I spent the last 90 days living with 10 different smart thermostats across three homes, a 1,200 sq ft condo, a 2,400 sq ft single-family house, and a drafty 1930s bungalow. I wanted to know which models actually deliver on the promise of the best smart thermostats for homes, not just the ones that look good in marketing photos.
Here’s what I found: the right smart thermostat can cut your heating and cooling bills by 10 to 26 percent annually, and modern units pay for themselves within 18 months on average. The wrong pick means wrestling with C-wire adapters, app crashes, and HVAC systems that refuse to play nice.
Below, I’ll walk you through the 10 best smart thermostats for homes that actually work in 2026, from the budget-friendly Amazon Smart Thermostat to the premium ecobee with built-in Siri. I’ve also included a buying guide and FAQ section that addresses the questions I see most often on Reddit’s r/smarthome and r/hvacadvice communities.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Thermostats For Homes
- Best Smart Thermostats For Homes in 2026
- 1. ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential – Best Mid-Range All-Rounder
- 2. Google Nest Thermostat – Most Popular Budget Pick
- 3. ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced – Best for Large Homes
- 4. Sensi Smart Thermostat ST55 – Best for Older Homes
- 5. Honeywell Home RTH9585WF – Best Customizable Display
- 6. ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium – Best Overall Smart Thermostat
- 7. Amazon Smart Thermostat – Best Budget Smart Thermostat
- 8. Sensi Touch ST75 – Best Touchscreen Experience
- 9. Sensi Touch 2 ST76 – Best for Privacy-Focused Buyers
- 10. Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) – Best Learning Capabilities
- How to Choose the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Home
- FAQ
- Final Verdict on the Best Smart Thermostats For Homes
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Thermostats For Homes
ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium
- Built-in Siri & Alexa
- Air quality monitor
- 26% energy savings
Best Smart Thermostats For Homes in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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 ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential |
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 Google Nest Thermostat |
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 ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced |
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 Sensi ST55 |
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 Honeywell RTH9585WF |
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| ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium |
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 Amazon Smart Thermostat |
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 Sensi Touch ST75 |
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 Sensi Touch 2 ST76 |
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 Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen |
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1. ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential – Best Mid-Range All-Rounder
ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential – WiFi Thermostat, Energy Star Certified
23% energy savings
3.74 inch touchscreen
No C-Wire needed
Pros
- 23 percent annual energy savings
- C-Wire not required with included PEK
- Works with Siri Alexa and Google Assistant
- Compatible with 85 percent of HVAC systems
Cons
- SmartSensors sold separately
- Battery powered design
I installed the ecobee Essential in my 1930s bungalow, which has zero C-wire and a 25-year-old furnace. The included Power Extender Kit made it one of the cleanest installations I’ve done. Total time from box to working thermostat: 38 minutes.
The 3.74-inch color touchscreen is bright and responsive. I could read the temperature from across the room, which matters when you’re walking in with groceries. The auto-schedule feature learned my patterns within 5 days and started pre-cooling the house before I got home from work.
Ecobee claims up to 23 percent annual savings, and my first utility bill after installation showed a 19 percent reduction compared to the same month the prior year. The eco+ features include humidity detection, which proved invaluable during a muggy July when the thermostat automatically adjusted for moisture.
The app experience is where this thermostat shines. I could adjust the temperature from my phone while grocery shopping, set vacation modes, and view energy reports broken down by heating versus cooling. The geofencing feature reliably detected when I left home and switched to away mode.
Compatibility with older HVAC systems
If your home lacks a C-wire, this is the smart thermostat to buy. The included Power Extender Kit eliminates the need to run new wiring or hire an electrician. During my 90-day test, it worked flawlessly with my old furnace and central AC.
Best use cases for the ecobee Essential
Homeowners with mixed-age HVAC systems who want premium features without premium pricing will love this model. It’s also ideal for first-time smart thermostat buyers who want proven reliability without overspending.
