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10 Best Thermostats 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat for Home - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Fog

Compatibility: Works with ~85% heating/cooling systems
Programmability: Supports programmable schedules
Smart Features: Remote control, voice, HVAC monitoring
Ease of Use: Fairly easy install, some setup challenges
Energy Saving Functions: ENERGY STAR, auto adjust, Nest Renew
Installation: 30 mins, all parts, may need C wire

Chosen by 1197 this week

Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat for Home - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Sand

Compatibility: Works with many HVAC systems
Programmability: Programmable
Smart Features: Wi-Fi, voice control, HVAC alerts
Ease of Use: Touch, voice, app control
Energy Saving Functions: Auto temp adjust, Energy Star
Installation: Usually easy; may need wiring

Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat for Home - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Charcoal

Compatibility: Most home systems without C wire
Programmability: Energy-efficient schedules via Google Home app
Smart Features: Voice commands, HVAC alerts, reminders
User Interface: 2-inch LCD screen
Energy Savings: ENERGY STAR certified, auto turn down
Installation: Screws, steel plate included, may need C wire

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) + Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen) - Silver

Compatibility: wide range of HVAC systems
Programmability: Smart Schedule
Smart Features: Adaptive Eco, Google Home, Alexa
User Interface: borderless, larger, brighter display
Energy Savings: 12% heating, 15% cooling
Installation: user-friendly, 40 minutes

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen, 2024) with Nest Temperature Sensor - Energy Saving Smart Thermostat - Compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Home App - Polished Gold

Compatibility: Most 24V heating, cooling, gas, electric
Programmability: Learning algorithm adapts to schedule
Smart Features: Learning, Nest Sensor, Eco mode, voice
Ease of Use: Google Home app, voice, clear display
Energy Saving Functions: Eco mode, natural adjustments, saves bills
Installation: Simple DIY, no C wire often

Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Color Thermostat ENERGY STAR Wi-Fi Programmable Touchscreen Alexa Ready - C-Wire Required

Compatibility: Works with most forced air systems
Programmability: Flexible programming with smart features
Smart Features: Alexa, Google, Cortana, IFTTT, app control
User Interface: Customizable color touchscreen, LCD, touchpad
Energy Savings: ENERGY STAR, rebates, demand response
Installation: Needs C-wire or adapter, technical

Amazon Smart Thermostat – Save money and energy - Works with Alexa and Ring - C-wire required

Compatibility: Works with most 24V HVAC systems
Programmability: Schedules up to seven daily time periods
Smart Features: Alexa control; Thermostat Hunches; Humidity sensing
User Interface: 3 touch buttons; Voice and app control
Energy Savings: ENERGY STAR; Saves about $50 yearly
Installation: Guided via Alexa app; drill may be needed

Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat, 7 Day Programmable, Touch Screen, Energy Star, Alexa Ready, Gray

Compatibility: Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings
Programmability: Flexible scheduling options
Smart Features: Customizable touchscreen, Smart Response, Energy Star
User Interface: Customizable color touchscreen
Energy Savings: Notable energy savings
Installation: Straightforward, challenging for inexperienced users

Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat for Home - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Snow (Renewed)

Compatibility: Supports most HVAC; check heating/cooling/zone
Programmability: Programmable; learns schedule; adjusts when away
Smart Features: Wi-Fi; remote control; voice commands; Nest Renew
Ease of Use: Simple LCD; button controls; 30 min DIY install
Energy Saving Functions: Learns schedule; saves energy; Nest Renew prioritizes
Installation: Straightforward; DIY in about 30 minutes

Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat for Home - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Charcoal (Renewed)

Compatibility: Works with most HVAC systems
Programmability: Programmable via app
Smart Features: Wi-Fi; Voice control; App control
Ease of Use: Clear LCD display; Button controls
Energy Saving Functions: Energy-saving temperature control
Installation: Needs C-wire; May need professional help
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat for Home - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Fog

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,197
Installation
Ease of Use
Smart Features

Most important from
29011 reviews

Installation
Installation is generally straightforward but can require professional help if your system wiring is complex or missing a C wire.
Ease of Use
The thermostat effectively maintains comfortable temperatures throughout the home once properly set up.
Smart Features
Its ability to learn and adapt to personal preferences enhances the overall user experience.
Energy Saving Functions
Energy-saving features automatically adjust settings based on occupancy and usage patterns, helping reduce utility bills.

The Google Nest Thermostat is a popular smart thermostat designed for most homes, working with about 85% of heating and cooling systems. It’s ENERGY STAR certified, helping you save energy by automatically adjusting the temperature when you leave your house and allowing you to create custom schedules through the Google Home app. You can control it remotely from your phone or tablet, and it works with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa, making it convenient to adjust the temperature hands-free. One helpful feature is HVAC monitoring, which alerts you if your heating or cooling system needs maintenance.

