2nd gen) at $99.99 when checked in August 2026. Used and refurbished first-generation prices vary, so a first-generation device priced close to that amount is difficult to justify.
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First, clarify the names
The 2018 device launched as the Google Home Hub. Google later brought it into the Nest family, so listings may call the same hardware the Nest Hub (1st gen) or Nest Hub (2018).
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The 2021 model is officially the Nest Hub (2nd gen). Neither should be confused with the larger Nest Hub Max. The standard Hub models have no camera and therefore do not provide camera-based video calling. Do not identify a used device solely from the word “Nest” on its packaging; check the model details and design carefully.
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- Google Nest Hub 1st Gen H1A – 7-inch smart display with Google Assistant built in for hands-free help, smart home control, entertainment, and daily organization.
- Korean Spec Model – International/Korean version of the Google Nest Hub H1A. Language can be changed to English after setup through the Google Home app/device settings.
- Smart Home Control – Use voice commands or the touchscreen to control compatible smart lights, cameras, thermostats, plugs, speakers, and other Google Assistant devices.
- Entertainment & Daily Help – Stream music, watch videos, view Google Photos, check weather, set timers, manage reminders, follow recipes, and get answers hands-free.
- Compact 7" Display Design – Great for kitchens, bedrooms, desks, offices, counters, and nightstands with a clean modern smart display design.
Google’s comparison sheet identifies the original product as the 2018 Google Home Hub and the newer device as the second-generation Nest Hub.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Google Home Hub/Nest Hub (1st gen, 2018) | Nest Hub (2nd gen, 2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 7 inches | 7 inches |
| Resolution | 1024 × 600 | 1024 × 600 |
| Camera | No | No |
| Speaker driver | 40 mm | 43.5 mm full-range |
| Microphones | Two far-field microphones | Three far-field microphones |
| Processor | Older-generation hardware | Quad-core 64-bit 1.9 GHz ARM CPU with machine-learning hardware |
| Motion Sense | No Soli radar | Yes, using Soli radar |
| Sleep Sensing | No | Yes, where available |
| Temperature sensor | No second-generation temperature sensor | Yes |
| Thread/Matter | No second-generation Thread/Matter hardware | Thread border-router hardware and current Matter support |
| Power | Wall power required | Wall power required; 15 W adapter |
| Original US MSRP | $89.99 | See current regional pricing |
The second-generation Hub is an evolutionary upgrade. Its most important changes are inside the enclosure and in its sensors—not in the size or sharpness of the display.
What changed in the Nest Hub (2nd gen)?
1. Better speaker and an extra microphone
The newer Hub has a 43.5 mm full-range driver instead of the original’s 40 mm driver, plus three far-field microphones rather than two. Google claims the second-generation model delivers 50% more bass than the original. That is a manufacturer claim, not an independently measured frequency-response result.
In practical terms, the newer model is the stronger choice for music, podcasts, audiobooks and spoken responses. It remains a compact smart-display speaker, however. It is not a substitute for a larger speaker such as the Nest Audio when room-filling sound is the priority.
Source: Google’s Nest Hub announcement and the official specifications.
2. Newer processing hardware
The Nest Hub (2nd gen) uses a quad-core 64-bit 1.9 GHz ARM CPU and dedicated high-performance machine-learning hardware. The original uses older internal hardware.
This gives the second-generation device the better platform for voice processing, smart-home controls, Motion Sense and newer software features. It does not guarantee that every animation or tap will feel dramatically faster: network conditions, cloud latency and Google’s software can have a greater effect on individual interactions.
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The defining hardware addition is Google’s Soli low-energy radar sensor. With supported software and settings, you can wave over the device to pause or resume media, dismiss or silence alarms, and control playback without touching the screen.
Soli is radar, not a camera. It does not perform facial recognition or ordinary visual hand tracking. Gestures work only at an appropriate distance and for supported actions, and Motion Sense can be disabled. The same radar hardware also supports Sleep Sensing.
See Google’s specifications and its explanation of how Soli supports Sleep Sensing.
4. Sleep Sensing is exclusive to the second generation
Sleep Sensing is the largest feature difference between the two models. It is not available on the first-generation Hub. On the second-generation device, Soli radar detects movement and breathing, while microphones and other sensors can detect events such as coughing and snoring. The Hub also considers ambient light and temperature.
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Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Depending on availability, it can report approximate bedtime and wake time, sleep duration, schedule, sleep quality, disturbances and breathing-related information. It is wellness-oriented information—not medical monitoring. Google says Sleep Sensing is not intended to diagnose, cure, mitigate, prevent or treat disease, including sleep apnea.
