If you’ve been hunting for a smart feeder that won’t break the bank, Birdbuddy’s latest offerings might be worth a look. The company just rolled out two new models – the compact Nook, priced at $99, and the larger Dwelling, listed at $219. After a week of hands‑on testing with the Nook and a longer stint with the Dwelling, it’s clear that the Nook delivers the most balanced mix of features, performance and price, making it the standout choice for everyday backyard birders.
Both feeders rely on an AI‑driven camera to record video of visiting feathered guests (and the occasional uninvited furry intruder). The technology builds on the success of Birdbuddy’s earlier releases – the 2022 Birdbuddy and the 2024 Birdbuddy Pro – and now sports a refreshed design. While the Pro remains the premium option at $339 (often discounted), the new Nook and Dwelling pack a respectable feature set at a fraction of the cost.
The camera on the Nook and Dwelling isn’t a carbon copy of the Pro’s sensor. It delivers a modest drop in image quality: the 2K HDR footage looks softer, the field of view is narrower, and you’ll need to detach the entire feeder to recharge the battery. On the bright side, the Nook’s lens can swivel to capture a sweeping 135‑degree panorama, giving you a broader perspective of the action. The companion app also benefits from a new “quick‑wake” routine, shaving the livestream start‑up time to under eight seconds – a noticeable improvement over the roughly 30‑second lag seen on the Pro.
For those who value sleek aesthetics as much as functionality, the Dwelling adds a more substantial housing and an optional perch extender (sold separately for $43). Both models retain the AI‑powered motion detection that alerts you when a bird lands, and they continue to offer the same reliable, weather‑proof build that made the original Birdbuddy a CES favorite.
In short, if you want a smart feeder that’s easy on the wallet, delivers solid live video, and still looks great in the garden, the Birdbuddy Nook is the clear winner. The Dwelling offers extra capacity and style for those willing to spend a bit more, while the Pro remains the high‑end choice for users who demand the sharpest image and fastest streaming.
