Google Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You are looking for google nest learning thermostat 3rd alternatives because the original device has specific limitations. The Google Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Gen learns your schedule and works with Alexa. It features HVAC monitoring and Home/Away Assist. However, it only supports Alexa, not Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit. It also requires a separate sensor for room-specific control. The unit is large, measuring 6 by 8 inches, and weighs 1.55 pounds. These specs may not suit every home or user preference.
We selected 6 alternatives based on overlapping specifications. These picks include devices with Matter support, larger displays, or compatibility with different smart home ecosystems. Some models are Energy Star Certified, while others offer included remote sensors. You can compare features like touchscreen interfaces, Wi-Fi connectivity, and size. This guide helps you find a thermostat that fits your HVAC system and smart home setup better than the Nest 3rd Gen. Review the detailed specs for each option to make an informed choice.
How the alternatives differ
Honeywell Home X8S Thermostat with Room Sensor
The Honeywell Home X8S supports Matter connectivity, whereas the Nest 3rd Gen only works with Alexa. This thermostat includes a room sensor for better zone control, which the Nest requires you to buy separately. It features a larger 5-inch touchscreen display compared to the Nest’s smaller interface. The X8S is designed for conventional HVAC systems and offers Energy Star certification. If you need multi-platform smart home support or a bigger screen, this is a stronger choice. You give up the Nest’s automated learning schedule in favor of more explicit control and broader compatibility.
Honeywell Home Smart Color Touchscreen Thermostat
This Honeywell Home model provides a color touchscreen, offering more detailed climate data than the Nest 3rd Gen’s basic display. It is Energy Star certified and requires a C-wire, a requirement the Nest does not explicitly list in its core specs here. The device supports Wi-Fi connectivity and works with Alexa. It is suitable for forced air or heat pump systems. You trade the Nest’s learning algorithm for a programmable interface with a vibrant screen. This pick is better if you prefer manual scheduling with visual feedback over automated temperature adjustments.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium with SmartSensor
The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium includes a SmartSensor for room-specific temperature control, similar to the Nest’s optional sensor. However, this unit often bundles the sensor, whereas the Nest sells it separately. It offers robust voice integration and air quality tracking, features not highlighted in the Nest 3rd Gen’s core specs. It connects via Wi-Fi and supports Alexa. The device is compact and black. You gain advanced environmental monitoring and included sensors. You lose the Nest’s specific HVAC monitoring alerts and learning capabilities. This is ideal for users who prioritize air quality data and voice commands.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential
The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential is Energy Star certified and connects via Wi-Fi. It works with Alexa but lacks the advanced learning features of the Nest 3rd Gen. The unit is compact and white, with a smaller footprint than the Nest. It offers basic programmable scheduling rather than automated learning. You give up HVAC monitoring and Home/Away Assist in exchange for a certified efficient, lower-cost option. This pick suits users who want verified energy savings and basic smart connectivity without the complexity of learning algorithms or additional sensors.
Mysa Lite Smart Thermostat for Baseboard Heaters
The Mysa Lite supports both Alexa and Apple HomeKit, offering broader smart home compatibility than the Nest 3rd Gen, which is limited to Alexa. It is designed specifically for electric baseboard heaters, a niche the Nest does not target. The unit connects via Wi-Fi and is programmable. It lacks the Nest’s learning schedule and HVAC monitoring. This thermostat is for users with radiant heat systems who need reliable scheduling without monthly fees. You trade general HVAC versatility for specialized baseboard support and HomeKit integration.
Vine 2.8-Inch Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat
The Vine thermostat features a 2.8-inch screen and Wi-Fi connectivity. It is Energy Star certified and works with Alexa. Like the Honeywell RTH9600WF, it requires a C-wire. It offers basic smart scheduling and voice control but lacks the Nest’s learning capabilities and HVAC monitoring. The unit is compact and designed for standard systems. You give up automated scheduling and system alerts for a simpler, reliable device. This pick is for buyers who prioritize essential smart features and energy certification over advanced automation and detailed system diagnostics.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Google Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Gen
Best for: Alexa users wanting automated learning scheduling
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa
- Programmability
- Learning
- Sensor Support
- Nest Temperature Sensor
- Dimensions
- 8 × 6 × 8 inches
- Weight
- 1.55 pounds
View on Amazon: Google Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Gen Affiliate link
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Gen uses learning programmability to adjust to your schedule. It includes Home/Away Assist and HVAC monitoring for system health. You can control it via the app or check Energy History. It supports the Nest Temperature Sensor for room-specific accuracy. This stainless steel unit weighs 1.55 pounds and fits most smart homes with Alexa.
