ecobee3 Smarter
Score: 84/100
Emerson Sensi Touch
Score: 82/100Rankings
The ecobee3 Smarter thermostat provides a 3.5-inch color touchscreen and a suite of built-in sensors for precise climate control, along with broad 24 V HVAC compatibility and optional Power Extender Kit. It requires a C-wire or additional kit and uses older 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, which may limit some setups. Best suited for users wanting multi-zone sensing and Apple ecosystem integration.
The Emerson Sensi Touch provides a color LCD touchscreen, geofencing, and wide smart-home compatibility while being ENERGY STAR certified. Mandatory C-wire power and lack of 5 GHz Wi-Fi or battery backup constrain some installations. It fits homeowners wanting reliable scheduling and voice-assistant control without premium pricing.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest | |
3.5 inchbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.612 kgbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||
HVAC Compatibility | ~95% of 24V systems (conventional 2H/2C, heat pump 4H/2C, gas/oil/electric/dual fuel, humidifier/dehumidifier/ventilator/HRV/ERV) | Single/multi-stage gas/oil/electric, heat pumps, heat/cool only; not millivolt or 3-wire zone |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11 b/g/n (2.4 GHz) | 2.4 GHz |
Smart Home Integration | Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, SmartThings |
Power & Installation(1) | ||
Power Source | 24 VAC | Hardwired 24V |
Display(1) | ||
Display Type | color touchscreen | Touchscreen color LCD |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Device Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 23.6×100.3×100.3 mm mm | 85.9x142.9x25.4 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Ecobee3 for its comprehensive sensor suite that enables smart recovery and precise humidity management, as well as its extensive HVAC compatibility that covers most 24V systems. They note its value for multi-zone comfort without a hub, while pointing out the need for a C-wire or Power Extender Kit and the lack of newer Wi-Fi standards compared to later models.
Everyday users praise the thermostat for its straightforward installation and reliable Wi-Fi control, especially appreciating the seamless Siri and HomeKit integration. The most common feedback revolves around occasional wiring difficulties in homes without a C-wire, but overall sentiment is highly positive.
Professional reviewers, including USA Today's Reviewed.com, named the Sensi Touch the best overall smart thermostat for multiple years, praising its intuitive menus, clear backlit display, precise control, and smart alerts.
Everyday users consistently commend the easy installation, straightforward app, and effective geofencing that delivers noticeable energy savings. Common criticisms focus on the mandatory C-wire, occasional Wi-Fi reliability issues, and the lack of room sensors or battery backup.
“ease of install and Wi-Fi control”
“seamless Siri/HomeKit remote access”