How to set it up
- Open the Google Home app.
- Tap Home, then All devices.
- Touch and hold the Nest Hub (2nd gen) tile.
- Tap Settings, then Sleep Sensing.
- Tap Set up Sleep Sensing.
- Set a bedtime schedule and optionally enable sound-event tracking or personalized sleep suggestions.
- Calibrate the Hub for the sleeping position and area.
You need a second-generation Nest Hub, Motion Sense enabled, the latest Google Home app and a personal Google Account. Google Workspace-managed accounts are not supported. Availability depends on country and language.
Limitations and privacy
Sleep Sensing is designed around the person closest to the display. A partner, child, pet, nearby movement, unusual room layout or poor positioning can affect the results. Calibration matters, particularly in a shared bedroom.
Neither Hub has a camera. Google says Sleep Sensing does not generate or use distinguishable images of the user’s face or body, and that audio collected during Sleep Sensing is processed on the device rather than sent to Google. Sleep data can be reviewed and deleted through Google Fit. Nevertheless, the device still processes voice commands and, when enabled, sleep-related sensor and sound data. People who may be recorded by sleep-related sound detection should be informed.
Google’s Sleep Sensing support page currently describes the feature as available in preview at no extra charge. It mentions possible future integration with a Fitbit or Google Health Premium experience, but future pricing is not confirmed. Do not treat a paid Sleep Sensing subscription as an existing requirement.
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- Echo Hub — An easy-to-use smart home control panel redesigned for your home. Arrange controls on your dashboard to quickly adjust devices, view cameras, start routines, and more.
- Customize your dashboard — Arrange devices into sections and resize them to focus on what matters most. Create a personalized layout that matches how your family uses their connected devices.
- Reimagined for your home - With an Alexa+ and compatible Ring subscription (sold separately), get Ring camera event summaries to stay in the know. Search your Ring footage using simple voice commands. Create routines by voice, activate modes to manage multiple devices at once, and chat with Alexa to easily control your smart home.
- Home security for the whole family — Use Echo Hub to easily arm and disarm your compatible security system, making it easy for everyone in your family to manage home security. Use the Alexa app and compatible cameras, locks, alarms, and sensors to check in while you're out.
- Works with thousands of Alexa compatible devices — WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Matter, Sidewalk, and Thread devices sync seamlessly with the built-in smart home hub.
5. Temperature sensing, Thread and Matter
The newer Hub adds a temperature sensor and Thread border-router hardware, and current official specifications list Matter support. These features make it the more sensible choice for a new or expanding smart home, particularly if you plan to use compatible Matter or Thread devices.
They are not universal guarantees. Actual results depend on the device category, firmware, country, Google Home support and the rest of your Thread network. A first-generation Hub can still control ordinary compatible Google Home devices, but it does not provide the second generation’s Thread and Matter hardware.
6. Current software and Gemini for Home
Older comparisons that describe both devices as permanently limited to the original Google Assistant are outdated. As of August 2026, Google lists both the Nest Hub (1st gen) and Nest Hub (2nd gen) as compatible with the Gemini for Home voice assistant, subject to rollout, country, language and firmware requirements. Google lists Fuchsia version 28 or later as the minimum display firmware in its compatibility information.
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This reduces the software-only argument for upgrading from a working first-generation Hub. The newer device still has the advantage of newer hardware and a better chance of supporting current features, but compatibility is not the same as immediate availability. Google says older speakers and displays support most Gemini for Home features but not Gemini Live. Basic voice-assistant functions are available without a subscription, while some advanced capabilities require Google Home Premium.
Check Google’s current Gemini for Home compatibility information for rollout and regional restrictions.
What stayed the same?
The display is essentially unchanged
Both models use a 7-inch screen with 1024 × 600 resolution. The second-generation Hub does not offer a larger panel, a higher-resolution tablet-like display or a substantially different viewing experience. It remains useful for photos, weather, recipes, timers, calendars, music controls and smart-home dashboards, but 1024 × 600 is modest by modern tablet standards.
Both are camera-free and mains-powered
Neither device has a camera, so neither offers camera-based video calling. Both require wall power and are not portable or battery-powered. The second-generation model is slightly heavier, but the footprint is very similar:
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems- Nest Hub (2nd gen): 4.7 inches high × 7.0 inches wide × 2.7 inches deep; 19.7 oz (558 g).
