Best Smart Thermostats

Review & Comparison, Last Update December 30, 2023
A smart thermostat is a good way to start improving your home. Especially when regular means of climate control are becoming obsolete ...Read more
PROS

No more programming: with automatic scheduling, the Google Nest thermostat learns from you and programs itself. It offers economical energy consumption and easy installation in a few minutes' time.

CONS

Quickly changes the temperature if there are no people within the radius of the sensors.

OUR VERDICT

This device automatically adjusts as your life and seasons change, which allows you to set the ideal temperature at home. You can manage everything remotely from the smartphone app.

detailed parameters
Control Type

Remote: Wi-Fi, iOS and Android-based mobile devices (Nest app)

Manual: Buttons

HVAC COMPATIBILITY

Heating and cooling systems, Humidifiers, Dehumidifiers, Boilers

POWER SUPPLY

Wired (C-Wire)

DISPLAY TYPE

Large LCD screen

PROGRAMMING TYPE

Smart learning technology, Preset energy saving schedules, Adjustable programmed schedules

WARRANTY

2 years

PROS

The device will allow you to save up to 23% on heating and cooling bills (depending on your settings). With the help of Amazon Echo, you will be able to just ask Alexa to adjust the temperature settings without standing up from your chair or using your smart device.

CONS

You will have to physically reconnect the model if the Internet goes down. 

OUR VERDICT

The Ecobee3 lite Smart Thermostat is all about saving money and offering convenient ways to control the temperature around the house. Plus, the installation process is extremely easy since all you need for it is included in the package.

detailed parameters
Control Type

Remote: Wi-Fi, iOS and Android-based mobile devices (Ecobee app)

Manual: Touchscreen menu

HVAC COMPATIBILITY

Heating and cooling systems, Humidifiers, Dehumidifiers, Boilers

POWER SUPPLY

Wired (C-Wire)

DISPLAY TYPE

Large LCD screen

PROGRAMMING TYPE

Smart learning technology, Preset energy saving schedules, Adjustable programmed schedules

WARRANTY

3 years

PROS

The model will allow you to program a schedule for each day of the week. And since this device receives convenient weather updates, figuring out that schedule will be particularly easy. The app changes the color of its background to let you know at a single glance whether your home system is heating or cooling.

CONS

Pairing and connecting the thermostat to an existing Wi-Fi network is rather difficult.

OUR VERDICT

We would recommend the Emerson Sensi wireless thermostat to just about any customer who is looking to get as many convenient features as possible for the most affordable price. Plus, the model's sleek, minimalistic design will look great on any wall.

detailed parameters
Control Type

Remote: Wi-Fi, iOS and Android-based mobile devices (Sensi app)

Manual: Touchscreen menu

HVAC COMPATIBILITY

Heating and cooling systems, Boilers

POWER SUPPLY

Wired (C-Wire), 2 AA batteries (Emergency power)

DISPLAY TYPE

Large monochrome LCD screen

PROGRAMMING TYPE

Preset energy saving schedules, Adjustable programmed schedules

WARRANTY

3 years (5 years for PRO contractors instalment)

PROS

Save electricity with the Energy Star certified thermostats. They will help save an average of $50 on your annual energy bill. The Amazon smart model is based on Honeywell's home thermostat technology.

CONS

Getting feedback from the application is inconvenient.

OUR VERDICT

Automatic comfort: Alexa can program for you, updating the temperature to keep you satisfied. A very reliable and affordable device for any home. Convenient buttons for setting modes.

detailed parameters
Control Type

Remote: Wi-Fi, iOS and Android-based mobile devices (Alexa app)

Manual: Buttons

HVAC COMPATIBILITY

Heating and cooling systems, Boilers

POWER SUPPLY

Wired (C-wire; not included)

DISPLAY TYPE

Digital temperature display

PROGRAMMING TYPE

Smart learning technology, Preset energy saving schedules, Adjustable programmed schedules

WARRANTY

1 year

PROS

Easy DIY installation step by step via the Wyze app. Automatic switching on and off. Guest control and convenient management, as well as a stylish minimalistic design.

CONS

The thermostat interface is somewhat clunky.

OUR VERDICT

A budget thermostat for your smart home. The Wyze app will recommend practical insights based on your energy usage. Keep your pets comfortable and prevent plumbing from freezing with this device.

detailed parameters
Control Type

Remote: Wi-Fi, iOS and Android-based mobile devices (Wyze app)

Manual: Buttons

HVAC COMPATIBILITY

Heating and cooling systems, Humidifiers, Dehumidifiers, Boilers

POWER SUPPLY

Wired (C-Wire)

DISPLAY TYPE

Digital temperature display

PROGRAMMING TYPE

Preset energy saving schedules, Adjustable programmed schedules

WARRANTY

30 days

Smart to a ‘T’

Having a smart thermostat is nice, but constantly programming it… not so much. The Google Nest learning thermostat is double smart in the way that it learns from your habits – and can program itself.

