(Also see: Nest Hub vs Nest Hub Max)
Pricing and availability
The newly-announced Google Nest Hub Max is set to be released on 15 July 2019 around the world, costing consumers £219 in the UK and $229 in the US. You can join the waiting list now.
Design and build
And it’s probably worth mentioning that while these look like tablets, there’s one significant difference; both require mains power to run, and neither are particularly portable. Once they’re plugged in and set up, that’s how they’re staying.
Features and spec
As mentioned above, both feature a webcam embedded above the display, but the functionality varies between the two devices. The Echo Show’s webcam is used exclusively for drop-ins and video calls with other Alexa users, and while the Hub Max boasts auto framing when used with Google’s video calling service Duo, there’s much more to it than that.
Thanks to a partnership between Nest and Google, the 127-degree wide-angle camera doubles up as a security camera for your home, complete with recording capabilities, accessible via the Google Home or Nest apps for iOS and Android. The catch? It’s not free, and to enable full security functionality, you’ll have to subscribe to Nest Aware.
NEST SECURE PRICING
Still, it’s a unique double use for a smart display, and one that security-focused consumers will appreciate.
While that’s all well and good, what it truly comes down to is the Assistant you prefer; Alexa or Google. Admittedly, the two assistants have a broadly similar skillset, but there are a few unique features that set them apart.
The Hub Max sports Google Assistant support, which is hugely beneficial for Google users (especially Android fans) as the Hub Max will provide useful and accurate information like traffic on your commute, upcoming meetings and delivery notifications using data from your Google account.
Alexa, on the other hand, offers support for thousands of community-created skills. These can be found via the Alexa app for iOS and Android, and can extend the functionality of the virtual assistant, whether that’s by hooking up your Ring doorbell or making Alexa fart on command.
While Google offers built-in support for specific services like Spotify and YouTube (an app exclusive to Google hardware), it’s Alexa that offers a more customisable experience – for those that want to take a deep dive into the world of Alexa Skills, anyway.
For more information on the smart assistants, take a look at our separate Alexa and Google Assistant guides.
Early verdict
Lewis Painter is a Senior Staff Writer at Tech Advisor. Our resident Apple expert, Lewis covers everything from iPhone to AirPods, plus a range of smartphones, tablets, laptops and gaming hardware. You’ll also find him on the Tech Advisor YouTube channel.
