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Heating bills going up this winter? A smart thermostat learns your schedule and turns the heat down when you are asleep or away. Here are the three best ones on Amazon, and which one to buy.
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Quick Verdict
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) + Temperature Sensor
Learns your schedule, 60% larger display, works with Alexa, Siri and Google, no C-wire needed in most homes
If you want the smartest thermostat and the biggest savings, buy the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen). It learns your routine, Google says it can save up to 31% on heating and cooling bills, it works with most 24V systems without a C-wire, and it comes with a room temperature sensor. If you want to spend less, the ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential is the best middle pick, and the Amazon Smart Thermostat is the cheapest way to get started if you already use Alexa.
- Learns your schedule and adjusts by itself
- Save up to 31% on heating & cooling (brand claim)
- No C-wire needed in most homes, easy DIY install
- Works with Alexa, Siri & Google Assistant, Matter ready
- Most expensive of the three
- Not every HVAC system is compatible (check first)
- Sensor batteries need replacing over time
Best for: Homeowners who want the biggest savings with no effort.
Skip it if: You rent or only want basic scheduling (pick Amazon instead).
Why Get a Smart Thermostat This Winter
Heating is the biggest energy cost in most American homes. A smart thermostat lowers the heat automatically when you sleep or leave, and lets you warm the house from your phone before you get home. The EPA says ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostats save about $90 a year on average.
The 3 Best Smart Thermostats Compared
| Google Nest Learning (4th gen) | ecobee Essential | Amazon Smart Thermostat | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Biggest savings, smartest | Best value touchscreen | Cheapest, Alexa homes |
| Savings (brand claim) | Up to 31% | Up to 23% | ENERGY STAR (~$90/yr, EPA) |
| Learns your schedule | Yes | Schedule-based | Schedule + Alexa hunches |
| C-wire | Not needed in most homes | Power Extender Kit if no C-wire | C-wire or adapter needed |
| Voice | Alexa, Siri, Google | Alexa, Siri, Google | Alexa |
| Amazon rating | 4.4★ (2,600+) | 4.2★ (1,900+) | 4.0★ (25,600+) |
| Bought last month | 4K+ | 5K+ | 10K+ |
Best Value: ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential
A clean color touchscreen, an easy app and up to 23% yearly savings (brand claim), for a lot less than Nest. Works with about 85% of systems.
Check ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential price on Amazon »
Cheapest: Amazon Smart Thermostat
The simplest way to go smart, and the most bought of the three. Control it with Alexa or your phone and set home, away and sleep schedules. Amazon also emails you about energy rebates you may qualify for.
Check Amazon Smart Thermostat price on Amazon »
Which One Should You Buy?
Want the most savings with zero effort? Google Nest Learning.
Want a great thermostat for less? ecobee Essential.
On a tight budget and already use Alexa? Amazon Smart Thermostat.
See today’s Google Nest Thermostat deal on Amazon »
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do smart thermostats really save money?
Yes. The EPA estimates ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostats save about $90 a year, and brands claim up to 23% (ecobee) and 31% (Nest).
Can I install it myself?
Yes, most people install them in about 30 minutes. Check the brand compatibility checker first.
What is a C-wire and do I need one?
It supplies constant power. Nest works without one in most homes; ecobee includes a workaround kit option; Amazon needs a C-wire or adapter.
Which is best for renters?
The Amazon Smart Thermostat is the cheapest and easy to take with you.