10 Best Home Thermostats 2025 in the United States

The Amazon Smart Thermostat is a solid choice if you're looking to upgrade from a traditional thermostat without complexity. It works with most 24V heating and cooling systems but requires a C-wire or a separate power adapter for installation, which might need extra effort if your home lacks one. The installation process is guided step-by-step within the Alexa app, making it approachable even for those who aren't handy, though tools like a drill might be needed.

Smart features stand out here: the thermostat integrates well with Alexa and compatible Echo devices, allowing voice control and automatic temperature adjustments based on your routines or when you’re away. It also supports using Echo devices as temperature sensors to balance different rooms, tackling hot or cold spots effectively. Energy efficiency is another strong point, as it is ENERGY STAR certified and can help save around $50 a year, with additional rebate options from some energy providers.

On the interface side, the thermostat has simple touch buttons for basic control, but full settings and scheduling are managed through the Alexa app, meaning you’ll need a smartphone to access its programmability fully. One limitation is its Wi-Fi connectivity, which only supports 2.4 GHz networks, not the faster 5 GHz bands common in modern homes. Plus, it lacks a built-in microphone, so voice commands depend on a separate Alexa device. For people comfortable with using Alexa and wanting an easy, energy-smart thermostat upgrade, this product fits well. However, if your home lacks a C-wire or if you prefer a thermostat with a more traditional standalone interface, you might need to consider these factors before buying.

The Google Nest Thermostat is a well-rounded smart thermostat designed for home use. One of its significant strengths is its energy efficiency, as it is ENERGY STAR certified and includes features like automatic temperature adjustments when you're not home and the Savings Finder to help lower energy costs. The thermostat is compatible with most systems, although some systems require a C wire or other power accessory, which could complicate installation for some users. On the plus side, Google provides an online Nest Compatibility Checker to help you verify if it will work with your system before purchasing.

Another standout feature is its smart capabilities, allowing you to control it remotely using the Google Home app on your smartphone, laptop, or tablet. It also integrates well with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, enabling voice control. The user interface is intuitive, making it easy to program and adjust settings. Additionally, the Nest Thermostat offers HVAC monitoring to alert you to any issues with your heating and cooling systems, enhancing its reliability. However, it lacks a lock feature, which might be a drawback for users needing to restrict access.

The thermostat's compact design is modern and unobtrusive, fitting well in most home decors. The Google Nest Thermostat is an excellent choice for those looking to save energy and integrate smart home features, though installation may require extra steps for specific systems.

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Gen is a smart thermostat designed to make home temperature control easy and energy efficient. One of its biggest strengths is its ability to program itself using Auto-Schedule, meaning you don’t have to manually set it up—it learns your preferences over time. It is compatible with many heating and cooling systems, but it's a good idea to use Google’s online compatibility checker before buying. The thermostat supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control it remotely via the Nest app or through voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, which adds great convenience.

The user interface is simple and friendly: the round stainless steel design includes a clear digital display with backlight, and the device shows a green Leaf icon when you select energy-saving temperatures, helping you reduce your bills. The Home/Away Assist feature automatically adjusts temperature settings when you leave or return, which can lead to additional savings. Installation is designed to be straightforward and includes mounting hardware and a screwdriver, but if you’re unsure, professional installation might be helpful.

On the downside, while the thermostat is battery-powered and wireless, it requires a consistent Wi-Fi connection for full smart functionality. The setup might feel a little technical for some users, especially if their home heating system is complex. Also, since this model was first released in 2015, it lacks some newer features found in the latest smart thermostats, like improved sensors or more advanced integrations. This thermostat suits homeowners looking for an easy-to-use, energy-saving smart thermostat with remote control capabilities and good compatibility with popular smart home systems. It is ideal for those who want to reduce energy consumption without fussing over programming schedules.