[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]
When you dive into the sea of high-quality smart thermostats, you often hear two popular names, Nest Learning 3rd Gen and Ecobee4. Since they have similar price tags, weâve decided to find out which one of them is a better choice for a savvy homeowner. Letâs take a look which one of the above thermostats may become your new best friend.
The differences
Design
Both manufacturers did a great job designing their thermostats. However, Nest offers the consumers a bigger choice of colors(Copper, stainless steel, white). Nest controller has a round shape while Ecobee offers a rounded smartphone-like form. Both designs can easily fit into any décor, from classic to modern and high-tech.
HVAC Compatibility
When it comes to this parameter, Ecobee4 is the clear winner since itâs compatible with the majority of heating and cooling systems in North America. Nest Learning 3rd Gen unit is not as versatile. It works with 95% of 24V heating and cooling systems. These days itâs still possible to find a home, which isnât compatible with either of the two thermostats. Both manufacturers offer compatibility checkers on their websites to help the consumers avoid an unnecessary purchase. check Nest compatibility check Ecobee compatibility
Installation
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” column_structure=”1_3,2_3″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https://homeautotechs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DSK-Step2-troubleshooting-your-home-thermostat.jpg” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”3.23″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″] The installation process for both thermostats is very simple. If youâve installed a thermostat before, it will take under an hour to install both. However, newbies may require the assistance of a professional to make sure all the wires are connected properly. The biggest installation difference between the two thermostats is the C-wire. Nest works using a built-in battery while Ecobee needs a C-wire to power itself. So if your system doesnât have a C-wire, Ecobee offers a power extender kit (PEK), which comes in a box. The installation of the power extender kit may require professional assistance. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”27px|0px|0px|0px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″]
Learning Options
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” column_structure=”1_2,1_2″][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https://homeautotechs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Nest_schedule.png” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”3.23″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″] Both thermostats use sensors to find out about your home use habits. They sense whether you are at home or away and adjust the cooling and heating systems accordingly. However, after some time Nest comes up with a schedule for the system use automatically. The thermostat learns your habits and works according to them. Meanwhile, Ecobee4 can also work according to the schedule, but you have to set it up on your own. This is a time-consuming process, which most consumers donât go through. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”18px|0px|0px|0px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″]
Remote Sensors
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|23px|0px” column_structure=”1_3,2_3″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https://homeautotechs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ecobee2.jpg” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”3.23″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″] While Nest 3 is doing a great job scheduling its work, Ecobee4 uses its remote sensors to find out which rooms are most frequently occupied. In case you have a room in the house, which gets too hot or cold at certain times of the day, the sensor tells the thermostat to balance the temperatures. In addition, the remote sensor detects the motion in each room and adjusts the temperature when you leave. The small downside of this option is the cost. Only one remote sensor comes with the thermostat. The rest should be purchased separately. Nest3 doesnât have this feature. However, the manufacturer promises to add such sensors in April 2018. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″]
 Warranty
In our opinion, the longer the warranty is, the more confident the manufacturer is in its product. Ecobee offers a three-year warranty for its Ecobee4 model. Nest provides a two-year warranty for its thermostat. So in the warranty contest, Ecobee is an obvious winner. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”27px|0px|0px|0px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″]
Apple Home Kit Compatibility
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ column_structure=”1_3,2_3″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https://homeautotechs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/00013-ecobee-4-review-e1523200297248.jpeg” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”3.23″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″] If you have many HomeKit-enabled gadgets in your home, you are probably looking for the same features in the thermostat. If such is the case, Ecobee4 is the best choice. Nest Learning 3rd gen doesnât work with Apple HomeKit. This feature allows you to control Ecobee4 thermostat with Siri and iOS home app. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″] FarSight Detection Option [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” column_structure=”1_3,2_3″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https://homeautotechs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Farsight.png” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”3.23″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″]
Nest Learning 3
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Alexa Skills
One of the major differences between the Nest 3 gen and Ecobee4 is Ecobee4âs built-in Alexa skills. Ecobee puts them forward is one of the unitâs biggest advantages. Ecobee4 has a built-in Amazon Alexa Voice Service module, which allows it to recognize the userâs voice and a speaker so you can hear the replies. In reality, the microphone works ideally while the speaker is located in the back of the thermostat, making it hard to hear Alexa. This unit is not designed to become a full-fledged Alexa device. However, this feature makes it very convenient. You can use Ecobee4 as you would Echo or Tap. It responds to âAlexaâ?wake word only. If you have several Alexa devices in your home, the thermostat will react to the wake word only if you are closer to it than to other gadgets. Nest Learning 3rd Gen doesnât have Alexa skills, which may be a downside for some users. However, the lack of this feature makes the thermostat easier to install. The thermostat can be controlled with an Alexa device, but youâd have to purchase it separately.
