On April 8, 2024, Google stopped supporting Nest Secure, an install-it-yourself home security system that hit the market in 2017, effectively making it non-functional.
Former Nest Secure users can no longer control their equipment, including Nest’s keypad hub, sensors and key fobs, through the Nest app, and the products can no longer connect to the internet or send alerts.
Google stopped selling Nest Secure products in October 2020, shortly after announcing the brand’s partnership with home security provider ADT.
Google offered ADT credit or Google Store credit to former Nest Secure customers, though a few users say they were able to receive a full refund for their equipment. Also, ADT isn’t our top pick for a home security system; customers may prefer a different provider as a replacement.
» MORE: NerdWallet’s top-rated home security systems for 2024
ADT credit
In April 2023, Google announced that existing Nest Secure users would receive an email from Google with a coupon code to purchase a Self-Setup System from ADT at up to a $485 value. ADT packages start at $269 for a hub and one sensor. ADT’s monthly monitoring costs start at $29.99, though you can downgrade after the first month and self-monitor your system with limited features for free.
ADT Security System
4.0
NerdWallet rating
on Safe Haven's website
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details
4.0
NerdWallet rating
Equipment cost
$269.00
Base kit from ADT comes with a hub and one sensor. ADT sells equipment directly but also works with third-party dealers and installers such as Safe Haven, whose prices and equipment packages may differ.
Professional monitoring monthly cost
$29.99 and up
Monthly monitoring rises to $44.99 with cameras and $34.99 with other smart home devices. A one-month minimum monitoring plan is required with self-install equipment purchase; a several-year contract is required with a professionally installed system. ADT also works with third-party dealers whose monitoring and installation fees may differ.
Hazard detection
Add-on CO detector, smoke detector and water/temperature sensor.
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details
on Safe Haven's website
Switching to ADT may be a more seamless option for former Nest Secure users, since ADT partners directly with Nest for video equipment.
However, an ADT system may not integrate with all Nest equipment, especially older models, and monthly monitoring costs are pricier than those of some other home security providers. We also tested ADT and Nest equipment, and we didn’t find the integration to be seamless.
Google Store credit
If you chose not to replace your Nest Secure system with an ADT alarm system, Google’s email included an option to receive a $200 credit on the Google Store instead of the ADT credit.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Google offers a recycling service through Reverse Logistics Group Americas for U.S. users to dispose of defunct Nest Secure products. You can fill out a form to receive a prepaid shipping label and receive a box to ship your defunct products to be recycled.
Another system
If you plan to move to a different system completely, here are NerdWallet’s top home security system picks.
SimpliSafe Security System
5.0
NerdWallet rating
on SimpliSafe's website
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details
5.0
NerdWallet rating
Equipment cost
$249.96
Base kit includes one base station, one keypad, one entry sensor and one motion sensor. Sometimes you can get a free Smart Alarm wireless indoor security camera and a free trial of professional monitoring if they're running a promotion.
Professional monitoring monthly cost
$21.99
Self monitoring available for $9.99 per month. You can also access basic features with no plan.
Hazard detection
Add-on smoke/CO detector, water and temperature sensor.
View
details
on SimpliSafe's website
Ring Security System
NerdWallet rating
on Money.com and Amazon.com
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details
4.5
NerdWallet rating
Equipment cost
$244.95
Base kit includes alarm base station, keypad, door/window contact sensor, motion detector, alarm range extender and free 30-day trial of Ring Protect professional monitoring. Pro starter kit comes with a Wifi router.
Professional monitoring monthly cost
$20
Other features/self monitoring available with plans starting at $4.99 per month. You'll need at least the basic plan to arm and disarm your system remotely.
Hazard detection
Add-on smoke/CO detector and listener, flood and freeze sensor.
View
details
on Money.com and Amazon.com
Abode Security System
4.5
NerdWallet rating
on NerdWallet
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details
4.5
NerdWallet rating
Equipment cost
$159.99
Base kit includes security hub, key fob and mini sensor for door/window.
Professional monitoring monthly cost
$24.99
Self monitoring with extra features is $7.99 per month, but you can also use basic features for free.
Hazard detection
Add-on smoke alarm monitor and leak detector.
No actual smoke/CO detector.
View
details
on NerdWallet
Changes effective April 8, 2024
Nest Secure products (Guard, Detect and Tag) stopped connecting to the internet and are no longer functional or controllable through the Nest app.
Dropcam, an earlier version of Google’s smart camera, stopped working as well. Users would have had to download videos before this date to save them. Former Dropcam owners received either an indoor Nest camera as a replacement (if they had a Nest Aware subscription) or 50% off a Nest camera.
Nest x Yale Lock no longer connects to Wi-Fi through the Nest Guard hub, so you won’t be able to lock and unlock your door through the Nest app (you’ll still be able to use the keypad). The lock will only connect to Wi-Fi with a Nest Connect device, which Google sent to eligible users for free as a replacement.
Nest cameras, video doorbells and life safety alert products available for purchase on the Google store still function normally and connect to the Nest app.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a refund on my Nest Secure system?
Officially, Google only offered $485 ADT credit or $200 Google store credit for Nest Secure customers whose systems were deactivated. However, a couple of users on the Google Nest Community help website have reported that successfully requested a full refund.
Can I still purchase Nest Secure home security equipment?
Google Nest still offers high-quality cameras, doorbells and life safety alert equipment but does not offer alarm sensors. Nest Secure products haven’t been available for purchase since 2020; they’re not an option for new customers.
Is there a way to purchase an alarm system with Nest products?
To purchase a comprehensive alarm system that includes Nest products, you’ll need to choose an ADT alarm system package with Nest cameras. If you want your individual Nest cameras professionally monitored, you’ll need to call ADT to set up the service.
