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 New Smart Thermostat Enhanced offers a range of features that cater to modern smart home needs. It is compatible with various HVAC systems, including furnaces, ACs, heat pumps, and more, making it versatile for different households. The thermostat is programmable and can be controlled via an app, allowing for adjustments from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet, or Apple Watch. With compatibility with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, it integrates seamlessly into various smart home ecosystems.

One of the key strengths of this thermostat is its smart features that include temperature adjustments based on occupancy, preheating or precooling your home, and accounting for humidity to maintain comfort. Energy savings are significant, with the potential to save up to 26% on heating and cooling costs annually, due to its ENERGY STAR certification and smart adjustments. The user interface is designed to be simple and intuitive, with an LCD display and app control, making it user-friendly even for those who may not be tech-savvy.

Installation is made easy with included components and most users completing it in 45 minutes or less without professional help. However, the thermostat requires a c-wire, although a Power Extender Kit is included for systems without one. Additionally, while it is made from quality materials and designed to last, needing a hardwired connection might limit some flexibility in placement. Lastly, the SmartSensor, which can further enhance home temperature monitoring, is sold separately, which could be an additional cost for users looking for that feature.

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) is a smart thermostat designed to help you save energy and keep your home comfortable with minimal effort. It works with most 24V heating and cooling systems, including gas, electric, and heat pumps, often without needing a C wire, which makes installation easier for many homes. You can control it easily from your phone using the Google Home app, or by voice commands through Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant, making it convenient to adjust the temperature even when you’re away.

One of its standout features is the learning algorithm that adapts to your schedule and preferences, helping reduce energy use without you having to constantly change settings. The included Nest Temperature Sensor lets you manage temperatures in different rooms, which is great for balancing hot and cold spots in your home. The display is larger and clearer than previous versions, with adjustable brightness and the ability to show useful info like the weather. Energy-saving functions like Adaptive Eco mode and natural heating and cooling adjustments help optimize your system based on outside temperature and sunlight, potentially lowering your heating bills by around 12% and cooling bills by 15%. Installation is fairly straightforward for those comfortable with basic DIY, and it integrates smoothly into modern smart home setups thanks to Matter compatibility.

Some users might find installation challenging without prior experience or professional help. Also, the polished gold finish is stylish but may not suit all home decors. The thermostat requires a CR2 battery, which is included but will need occasional replacement. While many users appreciate the learning features, a few might prefer more manual control options. This thermostat is a great choice for homeowners looking to upgrade to a smart, energy-efficient system with strong compatibility and helpful automation, especially if you value remote control and smart home integration.