Google Nest Thermostat
Score: 76/100
Amazon Smart Thermostat
Score: 73/100Rankings
The Google Nest Thermostat offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity with a compact 2.4-inch display and Energy Star efficiency. Its main trade-off is occasional C-wire requirement and a modest display size. Ideal for users seeking an affordable, Google-centric smart thermostat.
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 | | |
|---|---|---|
1 yearsbest | — | |
2.4 inchbest | 0.9 inch | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.139 kg | 0.11 kgbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||
HVAC Compatibility | Supports heating stages W1-W3, cooling stages Y1-Y2, heat pump with auxiliary and emergency heat (O/B, AUX, E) | 24V |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11b/g/n, 802.11a/n | 802.11 b/g/n (2.4GHz) |
Smart Home Integration | Google Home | Alexa, Ring |
Power & Installation(2) | ||
C‑Wire Requirement | false | true |
Power Source | HVAC system wiring | C‑wire (24V) |
Display(2) | ||
Display Type | IPS LCD | Touch-sensitive |
Screen Size (inch) | 2.4 inch | 0.9 inch |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Device Weight (kg) | 0.139 kg | 0.1095 kg |
Device Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 27.2x84.0x27.3 mm | 21.4×90.4×90.4 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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”
Pick Amazon if you are committed to Alexa/Ring and need an affordable solution; pick Nest if you prefer Google's AI learning and voice assistant.
