10 Best Smart Thermostats 2026 in the United States

The ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is a versatile and user-friendly option for smart control of home heating and cooling. It supports Wi-Fi connectivity and integrates well with popular voice assistants like Siri and Alexa, enabling easy voice commands and remote control via your smartphone. A key feature is the included SmartSensor for doors and windows, which monitors entry and motion while adjusting the temperature in key rooms to reduce uncomfortable hot or cold spots. This can improve comfort and potentially save energy, with ecobee claiming up to 26% annual savings on heating and cooling costs.

Additional features include a built-in air quality monitor that alerts you to poor indoor air quality and reminds you when it’s time to change your furnace’s filter, helping maintain a healthy home environment. The thermostat is ENERGY STAR certified, ensuring it meets efficiency guidelines. Installation typically requires hardwiring, so basic electrical work or professional assistance might be necessary. The LCD display with backlight and built-in speaker enhance usability, and smart scheduling features allow customization of temperature settings to fit daily routines.

Some advanced features, such as customizable security alerts for motion or entry, require a subscription to ecobee Smart Security, which is an additional cost. Also, the hardwired power source requirement may limit installation options in some homes. This thermostat is well suited for homeowners seeking a smart, energy-saving device with advanced comfort controls, air quality monitoring, and compatibility with voice assistants or integrated home security.

The Amazon Smart Thermostat is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade from a traditional thermostat to a smart option that helps save money and energy. One of its key strengths is its compatibility with Alexa and Ring, which allows for easy voice control and integration into your smart home ecosystem. The thermostat’s learning capabilities are impressive; it can adapt to your schedule and preferences over time, optimizing temperature settings automatically based on your presence at home. The energy-saving features, including potential rebates from energy providers, make it appealing for those looking to lower utility bills.

Installation is designed to be user-friendly, with guidance available through the Alexa app, making it accessible even for those who might not be particularly handy. The ability to monitor energy usage and receive automatic reminders for air filter replacements adds another layer of convenience.

There are some limitations to consider. The requirement for a C-wire for installation might be a hurdle for some users, particularly in older homes where this wiring isn’t always standard. It's also worth noting that while it works with 2.4 GHz networks, it does not support 5GHz connections, which may limit compatibility with some modern routers. Additionally, while the thermostat can work with temperature sensors through compatible Echo devices, it does not include a built-in microphone, meaning you will need to rely on an Alexa-enabled device for voice commands. The reliance on the Alexa app for many features may also deter those who prefer a more standalone experience.

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) is a polished and smart device designed to make managing your home’s heating and cooling easier while helping to save energy. It’s compatible with most common heating and cooling systems, including gas, electric, and heat pumps, and usually doesn’t require a C wire, simplifying installation for many homes. It works seamlessly with popular smart home platforms like Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant, and its Matter compatibility means it can fit well into a wide range of smart home setups.

A standout feature is its learning ability: the thermostat studies your habits and preferences to create an efficient heating and cooling schedule, and it even adjusts based on the outdoor temperature to naturally optimize comfort and energy use. The included Nest Temperature Sensor lets you monitor and control temperatures in different rooms, which is great for managing hot or cold spots in your home. The large, clear display with Dynamic Farsight lets you see temperature information from across the room, and the Google Home app provides easy control from anywhere. It also offers helpful notifications that ask before making schedule changes, giving you control without extra hassle. Energy reports and usage tracking help you understand your consumption and save on bills, with Google estimating around 12% savings on heating and 15% on cooling.

Some users may find the price higher than basic smart thermostats, and while installation is generally straightforward, homes with unusual wiring might need a professional. Battery-powered operation might require occasional battery changes, which is a minor maintenance aspect. Also, full benefits rely on consistent use of the app and sensors, which may be a learning curve for less tech-inclined users. This thermostat is well suited for homeowners seeking a smart, stylish, and energy-conscious device that integrates well with existing smart home systems and offers advanced learning and sensor features to optimize comfort and savings.