10 Best Thermostats 2026 in the United States

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) is an impressive option for anyone wanting to upgrade their home heating and cooling system. Its compatibility with a wide range of HVAC systems makes it versatile for most homes, and the installation process is user-friendly, typically taking around 40 minutes. The addition of the Nest Temperature Sensor enhances its ability to manage temperature variances in different rooms, which can greatly boost comfort.

One of its standout features is its programmability. The Smart Schedule learns your temperature preferences and adjusts automatically, which can lead to significant energy savings—averaging about 12% on heating and 15% on cooling bills. The Adaptive Eco function is particularly useful for optimizing energy use based on outdoor temperatures. The thermostat's user interface is another strong point. The borderless display is larger and brighter, making it easy to read from a distance. Plus, you can control the thermostat via the Google Home app or voice commands using Alexa or Google Assistant, adding to its convenience.

However, while this thermostat boasts many advanced features, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Some users may find initial setup and learning curves challenging, especially if they are not tech-savvy. It also requires a reliable Wi-Fi connection for optimal use of smart features, which could be a hindrance for some users. In terms of aesthetics, the polished silver finish is sleek and could complement various home decors, but personal preference comes into play here. Additionally, while it is marketed as energy-saving, the actual savings may vary depending on individual usage patterns and home insulation.

The ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is designed to work well with typical home heating and cooling systems, making it compatible with most furnaces. It includes a helpful 2-pack of SmartSensors that detect temperature in different rooms, helping to reduce hot or cold spots and keep your home more comfortable. This thermostat is highly programmable and can be controlled remotely using voice commands with Alexa or Siri, or through your smartphone, offering convenient smart features. It also stands out with a built-in air quality monitor that alerts you to poor indoor air quality and suggests ways to improve it, including reminders for furnace filter changes.

Energy saving is a key strength here, as the device is ENERGY STAR certified and claims to save up to 26% on heating and cooling costs by optimizing your home's temperature. Installation requires hardwiring to your home's electrical system, which might be a bit challenging if you’re not comfortable with DIY projects, but many users find it worth the effort for the long-term benefits.

The inclusion of door and window sensors adds a layer of security by monitoring entry, exit, and movement, which can be integrated with ecobee’s Smart Security system for customized alerts. The built-in speaker and clear LCD display make daily interaction easy and user-friendly. Some features like smart security alerts require an additional subscription, which could add to the cost. This thermostat represents a strong choice for homeowners looking to combine comfort, energy savings, and smart home integration. Its advanced sensors and air quality monitoring provide extra value beyond basic temperature control, though installation might require professional help, and some security features come at an extra cost.

The Honeywell Home Smart Color Wi-Fi Thermostat is a solid choice for anyone looking to modernize their heating and cooling system with smart features. It works well with most forced air systems, heat pumps, and hot water or steam heating, but it won’t work with electric baseboard heat, so it’s important to check your home’s setup first. It requires a C-wire, which means a continuous power source from your HVAC system, and if you don’t have one, you’ll need to add an adapter, making installation a bit more involved for some users.

This thermostat shines with its easy-to-use, customizable color touchscreen that lets you pick your favorite display color and view indoor/outdoor temperature alongside humidity and weather forecasts right on the screen. It supports flexible programming if you want to set schedules or simply use the smart features to adjust temperatures automatically. A big plus is its compatibility with popular smart home assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft Cortana, letting you control your thermostat by voice or through an app from anywhere. The ENERGY STAR certification means it’s designed to help save energy, and it even offers perks like energy-saving rebates and utility demand response programs, which can lower your energy bills further.

One downside is that it’s not the simplest thermostat to install yourself if your wiring isn’t already compatible. Also, it doesn’t support certain heating systems such as line voltage or heating-only oil furnaces without a C-wire. This thermostat is best suited for homeowners with compatible HVAC systems who want smart, energy-efficient control with modern features and are comfortable doing or arranging a slightly technical installation.