10 Best Smart Thermostats

The Google Nest Thermostat E is a smart thermostat designed to help you save energy easily. It works with most standard heating and cooling systems compatible with 24-volt wiring, which is common in many UK homes. Its connectivity relies on Wi-Fi, letting you control the thermostat remotely using the Google Home app or voice commands through Google Assistant. The user interface is simple, featuring a clear LCD display and push buttons rather than a touchscreen, making it straightforward to use but less visually rich compared to some competitors.

One of its standout features is auto-scheduling, where the thermostat learns your habits over time and adjusts the temperature to save energy without much effort from you. It also integrates well with Google’s smart home ecosystem, so if you already use Google devices, it fits seamlessly. Installation is designed to be DIY-friendly, and the package includes all necessary mounting hardware and a heat link, which is helpful for older heating systems.

The plastic build and basic display might feel less premium compared to higher-end models. Also, it lacks some advanced features found in other thermostats, like a touchscreen or compatibility with multiple smart home platforms beyond Google. If you want a straightforward, energy-saving smart thermostat that works well with Google devices and is easy to install, the Nest Thermostat E is a good choice. However, if you prefer more advanced controls or a more robust app experience, you might want to explore other options.

The New Hive Thermostat for Heating Control (Combi boilers) Nano 3 comes with some compelling features for those looking to enhance home heating efficiency. A standout is the OpenTherm feature, which ensures precise heat control, resulting in potentially significant gas savings and improved boiler longevity, great for both your wallet and the environment.

With its Wi-Fi connectivity through the Nano 3 Hub, it offers a seamless connection to your Hive devices, and the dual-core processor can efficiently handle a large network, making it ideal for tech-savvy users with multiple Hive products. The touch-based user interface combined with button controls makes it relatively easy to use, though those unfamiliar with smart devices might face a learning curve initially.

Energy-saving features like the ability to set six daily heating and hot water schedules, geolocation alerts, and Holiday Mode are practical for managing energy consumption, providing both comfort and savings when the home is unoccupied. Automatic frost protection adds peace of mind by safeguarding against potential cold-weather damage.

While integration with Hive products is strong, users heavily invested in other smart home ecosystems may find limited compatibility. As for installation, it's designed to be wall-mounted but could require professional assistance for those not comfortable with DIY tasks. In terms of aesthetics, the modern white design is unobtrusive and fits well in most home decors. This thermostat is a smart, efficient, and well-integrated heating solution.

The New Hive Thermostat Nano 3 is designed to control both heating and hot water for conventional boilers, making it a flexible choice for households looking to manage these utilities more efficiently. A significant strength is its new Nano 3 Hub, which boasts Wi-Fi connectivity and a dual-core processor, ensuring reliable performance and easy installation without clutter. This is ideal for those who prefer a streamlined setup.

In terms of connectivity, the thermostat offers Wi-Fi support, allowing users to control their heating via the Hive app or through voice commands. This ease of use is complemented by a touchscreen interface, providing a modern and intuitive way to interact with the device. Additionally, the thermostat includes energy-saving features such as geolocation, which adjusts heating based on your presence, and an automatic frost protection to prevent frozen pipes, enhancing its utility in energy conservation.

The thermostat's ability to schedule heating and hot water, including a boost function for up to six hours, offers flexibility and convenience, especially with the added holiday mode feature. Installation is straightforward due to its hardwired power source, but this could be a limitation for those seeking a battery-operated option. The included 50% off Hive Plus annual plan is a nice touch, potentially offering additional savings.