To figure out which Google device better suits you, we’re comparing the Pixel Tablet vs Nest Hub Max. The Nest Hub Max and the Pixel Tablet have established themselves as two popular options in the smart home gadgets market. At first glance, these devices may appear similar, with their large displays and angled speaker bases. However, a closer look reveals some significant differences that can impact what will make the best addition to your home setup.
In this comparison article, we will delve into the details of the Pixel Tablet and the Nest Hub Max, analyzing their display, audio quality, cameras, smart home integration, and connectivity options. Hopefully, by its conclusion you will have gotten a feeling over which device is going to make the bigger benefit to your home – let’s jump straight in!
Pixel Tablet vs Nest Hub Max Specs
| Specifications | Nest Hub Max | Google Pixel Tablet |
| Display | 10-inch, 1280 x 800 pixels | 10.95-inch, 2560 x 1600 pixels |
| Size | 9.9 x 7.2 x 4 inches | 10.2 x 6.7 x 0.3 inches (tablet only) |
| Camera | 6.5MP front-facing camera | 8MP front-facing camera, 8MP rear camera |
| Audio | Two 18mm 10W tweeters, one 75mm 30W woofer | 4 speakers in tablet, one full-range 43.5mm driver in dock |
| Wireless | 802.11b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5, Thread, Chromecast | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, Chromecast, Ultra-Wideband chip |
| Processor | Tensor G2 | Amlogic S905D |
Pixel Tablet vs Nest Hub Max Features
While the Pixel Tablet and Nest Hub Max may look physically similar, they differ in terms of features. Let’s find out more about what each one offers.
Display and design
The Nest Hub Max features a 10-inch, 1280 x 800-pixel touchscreen, which is decent for a smart display on a tablet in this price range. On the other hand, the Pixel Tablet comes with a larger 10.95-inch display and a crisper resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. This larger and sharper display is particularly beneficial when you’re watching media such as movies or videos, or even for digital photo frame use. Furthermore, the Pixel Tablet makes use of a premium nano-ceramic coating, giving it a porcelain-like finish, and is enjoyable to look at both on and off its dock.
The designed purposes of each device is where you start seeing the significant differences. At its core, the Nest Hub Max is a Google Assistant powered smart home hub. It acts as the mothership for all your smart home Google devices, such as the Nest Doorbell, thermostats, lights, speakers, and other smart devices. While it excels in this respect, it is also limited in its function and only has access to the core Google apps (Chrome, Gmail, Google Photos, YouTube, etc.).
Alternatively, the Pixel Tablet is Google’s first hybrid smart home device, acting as both a tablet and a hub similar to the Nest Max. The Hub Mode screen automatically appears when the Pixel Tablet is connected to its charging speaker dock, and you can navigate your way to the Google Home app to find your smart home control panel. However, when removed from its dock, the Pixel tablet becomes a standard tablet – and one that performs to high standards.
Audio Quality
In terms of audio, the Pixel Tablet boasts four speakers within the tablet itself and an additional full-range 43.5mm driver in its dock. This configuration offers a more immersive audio experience, especially when the tablet is docked.
On the other hand, the Nest Hub Max features two 18mm 10W tweeters and a 75mm 30W woofer, giving its bass a big boost. While the number of speakers is fewer, their larger size may contribute to better audio quality for video calls and media. However, its versatility with being usable both docked and on the on the go might give the Pixel tablet the edge above its Hub alternative in terms of content consumption.
Smart Home Integration and Connectivity
When it comes to smart home integration and connectivity, the Pixel Tablet and the Nest Hub Max both offer distinct features. The Pixel Tablet, being the newer device, admittedly provides better connectivity options. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, offering faster and more stable connections. However, the difference in connectivity might not actually be noticeable unless you have a Wi-Fi 6 router in your home.
Both devices support Chromecast, allowing you to stream audio and video from your smartphone effortlessly. However, it has to be said that the Nest Hub Max surpasses the Pixel Tablet in terms of smart home integration. It supports Thread, making it a hub for Matter-enabled smart home devices. If you intend to control Matter-enabled devices using the Pixel Tablet, you’ll need an additional hub like the Nest Hub Max or other compatible options such as Google Home, Google Home Mini, Nest Mini, or Nest Audio.
Camera
In terms of camera capabilities, the Pixel Tablet features two cameras, an 8MP front-facing camera, and an 8MP rear camera. These cameras offer standard features such as an f/2.0 aperture, a 1/4-inch sensor, and an 84-degree field of view. Additionally, being an Android tablet, the Pixel Tablet supports various camera features found in Google’s Pixel phones, including the Magic Eraser and photo-unblurring powered by the Tensor G2 chipset.
The Nest Hub Max, on the other hand, has a single 6.5MP front-facing camera designed primarily for video calls. Despite having a lower resolution compared to the Pixel Tablet’s front camera, the Nest Hub Max camera offers a wider 127-degree field of view.
Pixel Tablet vs Nest Hub Max Price
When it comes to price, the Google Nest Hub Max takes the lead. It is currently priced at $229, and has been available since the September of 2019. While a slightly older device, those looking directly for smart home capabilities might be tempted to save $200 by investing in the Nest Hub Max rather than the newer Pixel Tablet.
On the other hand, the Google Pixel Tablet comes with a higher price tag of $499. However, it’s important to note that the Pixel Tablet includes the dock, while a second dock can be purchased separately for an additional $129. Furthermore, the use of the Tensor G2 chipset puts the Tablet a huge leap ahead of the Nest Hub in terms of overall performance.
Is the Pixel Tablet better than the Nest Hub Max?
Overall, it’s hard to definitively say “which is better” as this largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re seeking a tablet-like experience that offers portability and versatility, the Pixel Tablet is the superior choice, despite its higher price. With its larger, crisper display and robust camera features, it provides an immersive visual experience. However, if you prioritize having a central hub for your smart home devices and don’t require portability, the Nest Hub Max is the more cost-effective option of the two.
