Install Google Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen)

Start here if you have a new Google Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen).

You need the Google Home app to connect your doorbell to Wi-Fi and get recorded video. Use the Home app as your primary guide to set up and install your doorbell.

Here’s a brief overview of steps to get started, along with some important troubleshooting.

Watch the installation video

For a quick overview of how to set up and install your Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen), watch our video tutorial.

How to set up and install Google Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen)

How to set up and install your Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen)

Step 1: Check compatibility and voltage requirements

The Nest doorbell can replace most wired doorbells. However, there are some cases where the doorbell system provides either too much or too little power. Before installation, you should check your doorbell system’s compatibility with Nest Doorbell.

If your Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen) doesn't meet the power and voltage requirements of your home, you might need to upgrade your system transformer.
Step 2: Make sure that you have everything for installation

Check that you have all the parts included in the box.

What’s in the box

  • Nest Doorbell (wired, 3nd gen)
  • Chime connector
  • Base plate
  • 20o Wedge
  • Wire connector
  • Hex key
  • 2 Wall screws
  • 2 Wall anchors
  • 2 Spacers
  • Extra security screw
  • Window decal
  • Quick start guide
  • Safety and warranty document

Angle your Nest Doorbell with a wedge

The Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen) comes with a wedge that you can use to adjust its camera angle if it’s located in a corner. This wedge can angle your doorbell horizontally up to 20°.

Tools

  • #2 Phillips screwdriver
  • Power drill
    • 1/4’’ (6mm) drill bit (optional, to drill into hard materials like brick and stucco)
    • 3/32’’ (2mm) drill bit (to drill pilot holes into wood or siding for attachment screws)
  • Bubble level (to check doorbell alignment)

App and internet requirements

  • The latest version of the app
  • A compatible phone (check the requirements here)
  • Your Wi-Fi network password
  • A broadband internet connection (minimum of 2 Mbps upload speed for each Nest camera or doorbell in your home)
Step 3: Turn the power off to your doorbell system
  1. Switch the power off for your doorbell and chime at your home’s breaker or fuse box. This will protect you and your equipment during installation.
  2. Try to ring your doorbell to confirm that you’ve flipped the right switch to turn the power off. If needed, you can switch off the main power at the breaker box instead.
Step 4: Remove your old doorbell

Remove your old doorbell and disconnect the wires. You’ll probably need a screwdriver for this step.

Tip: As you remove your old doorbell, bend or tape the doorbell wires so that they don’t slip back into the wall.

To remove your old hardware, go to Uninstall wired Nest doorbells and chime connector.
Step 5: Connect your doorbell to the Google Home app

Important: If you haven’t yet, download the Google Home app on the Google Play Store.

  1. Open the Google Home app Google Home app
  2. From the Home tab, tap Add Add Icon and then Device and then Scan QR code.
  3. Choose the home you want to add your doorbell to, or select Add another home to create a new one. Then, tap Next.
  4. The app will try to look for nearby devices. If prompted, select the Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen) as the device you want to set up.
  5. Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell. You can also tap Set up without QR code and enter the numbers near the QR code.
  6. The app will help walk you through setup and installation.
Step 6: Troubleshoot if needed

During setup, the app lets you connect your doorbell to Wi-Fi, personalize settings, check the video quality, and more.

If you experience any issues, here are some quick tips.

Connection issues

If you can’t find your Wi-Fi network, or if your doorbell has trouble connecting to the Wi-Fi:

  • 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 Google Home app.

Power issues

Signs that your doorbell isn’t getting enough power include the following:

  • Your doorbell won’t turn on.
  • You get a message or status in the app that tells you there isn’t enough power.
  • Your doorbell has Wi-Fi connection issues and lower video quality.

To try to fix the issue, check that the power is on for your doorbell system and that the wires are connected properly to it.

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

Video quality issues

If your doorbell has video delays or lag, the Wi-Fi connection may be weak. It could also be a sign that your doorbell isn’t getting enough power. Try the following to fix the issue:

  • If possible, move your doorbell and router closer to each other to improve the signal.
  • Reduce wireless interference.
  • Check that the wires are connected properly to your doorbell.

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

  • Dust off the camera lens.
  • Ensure 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 the video quality.

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

Step 7: Connect power wires to Nest Doorbell

Important: Don’t let the wire connectors touch the backplate. This can cause an electrical short and damage the doorbell. Make sure that they only touch the screws. Tighten the screws to secure the connectors.

  1. Before you connect the wires make sure they are clean.
  2. Connect the power wires to the wire connectors.
    • You can connect the wires to any connector.
    • Press down on the release tabs to insert the wires into the connectors.
    • If you see exposed wire, remove the connectors and trim any excess wire.
  3. Make sure the wires point down, not up, so the extra wire can be tucked back into the wall.

Without the connectors

Important: Don’t let the wires touch the backplate. This can cause an electrical short and damage the doorbell. Make sure that they only touch the screws. Tighten the screws to secure the connectors.

  1. Before you connect the wires to the screws, trim the wires and the insulation so only 1⁄4 inch of wire is exposed.
  2. Bend the wires clockwise into a hook shape and attach to the screws.
  3. Make sure the wires point down, not up, so the extra wire can be tucked back into the wall.

More installation help

For steps on installing older Nest doorbell models, refer to Install the older models of Nest Doorbell (wired) and Nest Doorbell (battery).

For help with battery-powered or wired installation for the Nest Doorbell (battery), go to Install Nest Doorbell (battery).

Learn more about Nest doorbell basics, how to change settings, and more in Get started using your Nest doorbell.

Was this helpful?

How can we improve it?
true
Have a question?

Get an answer from an expert on the Google Home Help Forum.