The Google Nest Audio represents a significant upgrade to Google’s original smart speaker, bringing improved sound quality, sleek design, and enhanced Google Assistant capabilities to your home. As the successor to the original Google Home, this fabric-covered smart speaker delivers impressive audio performance while maintaining a reasonable price point according to the Google Nest speaker review. But what makes this speaker worth considering for your smart home setup?
Is It Worth Buying?
The Google Nest smart speaker review points to yes for most potential buyers. At its price point, the Nest Audio delivers impressive sound quality, reliable smart features, and an attractive design that represents significant value.
For those already using Google Assistant or other Google smart home products, the integration is seamless. The Google Home Nest Audio review suggests that those seeking maximum audio quality should consider either purchasing two units for stereo pairing or looking at higher-end options like the Sonos Five. Not decided yet? The following table will help you make an informed decision:
Buy it if
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You want significantly better sound than smaller smart speakersYou're already invested in Google's ecosystemYou value clear voice assistant interactionsYou want a stylish speaker that blends with home decorYou appreciate environmentally conscious designYou plan to pair two units for stereo sound :
Don't buy it if
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You need audiophile-level sound qualityYou require a 3.5mm input/output connectionYou need a battery-powered portable speakerYour primary use is for large rooms or outdoor areasYou frequently use specialized Spotify playlists by voiceYou require the fastest possible voice command response :
| Device | Pros | Cons |
| Google Nest Audio | Excellent sound quality with rich bassSleek, fabric-covered design in multiple colorsGreat voice recognition with a triple microphone arrayReasonable price point75% louder than the original Google HomeEnvironmentally friendly materials | No 3.5mm audio input/outputTouch controls can be fiddly without visual markingsNot ideal for larger rooms or outdoor useVoice commands are sometimes slower than Amazon EchoLimited bass compared to larger speakersSome issues with specific playlist recognition |
Design and Build Quality
The Google Nest Audio review reveals a complete redesign from the original Google Home. Gone is the air freshener-like appearance, replaced with an upright, pill-shaped design covered entirely in acoustically transparent fabric made from 70% recycled plastic bottles. Available in five colors: Charcoal, Sage, Sand, and Sky, the speaker blends seamlessly into home decor while maintaining a distinctly modern aesthetic.
The minimalist design features four subtle LED lights on the front that illuminate when Google Assistant is listening or processing, similar to those on the Google Nest Mini. The physical mute switch on the back provides privacy when needed, while touch-sensitive areas on the top allow for volume control and playback functions.
Weighing in at 2.65 pounds, the Nest Audio feels surprisingly solid and well-built, suggesting quality internal components and sturdy construction.
Google Nest Audio Sound Quality
The most significant improvement in the Nest Audio review is undoubtedly the sound quality. Google has completely overhauled the audio components, replacing the single 50mm driver found in the original Home with a dual-driver system consisting of a 75mm (3-inch) woofer and a 19mm (0.75-inch) tweeter.
This new configuration delivers on Google’s claims of 75% more volume and 50% stronger bass compared to its predecessor. The Nest Audio sound review demonstrates that vocals remain clear and detailed even at higher volumes, with a well-balanced sound profile that handles most music genres competently.
While audiophiles might notice the bass doesn’t reach the depths that larger speakers can achieve, the overall sound quality is impressive for a speaker of this size and price point. The Nest Audio speakers review shows particular strength in the midrange, making it excellent for vocal-heavy music, podcasts, and voice responses from Google Assistant.
Google has implemented a proprietary tuning system that optimizes sound based on the speaker’s placement and the type of content being played, though it lacks the continuous room-tuning technology found in more expensive competitors.
Google Audio Smart Features and Voice Recognition
The Google Nest speaker review wouldn’t be complete without discussing its smart capabilities. With three microphones (up from two in the original Home), the Nest Audio, as one of the best smart speakers, excels at picking up voice commands even in noisy environments or when playing music at high volumes.
The built-in Google Assistant provides all the functionality you’d expect, including:
- Music streaming from services like Spotify, YouTube Music, and Pandora
- Answering questions and providing information
- Controlling compatible smart home devices
- Setting timers, alarms, and reminders
- Making voice calls via Google Duo
The Google Nest Audio smart speaker review highlights the Ambient EQ feature, which adjusts the assistant’s voice response based on background noise in the room. The integrated machine learning chip helps the speaker respond more quickly to commands, though some users note it still feels slightly slower than Amazon’s Echo devices.
Google Audio Technical Specifications
| Features | Specifications |
| Dimensions | 4.89″ x 3.07″ x 6.89″ |
| Weight | 2.65 lbs |
| Drivers | 75mm (2.95″) woofer, 19mm (0.75″) tweeter |
| Processor | Quad Core A53 1.8 GHz with TeraOPS ML hardware engine |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz), Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Colors | Chalk, Charcoal, Sage, Sand, Sky |
| Price | $99 / £89.99 / ₹7,999 |
| Voice Assistant | Google Assistant |
| Power | Wired (requires constant power connection) |
| Audio Features | Media EQ, Ambient IQ, multi-room audio |
| Controls | Touch controls (top surface), physical mute switch |
Google Audio.vs Echo Dot
When placed alongside competitors and other Google speakers, the Google smart speaker review demonstrates that Nest Audio occupies a well-defined middle ground in terms of both price and performance.
Compared to the Amazon Echo Dot With Clock, the Nest Audio offers significantly better sound quality and volume, though at a higher price point. Against the Home Max, Google’s premium speaker option, the Nest Audio, can’t match the sheer power and bass response, but it comes at less than half the price while still delivering satisfying audio for most users.