Sunblock Ability
Nest Learning 3rd Gen Thermostat has an ability to detect the sun shining directly on the thermostat. Depending on the location of your thermostat, the sun rays may hit it directory at certain times of the day. This affects the sensors and may force the unit to drop the temperatures in the house. Nestâs sun sensor helps the thermostat ârealizeâ?that itâs in direct sunlight and keep it from adjusting the temperature. Ecobee4 doesnât have this option.
Third Party Integration
Both thermostats can be controlled by PC, mobile apps, smartphones, tablets and other gadgets. Each of them can be used with a variety of smart home technology third-party apps, such as Alexa, Google Home, IFTT, Wink, and more. However, Ecobee4 has built-in Alexa skills while Nest users would need to buy a separate Alexa-enabled device to control the thermostat. At the same time, Nest works natively with Google Home while Ecobee4 needs third-party apps to be used with Google Home.
Major Similarities
1.Smart Approach
Both thermostats are smart devices. They are equipped with a variety of sensors. Each one of them can be controlled with an app or other smart devices. You can use a mobile app to adjust the settings on both thermostats whether you are inside the house or a thousand miles away.
2.Energy Efficiency
These units can sense or learn when you are away from home and adjust the temperatures accordingly. This makes them highly energy efficient. Both thermostats work hard to reduce the homeownerâs energy bills.
3.Integration
Even though both these thermostats can work with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT recipes, and more, each one of them is oriented at certain programs. For example, Ecobee4 has powerful Alexa abilities while Nest âprefersâ?Google Home.
4.Geofencing
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” column_structure=”1_3,2_3″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https://homeautotechs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Geofence.png” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”3.23″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″] Both thermostats check your smartphone’s GPS location to check whether you are at home or away. As soon as you leave home, the thermostats will automatically turn down the cooling or heating system to save you money on energy bills. When you are coming close to your house, the thermostats adjust the temperature to provide a comfortable environment when you get home. What is the Geofencing? [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″]
5.Energy Reports
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” hover_enabled=”0″ column_structure=”1_3,2_3″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https://homeautotechs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Nest-living-room-daily-report-thumb-1600xauto-3221.png” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”3.23″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″] Both devices compile energy consumption reports to help you see at which time you use the most energy from the heating and cooling systems. Ecobee4 allows you to see how much energy you save over one month. Meanwhile, Nest just shows energy consumption. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|112px|0px|false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.6″ hover_enabled=”0″]
Both thermostats come with the same price tag of $249. However, this is not the final price. For example, for Ecobee4, you may need to spend more money to purchase extra remote sensors. The new version of Nest 3
Meanwhile, some energy industry companies provide energy saving rebates for smart thermostats, so you can save some money by installing one of the two. Use this Energy Star rebate link to check the rebate at your local utility company.
Full comparison Table for Nest 3 gen & Ecobee4
| Â | Nest Learning 3 |
Ecobee4 |
| Colors | Copper, stainless steel, white | Black |
| Style | Round | Rounded |
| Installation | Fast | Fast (but may need PEK installation if |
| Wireless network | 2.4 GHz or the 5 GHz | 2.4 GHz only |
| Remote sensors | No | Yes |
| Scheduling options | Yes (smart learning) | Yes (manually adjusted) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 3 years |
| Apple Home Kit Compatibility
 |
No | Yes |
| Yes | No | |
| Alexa Skills | No | Yes |
| Direct sunshine sensor | Yes | No |
| HVAC Compatibility | 95% | 100% |
| Energy Efficient | Yes | Yes |
| Yes | Yes | |
| Energy Consumption Report | Yes | Yes |
| List Price | $249 | $249 |
Final Verdict
Both smart thermostats are worthy investments. The final choice usually depends on what gadgets and software you are used to using. If Apple HomeKit compatibility is important to you, you are looking for an Alexa device and suffer from the temperature difference in your rooms, Ecobee4 is a good choice.
In case you are a fan of Google Services, prefer sleeker design, and need