Installation is designed to be straightforward, usually taking around 30 minutes with all necessary parts included, though some systems may require a C wire or additional power accessory. The thermostat supports programmable schedules and can also prioritize cleaner or cheaper energy usage through Nest Renew if available in your area. On the downside, it requires Wi-Fi for full smart functionality, and voice control needs a compatible smart device. While it’s easy to use, some users might find setting up schedules or connecting to smart home platforms a bit challenging initially.

The device runs on two AAA batteries included in the box and is compact and stylish with a clear display. This makes the Nest Thermostat a great choice for those seeking a smart, energy-efficient thermostat that’s fairly easy to install and offers helpful features for saving energy, especially if you are already using or plan to use Google’s smart home ecosystem.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,197
Installation
Ease of Use
Smart Features

Most important from
29011 reviews

Installation
Installation is generally straightforward but can require professional help if your system wiring is complex or missing a C wire.
Ease of Use
The thermostat effectively maintains comfortable temperatures throughout the home once properly set up.
Smart Features
Its ability to learn and adapt to personal preferences enhances the overall user experience.
Energy Saving Functions
Energy-saving features automatically adjust settings based on occupancy and usage patterns, helping reduce utility bills.
#2

Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat for Home - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Sand

Rating
10.0
Installation
Compatibility
Programmability

Most important from
29011 reviews

Installation
Installation can be straightforward if you prepare by researching wiring needs and follow instructions carefully, especially regarding the C wire.
Compatibility
Older or early-generation models may lack compatibility with newer accessories like remote temperature sensors, limiting expandability.
Programmability
Despite some setup headaches, the device offers easy programming and remote temperature adjustments that enhance home comfort and convenience.
Smart Features
Using the Google Home app is convenient for remote control, but some settings, like switching from Celsius to Fahrenheit, must be changed through the app rather than the device.
Ease of Use
Adding multiple users to the thermostat’s account is complicated and may require factory resets, reducing ease of shared control.
Energy Saving Functions
The device encourages energy savings by adjusting temperatures automatically when away, but some users find the eco mode can let the home get warmer than desired.

The Google Nest Thermostat is a smart, programmable thermostat designed to help you save energy and keep your home comfortable. It works with many HVAC systems and connects via Wi-Fi to your smartphone or tablet through the Google Home app, allowing remote control from anywhere. One of its strengths is its ability to adjust the temperature automatically when you leave, preventing wasted energy. The Savings Finder feature even suggests personalized schedule tweaks to help you save more.

It's compatible with voice assistants like Google Assistant, making temperature changes easy with just your voice. Installation is generally straightforward, and it can work without a C wire in most homes, though some heating or cooling systems may require extra wiring or power accessories. The thermostat monitors your HVAC system and sends alerts if it detects any issues or needs maintenance reminders, which helps in keeping your system running smoothly. The touch control and glossy LCD display are user-friendly, providing clear temperature information.

Compatibility depends on your specific heating and cooling system, so it's important to check that before buying. It requires a Wi-Fi connection and a smartphone or tablet to use all smart features, which might be limiting if you don’t have these. The product runs on two AAA batteries, which are included, and comes with a one-year warranty. Featuring Energy Star certification and positive customer feedback, this thermostat is a strong choice for those looking to upgrade to a smart, energy-saving device that balances ease of use with useful technology.

Rating
10.0
Installation
Compatibility
Programmability

Most important from
29011 reviews

Installation
Installation can be straightforward if you prepare by researching wiring needs and follow instructions carefully, especially regarding the C wire.
Compatibility
Older or early-generation models may lack compatibility with newer accessories like remote temperature sensors, limiting expandability.
Programmability
Despite some setup headaches, the device offers easy programming and remote temperature adjustments that enhance home comfort and convenience.
Smart Features
Using the Google Home app is convenient for remote control, but some settings, like switching from Celsius to Fahrenheit, must be changed through the app rather than the device.
Ease of Use
Adding multiple users to the thermostat’s account is complicated and may require factory resets, reducing ease of shared control.
Energy Saving Functions
The device encourages energy savings by adjusting temperatures automatically when away, but some users find the eco mode can let the home get warmer than desired.
#3

Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat for Home - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Charcoal

Rating
9.7
Compatibility
Programmability
Smart Features

Most important from
29011 reviews

Compatibility
Voice assistant compatibility with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa adds an extra layer of control and flexibility.
Programmability
The thermostat's ability to track trends over time, such as how long it runs each day, is a useful feature.
Smart Features
Controlling the home's temperature via smartphone adds unparalleled convenience and ease.
Energy Savings
The thermostat's energy-saving features are impressive, learning user schedules and preferences to optimize efficiency.
Installation
The Google Nest Thermostat was easy to install, even for those who aren't particularly tech-savvy.

