Google Nest Mini Review

TRUE SCORE

75%

#

26

/

152

Where does this product score?

Product reviewers liked how well the Google Nest Mini worked with Google Assistant and were glad that they could make some sound quality adjustments. However, they didn’t appreciate its high Chromecast latency, missing 3.5mm port, and inability to play stereo content.

Product Awards

GR Certified

Expert Pick

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Score Card

E

Expert Score

81

*.75

We place a 75% weighted value on Expert Test Scores

C

Customer Score

88

*.25

We place a 25% weighted value on Customer Scores

True Score

75%

Any product with a True Score below 60 is a Total Dud

Expert Score Breakdown_

  • Rtings
    F

    Cat Trust Score

    100
    The Google Nest Mini is middling for music. Its balanced… read more
  • ?

    Cat Trust Score

    87
    The Google Nest Mini is an excellent option for those… read more
  • ?

    Cat Trust Score

    80
    “No bottom line found for this product” read more
  • ?

    Cat Trust Score

    80
    Now that it’s official, it’s tough to recommend upgrading to… read more

Customer Score Breakdown_

Product Snapshot

Expert Rankings

Overview_

The Google Nest Mini is an entry-level Bluetooth speaker that was first announced in late 2021, and like the best speakers around, it has both Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity. The speaker also comes with Google Assistant built-in, and this (as well as its Google Home app) relies on its WiFi Internet connection to work. Speaking of which, owners will be able to adjust the speaker’s bass and treble levels through the Google Home app, allowing them to personalize their experience when watching movies or listening to music. The best Bluetooth speakers allow for a broader spectrum of sound adjustments and have a longer connectivity range compared to the Nest’s 262 ft. Still, the Nest Mini is more suitable for indoor use since it is not battery-powered, but buyers who would wish to consider a speaker that is ideal for outdoor use might want to explore our Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 6 review.

Best For

Consensus_

Reason to Buy

  • Great with Google Assistant
  • Decent bass levels
  • Works as a speakerphone
  • Bass and Treble are adjustable
  • WiFi connectivity

Reason to Avoid

  • Can’t play stereo content
  • No 3.5mm port
  • High Chromecast latency

Key Specs_

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Product Comparison_

True Score

75%
NR
NR
NR

Ranking

#

26

/

152

#

/

#

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#

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Market Context

The Google Nest Mini is an entry-level Bluetooth speaker that was first announced in late 2021, and like the best speakers around, it has both…

The Google Nest Mini is an entry-level Bluetooth speaker that was first announced in late 2021, and like the best speakers around, it has both Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity. The speaker also comes with Google Assistant built-in, and this (as well as its Google Home app) relies on its WiFi Internet connection to work. Speaking of which, owners will be able to adjust the speaker’s bass and treble levels through the Google Home app, allowing them to personalize their experience when watching movies or listening to music. The best Bluetooth speakers allow for a broader spectrum of sound adjustments and have a longer connectivity range compared to the Nest’s 262 ft. Still, the Nest Mini is more suitable for indoor use since it is not battery-powered, but buyers who would wish to consider a speaker that is ideal for outdoor use might want to explore our Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 6 review.

The Google Nest Mini is easier to place than the Google Nest Audio since it is smaller. However, the Nest Audio gets louder than the…

The Google Nest Mini is easier to place than the Google Nest Audio since it is smaller. However, the Nest Audio gets louder than the Nest Mini and has better bass levels. Check out our Google Nest Audio review to see what else it can do.

The Google Nest Mini is smaller than the Amazon Echo Gen 4, and it offers built-in support for Google Assistant, while the Gen 4 comes…

The Google Nest Mini is smaller than the Amazon Echo Gen 4, and it offers built-in support for Google Assistant, while the Gen 4 comes ready to use with Amazon Alexa. The Gen 4 can also play stereo content, while the Nest Mini cannot.

The Google Nest Mini supports Bluetooth connectivity while the Apple HomePod mini does not, and it also has a Bass and Treble equalizer that the…

The Google Nest Mini supports Bluetooth connectivity while the Apple HomePod mini does not, and it also has a Bass and Treble equalizer that the HomePod Mini does not. However, the HomePod mini supports Apple AirPlay, while the Nest Mini does not.

See Deal

Dig Deeper

All Stores_

Updated Sep 5, 2023 5:27 PM
  • Save $1
    $49.00
    $47.75

    Availability

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Price History_

Score Card

E

Expert Score

81

*.75

We place a 75% weighted value on Expert Test Scores

C

Customer Score

88

*.25

We place a 25% weighted value on Customer Scores

True Score

75%

Any product with a True Score below 60 is a Total Dud

Expert Score Breakdown_

  • Rtings
    F

    Trust Score

    F

    Cat Trust Score

    100
    The Google Nest Mini is middling for music. Its balanced mid and treble ranges reproduce… read more
  • ?

    Trust Score

    ?

    Cat Trust Score

    87
    The Google Nest Mini is an excellent option for those who want a Google Assistant-powered… read more
  • ?

    Trust Score

    ?

    Cat Trust Score

    80
    “No bottom line found for this product” read more
  • ?

    Trust Score

    ?

    Cat Trust Score

    80
    Now that it’s official, it’s tough to recommend upgrading to the Nest Mini from the… read more
  • Gear Brain
    ?

    Trust Score

    ?

    Cat Trust Score

    60
    “No bottom line found for this product” read more
  • ?

    Trust Score

    ?

    Cat Trust Score

    90
    LIKE: The added microphone helps the Nest Mini better hear you. DISLIKE: The improved bass… read more

Customer Score Breakdown_

Most Promising Positive Review

Most Promising Positive Review