How to Factory Reset Your Google Nest Hub: Complete Guide for All Models

Your Google Nest Hub might freeze, display errors, or need a fresh start before gifting it to someone else. A factory reset returns your device to its original state in just 4 minutes, removing all personal data and custom settings.

What Is a Factory Reset?

A factory reset completely erases your Google Nest Hub and returns it to its original, out-of-box state. This clears all personal data including your Google account login, saved WiFi passwords, browsing history, and any custom settings you’ve configured. Unlike simply restarting your device, a factory reset removes everything from the device’s memory, making it completely safe to sell, gift, or donate without leaving behind any personal information. Current as of: Nest Hub (all generations) - 2025

Why Factory Reset Your Nest Hub?

• Fix persistent problems: Resolve freezing, unresponsiveness, or apps that won’t load after a simple restart has failed
• Secure device transfers: Completely remove your personal data before selling or gifting the device to someone else
• Clear corrupted settings: Start fresh if your device has developed configuration issues that affect performance
• Prepare for new ownership: Give a new user a completely clean device ready for their own Google account and preferences

Things to Consider Before You Reset

• You’ll lose all settings: Custom routines, voice commands, smart home automations, and any saved preferences will be erased
• Requires internet connection: Make sure your Nest Hub stays powered on and connected to WiFi throughout the reset process
• Manual app cleanup needed: The device may still appear in the Google Home app after reset—you’ll need to manually remove the old device entry from the app, or simply set it up again with a new account

How to Factory Reset Your Nest Hub: Step by Step

Step 1: Check Your Device’s Power Status

Make sure your Nest Hub is powered on. You should see the device display active or show a standby screen. If the screen is completely dark, plug in the power adapter and wait 30 seconds for the device to start up.

Step 2: Locate the Volume Buttons

Turn your Nest Hub around to see the back of the device. You’ll find two volume buttons on the back edge—one marked with a plus (+) symbol and one with a minus (−) symbol. These are the only buttons you need for the factory reset. No tools required.

Step 3: Press and Hold Both Volume Buttons

Using your fingers, press and hold both the plus (+) and minus (−) buttons simultaneously for approximately 10 seconds. After about 10 seconds, you’ll hear an audio announcement from your device saying “You’re about to completely reset this device; release to cancel.” The device screen will turn off during this process.

Step 4: Release the Buttons and Wait for Restart

Release both buttons immediately after hearing the audio announcement. The device will now begin the reset process. You’ll see the screen turn on and display the Google startup animation (typically a ‘G’ logo with a loading animation), followed by the Welcome setup screen. Wait 30-60 seconds for this process to complete—don’t interrupt the power or disconnect from WiFi.

What Happens After the Reset

Once the reset completes, your Nest Hub will display the welcome setup screen, exactly like it did when new. If you’re keeping the device, follow the on-screen prompts to sign in with your Google account and reconnect to WiFi. If you’re transferring it to someone else, you’re finished—the new owner will see the same welcome screen and can set it up with their own account. The complete reset process takes about 2 minutes, plus an additional 1-2 minutes for the fresh startup depending on your internet speed. Important note: If the device still appears in your Google Home app, manually remove the old device entry from the app before the new owner sets it up with their account.

A factory reset is the most effective way to clear your Nest Hub completely, whether you’re troubleshooting problems or preparing it for a new owner. The simple two-button method works identically across all Nest Hub models (original, 2nd Generation, and Nest Hub Max), completing in minutes with no technical knowledge required.