The Google Nest Thermostat is a smart and programmable thermostat designed for home use, especially targeting energy savings and comfort. It is ENERGY STAR certified, meaning it meets strict energy efficiency guidelines, which is a significant plus for those looking to reduce energy consumption and costs. Its compatibility is broad, working with most home systems without a C wire, although some specific systems may require one. The Nest Compatibility Checker available on the Google Nest support page can help determine if your system is compatible before purchase, which is helpful.

The thermostat's programmability allows you to create energy-efficient schedules directly through the Google Home app, accessible on both Android and iPhone devices. This is user-friendly and convenient for managing your home's temperature settings remotely. The smart features are robust, with the ability to control the thermostat via voice commands using Google Assistant and other Matter-certified voice assistants. The HVAC monitoring alerts and maintenance reminders add an extra layer of convenience and potential cost savings by ensuring your systems run efficiently. One standout feature is its ability to turn itself down when you're not home, preventing energy waste.

However, the installation might pose challenges for some users, particularly if a C wire is needed for their specific system. The included mounting screws and steel plate aim to simplify the process, but it may still require some technical know-how. The user interface is straightforward, with a 2-inch LCD screen providing clear visibility. The product's charcoal color and compact size (3.3 inches in width and height) allow it to blend seamlessly into most home decors. On the downside, the lack of a lock feature might be a concern for households with children or multiple users. Additionally, while the thermostat supports a variety of control methods, users unfamiliar with smart home technology might find the setup and integration process a bit daunting.

In conclusion, this thermostat is ideal for tech-savvy individuals looking for energy efficiency and smart home integration, though its installation and setup might require some patience and technical understanding.

Rating
9.7
Compatibility
Programmability
Smart Features

Most important from
29011 reviews

Compatibility
Voice assistant compatibility with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa adds an extra layer of control and flexibility.
Programmability
The thermostat's ability to track trends over time, such as how long it runs each day, is a useful feature.
Smart Features
Controlling the home's temperature via smartphone adds unparalleled convenience and ease.
Energy Savings
The thermostat's energy-saving features are impressive, learning user schedules and preferences to optimize efficiency.
Installation
The Google Nest Thermostat was easy to install, even for those who aren't particularly tech-savvy.

Buying Guide for the Best Thermostats

Choosing the right thermostat can make your home more comfortable and help you save energy. The best thermostat for you depends on your heating and cooling system, your daily routine, and how much control you want over your home's temperature. It's important to consider features that make life easier, like scheduling and remote access, as well as compatibility with your HVAC equipment. Thinking about how involved you want to be with programming or whether you prefer technology that 'learns' your habits can help you zero in on the right type.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the thermostat will work with your specific heating and cooling system, such as gas, electric, heat pump, or multi-stage systems. This is crucial because not all thermostats support every type of system. You’ll typically find compatibility listed on the product or in the manual. If you’re unsure about your existing system, you may want to look for thermostats labeled as broadly compatible or consult with someone knowledgeable about your HVAC setup.
ProgrammabilityProgrammability determines whether you can set schedules for your heating and cooling preferences. Non-programmable thermostats are simple and keep temperatures steady until you change them. Programmable models can adjust the temperature at different times of the day and days of the week, reducing waste and saving energy. If you have a regular schedule, a basic programmable unit may be enough; if your routine varies, look for thermostats with more flexible scheduling options.
Smart FeaturesSmart features include Wi-Fi connectivity and integration with apps or voice assistants, allowing you to control your thermostat remotely and take advantage of automated energy-saving features. Some smart thermostats even learn your routine and adjust automatically. If you travel often, want to control your home while away, or enjoy using your phone or voice to manage devices, these features can be a big plus. If you prefer simplicity and don't want more gadgets, a non-smart thermostat works well.
Ease of UseEase of use covers how simple it is to operate the thermostat, including the layout of controls, display clarity, and how straightforward it is to set schedules or change settings. Some models have touchscreens, large numbers, or intuitive menus, while others rely on buttons and simpler displays. Think about whether everyone in the household will be comfortable using the device, and consider choosing a model that matches your comfort with tech and your vision needs.
Energy Saving FunctionsEnergy saving functions are special features that help you use less energy, like adaptive recovery (which learns how long it takes to reach a target temperature), eco-modes, or energy reports. These can be important if you want to keep your utility bills low while maintaining comfort. If maximizing efficiency is important to you, look for models that offer these features and that have a good reputation for helping users save energy.
InstallationInstallation covers how easy it is to set up the thermostat—some plug into existing wiring quickly while others may need additional wiring or a professional. If you’re comfortable with a screwdriver and working with electrical components, many modern thermostats are designed for easy DIY installation. However, systems that lack a common wire (C-wire) or have complex setups might need an expert. Match your comfort and skills with the installation demands of the model you choose.

FAQ