10 Best Smart Thermostats 2025 in the United States

The Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Color Thermostat offers a blend of modern functionality and user-friendly features. Its ENERGY STAR certification is a significant advantage for energy savings, allowing users to track usage and receive personalized tips. Compatibility-wise, it supports a variety of heating and cooling systems but is not suitable for line volt heating or heating-only oil furnace systems, which can be a limitation for some households. The requirement for a C-wire can also complicate installation for users whose homes lack this wiring.

Remote access is robust, with control possible via mobile apps and integration with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft Cortana. This flexibility ensures that users can manage their home's climate from virtually anywhere. The customizable color touchscreen and on-screen display of indoor/outdoor temperatures, humidity, and weather forecasts enhance user experience by keeping critical information easily accessible.

However, the thermostat lacks advanced learning capabilities found in some competitors, meaning it won't automatically adjust to your habits over time. The energy reports and potential for participating in demand response programs are excellent for those looking to maximize energy savings and potentially earn rewards. Geofencing isn't explicitly mentioned, which might be a drawback for users seeking this feature for more automated adjustments based on their location. Installation ease is moderate; while many features are straightforward, the need for a C-wire can necessitate professional installation for those not comfortable with electrical work. The Honeywell Home RTH9600WF is well-suited for tech-savvy users or those with compatible home wiring who prioritize remote control and energy efficiency but might not meet the needs of users looking for more straightforward installation or advanced automation features.

The Amazon Smart Thermostat is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade from a traditional thermostat to a smart option that helps save money and energy. One of its key strengths is its compatibility with Alexa and Ring, which allows for easy voice control and integration into your smart home ecosystem. The thermostat’s learning capabilities are impressive; it can adapt to your schedule and preferences over time, optimizing temperature settings automatically based on your presence at home. The energy-saving features, including potential rebates from energy providers, make it appealing for those looking to lower utility bills.

Installation is designed to be user-friendly, with guidance available through the Alexa app, making it accessible even for those who might not be particularly handy. The ability to monitor energy usage and receive automatic reminders for air filter replacements adds another layer of convenience.

There are some limitations to consider. The requirement for a C-wire for installation might be a hurdle for some users, particularly in older homes where this wiring isn’t always standard. It's also worth noting that while it works with 2.4 GHz networks, it does not support 5GHz connections, which may limit compatibility with some modern routers. Additionally, while the thermostat can work with temperature sensors through compatible Echo devices, it does not include a built-in microphone, meaning you will need to rely on an Alexa-enabled device for voice commands. The reliance on the Alexa app for many features may also deter those who prefer a more standalone experience.

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Gen is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home's heating and cooling control with smart features. It works with about 95% of heating and cooling systems, making it a good fit for most homes. One of its key strengths is the learning capability—it studies your temperature preferences and daily schedule, then programs itself to save energy while keeping you comfortable. Remote access is well-developed, allowing you to adjust settings from your phone, tablet, or computer from anywhere. The thermostat provides useful energy reports, showing your usage history and helping you understand when and why energy is consumed. Integration with smart home systems like Alexa and Google Assistant is smooth, enhancing voice control and automation options. The Home/Away Assist feature uses your phone's location to adjust settings automatically when you leave or return, which helps reduce wasted energy. Installation is designed to be straightforward, usually taking around 30 minutes with all necessary tools included.

On the downside, the thermostat requires a Wi-Fi connection to unlock most smart features, so limited or unstable internet could reduce its benefits. Also, while the Nest Temperature Sensor can improve room-specific comfort, it is sold separately, adding to the cost if you want that feature. Geofencing works well for many users but can occasionally be inconsistent depending on phone and network settings. The sleek design and bright display add a nice touch, but some might find the initial setup a bit technical if they’re not comfortable with DIY projects. This thermostat is well-suited for those wanting an energy-conscious, adaptable smart thermostat with strong remote and learning capabilities, particularly if they use Alexa or Google smart home products.