OUR VERDICT: The Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) is a smart, stylish, and efficient way to manage your home’s temperature. It learns your schedule, helping save energy and money while keeping your home comfortable. The sleek design makes it a great addition to any room. While it’s a bit pricey, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable, energy-efficient thermostat that integrates easily with other smart home devices. If you’re eco-conscious and want convenience, the Nest is worth considering.
PROS:
– Attractive design with a premium feel.
– Auto-scheduling simplifies temperature control.
– Saves energy with Eco Mode and detailed energy
reports.
– Seamless integration with Google Assistant and Alexa.
– Easy installation and broad HVAC compatibility.
CONS:
– No remote sensors for multi-room management.
– Comparatively expensive.
– Requires Wi-Fi for most features.
The Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) has been a trusted part of my smart home setup for a while now. From the moment I installed it, I was impressed by its sleek, modern design and how seamlessly it blended into my home. It doesn’t just look good—it’s intuitive to use and smart enough to make life noticeably more convenient. After just a few days, it learned my habits and adjusted my home’s temperature automatically, saving me the trouble of constant manual adjustments.
What I love most about the 3rd Gen Nest is its ability to predict my needs without me even thinking about it. For instance, I wake up to the perfect temperature in the mornings, and it cools things down at night without any input from me. It’s smart enough to know when I’m home or away, adjusting the temperature accordingly to save energy. Over time, I’ve seen my energy bills drop, which feels great both for my wallet and the environment.
That said, the market for smart thermostats has grown more competitive since this model came out. I’ve looked into alternatives like the Ecobee Smart Thermostat, which offers remote sensors for better control of individual rooms—a feature the Nest lacks. The Honeywell T9 is another option that integrates well with smart home systems and costs a bit less. Even Google’s own Nest Thermostat (2020) is cheaper, though it sacrifices the premium design and advanced features of the 3rd Gen.
So, does the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) still hold its ground in 2024? I believe it does. Its combination of style, intelligence, and energy efficiency keeps it relevant, even with so many new options out there. In this review, I’ll walk you through its features, performance, design, and how it compares to other smart thermostats I’ve tested. By the end, you’ll know whether it’s worth adding to your own smart home setup.
DESIGN & INSTALLATION
When I first unboxed the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen), I was struck by how elegant it looked. It’s not just a thermostat—it’s a stylish addition to my home. The circular design feels timeless, while the premium metal finishes give it a sleek, polished appearance. Whether you choose the stainless steel, black, white, or copper finish, it’s designed to complement any decor. For me, the copper version blended beautifully with my neutral-toned walls, adding a touch of sophistication.
The 2.08-inch LCD screen is one of my favorite design elements. It’s vibrant, sharp, and provides just the right amount of information. I love how it lights up as I approach, showing the current temperature, time, or even the weather forecast. It feels personal, like the thermostat is actively aware of my presence. The screen’s visibility is great from across the room, which is a big plus when I need a quick glance at the temperature without walking over.
Using the rotating ring control felt intuitive from the start. It’s a smart nod to traditional thermostats but with a distinctly modern vibe. Adjusting the temperature by twisting the ring feels satisfying, and pressing it to navigate menus is straightforward. Even guests who aren’t familiar with smart thermostats found it easy to use.
Installation: A Hassle-Free Process
I’m not the most tech-savvy person when it comes to DIY projects, but installing the Nest Learning Thermostat was surprisingly simple. The included installation guide was detailed, and the Nest app provided step-by-step instructions that were easy to follow. It even confirmed my HVAC compatibility beforehand, so I didn’t have to worry about buying the wrong device.
I appreciated how well-thought-out the process was, from labeling the wires to securely mounting the thermostat on the wall. It only took me about 30 minutes to get everything up and running, and that includes the time I spent double-checking my work. If DIY isn’t your thing, you can always hire a professional, but honestly, it’s beginner-friendly enough that most people could handle it.
The thermostat works with 95% of HVAC systems, including two-stage heating and cooling setups. This compatibility reassured me that even if I decide to upgrade my HVAC system in the future, the Nest will likely still work seamlessly.
