Smart thermostats do more than automate a fixed heating and cooling program. These application-enabled devices let you adjust your thermostat, whether you're on the couch, in the grocery store or on vacation - wherever your smartphone is connected to a cellular or Wi-Fi network.
Many of these devices also work with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri, giving you another way to adjust your thermostat settings without having to stand directly in front of you. Here are four of CNET's favorite smart thermostats.
Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd generation)
CNET ranking: 4 out of 5 stars (excellent)
The cost: $ 249 at store.google.com
Good: The Nest Learning Thermostat has a larger screen, better resolution and a far field sensor to view time and temperature information remotely. It works with Google Assistant and Alexa, and Nest - finally - sells a temperature sensor as an optional accessory.
The bad: The Nest Learning Thermostat is not compatible with Apple HomeKit.
The bottom line: Nest is a strong smart thermostat, but the Ecobee4 (below) offers more smart integrations and better overall value.
Honeywell Lyric T5
CNET ranking: 4 out of 5 stars (excellent)
The cost: $ 150 at honeywellhome.com
Good: Honeywell Lyric T5's geofencing function has always worked well. She automated my home and home settings every time without complaint and sent out quick notifications to notify me of changes.
The bad: Although we like the general design of the thermostat, the font and layout of the touch screen interface look old-fashioned. We would like to see integrations with Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, Wink and IFTTT.
The bottom line: The Honeywell Lyric T5 compatible with Siri, Alexa- and Geofencing systems is smart, works well and offers better value than other connected thermostats.
Ecobee SmartThermostat (2019)
CNET ranking: 4 out of 5 stars (excellent)
The cost: $ 249 on ecobee.com
Good: Ecobee SmartThermostat adds functionality to its built-in Alexa speaker. It has a redesigned temperature sensor and works with Google Assistant and Siri - all for the same $ 249 price.
The bad: Depending on the location of your thermostat in your home, it may not be the ideal place for an Alexa speaker.
The bottom line: The Ecobee smart thermostat is a solid device that deserves to be taken into account if you want a thermostat connected with an integrated Alexa speaker.
Emerson Sensi Touch
CNET ranking: 3.5 out of 5 stars (very good)
The cost: $ 169 at sensi.emerson.com
Good: Emerson's Wi-Fi Sensi Touch Thermostat works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri (via Apple HomeKit). Its touch screen interface is responsive and easy to use.
The bad: Although its touch screen works well and its design is an improvement over the old Sensi smart thermostat, it still looks a bit outdated.
The bottom line: The Sensi Touch is a solid smart thermostat, but consider the Ecobee3 Lite or Nest E if you're looking for similar features and a more stylish look.