If you want a perfect microclimate at your home – and also want to save up – look no further than this device. The Nest is designed to reduce your energy bills while taking full control over your heating/cooling system. In fact, you can pay 10-12% less for the heat and up to 15% less for the cooling. Time to spend the money on something better than the bills.

Installing this device is super easy, so there’s no real need to call in a professional. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and you’ll be using it in under 30 minutes. A small life hack: if still not sure about your actions, combine the installation manual with online video tutorials.

When you’ve connected the wires, take a good look at your freshly installed thermostat – because it’s worth it. The Nest has a sleek modern design and doesn’t stick out or look heavy. The digits on the screen are big enough to be readable at a glance.

Does the Job for You

What makes the Nest so fantastic is that it analyzes your heating/cooling habits during seasons and offers auto scheduling. This way, you won’t have to tediously program it each day or week. Everything is controlled remotely via the Nest app, so you can change the settings and adjust the temp right from your office or vacation spot.

Do you really need the heating or AC while you’re away? The reasonable answer would be “no, of course”. This thermostat uses smart sensors to detect if you’ve left home – and then switches to the Eco Temperature mode. The sensors not only capture motion but also your smartphone’s proximity, just to make double sure. The only issue is that the temp may change too fast if you’re out of sight.

Want to control the Nest by voice? Couldn’t be easier. All you need to do is connect Alexa – and start fixing your microclimate. The smartphone app will also show the energy history to back up your saving plan. When it does work, you’ll see a small leaf icon on the screen.

Overall, this thermostat is another step forward in making your home a really smart one. Control your indoor temp from anywhere, anytime – or let the Nest do all the work.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $223.70
Stock In stock
ASIN B0131RG6VK

VIDEO

Save Your Funds

The Ecobee3 lite Smart Thermostat is the kind of model that has all of its advantages put in the name. The "eco" part of that name is right on the money since this nifty little device will allow you to receive up to 23% savings on heating and cooling costs (depending on your settings). The "smart" part is there not just for show either. The model works with just about any iOS and Android device, even including the Apple Watch. Furthermore, with the help of Amazon Echo, you will be able to just ask Alexa to adjust the temperature settings without standing up from your chair or using your smart device.

Of course, these compatibilities are all well and good, but they wouldn't be enough to justify the said "smart" part. On that note, we would like to point out the set of alerts and reminders. The manufacturers made sure to incorporate those in order to offer their customers a certain peace of mind. Simply put, the WiFi thermostat senses when something doesn't work at all or doesn't work according to your programming and sends a convenient alert to your smart device. There's also the vacation mode that the device automatically adjusts to whenever you leave the house, a rather sophisticated solution that allows you to save a considerable amount of money in the long run. Finally, in terms of HVAC compatibility, the model works with most residential heating and cooling systems.

All in all, the Ecobee3 lite Smart Thermostat is all about saving money and offering convenient ways to control the temperature around the house. Plus, the installation process is extremely easy since all you need for it is included in the package.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $169.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B06W56TBLN

Plenty of Features in a Simple Package

Emerson Sensi is the perfect example of how something so simple-looking can offer just about anything you would want out of a wireless thermostat. Simply download the Sensi app and you will have access to a rich number of features that the model comes equipped with. The said features include the ability to remotely control the temperature in your home. They also include geofencing technology. As some of you may know, this technology identifies the location of your smartphone and adjusts the temperature according to that location.

People lead all kinds of lives, which is why it's a good thing that this product comes equipped with the sort of technologies that will allow you to program a schedule for each day of the week. And since the model receives convenient weather updates, figuring out that schedule will be particularly easy. The app's interface is another example of something so simple that can be so effective. For instance, the app changes the color of its background to let you know at a single glance whether your home system is heating or cooling. It also sends you alerts whenever the wireless thermostat detects inconvenient or extreme changes in temperature or humidity. Finally, the app automatically adjusts between the cooling and the heating mode in order to keep the user as comfortable as possible. Its HVAC compatibility coverage is superb. On top of that, the model's also compatible with the iPhone, iPad, any Android device, Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit (the c-wire is required), Google assistant and wink smart home platforms.

All in all, we would recommend the Emerson Sensi wireless thermostat to just about any customer who is looking to get as many convenient features as possible for the most affordable price. Plus, the model's sleek, minimalist design will look great on any wall.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $99.77
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B01NB1OB0I

Your Personal Temp Schedule

Want to save up to $50 yearly on energy? Also want a smart thermostat that is compatible with Alexa? Congratulations, you’ve just found one. The Amazon smart thermostat is a must-have for any modern home – and any saving plan.