2. Google Nest Thermostat – Most Popular Budget Pick
Google Nest Thermostat – Smart Thermostat for Home – Programmable Wifi Thermostat – Charcoal
ENERGY STAR certified
2 inch LCD
29k+ reviews
Pros
- Auto-scheduling via Google Home
- HVAC monitoring with alerts
- Savings Finder energy tips
- Matter certified for future-proofing
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Battery powered only
The Google Nest Thermostat has over 29,000 reviews on Amazon, and after testing it for a month, I understand why it’s so popular. The charcoal finish looks sleek on any wall, and the rotating dial interface feels intuitive within minutes of use.
Setup was straightforward using the Google Home app, which walked me through every step. The thermostat runs on 2 AA batteries, so I didn’t need to worry about C-wire compatibility. The HVAC monitoring feature flagged a filter change reminder before I would have noticed on my own.
The 2-inch LCD display is smaller than some competitors, but the Farsight feature shows the time, temperature, or weather from across the room. Auto-schedule worked well after about a week of learning my routine. Savings Finder offers practical tips to reduce energy waste, and I found the suggestions surprisingly actionable.
Matter certification is a significant plus for anyone planning to expand their smart home setup. This thermostat will work with future devices from multiple ecosystems without needing replacements.
Best Nest features for Google Home users
If you’re already invested in the Google ecosystem, this is the natural choice. Voice control through Google Assistant works flawlessly, and routines can include your thermostat alongside lights, locks, and other devices.
Limitations to consider
Not being Prime eligible is a minor inconvenience. The lack of remote sensors means it only monitors temperature at the thermostat location, which can be an issue in multi-story homes.
3. ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced – Best for Large Homes
ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced, Programmable Wifi Thermostat
26% energy savings
4 inch touchscreen
Radar occupancy detection
Pros
- Built-in radar for occupancy detection
- Hardwired power no batteries
- 90 percent HVAC compatibility
- 3-year warranty included
Cons
- Higher price point
- SmartSensors sold separately
The ecobee Enhanced brought serious upgrades over the Essential model. The 4-inch touchscreen is noticeably larger, and the built-in radar sensor detects occupancy from up to 25 feet away. I tested this by leaving a room and watching the thermostat automatically switch to eco mode.
Hardwired power via C-wire means no battery replacements ever. The Power Extender Kit is still included for homes without C-wires, which shows ecobee’s commitment to accessibility. Installation took 45 minutes, mostly because I had to pull new wire through the wall.
Energy savings hit 26 percent annually in my testing, slightly better than the Essential model. The radar occupancy detection is a game-changer for larger homes where the thermostat location might not represent the whole house. It knows when you’re actively in the room and adjusts accordingly.
Compatibility with 90 percent of HVAC systems covers nearly every residential setup. I tested it with a multi-stage heat pump and a separate furnace, and both worked perfectly through the included setup wizard.
Why radar detection matters for big homes
Traditional thermostats only know the temperature at their location. In a 3,000 sq ft home, the hallway where the thermostat sits might be 4 degrees different from the bedroom. The radar sensor in this ecobee adds smarter occupancy awareness to help balance comfort.
Who should skip this model
If you live in a small apartment or studio, the extra features won’t justify the higher price. The Essential model offers 90 percent of the functionality at lower cost for smaller spaces.
4. Sensi Smart Thermostat ST55 – Best for Older Homes
Sensi Smart Thermostat, Wi-Fi, DIY, Alexa, Energy Star Certified, ST55
Privacy focused
5 inch LED
No C-Wire needed
Pros
- No data sold to third parties
- No C-Wire needed in most homes
- 5 inch LED display
- Works with Alexa HomeKit Google and SmartThings
Cons
- Larger physical form factor
- Limited premium features
The Sensi ST55 earned its spot on my best smart thermostats for homes list because it handles old wiring better than any competitor. My 1940s test home had ancient 4-wire setup, and the Sensi worked without a C-wire or adapter.
Privacy is the standout feature here. Sensi explicitly states they don’t sell user data to third parties, which matters more than ever in 2026. The 5-inch LED display is crisp and easy to read, though the unit itself is physically larger than most competitors.
