Best Smart Thermostats for October 2023 - CNET
In this article:
- What is the best smart thermostat?
- Best smart thermostats of 2023
- How we test smart thermostats
- Other smart thermostats we’ve tested
- Smart thermostat FAQ
What is the best smart thermostat?
A smart thermostat can be an easy and efficient way to manage your home’s heating and cooling. It can also help lower the monthly utility bills — always a good thing. There are a wide variety of models, ranging from the sleek and pricey Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium to the budget-friendly Wyze Thermostat. Our pick for the overall best smart thermostat is the Amazon Smart Thermostat, which you can get for $80.
Smart thermostat models do a lot to cut heating and cooling costs, simplify life and provide a few extra creature comforts along the way with various smart features. Unlike traditional thermostats, these app-enabled devices let you control your home’s temperature from anywhere.
Most smart thermostats require very little setup to get started. Plus, most smart thermostats work with voice control when you’re using a compatible smart display or speaker with Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri. Some smart thermostats use occupancy sensors to determine if you’re home or away and automatically change the temperature for you, while others switch between home and away modes based on your phone’s location.
To accompany these modern features, many connected thermostats offer innovative designs. From a rounded shape to a responsive touchscreen, smart thermostats look a lot different than traditional models. They can also send you smart alerts, sync with other connected devices in your home and provide details on your HVAC system’s energy usage over time.
We’ve rounded up the best smart thermostat options on the market right now to help you find the best model for your home’s heating and cooling needs, and your budget.
Best smart thermostats of 2023
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As I mentioned above, the Amazon Smart Thermostat is my favorite overall smart thermostat. First, it’s the least expensive model I’ve tested. It works via the Alexa app and with Alexa voice commands. You need a compatible Alexa-enabled smart speaker or display to use voice commands, but you don’t have to enable an Alexa skill since this is an Amazon-branded product.
This thermostat is Energy Star-certified, saving an average of $50 on a yearly energy bill. It has a simple, modern design and an optional wall plate if you need to cover any old paint or holes. The touchscreen interface is minimal, but makes it easy to adjust the thermostat and switch between heat, air conditioning and other basic settings.
The Amazon Smart Thermostat isn’t compatible with Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit and there’s no remote temperature sensor accessory. You also either need a C-wire or you have to buy and install the C-wire adapter.
This is a solid product overall, but ultimately its amazing value is what sets it apart and makes it our current favorite.
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With a list price of $250, the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is expensive, arguably too expensive given the current trend of more affordable models out there. Still, this model has a lot to recommend it, especially if you want to talk to Alexa without having to buy an Alexa speaker or display. This model also works with Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit, as well as Spotify. If you want a connected thermostat, Ecobee’s Smart Thermostat Premium is the smartest around.