- Display and power: 7-inch 1024 × 600 panel and 15 W adapter.
- Colors: Chalk, Charcoal, Sand and Mist.
Neither model has an adjustable screen angle in the way a tablet stand might; both use a fixed display angle.
Rank #4
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: Google Nest Hub Max with English, Spanish, French, Japanese and Global Language Compatibility so it works everywhere, Universal Power Adapter and Quick Start Guide with International Manual for Global Users
- IT WORKS EVERYWHERE Easy to use and will automatically start up in English when connecting to your device for the first time. The Nest Hub works globally with support for most languages and places internationally. And its language settings can always be changed back and forth to your preferred language anytime for international use or travel at your convenience
- BLENDS RIGHT INTO YOUR HOME Looks great on a nightstand, shelf, countertop - or the wall. This Nest Hub is small and mighty with bright sound that kicks! It plugs into the wall and is powered by the global ac adapter that works internationally so it works in outlets everywhere
The basic experience remains familiar
Both are Google smart displays for voice commands, Google Cast, media playback, photos, alarms, timers, recipes and Google Home control. If your first-generation Hub is used mainly as a kitchen timer, photo frame or simple voice assistant, the second-generation screen will not transform that routine.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you upgrade?
Upgrade to the Nest Hub (2nd gen) if:
- You specifically want Sleep Sensing.
- You want noticeably stronger compact-speaker performance for music and spoken audio.
- You use the Hub beside your bed and will use touch-free gestures.
- You are adding Matter or Thread smart-home devices.
- You want newer processing hardware for current and future software features.
- The price difference between a reliable first-generation unit and a new second-generation Hub is small.
Keep the first-generation Hub if:
- You mainly use timers, alarms, recipes, calendars, photos, weather or basic smart-home controls.
- You rarely play music through the display.
- You do not want radar-based sleep monitoring.
- You have no need for Matter or Thread.
- The upgrade cost is high relative to the features you would actually use.
Buy the first generation only when the price gap is substantial
The original can be a sensible used or refurbished purchase for basic functions, provided the seller clearly identifies it as the 2018/first-generation model and the device is in good working condition. Because both models require wall power, inspect the included adapter and cable as well as the screen, speaker and microphones.
As a practical rule, a first-generation unit should not cost close to the current US Google Store price of $99.99 for the Nest Hub (2nd gen). Used prices fluctuate, so verify the local price and condition before deciding.
Which model suits each use case?
| Use case | Best choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Existing owner using timers and recipes | Keep the first generation | The screen and core functions are largely the same. |
| Bedside sleep tracking | Nest Hub (2nd gen) | Sleep Sensing and Motion Sense are unavailable on the original. |
| Music, podcasts and audiobooks | Nest Hub (2nd gen) | It has the larger driver and Google’s claimed bass improvement. |
| New Matter/Thread smart home | Nest Hub (2nd gen) | It adds current Thread border-router and Matter capabilities. |
| Lowest-cost basic display | First generation, if much cheaper | It still handles core display and voice-assistant tasks. |
| Video calls | Neither | Neither standard Hub has a camera; consider the Nest Hub Max or another camera-equipped display. |
| Portable use | Neither | Both require mains power. |
| Room-filling music | Neither is ideal | Choose a larger smart speaker such as Nest Audio instead. |
Alternatives to consider
The Nest Hub Max is a different product rather than a direct replacement. It has a larger 10.1-inch display, stronger audio hardware and a camera for video calling and camera-related features. That makes it more capable for video calls and visual use, but also larger and less appealing to buyers who specifically want a camera-free bedroom display.
A current Google Home Speaker is another different option for buyers who want Google’s newer voice-assistant experience without a screen. It cannot replace the Nest Hub for recipes, photos, visual timers, dashboards or on-screen smart-home controls. Check Google’s current Gemini for Home device information for availability and feature restrictions.
Verdict
The Nest Hub (2nd gen) is the better product, but it is not an automatic upgrade for every 2018 owner. Its stronger speaker, extra microphone, newer processor, Soli gestures, Sleep Sensing, temperature sensor and Matter/Thread support are meaningful improvements when they match your routine. The first-generation Hub remains perfectly adequate for basic display and voice-assistant duties, especially when bought used at a genuinely lower price.
For a new purchase, choose the Nest Hub (2nd gen) unless the first-generation model is substantially cheaper and your needs are basic. For an existing owner, upgrade when you will actually use Sleep Sensing, improved audio, gestures or modern smart-home connectivity—not simply because the screen is newer.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