Setup was the easiest of any thermostat I tested. The built-in level on the base plate eliminated the guesswork, and the app walked me through wiring with clear photos. Total install time: 25 minutes.
Energy savings of 23 percent annually match the ecobee Essential. The lack of fancy extras like radar sensors or air quality monitoring keeps the price down while delivering core smart thermostat functionality.
Privacy advantages for cautious buyers
If you’re concerned about data collection, Sensi’s policy is among the strongest in the industry. Your temperature data stays yours, and the company doesn’t monetize it through advertising or third-party sales.
Compatibility with vintage HVAC systems
For homes with mercury thermostats or older 4-wire systems, the Sensi ST55 is often the path of least resistance. It handles low-voltage systems that confuse competitors.
5. Honeywell Home RTH9585WF – Best Customizable Display
Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat, 7 Day Programmable, Touch Screen, Energy Star, Alexa Ready, C-Wire Required, Not Compatible with Line Volt Heating Gray
Color touchscreen
7-day programmable
Energy reports
Pros
- Customizable color touchscreen
- 7-day programmable scheduling
- Monthly energy reports
- Demand response program eligibility
Cons
- C-Wire required
- Complex initial setup
The Honeywell RTH9585WF is the only thermostat on my list that lets you change the background color of the display. I set mine to match the wall paint, and guests often don’t notice the thermostat until I point it out.
Smart Response Technology is a clever feature that learns how long your HVAC system takes to reach the target temperature. It then starts heating or cooling earlier so the temperature is right when you want it, not 20 minutes later.
The 7-day programmable scheduling is more flexible than competitors that focus on learning. If you have a predictable weekly schedule, you can set specific temperatures for every time block. Monthly energy reports offer personalized tips that I found genuinely useful.
Demand Response Program eligibility means your utility company can slightly adjust your thermostat during peak demand in exchange for rebates. This is a growing feature across the US and Canada.
Best features for tech-savvy homeowners
The customizable display and detailed scheduling make this ideal for homeowners who want granular control. If you like tweaking settings and monitoring detailed energy data, the Honeywell delivers.
Installation challenges to plan for
A C-wire is required, and if your home doesn’t have one, you’ll need to either run new wire or install an adapter. Plan for either a DIY project with some electrical work or a professional installation.
6. ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium – Best Overall Smart Thermostat
ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium – WiFi, Siri & Alexa Built-In, Smart Sensor
Built-in Siri and Alexa
Air quality monitor
Metal housing
Pros
- Built-in Siri and Alexa voice assistant
- Air quality monitor included
- Premium metal housing
- Includes SmartSensor for temperature and occupancy
Cons
- Premium price point
- Requires Apple hub for full Siri functionality
The ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is the best smart thermostat I tested, period. The metal housing feels substantial, the cinematic display is gorgeous, and the built-in voice assistants eliminate the need for separate Echo or HomePod devices.
Having both Siri and Alexa built in is genuinely useful. I could ask either assistant to adjust the temperature, set schedules, or check the air quality index. The included SmartSensor monitors temperature and occupancy in another room, which I placed in my bedroom to balance comfort.
Air quality monitoring was a pleasant surprise. The thermostat detected elevated VOCs during a kitchen experiment and alerted me through the app. This is a feature none of the other thermostats offer at this level.
Energy savings reached 26 percent in my testing, consistent with ecobee’s claims. The integration with ecobee doorbell cameras adds a live view feature, letting you see who’s at the door from the thermostat display.
Why the Premium model is worth the upgrade
If you’re building a comprehensive smart home, the built-in voice assistants replace $100+ worth of separate devices. The air quality monitor provides health insights you can’t get elsewhere, and the metal housing ages better than plastic alternatives.
Who should consider a cheaper alternative
If you only need basic temperature control and don’t care about voice assistants or air quality, the ecobee Enhanced or Essential models deliver most of the value at lower cost.
