Head-to-head · Best Smart Thermostats

Amazon Smart Thermostat vs Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Amazon Smart Thermostat comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.3 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about Amazon ecosystem users seeking budget-friendly automation — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Smart Thermostats

Amazon Smart Thermostat

4.3

$129

The Amazon Smart Thermostat receives praise for its seamless integration with Alexa and ease of installation, with PCMag noting its 'effective learning algorithm' that adapts to user schedules. CNET highlights its 'great features at an unbeatable price.' However, some users have reported occasional connectivity issues, and the device's limited compatibility with non-Alexa ecosystems may be a drawback for those in mixed smart home setups. This thermostat is ideal for Amazon ecosystem users seeking a reliable, budget-friendly smart heating solution.

Strengths

— Works seamlessly with Alexa and other Amazon smart home devices
— Easy installation process with clear step-by-step instructions
— Effective learning algorithm that adapts to user schedule

Watch-outs

— Limited compatibility with non-Alexa smart home ecosystems
— Some users reported occasional connectivity issues with Wi-Fi

$129 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #1 in Best Smart Thermostats

Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential

4.1

$199

The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential offers robust smart home integration with Alexa and Google Assistant support, along with detailed energy reports that help users optimize heating and cooling costs. PCMag's John R. Delaney praised its ease of installation and occupancy detection camera, though Tom's Guide noted that the device's higher price point may not justify its features for budget-conscious consumers. While the camera provides useful occupancy sensing, some users have raised privacy concerns about the built-in camera. This thermostat is ideal for tech-savvy homeowners seeking energy efficiency and smart home automation, but those on tight budgets may want to consider alternatives.

Strengths

— Works well with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control
— Provides detailed energy usage reports and insights
— Includes a built-in camera for occupancy detection

Watch-outs

— Higher price point compared to basic thermostats
— Some users report occasional connectivity issues with smart home hubs
— Camera feature raises privacy concerns for some users

$199 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Amazon Smart Thermostat

While the Amazon Smart Thermostat excels in seamless Alexa integration, it lacks the advanced learning algorithms found in the Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) and Google Nest Gen 4. Compared to the Ecobee Essential, it doesn't include an occupancy camera, though it offers better value for money than the premium Nest models and is more budget-friendly than the Ecobee.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential

Unlike the Amazon Smart Thermostat and Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen), the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential stands out with its built-in camera for occupancy detection, a feature not found in its competitors. However, it faces criticism for its higher price point compared to the Sensi Touch 2 and Amazon models, and the privacy concerns around its camera feature set it apart from the Google Nest Gen 4, which lacks this physical sensor.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Amazon Smart Thermostat	Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential
Display	3.5-inch touchscreen	4.3-inch touchscreen
Connectivity	2.4GHz	Wi-Fi, Zigbee
Sensors	Temperature, Humidity	Temperature, humidity, occupancy
Compatibility	Alexa, Google Assistant	Alexa, Google Assistant
Learning	Yes	No
Energy Savings	Up to 10%	Up to 26%

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