Smart thermostats offer a convenient way to upgrade your home’s heating and cooling system, and two popular contenders are the Amazon Smart Thermostat and the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen). While both share core features, significant differences exist, particularly in price. This article dives deep into these devices, comparing their pricing, design, installation, and features to help you determine which is the better fit for your smart home.
Pricing and Design
The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) presents itself as a premium option, boasting a hefty $280 price tag. This cost is justified by its sleek design, featuring stainless steel construction and an edgeless display. The circular footprint blends well in any setting, further enhanced by the choice of three colors: polished silver, polished obsidian, and polished gold.
The Amazon Smart Thermostat, at $80, is a much more budget-friendly option. While its plastic chassis and minimalist display lack the premium feel of the Nest, it still offers a significant upgrade over traditional thermostats. Its affordability makes it a compelling choice for shoppers on a budget.
Winner: Amazon Smart Thermostat (for price)
Installation
The installation process for both the Amazon Smart Thermostat and the Nest Learning Thermostat is generally straightforward, guided by companion mobile apps. Compatibility with most modern homes is a given, but older properties might require a C-wire or a C-wire adapter. While DIY installation is feasible, individuals who are less comfortable with wiring might consider professional assistance.
Google’s Power Sharing feature in the Nest Learning Thermostat eliminates the C-wire requirement for most homes. However, it’s always a good practice to check the compatibility guidelines for both devices before making a purchase. Overall, both devices are compatible with the majority of homes, offering similar installation processes. The Nest Learning Thermostat edges out the competition due to a lower probability of needing a C-wire adapter.
Winner: Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)
Features and Controls
Both the Amazon Smart Thermostat and the Nest Learning Thermostat provide control through companion mobile apps and offer automatic settings suggestions. However, the Nest Learning Thermostat distinguishes itself with its larger display, which goes beyond temperature readings to display weather forecasts, outdoor air quality, and more. The Amazon Smart Thermostat, in contrast, primarily focuses on temperature readings.
The Nest Learning Thermostat takes energy efficiency a step further by automatically activating energy-saving settings to help reduce your monthly energy bills. In terms of voice assistant compatibility, the Amazon Smart Thermostat integrates seamlessly with Alexa, while the Nest Learning Thermostat works with Google Assistant and Matter.
The Nest Learning Thermostat emerges as the winner in the features department, mainly due to its larger display and the advanced technologies it incorporates.
Winner: Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)
The Verdict: Which is Better?
The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) emerges as the better choice for those willing to invest its $280 price. From its elegant display and stainless steel construction to its effortless installation and energy-saving capabilities, it’s considered one of the best smart thermostats on the market.
While the Amazon Smart Thermostat falls short in some areas, it still offers remote control and automated heating/cooling management, making it a wise choice for budget-conscious shoppers. While not as feature-rich as the Nest Learning Thermostat, it still provides a significant upgrade over traditional thermostats.