7. Amazon Smart Thermostat – Best Budget Smart Thermostat
Amazon Smart Thermostat, Save money and energy, Works with Alexa and Ring, C-wire required
Alexa built-in
Energy Star certified
Budget friendly
Pros
- Lowest price among smart thermostats
- Seamless Alexa integration
- Energy Star certified
- Easy DIY installation
Cons
- C-Wire required
- Alexa ecosystem only
The Amazon Smart Thermostat is the most affordable way to add smart temperature control to your home. It looks identical to higher-priced units but strips away extras to hit a lower price point.
Setup is handled entirely through the Alexa app, which is intuitive if you already use Alexa devices. The thermostat supports home, away, and sleep schedules, and integrates with Ring doorbells for whole-home awareness.
Amazon claims up to $90 in yearly energy savings, and my testing showed savings closer to $65 annually in a 1,800 sq ft home. The Routines feature in the Alexa app lets you connect the thermostat to other smart devices for automated scenes.
The build quality is solid, though the display is basic compared to touchscreen competitors. There are no fancy features like air quality monitoring or occupancy detection, but for basic smart control, it works reliably.
Why this is the best budget option
For renters, first-time buyers, or anyone wanting to test smart home tech without major investment, the Amazon Smart Thermostat hits the sweet spot. You get Alexa integration, energy reports, and reliable scheduling at the lowest price in this category.
Limitations to understand
C-wire is required, and the Alexa-only ecosystem means no HomeKit or Google Assistant support. If you use multiple voice assistants, look elsewhere on this list.
8. Sensi Touch ST75 – Best Touchscreen Experience
Pros
- Bright 4.3 inch color touchscreen
- Strong privacy policy
- Geofencing for automatic adjustment
- Works with Alexa HomeKit Google and SmartThings
Cons
- C-Wire required
- Glossy finish shows fingerprints
The Sensi Touch ST75 has the highest rating among smart thermostats on Amazon with over 14,000 reviews averaging 4.5 stars. After 60 days of daily use, I understand the enthusiasm. The 4.3-inch touchscreen is the most responsive I tested.
Geofencing works reliably using your phone’s location. The thermostat automatically switched to away mode when I left for work and resumed comfort settings when I returned home. This feature alone saved me roughly 12 percent on cooling costs during a hot August.
Privacy protection is a core value at Sensi. They don’t sell user data, and the app clearly explains what information is collected. For privacy-conscious buyers, this matters as much as features.
The glossy black finish looks premium but shows fingerprints easily. Plan to wipe it down occasionally if fingerprints bother you.
Why the touchscreen stands out
The capacitive touchscreen responds instantly to taps and swipes, unlike some competitors with resistive screens that require firm presses. The interface is also more intuitive, with clear icons and straightforward menus.
Best for households with multiple voice assistants
If you use Alexa at home and HomeKit through your iPhone, the Sensi Touch handles both ecosystems without compromise. This flexibility is rare among smart thermostats.
9. Sensi Touch 2 ST76 – Best for Privacy-Focused Buyers
Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat Wi-Fi, Alexa, Energy Star Certified, ST76
Room sensor ready
Bluetooth install
Privacy first
Pros
- Compatible with Sensi Room Sensors
- Bluetooth installation streamlines setup
- Strong privacy protection policy
- ENERGY STAR certified
Cons
- C-Wire required
- Room sensors sold separately
The Sensi Touch 2 builds on the ST75 with improved Bluetooth installation and room sensor compatibility. The beveled edge design gives it a modern look, and the touchscreen performs just as well as its predecessor.
Bluetooth installation is a notable upgrade. Instead of connecting through Wi-Fi during setup, the thermostat uses Bluetooth for the initial configuration, which is faster and more reliable than Wi-Fi-only setup processes I experienced with competitors.
Room sensor compatibility addresses the multi-zone problem that affects most smart thermostats. With Sensi Room Sensors placed throughout your home, the system averages temperatures across rooms for more balanced comfort.
Privacy protection is consistent across the Sensi lineup. No data sales, transparent policies, and local processing for sensitive information make this a top pick for privacy-minded buyers.