Pros
- Learning programmability adjusts to your habits automatically
- Home/Away Assist saves energy when you leave
- HVAC monitoring alerts you to system issues
- Compatible with Nest Temperature Sensor for precision
Cons
- Only supports Alexa for smart home integration
- Nest Temperature Sensor is sold separately
- No mention of Google Assistant or Apple Home support
Good fit if
- You want a thermostat that learns your schedule
- You use Alexa for smart home control
- You want HVAC system health monitoring
Skip if
- You need compatibility with Google Assistant or Apple Home
- You want a sensor included in the box
- You prefer a manual programmable thermostat without learning features
Verdict: The Google Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Gen suits users who want automated scheduling and system monitoring with Alexa. It is not ideal for those needing multi-platform smart home support or included remote sensors.
Honeywell Home X8S Thermostat with Room Sensor
Best for: Conventional HVAC systems needing Matter support
- System Compatibility
- 3H/2C heat pump, 2H/2C conventional
- Wiring Requirement
- C-wire required
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Matter, Alexa, Google, Apple Home
- Connectivity
- 2.4 or 5.0 GHz WiFi
- Display Type
- 5" display
- Sensor Support
- Room sensor, occupancy, humidity
View on Amazon: Honeywell Home X8S Thermostat with Room Sensor Affiliate link
The Honeywell Home X8S is a programmable Wi-Fi thermostat featuring a 5-inch customizable touchscreen. It supports Matter, Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Assistant. The unit includes a wireless room sensor for targeted comfort and detects occupancy to adjust settings. It works with 2.4 or 5.0 GHz networks and requires a C-wire. This model allows video doorbell access and controls humidity and ventilation for better air quality.
Pros
- 5-inch customizable touchscreen display
- Matter certified for broad smart home compatibility
- Includes wireless room sensor for targeted comfort
- Supports video doorbell intercom access
- ENERGY STAR certified for energy efficiency
Cons
- Does not work with electric baseboard heat
- Requires a C-wire for installation
- Video doorbell integration requires compatible devices not included
Good fit if
- You want a large, customizable display for easy reading
- You need Matter support for seamless smart home integration
- You have a conventional HVAC system with a C-wire
Skip if
- You heat with electric baseboard radiators
- Your system lacks a C-wire and you cannot install one
- You prefer a thermostat without a screen
Verdict: Honeywell Home X8S 5" Smart Thermostat with Sensor suits homeowners with conventional HVAC systems who value a large display and Matter compatibility. It is ideal for those seeking integrated doorbell features and precise zone control via the included sensor.
Honeywell Home Smart Color Touchscreen Thermostat
Best for: homes with forced air or heat pumps
- System Compatibility
- Forced air, hot water, steam, heat pumps
- Wiring Requirement
- C-wire required
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Assistant, Cortana
- Display Type
- Color touchscreen
- Sensor Support
- Humidity
- Certification
- Energy Star Certified
View on Amazon: Honeywell Home Smart Color Touchscreen Thermostat Affiliate link
The Honeywell Home RTH9600WF is a Wi-Fi enabled smart thermostat featuring a customizable color touchscreen. It tracks indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity, displaying daily weather forecasts on the home screen. This Energy Star certified device supports flexible programming and integrates with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft Cortana. It suits users with forced air, hot water, steam, or heat pump systems who want visual comfort data and remote control capabilities.
Pros
- Customizable high-definition color touchscreen display
- Displays indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Cortana
- Energy Star certified for energy tracking
Cons
- Requires a C-wire for power
- Does not work with electric baseboard heat
- No mention of Apple HomeKit support
Good fit if
- You have forced air or heat pump systems
- You want to see humidity and weather data on the screen
- You use Alexa or Google Assistant for smart home control
Skip if
- You have electric baseboard heaters
- You cannot install a C-wire
- You prefer a non-touchscreen interface
Verdict: Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Thermostat fits homes with forced air or heat pumps that need detailed climate data on a color screen. It is a practical option for users already invested in the Alexa or Google Assistant ecosystems.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium with SmartSensor
Best for: Users wanting voice control and air quality tracking
- System Compatibility
- 95% of HVAC systems
- Wiring Requirement
- Power Extender Kit (PEK) / C-wire
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Siri, Google Home
- Sensor Support
- SmartSensor, air quality, occupancy
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi
- Dimensions
- 1.02 × 4.09 × 4.09 inches
View on Amazon: Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium with SmartSensor Affiliate link
The ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is a Wi-Fi device with Siri and Alexa built-in. It includes a SmartSensor to manage room-specific comfort and an air quality monitor for alerts. The unit features a large display and metal finish. It supports 95% of HVAC systems and includes a Power Extender Kit for C-wire-free homes. This model suits users wanting voice control and detailed environmental tracking.