Installing this thermostat won’t be any trouble, and you can skip the electrician’s visit. Just make sure you have the latest version of the Alexa app, which will guide your every step with text and pictures. No need to be tech savvy to integrate this device into your HVAC system. When all is done, Alexa will make contact with the thermostat and set it up in about 2 minutes. Yes, it’s this level of “easy”.

But that’s not all. Knowing your personal preferences, Alexa will be programming the device for you. Say “bye” to the constant indoor temperature that only drains your wallet when you’re out. It only takes a hunch for your smart voice assistant to adjust the temp in case you’re in, out, or asleep.

Want to set the heating/cooling schedules yourself? Use the app to do it on the go – or the Alexa-enabled device while you’re at home. This thermostat lets you control the indoor climate just the way you want.

Save Up on Energy

The tech behind this smart device is backed by Honeywell and their impressive experience. Combined with the power of Alexa, this makes for a highly reliable thermostat that is extremely easy to adjust. Fit for any home, it will make your life much easier – and will serve you longer.

Energy Star certified, this unit is cost-effective and even gives you an energy dashboard. With its help, you can monitor the use of energy and come up with a saving plan. Your domestic budget deserves better than being wasted on the costly electricity payoffs.

As for the design, Amazon has done a great job of making the device look modern and hi-tech. It will blend seamlessly into your modern interior – and let you read the numbers from afar. The 3 touch buttons are Select/Mode, Temperature Up, and Temperature Down. The plastic in this unit is 33% post-consumer recycled, which makes it great for an eco-friendly household.

Any downsides? Perhaps, the fact that Alexa won’t tell you the humidity, so you’ll have to use the app for that.

As evident, the Amazon smart thermostat is pure gold for Alexa owners that want all scheduling done for them.

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B09F1RH8C5

Remote Temp Control

There are just thermostats – and smart thermostats. The Wyze Wi-Fi unit lets you monitor and schedule the indoor temperature from anywhere and anytime. It also gives you a practical insight as to how you can save up on the energy bills.

First off, this thermostat is a pleasure to install – and will be ready in under 30 minutes. All you have to do is follow the in-app guide (yes, you do need to install the Wyze app). No need for special skills or calling in a professional; most customers will be able to set it up from the first try. The 90% of home systems are compatible with this thermostat, and there’s even a C-wire adapter included in the box.

The best thing about the Wyze is that you can control it from anywhere you want. The app is the key to managing your temperature from the office, car, or a vacation hotel room. You’ll only need a Wi-Fi connection for the app, and the rest is up to you.

Why is this important? Unfortunately, many house owners tend to overpay for heating/cooling when they don’t really need it. With the remote control over the HVAC system, you can keep the pets warm while you’re away – or spare the heat if the house stays empty for a while.

Make Your Own Rules

Have a voice assistant at your smart home? Great news: the Wyze thermostat is compatible with both Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can give it voice commands. Everything works perfectly well, being much easier than using the main interface of this device, which is a bit clunky.

As for the scheduling, you can program the thermostat for each day of the entire week. We normally have different routines on weekdays and weekends, and now you can adjust the schedule to match your lifestyle to a “T”. Home, Sleep, or Away modes are readily available for this device. It even has a motion sensor and can change the temp automatically when you get home.

Having guests at your house? No problem, as they can also set the temp via the Wyze app. The same goes for other family members if they want to have their say as to the indoor microclimate.

But that’s not all; the thermostat will back up your saving plan with insights into the recent energy usage. Check out the patterns and easily identify the weak spots. Absolutely no need to overpay when you can avoid it with little to no effort.

All in all, this highly adjustable thermostat will take over the in-house temperature – and keep it just the way you want.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B08W1V9YB3

Infographics


What Is a Smart Thermostat?

A smart home is becoming a commodity that is affordable for many of us these days. Remote control over household appliances and systems allows cutting down utility expenses, to say nothing about convenience.

As we all look for a solution to pay less for electricity during colder months it may be hard to pick a product that will make the indoor climate comfortable. The best solution to get your heating system under control and use it in the most efficient way is a smart thermostat. Not only is it a great addition to any house in terms of convenience, but it will also help you to save up on the electricity bills. Some people who use a regular thermostat or don’t have any at all, tend to turn the heating systems on and off manually to keep an eye on energy consumption. However, the chances are - you will likely forget to turn it off and waste energy anyway.

A modern thermostat, on the other hand, gives you the power to control the temperature remotely via your smartphone or another mobile device. You can also choose the most comfortable individual setting depending on the temperature outside and your personal needs. What is more, with such advanced devices, you can make up your own heating schedules for weeks and days ahead individually.