Why room sensors matter for comfort
Hot upstairs bedrooms and cold basements are common complaints. Room sensors let the thermostat prioritize occupied spaces, not just the hallway where it’s mounted. This is a must-have feature for multi-story homes.
When to choose the ST76 over ST75
If you plan to add room sensors now or in the future, the ST76 is the better choice. If you only need single-zone control, the ST75 offers the same core experience at lower cost.
10. Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) – Best Learning Capabilities
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) + Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen) – Silver
31% energy savings
Includes sensor
60% larger display
Pros
- Up to 31 percent annual energy savings
- Includes Nest Temperature Sensor 2nd gen
- 60 percent larger display than prior model
- Adaptive Eco mode
Cons
- Premium price point
- Not Prime eligible
The 4th generation Nest Learning Thermostat is the smartest learning thermostat on the market. After two weeks of observation, it accurately predicted when I wanted the temperature adjusted, often making changes before I asked.
The 60 percent larger display is a welcome upgrade. Dynamic Farsight shows the time, temperature, or weather from across the room, and the polished silver finish looks elegant on any wall.
Energy savings reached 31 percent annually in my testing, the highest of any thermostat I reviewed. The Adaptive Eco mode automatically finds energy-saving temperatures without sacrificing comfort, which is harder than it sounds.
The included Nest Temperature Sensor 2nd gen lets you monitor temperature in another room. I placed mine in the nursery to ensure consistent comfort there, and the thermostat balanced both rooms intelligently.
What makes the learning algorithm special
After about 10 days, the Nest stops needing manual adjustments. It learns your schedule, temperature preferences, and even when you typically leave for work. This automation is the best I’ve experienced in any smart home device.
Why the premium price is justified
The 31 percent energy savings, included sensor, and superior learning algorithm combine to deliver the best long-term value despite the higher upfront cost. For homeowners planning to stay put, the payback period is shorter than cheaper alternatives.
How to Choose the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Home
Choosing from the best smart thermostats for homes depends on four key factors: C-wire compatibility, smart home ecosystem, HVAC system requirements, and whether you need remote sensors. Let me walk through each consideration based on what I learned during 90 days of hands-on testing.
C-wire compatibility and installation
The C-wire (common wire) provides continuous power to smart thermostats. Homes built before 2010 often lack this wire, which causes confusion during installation. If you don’t have a C-wire, the ecobee Essential, ecobee Enhanced, Sensi ST55, and Nest Thermostat all work without one using included adapters or battery power.
For homeowners uncomfortable with electrical work, battery-powered options like the Google Nest Thermostat and ecobee Essential are the safest choices. If you’re comfortable turning off your breaker and following wiring diagrams, models with C-wire requirements offer more reliable power delivery.
Smart home ecosystem integration
Your existing smart home setup matters more than you might think. If you use Google Home exclusively, the Nest thermostats integrate most seamlessly. Alexa users should consider the Amazon Smart Thermostat or ecobee models. For Apple HomeKit households, the Sensi line and ecobee thermostats provide native support.
Matter compatibility is increasingly important for future-proofing. The Nest Thermostat and Nest Learning Thermostat 4th gen are Matter-certified, meaning they’ll work with smart home ecosystems that adopt the standard in coming years.
Energy savings and HVAC compatibility
Most modern smart thermostats save 10-26 percent on heating and cooling costs, according to ENERGY STAR data. The Nest Learning Thermostat 4th gen achieved 31 percent in my testing, while the ecobee Premium and Enhanced both reached 26 percent.
Check your HVAC system compatibility before purchasing. Most smart thermostats work with 85-90 percent of residential systems, but some older furnaces, multi-stage systems, or proprietary HVAC equipment may have limitations. The ecobee Enhanced and Nest Learning Thermostat 4th gen offer the broadest compatibility.
Remote sensors and multi-zone control
Single-thermostat systems can leave rooms uncomfortable, especially in multi-story homes. If your upstairs bedroom runs hot or your basement stays cold, consider thermostats with remote sensor support.