Pros
- Siri and Alexa built-in for voice control
- Includes SmartSensor for room-by-room temperature management
- Built-in air quality monitor with filter change reminders
- Power Extender Kit included for homes without C-wire
Cons
- Requires Apple home hub for Siri functionality
- No mention of Google Assistant support in data
- Smart Security features require a subscription
Good fit if
- You want voice control via Siri or Alexa without extra devices
- You have hot or cold spots in specific rooms
- You need air quality monitoring and alerts
Skip if
- You rely exclusively on Google Assistant for smart home control
- You prefer a thermostat without a built-in speaker
- You want to avoid subscription fees for advanced security features
Verdict: The ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium offers robust voice integration and environmental monitoring for users who value detailed home comfort data. It fits those with complex HVAC needs or specific voice assistant preferences, particularly Apple or Amazon users.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential
Best for: Energy Star certified Alexa integration
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant
- Programmability
- Programmable
- Certification
- Energy Star Certified
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi
- Dimensions
- 0.91 × 3.62 × 3.62 inches
- Weight
- 3.2 ounces
View on Amazon: Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential Affiliate link
The ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential is a white, programmable Wi-Fi unit designed for energy efficiency. It measures 3.62 inches square and weighs 3.2 ounces. The device carries Energy Star certification and integrates with Alexa. You get a compact, wall-mounted control that connects to your home network. It suits users who want certified efficiency and smart home compatibility without extra bulk.
Pros
- Energy Star certified for verified efficiency
- Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control
- Works with Alexa smart home ecosystem
- Programmable scheduling for automated comfort
- Compact 3.62-inch square form factor
Cons
- No mention of built-in room sensors
- No mention of Apple HomeKit support
- Basic programmable interface lacks advanced automation
Good fit if
- You want Energy Star certified efficiency
- You use Alexa for smart home control
- You prefer a compact wall-mounted design
Skip if
- You need built-in occupancy sensors
- You require Apple HomeKit compatibility
- You want advanced automation features
Verdict: ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential offers certified efficiency and Alexa integration in a compact design. It fits users who prioritize verified energy savings and basic smart home connectivity.
Mysa Lite Smart Thermostat for Baseboard Heaters
Best for: Electric baseboard heating systems
- System Compatibility
- Electric baseboard, fan-forced, wall
- Voltage
- 120V or 240V
- Wiring Requirement
- 4 wires
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home
- Programmability
- 7-day scheduling
- Connectivity
- 2.4 GHz WiFi
View on Amazon: Mysa Lite Smart Thermostat for Baseboard Heaters Affiliate link
The Mysa LITE handles 120V or 240V electric baseboard heaters with 7-day scheduling and 2.4 GHz WiFi. It requires four wires, including a neutral, so it will not work on two-wire switch loops or 24V systems. The free app offers remote control, geofencing, and voice support for Alexa and Apple HomeKit. It suits homes with line-voltage radiant heat.
Pros
- Supports 120V and 240V line voltage
- No subscription required for app features
- Compatible with Alexa and Apple HomeKit
- Includes 5-year limited warranty
Cons
- Requires four wires including a neutral
- Incompatible with 24V furnaces
- No support for central heat pumps
Good fit if
- You have electric baseboard or fan-forced heaters
- You want a free app with geofencing
- You have a compatible 4-wire setup
Skip if
- You have a 24V central heating system
- Your thermostat box only has two wires
- You need a central heat pump thermostat
Verdict: Mysa LITE Electric Baseboard Thermostat fits users with line-voltage radiant heat who need reliable scheduling without a monthly fee.
Vine 2.8-Inch Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat
Best for: Basic smart scheduling with voice control
- System Compatibility
- Conventional 2H/2C, heat pump 2H/2C
- Voltage
- 24V AC
- Wiring Requirement
- C-wire required
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home
- Programmability
- 7-day x 8-period
- Certification
- Energy Star Certified
View on Amazon: Vine 2.8-Inch Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat Affiliate link
The Vine thermostat is a 24V AC unit with a 2.8-inch screen. It supports 7-day, 8-period programming and works with Alexa and Google Home. You need a C-wire for installation. It fits conventional 2H/2C and heat pump systems. The Energy Star certification suggests efficiency. This model suits users wanting basic smart scheduling and app control without complex automation features.