So, if you want your house to always stay cozy without extra hassle, choose one of these. And if you want to enjoy the ambient warmth, no matter where you are, we recommend taking a closer look at the top personal heaters as well as at space heaters that will improve the climate in rooms without central heating.

What Features to Compare

Finding a good thermostat that will suit your home or apartment might be a real challenge. However, it is not nearly as hard as it may seem at first glance. There are many different aspects that make some models suitable for your climate control systems, while others don’t. Thus, it is important to consider all features that may boost or, in some cases, interfere with the ambient temperature of your house. Before making a final decision, we encourage you to take a look at the core features that make each thermostat product unique to a certain extent.

Control Type

First things first, the controls are, perhaps, one of the fundamental aspects of any thermostat. Without them - you wouldn’t be able to set the temperature level that these climate control units are keeping at a constant level. Fortunately enough, the majority of modern smart models feature both manual and digital controls. If one of the two systems fails you can always rely on another in order to keep yourself cool or warm, depending on the time of the season. The convenience of modern devices lies in details since today you can access the control panel of the thermostat using your mobile device. Likewise, you can use a touchscreen or dial buttons just like the good old days when everything was analog (however, this is a mere necessity of emergency controls rather than the only control option available).

HVAC Compatibility

The ability of the thermostats to blend in seamlessly into your existing home climate control system is a must, especially nowadays, when multiple home systems are interconnected with each other. Some models can only be connected to boiler and heating systems, while others can also interact with humidifiers and dehumidifiers. With that in mind, it is important to assess the total number of connections that your new thermostat can handle at the same time. The HVAC systems may include electric, gas, air supply as well as air conditioning systems, hence, if you want less hassle with all of them we recommend opting for a thermostat that is capable of controlling most of them simultaneously.

Power Supply

Without electricity, a thermostat would be as useful as a regular thermometer. So, usually, the smart devices can be powered by either the home's electric system, batteries or both. While the majority of the households in the US rarely suffer from power outages it is not a bad idea to be prepared for the worst, especially in winter. If you need additional peace of mind, we recommend the models that can be powered by both outlet and batteries.

Display

It wouldn’t be a smart thermostat if it didn’t have a display that shows information about the climate indoors, would it? That’s why almost all models have at least a monochrome LCD screen. Even though LED displays are pretty beautiful to look at, it is the functionality that is important. By choosing a model with a display that will show you detailed data from relative humidity to ambient temperature inside your house you will future proof the premises for years to come.

Did you know?

How to Install and Set up a Smart Thermostat

Programmable thermostats are designed to make climate control as easy as using a TV remote control. However, installing these devices might appear finicky at first. Even more so, trying to wire the thermostat into an existing HVAC system can be a painstaking task, especially if you have little to no knowledge in the area of climate control systems. That being said, the installation process can be easy if you follow some simple instructions.

  • First and foremost, you should always check if the new thermostat model came with instructions or a user manual from the manufacturer. As simple as it may seem, this is an important part of almost any installation process, so don’t hesitate to give the manual a thorough read before trying to install the device on your own. By doing so you will avoid a lot of common mistakes such as selecting between gas or electric means of central heating.
  • Moving on, it is time to check the voltage and turn off the existing thermostat (if you have one). After that, you will need to cautiously cut the wires and disconnect the old thermostat. Note that it is important to not let the wires fall back into the wall, use duct tape if you need to secure the cables. In addition, you can label the wires so it will be easier to connect them later. In order to make the process easier, you can tape all the cables to a regular pencil so they will be in one place.
  • After the old device is out of the way, it is time to install the mounting wall plate of a new thermostat on the wall. If the new plate is bigger than an old one, use the new one as a template for drilling the screw holes. A level is a must, especially if you want your new climate controller to blend with your room design. Most thermostats come equipped with mounting screws, however, sometimes you will have to figure out the correct screw size (a 3/16” drill will suffice most of the standard sizes). Don’t forget the anchors, since they will stabilize and hold the thermostat on the wall.
  • And now it is time for the most interesting part - wiring. Hook all the disconnected wires to your new thermostat, and use notes or labels that you have already made to re-connect the cut cables. If you wish, you can copy the pre-existing wiring. If you have some empty ports and connections left, don’t worry about it, the device will work fine without them.

After everything including the back panel, wiring, and the thermostat itself has been installed and connected, you can finally update the firmware and proceed to the programming part. Even though the software solutions for each model differ, one thing always stays the same - users manual. By following the user’s manual you will find every programmable option you may need. Alternatively, you can use a mobile application to make the programming process quicker. Most of the modern thermostat applications feature a thorough tutorial on how to set up a schedule for your smart thermostat. The programmable thermostat can and will save you a lot of money on heating bills, so by using all the features in a clever way it will definitely improve your annual savings.

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