Key Design and Installation Features
| Display | 2.08-inch vibrant color LCD |
| Material | Premium metal finishes in stainless steel, black, white, and copper |
| Dimensions | Compact at 3.3 x 3.3 x 1.2 inches |
| Controls | Rotating outer ring with push-to-select functionality |
| Installation | Easy DIY process with detailed guides and app support; professional installation optional |
| Compatibility | Supports 95% of HVAC systems, including those with two-stage heating and cooling |
My Thoughts on the Design and Installation
Every time I look at the Nest Learning Thermostat, it feels like I made the right choice for both aesthetics and functionality. Its modern design doesn’t just sit on the wall—it enhances the room. Plus, the straightforward installation made transitioning to smart home tech painless. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just starting your smart home journey, the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) delivers an ideal mix of style, functionality, and ease of use.
FEATURES
When I first started using the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen), I was impressed by how thoughtfully designed its features are. Everything about it feels geared toward making life easier while helping save energy. Here’s how the standout features work for me in daily life:
Auto-Scheduling
This is probably my favorite feature. I didn’t have to spend hours tinkering with settings or creating a schedule. The thermostat observed my habits—like how I prefer it a bit warmer in the mornings and cooler at night—and created a personalized schedule within a week. It feels like the device is tuned to my life, not the other way around.
Remote Control
The Nest app has been a game changer. Whether I’m sitting on the couch or away from home, I can adjust the temperature in seconds. Last week, I was at work and realized I’d left the thermostat running higher than necessary. A quick adjustment on the app saved me energy (and money). It’s also handy for switching to Eco Mode while I’m on vacation.
Energy Reports
I didn’t realize how much energy I was wasting until I saw my first monthly energy report. The insights are easy to understand, and the tips are actionable. For example, the report suggested minor tweaks, like setting the thermostat a few degrees lower during the night, and those changes have already made a noticeable difference in my energy bills.
Eco Mode
The Eco Mode is perfect for someone like me who occasionally forgets to adjust the thermostat before heading out. The built-in sensors detect when no one is home and automatically lower the energy use. Knowing I’m not heating or cooling an empty house gives me peace of mind.
Farsight
I didn’t think I’d care much about the Farsight feature, but it’s surprisingly useful. When I walk into the room, the display lights up, showing the time, weather, or current temperature. It’s like having a mini smart display on the wall—functional and convenient.
Smart Home Integration
I use Google Assistant for most of my smart home devices, so I love how seamlessly the Nest integrates with it. I can just say, “Hey Google, lower the temperature to 70 degrees,” and it’s done. It also works with Amazon Alexa and platforms like IFTTT, making it flexible for different setups.
Additional Features
Here are some of the other features that stand out to me:
| Energy Reports | Detailed monthly insights to track and reduce energy usage |
| HVAC Compatibility | Supports most heating and cooling systems, including two-stage setups |
| Sensors | Detects temperature, humidity, motion, and ambient light |
| Voice Control | Compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa |
| App Support | Works with the Nest app for iOS and Android |
My Experience with the Features
The Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) doesn’t just control my home’s temperature; it feels like it’s actively working to make my life easier. I love how it balances simplicity with advanced functionality. The combination of auto-scheduling, remote control, and smart home integration has made managing my home’s energy use effortless.
Features like the monthly energy reports and Eco Mode have even made me more conscious about energy efficiency. It’s like having a personal assistant that helps me save money and reduces my environmental footprint. For anyone considering a smart thermostat, these features alone make the Nest Learning Thermostat worth the investment.
PERFORMANCE
From the moment I started using the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen), I could tell this wasn’t just a standard smart gadget—it’s a device that truly gets to know you. The learning feature is one of its most impressive capabilities. Within a few days, it started noticing my preferences. I like my home cooler at night and slightly warmer during the morning. Instead of constantly adjusting the thermostat myself, the Nest began making these changes for me, without me lifting a finger.
