10 Best Thermostats 2025 in the United States

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.

The Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat is a strong contender in the smart thermostat category, particularly for those looking for versatility and convenience. Its compatibility with major smart home systems like Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings allows for seamless integration into your existing setup. The customizable color touchscreen is a standout feature, making it visually appealing and easy to navigate. Users can easily adjust settings and view important information like local weather and indoor humidity levels at a glance.

Programmability is another key strength; it offers flexible scheduling options that can be tailored to your daily routine or adjusted based on energy pricing. This can lead to notable energy savings, a crucial aspect for budget-conscious consumers mindful of their environmental impact. The intelligent alerts for maintenance reminders, such as air filter changes, enhance user experience by keeping you informed about your system's health.

However, there are a few points to consider. While installation is generally straightforward, some users may find it a bit challenging if they lack experience with home wiring or HVAC systems. Additionally, being a Wi-Fi thermostat, it relies on a stable internet connection to utilize its smart features fully. Any connectivity issues could hinder performance, especially when you're counting on alerts or remote access.

The price point may be higher than traditional thermostats, which could deter budget-conscious buyers who aren't interested in smart features. Nevertheless, those who appreciate advanced capabilities and energy management will likely find the investment worthwhile. The Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 is best suited for homeowners or small businesses looking to enhance their heating and cooling systems with modern technology and energy efficiency.

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen, 2024) is a smart, energy-saving device that can bring both convenience and efficiency to your home. One of its top strengths is compatibility; it works with most 24V systems common in households, including gas, electric, and heat pump systems, and generally doesn't require complex wiring. This makes it accessible for many users. Installation is relatively straightforward, typically taking around 40 minutes, which is a plus for those who prefer DIY projects. The included Nest Temperature Sensor helps manage hot and cold spots, ensuring that every room can be comfortable, and it integrates well with the Google Home app for easy control and monitoring.

Its smart features are impressive; the device can learn your preferred temperatures and schedules, suggesting energy-saving adjustments you can approve through the app. It also works with Amazon Alexa, allowing for voice control, adding a layer of convenience. Energy savings are another big advantage, with an estimated reduction of 12% on heating and 15% on cooling bills. This makes it a particularly good choice for budget-conscious and eco-friendly users. The user interface is sleek and modern, featuring a polished obsidian finish and a large, easy-to-read display that adjusts brightness automatically or can be manually controlled.

However, there are a few drawbacks. The initial cost might be high for some, and while installation is generally easy, those with less common heating and cooling systems might find it more challenging. Additionally, the reliance on a stable Wi-Fi connection for smart features could be a limitation in areas with poor internet connectivity. In summary, the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) is ideal for those looking for an advanced, user-friendly smart thermostat that offers significant energy savings and broad compatibility.