How Much Does It Cost to Install a Nest Doorbell?

By Hannah Stephens

September 26, 2025

They say it pays to be smart, and many homeowners are choosing to do just that by installing video doorbells. Nest doorbells are popular options that can improve your home's convenience and security.

This May Also Interest You: How Much Does It Cost to Install or Replace a Doorbell?

Let's explore how these handy devices work and learn what Nest doorbell installation involves.

What Is a Google Nest Doorbell?

A Google Nest doorbell, formerly known as Nest Hello, is a type of smart doorbell that connects to your home's Wi-Fi. All Nest doorbells have an integrated video camera, enabling you to see who's at your door from anywhere. Like other types of video doorbells, these devices make it easier to handle visitors when you're not at home and can enhance your home's security by recording callers and deterring intruders.

How Does a Nest Doorbell Work?

Nest doorbells connect to an app you install on your smartphone or another handheld device. When the doorbell detects an event, such as a person standing outside your door, it sends an alert to your phone via the app, allowing you to quickly address the situation.

All models allow you to hear and speak to visitors remotely. For example, you could ask a delivery driver to leave a parcel in a safe place or tell a friend to call back later.

You can also use a Nest doorbell to monitor your home. Each model offers 24-7 live streaming for real-time monitoring and automatically records events, storing footage for up to 60 days. This feature could be particularly handy if you don't have time to view event footage right away or need the video as evidence of a crime.

What's the Difference Between a Wired Google Doorbell and a Battery-Powered Model?

The primary difference between a battery Nest doorbell and its wired counterpart is the power source. Battery-powered units, as you might expect, rely on an integrated battery for power. You'll receive an app notification when the battery runs low, reminding you to charge the device via a USB cable. Wired models, meanwhile, connect to your home's electricity supply, so you won't need to charge them. Battery Nest doorbells can also be wired, enabling you to switch the power source if your needs change.

Battery and wired Google doorbells differ in the types of events they detect. While wired models can only sense people and motion, battery-powered units can detect:

People
Animals
Parcels
Motion
Vehicles

Both types of Nest doorbells can provide a chime, similar to a traditional doorbell. However, this feature is only available on the battery-powered version if you choose to wire it into your home's electricity supply.

Keep in mind that a wired Nest doorbell won't record during a power outage or Wi-Fi interruption. If you experience frequent power or Wi-Fi issues, a battery-powered model may be the best option. Battery Nest doorbells have their own power supplies that operate independently of your home's electrical system, enabling them to continue recording during a power outage.

How Much Does Wired Nest Doorbell Installation Cost?

While costs may vary slightly between suppliers, a wired Nest doorbell costs around $140 (CAD 196) for the unit alone. You'll also need to pay an electrician to wire in your new doorbell. According to HomeGuide, most electricians charge between $90 and $150 (CAD 126 and CAD 210) for doorbell wiring services.

To set up and use your new doorbell, you must download and install the Nest app. While the Nest app is free, you'll need a Google Home Premium subscription to use all your doorbell's features. The standard version of the app costs $10 (CAD 14) per month or $100 (CAD 140) per year and lets you view stored footage for up to 30 days. The advanced plan is pricier at $20 (CAD 28) per month or $200 (CAD 280) per year and offers a 60-day video history.

More Related Articles:

How Much Does Battery-Powered Nest Doorbell Installation Cost?

According to Security.org, a battery Nest doorbell costs $179 (CAD 251) for the doorbell itself. You won't need to wire this model into your home's energy supply if you plan to use the built-in battery, and Google provides step-by-step instructions for DIY installation.

The battery Nest doorbell requires the free Google Home app. Like with the wired version, you'll need to upgrade to a Google Home Premium account to enjoy the full functionality of your new doorbell.

What Does Nest Doorbell Installation Involve?

Nest doorbells come with all the hardware required to install the unit, including a wedge to angle your doorbell correctly in a corner. You'll need some basic tools, including a Phillips screwdriver, a power drill, a spirit level and a smartphone with the Google Home app installed.

The steps to install a battery Nest doorbell are relatively straightforward, and the Google Home app will guide you through the process of mounting the unit to an exterior wall. Nest doorbell installation involves:

Charging your doorbell until the status light is solid white
Adding the Nest doorbell to your devices in the Home tab of the Google Home app
Scanning the QR code on the reverse of your Nest doorbell with your phone's camera
Following the in-app instructions for setup and installation

Installing a wired Nest doorbell is more complex because it requires wiring the unit into an existing circuit. Like all types of electrical work, attempting to do this yourself could be dangerous due to the risk of electric shock. Hiring a professional electrician is the safest and most reliable option.

All CAD conversions are based on the exchange rate on the date of publication.

Follow us