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Best Smart Thermostats for Energy Savings (2026)
We tested and compared the top smart thermostats to find which ones deliver the best energy savings, features, and user experience. Here's what we found.
Quick Comparison
| Thermostat | Best For | Price | Avg Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
Google Nest Learning 4th Gen | Overall best | $249 | 10-12% |
Ecobee SmartThermostat Premium | Best features | $249 | 23% |
Amazon Smart Thermostat Basic | Best budget | $80 | 10-12% |
Honeywell Home T9 With sensors | Multi-room control | $199 | 10-15% |
Emerson Sensi Touch Touchscreen | Easy DIY install | $169 | 12-15% |
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Why Smart Thermostats Save Money
Smart thermostats save the average homeowner $130-180 per year on heating and cooling costs—a 10-23% reduction depending on the model and usage patterns. They achieve this through several key features:
- Learning algorithms: Automatically adjust to your schedule after 1-2 weeks, eliminating the "forgot to adjust thermostat" waste.
- Geofencing: Detects when you leave home and enters energy-saving mode. Returns to comfort settings 30-60 minutes before you arrive.
- Remote control: Adjust from anywhere via smartphone. No more heating/cooling an empty house.
- Energy reports: See exactly how much energy you're using and get personalized tips to reduce waste.
- Utility rebates: Many utilities offer $50-100 rebates, reducing payback period to under 1 year.
Typical payback: With an average price of $150-250 and annual savings of $130-180, most smart thermostats pay for themselves in 1-2 years. After that, it's pure savings for the 10+ year lifespan.
1. Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)
The Nest Learning Thermostat remains the gold standard after 13+ years on the market. Its iconic design, intuitive interface, and industry-leading learning algorithm make it the best choice for most homeowners.
Key Features
- Auto-Schedule: Learns your temperature preferences and schedule within 1 week. No manual programming needed.
- Home/Away Assist: Uses your phone's location and built-in sensors to know when you leave. Automatically switches to Eco mode.
- Farsight: Display lights up when you walk by, showing time, weather, or temperature from across the room.
- Energy History: See how much energy you used and what affected it (weather, schedule changes).
- Works with Google Home: Voice control via Google Assistant. "Hey Google, set temperature to 72."
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Best-in-class learning algorithm
- • Beautiful design (looks premium)
- • Easy DIY installation (30-60 min)
- • Energy Star certified (saves 10-12%)
- • Works without C-wire (rechargeable battery)
Cons
- • Most expensive ($249)
- • No remote sensors (whole-house temp only)
- • Requires Google account
- • Limited with multiple zones
Bottom Line: The Nest Learning is worth the premium if you want a "set it and forget it" thermostat that just works. Its learning algorithm is unmatched, and the design is gorgeous enough to be a conversation piece.
Best for: Homeowners who want the best overall experience and don't mind paying $80-100 more for superior learning and aesthetics.
2. Ecobee SmartThermostat Premium
The Ecobee SmartThermostat Premium packs the most features of any thermostat on this list. Built-in Alexa, included remote sensor, air quality monitoring, and proven energy savings of up to 23% make it the power user's choice.
Key Features
- SmartSensor included: Comes with 1 remote sensor (additional sensors $79 each). Manages hot/cold spots and prioritizes occupied rooms.
- Built-in Alexa: Full Alexa speaker built into thermostat. Control smart home, play music, ask questions.
- Air Quality Monitor: Tracks temperature, humidity, VOCs, and CO2. Alerts you when air quality drops.
- Energy savings up to 23%: Industry-leading efficiency. EPA studies show Ecobee saves more than any competitor.
- SmartHome/Away: Uses occupancy sensors in thermostat + remote sensors to detect when home is empty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Highest energy savings (up to 23%)
- • Remote sensor included ($79 value)
- • Built-in Alexa speaker
- • Air quality monitoring
- • Best for multi-room control
Cons
- • Same price as Nest ($249)
- • Busier interface (more settings)
- • Requires C-wire (most homes have it)
- • Larger/bulkier than Nest
Bottom Line: If you want maximum features and proven energy savings, the Ecobee SmartThermostat Premium is unbeatable. The included remote sensor alone justifies the price, and 23% average savings beat all competitors.
Best for: Homes with hot/cold spots, tech enthusiasts, Alexa users, and anyone prioritizing maximum energy savings over aesthetics.
3. Amazon Smart Thermostat
At just $80, the Amazon Smart Thermostat (made by Honeywell for Amazon) delivers surprising value. It lacks the premium features of Nest and Ecobee, but for basic smart thermostat functionality at 1/3 the price, it's hard to beat.
Key Features
- Alexa built-in: Voice control via any Alexa device. "Alexa, set thermostat to 70."
- Energy Star certified: Saves average of 10-12% on energy bills ($130-150/year).
