10 Best Multi Stage Thermostat 2025 in the United States

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen, 2024) is a smart thermostat designed to help you save energy while keeping your home comfortable. It works with most heating and cooling systems, including gas, electric, heat pumps, and more, without usually needing a C wire, which makes installation simpler for many homes. You can control it easily from your phone or with voice commands through Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant, adding great convenience if you already use smart home devices.

The large, bright display is easy to read from across the room and adjusts its brightness automatically or manually, which helps you check the temperature and settings without hassle. It also learns your habits and the way outdoor weather affects your indoor temperature to optimize heating and cooling, potentially reducing your energy bills by around 12% for heating and 15% for cooling. The included Nest Temperature Sensor allows you to manage temperature in different rooms, addressing hot or cold spots in your home. Notifications and suggested schedule changes appear in the Google Home app, letting you approve adjustments that may save more energy.

Installation is generally straightforward, and the thermostat works smoothly with popular smart home platforms thanks to Matter compatibility. While it covers a wide range of systems, some older or less common setups might not be fully supported, so checking compatibility first is important. Additionally, it relies on Wi-Fi and app connectivity, which may be a drawback if your internet is unreliable. The price is higher than basic thermostats, reflecting its advanced features but possibly making it less appealing for very budget-conscious buyers. This thermostat represents an excellent choice for those seeking an easy, smart, and energy-efficient way to control multi-stage heating and cooling, especially if app control and integration with popular smart home assistants are important.

The Google Nest Thermostat is a versatile and energy-efficient choice for home climate control. It boasts broad compatibility, working with many types of heating and cooling systems, though some setups may require additional accessories like a C wire. The programmable feature allows users to create energy-efficient schedules using the Google Home app on both Android and iPhone devices, contributing to significant energy savings over time. Additionally, the thermostat can automatically adjust itself when you leave home to avoid wasting energy.

Smart features are extensive, including remote control via smartphones, laptops, or tablets, and HVAC monitoring that alerts you to potential issues. Integration with smart home platforms like Google Assistant and other Matter-certified voice assistants enhances convenience, allowing voice control of the thermostat. The user interface is straightforward, consisting of a 2-inch LCD screen that is easy to read and navigate. However, some users may find the reliance on the app for setup and adjustments somewhat cumbersome.

Energy reports and the Savings Finder feature are beneficial for those looking to optimize their energy use, providing insights and suggestions for further savings. Installation is generally simple, with included mounting hardware and clear documentation, but the lack of a C wire in some homes may complicate the process. The device is battery-powered, which means occasional battery replacements are necessary. In conclusion, the Google Nest Thermostat excels in programmability, smart features, and user interface, making it a suitable choice for tech-savvy users and those already integrated into the Google ecosystem. However, it may require some adjustments and additional accessories for full compatibility with all home systems.

The Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Color Thermostat offers a lot of convenience and smart features for those looking to manage their home's heating and cooling more efficiently. It's ENERGY STAR certified, meaning it can help save on energy costs while providing detailed energy reports and personalized tips. You can control it from anywhere using the app or via smart home partners like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, which adds a lot of flexibility and ease of use.

The customizable color screen and on-screen comfort information, including indoor and outdoor temperatures and daily weather forecasts, make it user-friendly and visually appealing. However, it requires a C-wire for installation, which might be an issue for some homes, and it's not compatible with electric baseboard heating systems. Those with common forced air, hot water, steam, or heat pump systems (with electric backup) will find it a good fit. Note that it works with most heat/cool oil furnace systems but not heating-only oil furnace systems without a C-wire.

The flexible programming options and smart features make it suitable for those who want a mix of manual control and automated energy savings. It offers fan control options for added comfort. This thermostat is a strong choice for tech-savvy users with compatible HVAC systems looking to save energy and integrate with smart home ecosystems, but the C-wire requirement could be a limitation for some.