Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Amazon Smart Thermostat
Best BudgetEcobee Smart Thermostat Premium
Best OverallPrice
$60-$80
$200-$250
Summary
The best sub-$100 smart thermostat by a wide margin, with occupancy sensing and Alexa Hunches built in. A no-brainer for Alexa and Ring households.
The most full-featured smart thermostat available, doubling as a voice assistant, air quality monitor, and home security device. Supports five smart home platforms — more than any competitor.
Pros
- Far better technology than other sub-$100 options, including occupancy sensing
- Alexa 'Hunches' can proactively adjust settings to save energy
- Deep integration with Alexa and Ring devices
- Simple installation with C-wire adapter included
- Supports 5 platforms: Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Samsung SmartThings
- Built-in mic and speaker for hands-free Alexa control without a separate smart speaker
- Monitors indoor air quality and can function as a home security device
- Compatible with remote sensors to balance temps across multiple rooms
Cons
- Best suited for Amazon/Alexa ecosystems — limited cross-platform support
- No remote room sensors available
- Lacks air quality monitoring and advanced scheduling of premium models
- Most expensive option in the smart thermostat category
- Feature set may be overkill for users who just want basic temperature control
- Subscription required for some advanced features
Our take
For under $80, nothing comes close. If you're already in the Amazon ecosystem, this is the obvious buy — Alexa Hunches alone make it smarter than thermostats twice the price.
If you want one device that does everything, this is it. The built-in Alexa speaker, air quality monitoring, and remote sensor support make every other thermostat feel half-baked.
Buy