Personalized Scheduling That Actually Works
What makes the personalized schedule stand out is how natural the process feels. I didn’t need to manually program anything. If I adjusted the temperature consistently over a few days, the thermostat took note and incorporated that into my daily schedule. It even accounts for weekends when my routine is different. After a week or two, I rarely needed to touch it—it just worked.
Eco Mode: Smart and Reliable
One feature I rely on heavily is Eco Mode. It’s smart enough to know when no one is home by using a combination of motion sensors and geofencing via the Nest app. I’ve noticed that every time I leave the house, the thermostat automatically shifts to an energy-saving mode. This has been particularly helpful during my long workdays, ensuring I’m not cooling or heating an empty home.
That said, I did find that the motion detection has its limits in larger homes. If you’re working in a part of the house that the thermostat doesn’t monitor, it might mistakenly think you’re away. For me, this was a minor inconvenience, and the geofencing largely makes up for it by using my phone’s location as a backup.
Energy Savings That Add Up
One of the biggest selling points of the Nest is its promise to save energy—and it delivers. According to Google, the Nest can save an average of 10–12% on heating bills and 15% on cooling bills, and my experience aligns with these claims. After a few months of use, I noticed a significant drop in my energy costs. Even with fluctuating weather, the thermostat made small adjustments to keep my home comfortable without wasting energy.
Comparing the Performance
When comparing the Nest Learning Thermostat to traditional thermostats or even other smart thermostats, it consistently comes out on top.
| Performance Comparison | Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) | Ecobee SmartThermostat | Honeywell T9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Learning Capabilities | Advanced, adapts within days | Manual schedule with smart features | Limited learning, manual setup |
| Energy Saving Features | Eco Mode, personalized schedule | Eco+ for energy savings | Focuses on room-based control |
| Motion Detection | Accurate but may miss large areas | Room sensors for broader detection | Room sensors with good accuracy |
| Geofencing | Integrated, seamless with the app | Geofencing available | Geofencing available |
| Energy Savings (Reported) | 10–12% heating, 15% cooling | 10% on heating, variable cooling | Varies based on setup and usage |
Real-World Usability
In my experience, the Nest’s performance feels smooth and intuitive. I no longer think about temperature adjustments—they just happen. The combination of learning algorithms, geofencing, and motion detection makes it a reliable companion for maintaining comfort without sacrificing efficiency.
Why the Performance Stands Out
The Nest is particularly effective for people who want to save energy without putting in a lot of effort. Its ability to adapt and improve over time means that it feels smarter the longer you use it. Even in challenging scenarios, like a busy household or a larger home, it handles most tasks gracefully. For me, it’s not just a thermostat—it’s an upgrade to how I manage my home’s comfort.
SMART INTEGRATIONS
One of the features I appreciate most about the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) is how seamlessly it integrates into my smart home ecosystem. I’ve always valued simplicity and convenience, and the Nest delivers on both fronts. Whether I’m using voice commands, setting up automations, or making adjustments through the app, it feels intuitive and modern.
Voice Assistants: Google Assistant and Alexa
As someone who relies on Google Assistant throughout my home, I love being able to control the thermostat with simple voice commands. Saying, “Hey Google, set the thermostat to 72 degrees,” or “What’s the current temperature?” is quick and hands-free. The responsiveness is impressive—it rarely misses a beat.
For households that lean toward Amazon Alexa, the integration is just as smooth. I tested it with an Echo device, and it worked just as flawlessly. This cross-platform compatibility is a major win because it means the Nest can fit into any smart home setup, no matter which ecosystem you prefer.
The Nest App: Control Anywhere
The Nest app has become one of my favorite tools. It offers granular control over the thermostat, allowing me to tweak the temperature, switch modes, or even check the weather forecast—all from my phone. The ability to make adjustments while I’m away from home is a game-changer. For instance, if I know I’ll be coming home earlier than usual, I can set the house to start warming up before I arrive.