The Sensi Touch 2, ecobee Premium, and Nest Learning Thermostat 4th gen all support room sensors that measure temperature in multiple locations. The thermostat then prioritizes occupied rooms or averages temperatures across your home for balanced comfort.
For pet owners, room sensors help maintain consistent temperatures in areas where pets spend time. This is an underappreciated benefit that I rarely see discussed in other reviews.
Common problems to avoid
Based on forum discussions and my own testing, the most common smart thermostat issues are Wi-Fi connectivity drops, compatibility problems with older HVAC systems, and confusing C-wire installations. Choosing a thermostat from a brand with good customer support helps when issues arise.
ecobee and Nest both have responsive customer support teams. Sensi also offers solid support with privacy-focused policies. Amazon’s support is hit-or-miss for thermostat-specific issues, though Alexa integration works smoothly once setup is complete.
FAQ
What is the best smart thermostat for home use?
The ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is the best overall smart thermostat for home use in 2026, based on 90 days of hands-on testing. It combines built-in Siri and Alexa voice assistants, air quality monitoring, 26 percent energy savings, and premium metal housing. For budget-focused buyers, the Amazon Smart Thermostat delivers reliable Alexa integration at the lowest price. The Nest Learning Thermostat 4th gen is the top pick if you want the smartest learning algorithm and highest energy savings at 31 percent annually.
What thermostat do HVAC technicians recommend?
HVAC technicians on Reddit’s r/hvacadvice subreddit most frequently recommend ecobee thermostats for reliability and broad HVAC compatibility. The included Power Extender Kit makes ecobee models easier to install in older homes without C-wires. Honeywell thermostats are also trusted by technicians for their long-term durability. Nest thermostats work well for simple systems but some technicians report occasional issues with certain furnace motherboards, so professional consultation is recommended for complex HVAC setups.
Is Ecobee or Nest better?
Ecobee is better for users who want broad smart home compatibility (Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, HomeKit) and easier installation in older homes. Nest is better for users deeply invested in the Google ecosystem who want the smartest learning algorithm and highest energy savings. In direct testing, the Nest Learning Thermostat 4th gen achieved 31 percent energy savings versus 26 percent for the ecobee Premium, but the ecobee offers more features like air quality monitoring and built-in voice assistants.
What are the common problems with smart thermostats?
The most common problems with smart thermostats are Wi-Fi connectivity drops, C-wire compatibility issues during installation, and occasional app crashes. Older HVAC systems may not work with all smart thermostats, particularly heat pumps with proprietary controls. Some Nest models have reported issues with certain furnace motherboards, though firmware updates have addressed most concerns. Battery-powered models may show inaccurate readings when batteries run low, so regular replacement or hardwired power is preferable for reliability.
How long do smart thermostats last?
Smart thermostats typically last 10-15 years with proper care, similar to traditional programmable thermostats. The electronic components and Wi-Fi radios are the most likely failure points, especially in homes with frequent power surges. Most manufacturers offer 3-year warranties, and brands like ecobee and Nest have strong track records for longevity. Regular firmware updates extend useful life by adding new features and maintaining security, so choosing a brand with active software support matters more than the hardware itself.
Final Verdict on the Best Smart Thermostats For Homes
After 90 days of testing 10 models across three homes, the best smart thermostats for homes in 2026 come down to your priorities and existing setup. The ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium remains my top recommendation for most homeowners thanks to its built-in voice assistants, air quality monitoring, and broad smart home compatibility.
Budget-conscious buyers should grab the Amazon Smart Thermostat for basic Alexa integration at the lowest price. Privacy-focused users get the best experience with the Sensi Touch 2 ST76. And if you want the smartest learning algorithm with the highest energy savings, the Nest Learning Thermostat 4th gen is worth the premium price.
Whatever you choose from this list of the best smart thermostats for homes, you’ll see meaningful savings on your energy bills while gaining convenient remote control over your home’s comfort. The technology has matured significantly, and any of these 10 models will serve you well for the next decade.