There have been certain times in my life when I’ve seen a new tech product and instantly fallen in love. The Apple IIe in kindergarten, a Sony Discman, a Palm Treo 750, the Logitech Harmony Companion universal remote – I’ve always had a weakness for gadgets. The Nest Thermostat might not have the same immediate allure, but it’s close. Especially considering I grew up with those awful beige thermostats that relied on mercury tilt switches. When the original Nest Thermostat launched in 2011, I knew I’d get one eventually. Fast forward to today, and we’re now on the fourth generation of this iconic smart thermostat. While the core functionality remains the same – controlling your heating and cooling system – a lot has changed.
This review focuses on my experience with the Nest Thermostat in my Florida home, which has its own unique climate challenges (hot and humid, with only a couple of weeks of non-extreme weather!). Your setup and climate might be different, so keep that in mind. One thing is universal: this thermostat is stunningly beautiful.
The Setup:
I’ve been using the 4th generation Nest Thermostat for over a month, replacing my second-generation model. I’m familiar with the Nest ecosystem, having owned various Nest devices, including cameras, doorbells, and smoke alarms. I’ve even witnessed the transition from the original Nest app to the Google Home app, which is a big factor in this review.
Setting up an HVAC system can be simultaneously simple and daunting. You know it involves a thermostat controlling something in a closet with an outside unit, but the inner workings can feel like a mystery. That’s where the Nest Thermostat shines. It’s designed to be user-friendly, and Nest has always excelled at guiding you through the process.
Before you buy, use Nest’s compatibility checker. If your system is too old or incompatible, it’s not worth the investment. Assuming you’re good to go, there are two ways to approach setup:
For Nest/Google Home Users:
If you already have a Nest Thermostat or other Google Home devices, you’ll find the process intuitive. It took me about 10 minutes to swap out my old thermostat with the new model. You’ll need the Google Home app, which is where the real magic happens.For Beginners:
If you’re new to Nest or smart home devices, don’t fret! Nest has a great setup process, and there are helpful resources available. Read the instructions, but the majority of the walkthrough is in the Google Home app. Take your time, especially when mounting the thermostat and matching the wires correctly.The Big Changes:
1. Google Home Integration:
The biggest change is the complete transition to the Google Home app. While this is positive for Google’s smart home ecosystem, the Google Home app isn’t as visually appealing or user-friendly as the original Nest app. It’s functional, but I still miss the elegance of the Nest app.2. The Stunning New Design:
Gone is the silver ring that rotated around older Nest Thermostats. Instead, the entire face of the thermostat now rotates to adjust the temperature and navigate the menu. This new model comes in three colors: polished silver, polished gold, and polished obsidian (which I opted for). It’s sleek, sophisticated, and feels more futuristic than the previous models.3. The New Display:
The 2.7-inch LCD display incorporates a “Soli” sensor. It’s borrowed from the Nest Hub, and its purpose is to light up the display as you approach. The screen itself is impressive for a thermostat, but it’s not quite as sharp as my phone’s display.4. The External Temperature Sensor:
The 4th generation Nest Thermostat comes with a second-generation external temperature sensor. It’s a small puck-like device that you can place on a desk, dresser, or anywhere that isn’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This is particularly helpful for rooms that are always too hot or too cold.5. Farsight:
Nest Thermostats have always awakened to show information when you’re nearby. Now, with the larger display, you have four Farsight options: temperature, weather, analog clock, and digital clock. The temperature option is the most functional and the one I’ve settled on.Using the Nest Thermostat:
The Nest Thermostat is a powerhouse for controlling your HVAC system. It can manage schedules, adjust temperatures based on your presence, and even save you money on your electric bill. While I tend to have a more relaxed approach, allowing temperatures to fluctuate slightly, the Google Home app makes scheduling much easier than the previous app.
There’s a lot to explore in the settings and menu. The thermostat itself is tactile and responsive, and I enjoy its ease of use. One of the most critical features is the lock option, which is perfect for families with children.
The Smartness Factor:
The true magic of the Nest Thermostat lies in its internet connectivity and integration with the Google Home ecosystem. The 4th generation also includes Matter support, a new standard that allows for seamless communication between devices from different manufacturers. This means you can now control your Nest Thermostat using Apple’s HomeKit, allowing for Siri voice control.
Should You Buy It?
The 4th generation Nest Thermostat retails for $280, which is $30 more than the previous generation. This new model does include the external temperature sensor, but it’s still a significant investment.
Whether it’s worth it depends on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a stunning smart thermostat with a streamlined setup process and advanced functionality, including Matter support for wider compatibility, the 4th generation Nest Thermostat is an excellent choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or simply need a thermostat for remote control, there are more affordable options available.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. But if you’re looking for a premium smart thermostat that combines beauty, functionality, and smart home integration, the Nest Thermostat 4th generation deserves serious consideration.