- Alexa Hunches: Learns patterns and suggests automation. "It's 10pm, would you like me to lower the temperature?"
- Easy DIY install: Simpler than Nest or Ecobee. Most install in 30 minutes.
- Utility rebates: Many utilities offer $50 rebate, making net cost just $30.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Cheapest option ($80, often $30 after rebates)
- • Same 10-12% savings as premium models
- • Alexa integration
- • Simple, clean interface
- • Fast ROI (under 1 year)
Cons
- • No learning (manual schedule)
- • No remote sensors
- • Basic display (not touchscreen)
- • Requires C-wire
- • Requires Amazon account
Bottom Line: If you're on a budget or skeptical about smart thermostats, the Amazon Smart Thermostat is the perfect entry point. It delivers 80% of the benefits at 30% of the cost. After utility rebates, it's essentially free.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, Alexa users, first-time smart thermostat owners, and anyone who wants to test the waters without a big investment.
How to Choose the Right Smart Thermostat
1. Check HVAC Compatibility
Before buying ANY smart thermostat, verify it works with your heating/cooling system:
- Gas/oil furnace + AC: All smart thermostats work
- Heat pump: Verify "heat pump compatible" (Nest and Ecobee work)
- Boiler/radiators: Check for "24V compatibility" (some work, some don't)
- Multi-zone: Need separate thermostat per zone or zoning-compatible model
Use each manufacturer's online compatibility checker before purchasing. They'll ask for photos of your current thermostat wiring.
2. C-Wire Requirement
Most smart thermostats need a "C-wire" (common wire) for continuous power:
- Have C-wire: Any thermostat works. Most homes built after 2000 have one.
- No C-wire: Nest Learning works (rechargeable battery). Others need C-wire adapter ($20-30) or electrician ($100-150).
Not sure if you have a C-wire? Remove your current thermostat and look for a blue or black wire labeled "C". Many Ecobee and Honeywell thermostats include a free C-wire adapter in the box.
3. Remote Sensors (For Hot/Cold Spots)
If your home has uneven temperatures between rooms, remote sensors are a game-changer:
- Ecobee: Includes 1 sensor, additional sensors $79 each. Best multi-room control.
- Honeywell T9: Includes 1 sensor, additional sensors $40 each. More affordable.
- Nest: No remote sensors. Uses thermostat location only.
Sensors let you prioritize temperature in bedrooms at night and living areas during the day, eliminating "too hot upstairs, too cold downstairs" problems.
Smart Thermostat FAQs
How much do smart thermostats really save?+
EPA studies show smart thermostats save an average of 10-23% on heating and cooling costs, or $130-180 per year for the average household. Ecobee leads at 23%, while Nest and Amazon save 10-12%. Actual savings depend on usage patterns, climate, and how inefficiently you were using your old thermostat. Homes that previously forgot to adjust temperatures frequently see the biggest savings.
Can I install a smart thermostat myself?+
Yes! Most homeowners install smart thermostats themselves in 30-60 minutes. You'll need: a screwdriver, wire labels (included), and 30 minutes. The process: (1) Turn off power at breaker, (2) Remove old thermostat, (3) Label wires, (4) Connect wires to new base plate, (5) Snap on thermostat, (6) Turn power back on. All manufacturers provide video tutorials. However, if you don't have a C-wire and need one installed, hire an electrician ($100-150).
Do smart thermostats work with Alexa and Google Home?+
Yes, all major smart thermostats work with Alexa and Google Assistant. Nest works natively with Google Home. Ecobee has Alexa built-in AND works with Google. Amazon Smart Thermostat obviously works with Alexa (and also Google). Commands work like: "Alexa, set thermostat to 72" or "Hey Google, increase temperature by 2 degrees." You can also add them to routines (e.g., "Goodnight" routine sets thermostat to 68°).
Are there utility rebates for smart thermostats?+
Yes! Many utilities offer $50-100 rebates for Energy Star certified smart thermostats. Some utilities even offer FREE thermostats. Check your utility's website or dsireusa.org for available rebates in your area. Installation is usually required within 6 months of purchase, and you'll need to provide proof of purchase and installation. Combined with energy savings, this means many smart thermostats pay for themselves in under 1 year.
Which smart thermostat is best for apartments?+
The Amazon Smart Thermostat ($80) is ideal for apartments because: (1) Low upfront cost matters when you're renting, (2) Easy to uninstall and take with you, (3) Works with most apartment HVAC systems, (4) You'll still recoup savings during your lease. Always check your lease first - most landlords allow thermostat replacement as long as you keep the old one to reinstall when you move out.
Calculate Your Exact Savings
Use our smart thermostat ROI calculator to see exactly how much you'll save annually, your payback period, and 10-year savings based on your home and energy costs.
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