The app’s Home/Away Assist feature works seamlessly, too. It uses my phone’s location to determine whether I’m home or away, automatically adjusting the thermostat as needed. This has saved me countless times from forgetting to adjust the temperature before leaving the house.
IFTTT: Endless Possibilities
One of the most exciting aspects of the Nest is its compatibility with IFTTT (If This Then That). I’ve had fun experimenting with automations that connect the thermostat to other smart devices. For example, I set up an IFTTT routine where the thermostat lowers the temperature automatically when my smart lights turn off at night. It’s a small adjustment, but it makes my nighttime routine feel even more seamless.
I also created a scenario where the thermostat switches to Eco Mode if my smart door lock detects that I’ve left the house. These integrations may seem small, but they add up to a home that feels like it’s working with me, not against me.
Integration Comparison
Here’s how the Nest stacks up against competitors when it comes to smart integrations:
| Smart Integration Feature | Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) | Ecobee SmartThermostat | Honeywell T9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Assistant | Fully supported | Supported | Limited features |
| Alexa | Fully supported | Fully supported | Fully supported |
| App Functionality | Robust, intuitive | Detailed, with room-specific control | Basic controls |
| IFTTT Compatibility | Fully supported | Fully supported | Not supported |
| Geofencing | Included via app | Included | Included |
| Third-Party Ecosystem Support | Google and Nest devices preferred | Broad compatibility | Honeywell-specific systems |
Why Smart Integrations Matter
The Nest’s ability to integrate across platforms and devices enhances its usability significantly. Whether I’m using Google Assistant to adjust the temperature mid-cooking, or automating night-time settings with IFTTT, the thermostat feels like a natural part of my home’s ecosystem.
For someone like me who enjoys tech but doesn’t want to get bogged down by complexity, these integrations strike the perfect balance between functionality and ease of use. I can confidently say that the Nest Learning Thermostat makes managing my home’s comfort smarter, not harder.
COMPARISON WITH COMPETITORS
When deciding on a smart thermostat, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices available. I spent a good deal of time comparing the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) to its competitors, and the differences are worth noting. Each option has its strengths, but for my needs, the Nest Learning Thermostat stands out in several key areas.
| Feature | Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) | Ecobee SmartThermostat | Honeywell T9 | Nest Thermostat (2020) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$249 | ~$249 | ~$199 | ~$129 |
| Auto-Scheduling | Yes | No | No | No |
| Remote Sensors | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Google, Alexa, IFTTT | Google, Alexa, Siri | Google, Alexa | Google, Alexa |
| Energy Reports | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| HVAC Compatibility | 95% | 85% | 85% | 85% |
My Thoughts on the Competition
Ecobee SmartThermostat:
I have to admit, the Ecobee SmartThermostat is a strong competitor. Its remote sensors are a major plus, especially for homes with multiple rooms that tend to have inconsistent temperatures. If balancing comfort across multiple zones is a priority, the Ecobee has a clear edge. It also works with Siri, giving Apple users a smart thermostat option that integrates well with HomeKit. However, the lack of auto-scheduling was a dealbreaker for me. I didn’t want to manually program a schedule when the Nest could learn and adapt to my habits automatically.
Honeywell T9:
The Honeywell T9 is a budget-friendly alternative, especially for those who want remote sensors. While it integrates well with Google and Alexa, its features feel limited compared to the Nest. The absence of energy reports, in particular, made it less appealing to me. I like being able to track my energy use and savings—it gives me confidence that my thermostat is actually working to save money.
Nest Thermostat (2020):
This was the most tempting alternative within the Nest lineup itself. At nearly half the price of the 3rd Gen model, it’s a solid choice for those on a budget. It looks sleek and offers basic functionality like remote control via the app and energy reports. However, the lack of auto-scheduling and some of the premium materials made me stick with the Nest Learning Thermostat. For me, paying a bit more for features like learning capabilities and a more polished design was worth it.
