Upgrade your doorbell to Google Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen)

If you have a Nest Doorbell (wired, 2nd gen), you can save time with installation when you upgrade to the Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen). The existing hardware is compatible, which lets you quickly install your new doorbell without the need to set up new wires.

Important: Switch the power off for your doorbell and chime at your home’s breaker or fuse box. This protects you and your equipment during installation.

Step 1: Remove your old doorbell

Carefully detach your Nest Doorbell (wired, 2nd gen) from its base plate and disconnect the wires. You can keep the existing base plate, wedge (if applicable) and chime connector (if any).

Step 2: Set up your doorbell in the Google Home app

Important:

• If the device has been used before, factory reset your Google Nest Doorbell before you continue.
• If you haven’t already, download the Google Home app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

1. Open the Google Home app .

2. At the top right, tap Add Device .

   • Or, if a setup screen for your device appears, tap Set up or Next.
     • If it's not the correct device, tap Not now or Set up a different device.

3. Scan the QR code of your device. A tick appears when the scan is complete.

   • If you can’t scan the QR code:
     • Tap Use setup code, then enter the setup code for your device.

       Tip: The Google Home app provides additional details to help you locate and use your device setup code.

     • Tap Add a different way, enter your device in the search bar, then select your device.
4. Wait for your app to connect to the device. Once it's finished, you'll see a confirmation screen that says, 'Connected'.
5. Follow the in-app steps to complete setup.

Step 3: Mount the doorbell and connect the wires

Important: If you used a Nest Hello, use the new base plate that comes with your Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen).

Attach the doorbell to the mounting plate Make sure that it clicks into place. Connect the existing wires to the back of the new mounting plate.

Learn how to connect the power wires to your Nest Doorbell.

Step 4: Use the doorbell to confirm compatibility

During setup, the app lets you connect your doorbell to Wi-Fi, personalise settings, check the video quality and more. If you have any issues, here are some quick tips.

Connection issues

If you can’t find your Wi-Fi network, or if your doorbell can’t connect to the Wi-Fi, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

• Wait a few minutes, then try to connect your doorbell again.
• If possible, move your doorbell and router closer to each other to improve the signal.
• Reduce wireless interference.
• Try to restart your router.
• If you have a hidden Wi-Fi network, you'll need to type in the network name (SSID) manually in the app.

Power issues

Important: Some doorbell systems have complex wiring that might not have diagrams in the app. For additional help, check our wiring diagrams.

Signs that your doorbell isn’t getting enough power:

• Your doorbell won’t turn on.
• You get a message or status in the app that tells you that there isn't enough power.
  • Things like the Wi-Fi connection and the video quality can also be reduced when there isn’t enough power.

To fix the issue, check if the power is on for your home’s doorbell system and the wires are connected properly to your doorbell.

Video quality issues

If your doorbell experiences video delays or lag, it's usually a sign that the Wi-Fi connection is weak. It could also be a sign that your doorbell isn't getting enough power. To fix the issue:

• If possible, move your doorbell or router close to each other to improve the signal.
• Reduce wireless interference.
• Check if the wires are connected properly to your doorbell.

If your doorbell’s video is distorted, here are a few things that you can do to troubleshoot:

• Dust off the camera lens.
• Ensure that your doorbell is shaded and protected from extreme weather conditions. While Nest Doorbells are built to work outside of your home, extreme hot or cold temperatures can affect things like video quality.

For more tips, refer to Troubleshoot Nest camera video distortion.