If you are in the market for top-tier thermostats, chances are you have come across the new Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) and the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium. Both devices are designed to maintain a comfortable atmosphere in your home year-round while also helping you reduce your energy expenses.
However, you might be wondering which thermostat could be the better option for you. Here is a comparative overview of the Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) and the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium to guide your decision.
Pricing and Design
The Nest Thermostat from Google retails for $280, while the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium costs $250. This positions them among the more expensive smart thermostat options, but they deliver a plethora of valuable features to justify the investment.
In terms of aesthetics, both units are visually appealing. The Nest thermostat boasts a circular display made from premium materials, lending it an upscale appearance. In contrast, the Ecobee features a rounded square design that can integrate seamlessly with most interior styles. However, it is available in only one color, whereas the Nest offers three options: obsidian, gold, and silver.
Winner: Tie
Installation
According to Google, most homes can install the Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) without needing a C-wire. You should use the compatibility checker to confirm your requirements. At the very least, you’ll need to disconnect your old thermostat and hook up a few wires.
The installation process for the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is similar, but a C-wire connection or the Power Extender Kit is necessary. This means that for many users, setting up the Ecobee may be slightly more complex than the Nest Learning Thermostat.
Winner: Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)
Features and Controls
If you’re looking for a thermostat packed with features, either unit will serve you well. Here’s a summary of what the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium offers:
- Air quality monitoring
- Compatibility with Siri and Alexa
- Support for Spotify and Bluetooth streaming
- Built-in siren
- Pauses cooling when doors or windows are open
- Vacation scheduling capabilities
- Dual-band Wi-Fi support
- Air filter change notifications
- Radar technology for area sensing
- Learns user routines and recommends energy-efficient adjustments
On the other hand, here are some of the standout features of the Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen):
- Integrated air quality sensor
- Supports Matter technology
- Customizable home screen
- Automatically devises a schedule tailored to your habits
- Self-adjusts for energy savings
- Reduces temperature when no one is at home
- Monitors system performance for issues
- Employs a Soli sensor for motion detection
- Measures humidity and ambient light levels
Both devices offer a strong set of features, but the Ecobee tends to work more effectively within its ecosystem. This makes it a convenient choice if you have other Ecobee products, like security systems or video doorbells. Conversely, the Nest Learning Thermostat excels in customization, allowing users to adjust its home screen to display the most critical information. Its Matter compatibility is also a significant advantage, as it facilitates integration with a diverse range of devices.
Winner: Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)
Which is the Better Smart Thermostat?
Choosing either of these smart thermostats will enhance your home’s comfort with minimal effort. Nevertheless, the newer Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) has a slight advantage thanks to its more innovative design and customizable display, which presents vital information at a glance. It also automatically implements energy-saving changes, making it easy to recover the additional $30 over time. With Matter support, it’s a smart long-term investment.
Although the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is an excellent option as well, its lower initial cost could attract certain buyers. It covers many of the same functions as the Nest and benefits from seamless integration with other items in the Ecobee ecosystem, making it a compelling choice for those already invested in the brand.