Why I Chose the Nest Learning Thermostat
Here’s what tipped the scales in favor of the Nest Learning Thermostat for me:
- Auto-Scheduling:
I can’t stress enough how much I value the learning capabilities of this thermostat. After a few days of use, it intuitively started making temperature adjustments that matched my routine. Neither the Ecobee nor the Honeywell offered this kind of smart adaptability. - Design:
The Nest’s design is second to none. Its premium finishes and polished look made it feel like an intentional part of my home decor, not just a functional gadget. While the other models focus on practicality, the Nest brings both form and function. - Energy Reports:
Getting detailed monthly insights into my energy usage has been incredibly useful. It helps me understand how small adjustments, like tweaking Eco Mode, impact my overall energy savings. The Honeywell lacks this feature, and it’s not as detailed on the Ecobee. - Smart Home Compatibility:
The Nest integrates flawlessly with my Google Home ecosystem. I can use voice commands for quick adjustments and even set up automations with IFTTT. While the Ecobee adds Siri support, that’s not a feature I personally need. - Reliability:
The Nest Learning Thermostat’s compatibility with 95% of HVAC systems gives me peace of mind. I didn’t have to worry about whether it would work with my setup—it just did.
Final Takeaway
While all the models I looked at bring something valuable to the table, the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) ultimately struck the perfect balance for me. Its combination of intelligent features, elegant design, and energy-saving capabilities made it the clear winner.
If you prioritize room-by-room control, the Ecobee with its remote sensors might be a better fit. For budget-conscious buyers, the Nest Thermostat (2020) is a solid choice. But for someone like me, who values effortless scheduling, smart integrations, and a device that just works seamlessly, the Nest Learning Thermostat remains the gold standard.
REASONS TO BUY OR NOT
Buy If:
- You want a thermostat that learns and automates temperature settings.
- You value energy savings and eco-conscious features.
- You’re invested in a Google or Alexa smart home ecosystem.
Skip If:
- You need remote sensors to manage multiple rooms.
- You’re on a budget and don’t need advanced features.
- You don’t have reliable Wi-Fi at home.
FINAL THOUGHTS
As someone who values both convenience and energy efficiency, I’ve been truly impressed with the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen). It’s one of those smart home upgrades that actually makes life easier while helping save on energy bills. The way it learns my schedule and adjusts the temperature without me having to think about it is a true game-changer. Over time, I’ve noticed a significant reduction in my energy consumption, which, in the long run, more than justifies the initial investment.
The design of the Nest Learning Thermostat is another standout feature. It has a sleek, modern look that blends seamlessly with almost any décor. I love how it feels like a piece of art on my wall rather than just a functional device. The circular shape and the beautiful display with the customizable color options really make it feel like an intentional part of the room, not just something I “installed” for practical purposes.
But, of course, no product is perfect. For those with specific needs—like multi-zone temperature control or a tighter budget—there are alternatives that might be a better fit. The Ecobee SmartThermostat offers room sensors for more precise temperature control in multiple rooms, which could be ideal if you have a larger home. Similarly, the Honeywell T9 might appeal to those who want something a bit more affordable but still feature-rich, offering similar functionality at a lower price point.
That said, the Nest Learning Thermostat stands out as a premium option for those seeking a smart, stylish, and energy-efficient solution. If your main goal is a thermostat that adapts to your lifestyle, provides energy savings, and integrates smoothly with other smart devices, it’s hard to go wrong with the Nest.
As a smart home enthusiast who’s always looking for ways to optimize my living space, I’m completely satisfied with my Nest thermostat. It’s more than just a thermostat—it’s a smart device that contributes to a more efficient, comfortable home. I’ve also found the integration with Google Assistant, Alexa, and other smart home systems to be incredibly convenient, making it easy to control the temperature with voice commands or through my phone.
All things considered, I believe the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) is an excellent investment, especially for those who are eco-conscious and want to be part of the growing smart home movement. It’s reliable, intuitive, and backed by Google’s strong ecosystem, which only adds to its long-term appeal.
Insyght Central Rating: 4.5/5
An intelligent, reliable, and stylish solution for modern homes. If you’re ready to make the leap to smarter home management, the Nest Learning Thermostat is a solid choice.
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