A smart thermostat is an ideal entry point into a smart home setup. Its standout benefit? Automatically optimizing your HVAC system to slash energy use and cut heating and cooling costs—saving you real money.
These devices also integrate seamlessly with lights, plugs, sensors, and more for a cohesive ecosystem.
Nest pioneered the category in 2011 with its Learning Thermostat, offering straightforward installation, app control, and an intuitive interface suitable for all users.
While Nest refined its lineup with the third-generation model in 2015, competitors like Ecobee entered the fray. Nest Learning Thermostat (T3007ES), Easy Temperature Control for Every Room in Your Home, Stainless Steel (3rd Generation), Works with Nest Learning Thermostat by Nest (T3007ES), Easy Temperature Control for Every Room in Your Home, stainless steel (3rd generation), Works with Alexa. Buy Now On Amazon $180.50
Ecobee, a Canadian innovator, impressed with the Ecobee3 in 2015, followed by the acclaimed Ecobee4 in mid-2017.
ecobee4 Smart Thermostat with Alexa Built-in, Room Sensor Included. ecobee4 Smart Thermostat with Alexa Built-in, Room Sensor Included. Buy Now On Amazon $185.00
Previously, comparisons focused on Ecobee3 vs. Nest. But the Ecobee4 has surged ahead. Here are two key reasons why, based on hands-on testing.
The Ecobee4's killer feature is its integrated Amazon Alexa—think of it as a wall-mounted Echo Dot that also manages your climate control.
Use voice commands from anywhere in the room for thermostat adjustments or thousands of Alexa skills, from pizza orders to music playback. True smart home synergy.
Say "Alexa" to activate; an LED strip glows to confirm it's listening. The speaker sits at the base.
Full Alexa support pairs with Apple HomeKit, letting iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch users control it via Siri and the Home app. How to set up and use the Ecobee4 Smart Thermostat. How to set up and use the Ecobee4 Smart Thermostat. Just bought a new Ecobee4 Smart Thermostat? Here's a step-by-step guide to everything you need to know to get it set up and working perfectly. Read More
This gives Ecobee a clear edge over Nest in the Ecobee vs. Nest matchup. Nest, under Alphabet, excels with Google Home, Nest Protect, and Nest cameras—but lacks HomeKit due to Apple-Google rivalry. Nest works with Alexa via a separate device, plus Google Assistant, SmartThings, and IFTTT.
Ecobee4 includes a room sensor (with options for more), perfect for multi-story or larger homes. Nest offers no equivalent.
Ecobee Room Sensor 2 Pack with Brackets. ecobee Room Sensor 2 Pack with Brackets. Buy Now On Amazon $65.46
Sensors track temperature, humidity, and motion, fixing uneven heating/cooling issues.
For Smart Home/Away, sensors detect occupancy to adjust to home or away modes automatically.
The Follow Me feature prioritizes occupied rooms' data, ensuring comfort where you are—ideal for extreme climates. Nest relies solely on its location's reading.
Nest shines in installation and automation. How to set up and use your Nest Learning Thermostat. How to set up and use your Nest Learning Thermostat? Just bought a new Nest Learning Thermostat? Here's a step-by-step guide to everything you need to know to get it set up and working perfectly. Read more.
Nest doesn't require a C-wire; its battery powers the device. Ecobee4 needs one for its display and Alexa—use the included power extender kit if absent, possibly requiring pro install.
Nest's learning algorithm auto-builds schedules based on your habits for effortless savings. Ecobee4 requires manual setup via app.
Ecobee4 and Nest lead, but prices vary. Budget options exist. The $400 Smart Home Starter Kit for the budget-conscious beginner. The $400 Smart Home Starter Kit for the beginner. Budget-conscious smart home used to be too expensive for most people, but now you can have a fully functional smart home for just $400! Don't you believe us? Here are the products you need. Read more.
Try Honeywell Lyric or Sensi. Honeywell RCHT8610WF2006 7-Day Smart Wi-Fi Touchscreen Programmable Thermostat with Geofencing, C-Wire Required, Works with Alexa. Honeywell RCHT8610WF2006 Lyric T5 7-Day Smart Wi-Fi Touchscreen Programmable Thermostat with Geofencing, C-Wire Required, Works with Alexa Alexa. Buy Now On Amazon $97.38
These prioritize savings over advanced features. Smart home technology to save money and improve your life. Smart home technologies to save money and improve your life. The following smart home solutions are practical and relatively inexpensive. Some will even help you save money. Read more.
Nest defined smart thermostats, but Ecobee4—with Alexa, HomeKit, and sensors—takes the crown in our expert tests. Ecobee wins the Ecobee vs. Nest battle.
Using Ecobee4 or Nest? Share your experience and recommendations below!