The Nest Audio stereo pair review highlights one of its best features, which is the ability to pair two Nest Audio speakers in stereo configuration. This setup significantly improves stereo separation and overall sound quality, creating a more immersive listening experience that rivals more expensive single speakers.
The Google Nest Audio stereo review shows that this configuration particularly excels with acoustically complex music, providing a wider soundstage and more detailed presentation than a single unit can achieve. If you have children, the Amazon Echo Dot Kids review will encourage you to go for this device.
Google Audio Model History
| Model | Release Date | Key Features | Price at Launch |
| Google Home | November 2016 | Single 50mm driver, 2 microphones, Original cylindrical design | $129 |
| Google Home Mini | October 2017 | Compact design, Reduced audio quality, Entry-level | $49 |
| Google Home Max | December 2017 | Premium sound, Dual 4.5″ woofers, Smart Sound tuning | $399 |
| Google Nest Mini | October 2019 | Improved bass, Wall-mountable, Machine learning chip | $49 |
| Google Nest Audio | October 2020 | Dual-driver system, 75% louder than Google Home, Fabric design | $99 |
Google Audio Performance Analysis
The Google Nest Audio review 2022 confirms that this speaker remains a solid choice even years after its release. In day-to-day use, Google Audio shows consistent performance across various tasks. Music streaming sounds balanced and clear, with particular strength in vocal reproduction and midrange frequencies.
The Nest speaker review highlights Nest Audio’s ability to fill medium-sized rooms with sound without distortion, even at higher volumes. While it won’t shake the walls with bass, the low-end is present and well-defined for a speaker of this size.
Voice recognition works reliably even from across the room, with the Google Nest Audio reviews noting that commands are accurately detected even while playing music at moderate volumes. The physical mute switch provides peace of mind for privacy-conscious users. The Nest Audio shows particular strength in multi-room audio setups, allowing synchronized playback throughout your home when paired with other compatible Google speakers like the Google Nest Hub.
People Reviews: What Real Users Say
Consolidating feedback from various Google Nest Audio review 2021 sources, users consistently praise:
- “Sound quality exceeded my expectations for a speaker this size.”
- “The voice recognition is excellent. It hears me from another room.”
- “Setting up stereo pairs was simple and dramatically improved the sound.”
- “The fabric design looks much more stylish than the old Google Home.”
Common criticisms from the Nest Audio reviews include:
- “Touch controls are difficult to use without visual indicators.”
- “I wish it had an audio input option for non-wireless sources.”
- “Occasional delays in response compared to my Echo devices.”
- “Bass is good but not great. Consider the pairing option for better sound.”
The review Nest Audio compilation shows an average user rating between 4.3-4.5 out of 5 stars across major retail platforms, indicating strong general satisfaction.
Stereo Pairing and Multi-Room Audio
The Google Nest Audio stereo pair review highlights one of the most impressive features of this speaker. When two Nest Audio units are paired together, they create a true stereo setup that significantly enhances the listening experience.
The Nest Audio stereo demonstrates that this configuration provides much better stereo separation and a wider soundstage than a single unit, making it an excellent option for dedicated music listening. At approximately $200 for the pair, the Google Nest Audio 2 pack review shows this setup competes favorably with more expensive single speakers. Beyond stereo pairing, the Google Nest Audio shows excellent performance in multi-room configurations. You can group multiple Google speakers throughout your home, including the Nest Audio, Google Nest Mini, and Nest Hub, allowing synchronized audio playback or targeted announcements to specific rooms.
Color Options and Design Aesthetics
The Google Nest Audio chalk review as well as charcoal reviews demonstrate how the different color options can complement various interior design styles. The chalk (light gray) option blends seamlessly with lighter décor, while the charcoal provides a more subtle presence in darker settings.
The fabric covering not only looks premium but serves an acoustic purpose by allowing sound to pass through while protecting the internal components. As we mentioned earlier, the Google Nest Audio review 2021 notes that this fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
Conclusion
The Google Nest Audio represents a significant improvement over the original Google Home, delivering on Google’s promises of better sound, improved design, and enhanced smart functionality. While it has some limitations, primarily in the depth of bass and lack of audio ports, its overall performance makes it an excellent value proposition in the increasingly crowded smart speaker market according to Google Nest Audio reviews. To sum up, Nest Audio proves that good things come in unassuming packages.
What is the sound quality like on the Google Nest Audio?
The Google Nest Audio offers surprisingly rich and balanced sound for its size. It has a 75mm woofer and 19mm tweeter, delivering clear vocals and solid bass. It’s a significant upgrade over the original Google Home speaker, especially in mids and lows.
Does Google Nest Audio support stereo pairing?
Yes, you can pair two Nest Audio speakers to create a left/right stereo setup. This gives a more immersive sound experience, especially in larger rooms. You can set this up using the Google Home app.
Can I use the Nest Audio without a Google account?
No, you need a Google account to set up and use the Nest Audio. It relies on the Google ecosystem for features like voice control, smart home integration, and personalized responses.
Is Google Nest Audio good for smart home control?
Yes, the Nest Audio works well as a smart home hub. You can control compatible smart lights, thermostats, plugs, and more using Google Assistant voice commands. It also supports routines and automation.
Can I use it as a Bluetooth speaker?
Yes, the Nest Audio supports Bluetooth 5.0. Once paired, you can stream audio directly from your phone, tablet, or computer, even without Wi-Fi — though you’ll lose access to Google Assistant features in that case.
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