ecobee3 Lite
Score: 82/100
Amazon Smart Thermostat
Score: 73/100Rankings
The Ecobee3 Lite offers a budget-friendly 3.5-inch touchscreen, built-in sensors and broad HomeKit, Alexa and Google Assistant support. Its reliance on a C-wire or power extender kit and modest display resolution may deter users seeking higher-end visuals. Best suited for cost-conscious owners of 24 V HVAC systems who value multi-room sensing.
The Amazon Smart Thermostat is an ENERGY STAR-certified, Alexa-focused thermostat with auto-learning temperature control and a compact touch-sensitive display. Its main trade-offs are the mandatory C-wire and limited 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi with no built-in voice mic. Ideal for Alexa/Ring users seeking an affordable, easy-install solution.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
3 yearsbest | — | |
3.5 inchbest | 0.9 inch | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.268 kg | 0.11 kgbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||
HVAC Compatibility | Approximately 95% of 24V systems | 24V |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Smart Home Integration | Siri, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, IFTTT, Alexa | Alexa, Ring |
Power & Installation(1) | ||
Power Source | Hardwired 24V | C‑wire (24V) |
Display(1) | ||
Screen Size (inch) | 3.5 inch | 0.9 inch |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Device Weight (kg) | 2.268 kg | 0.1095 kg |
Device Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 102.9x102.9x21.4 mm mm | 21.4×90.4×90.4 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Industry analysts and the manufacturer emphasize the Ecobee3 Lite's strong energy-efficiency credentials, easy installation with the optional Power Extender Kit, and its broad smart-home ecosystem support, positioning it as a cost-effective solution that can still achieve notable savings of around 23 % per year.
Professional reviewers consider the Amazon Smart Thermostat a strong value proposition, praising its auto-learning algorithm, tight Alexa integration, and broad 24V HVAC compatibility while noting its ecosystem constraints, mandatory C-wire, and limited connectivity as notable drawbacks.
Everyday users generally appreciate the straightforward Alexa-guided setup, reliable auto-scheduling, and remote app control that delivers noticeable energy savings, but they frequently cite the C-wire requirement and occasional cycling glitches as pain points.
“Easy Alexa-guided install (even with new C-wire)”
“Heats to 68°F home, drops to 52°F away”
