After gaining attention at CES 2025, the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential is now available for purchase. Priced lower than both the Enhanced and Premium models, the Essential provides an economical way to upgrade your home with smart features, including compatibility with Apple HomeKit and vacation scheduling options.
The Smart Thermostat Essential is designed for user-friendliness, featuring a large, colorful touchscreen display for quick access to frequently used functions. Its standout feature is its ability to learn and adapt, gradually optimizing settings for your home’s specific needs. For instance, it can gauge how long it takes to heat or cool your space, enabling it to create a routine that keeps you comfortable no matter the outdoor temperature. Additionally, when paired with Ecobee Smart Sensors, the thermostat can monitor occupancy and modify settings accordingly.
According to the manufacturer, using the Essential could lead to savings of up to 23% on annual heating and cooling bills. Depending on your home’s size, this $130 device could effectively pay for itself in as little as six months. Smart thermostats are often a worthwhile investment, especially when they include valuable energy-saving features like those found in the Essential.
“We believe that everyone deserves a smarter home,” commented Greg Fyke, President and CEO of Ecobee. “We’re excited to introduce the Smart Thermostat Essential to our lineup, making it easier than ever for customers to save money while enjoying comfort without compromise.”
In addition to local controls, the Essential can be managed remotely through Apple Home or the Ecobee mobile app.
Setting up the thermostat is similar to other smart models, and if your system doesn’t have a C-wire, you can still install the Essential with a Power Extender Kit priced at $25. Despite being the most affordable option in Ecobee’s lineup, its rounded design and minimalist interface lend it a premium look, complementing the array of advanced features it has to offer.
The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential is now available at major retailers and on the official Ecobee website. For those exploring alternatives, check out a roundup of other smart thermostats in a similar price range.