Pros
- 7-day, 8-period programmable scheduling
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home
- Energy Star Certified
- Supports 2H/2C conventional and heat pump systems
Cons
- Requires a C-wire for power
- 2.8-inch screen is smaller than premium competitors
- No mention of learning algorithms or geofencing
Good fit if
- You have a standard 24V AC system with a C-wire
- You want basic voice control via Alexa or Google
- You prefer a simple 7-day programming schedule
Skip if
- You do not have a C-wire installed
- You need a heat pump with more than 2 stages
- You want automatic learning or geofencing features
Verdict: Vine WiFi Thermostat 2.8" Screen offers reliable basic scheduling and voice control for standard systems. It fits buyers who prioritize essential smart features over advanced automation or larger displays.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Google Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Gen | Honeywell Home X8S Thermostat with Room Sensor | Honeywell Home Smart Color Touchscreen Thermostat | Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium with SmartSensor | Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential | Mysa Lite Smart Thermostat for Baseboard Heaters | Vine 2.8-Inch Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| System Compatibility | not stated | 3H/2C heat pump, 2H/2C conventional | Forced air, hot water, steam, heat pumps | 95% of HVAC systems | not stated | Electric baseboard, fan-forced, wall | Conventional 2H/2C, heat pump 2H/2C |
| Voltage | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 120V or 240V | 24V AC |
| Wiring Requirement | not stated | C-wire required | C-wire required | Power Extender Kit (PEK) / C-wire | not stated | 4 wires | C-wire required |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa | Matter, Alexa, Google, Apple Home | Alexa, Google Assistant, Cortana | Alexa, Siri, Google Home | Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant | Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home | Alexa, Google Home |
| Programmability | Learning | not stated | not stated | not stated | Programmable | 7-day scheduling | 7-day x 8-period |
| Connectivity | not stated | 2.4 or 5.0 GHz WiFi | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2.4 GHz WiFi | not stated |
| Display Type | not stated | 5" display | Color touchscreen | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Sensor Support | Nest Temperature Sensor | Room sensor, occupancy, humidity | Humidity | SmartSensor, air quality, occupancy | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Certification | not stated | not stated | Energy Star Certified | not stated | Energy Star Certified | not stated | Energy Star Certified |
| Dimensions | 8 × 6 × 8 inches | 0.96 × 5.24 × 3.54 inches | 4.5 × 0.88 × 3.5 inches | 1.02 × 4.09 × 4.09 inches | 0.91 × 3.62 × 3.62 inches | 2.48 × 4.65 × 6.02 inches | 0.98 × 3.54 × 3.54 inches |
| Weight | 1.55 pounds | 1.1 pounds | 1.4 pounds | 1.32 pounds | 3.2 ounces | not stated | not stated |
| Color | Stainless Steel | White | White 1 | Black | White | White | not stated |
| Model | Thermostat 3rd Gen | X8VMC9W/W | RTH9600WF2022 | EB-STATE6-01 | not stated | BB V2-0-L | B0FFBC4MV4 |
| Size | not stated | 5 inch | 1 (Pack of 2) | 2.9 x 4.09 x 4.09 inches | not stated | 2025 | Screen 2.8" |
Frequently asked questions
Which Google Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd alternative works best with Apple HomeKit?
The Mysa Lite Smart Thermostat is the top choice for Apple HomeKit users. It supports both Alexa and Apple HomeKit ecosystems. This device is specifically designed for electric baseboard heating systems. It allows for programmable scheduling without requiring a monthly subscription fee. Its white finish blends well with standard home decor while providing reliable line-voltage radiant heat control.
Does any alternative include a remote room sensor?
Yes, the Honeywell Home X8S Thermostat comes with an included room sensor. This sensor enables precise zone control by measuring temperature in specific areas. The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium also offers smart sensor capabilities for comprehensive home comfort data. These features help balance temperatures across different rooms, addressing the Nest 3rd Gen requirement to purchase sensors separately.
Which thermostat is best for conventional HVAC systems needing Matter support?
The Honeywell Home X8S Thermostat is the best option for Matter compatibility. It features a 5-inch touchscreen display and supports Matter connectivity. This makes it ideal for homeowners with conventional HVAC systems who want future-proof integration. The large display provides clear visibility, and the included room sensor enhances its zone control capabilities for more accurate heating and cooling.
Are there energy-efficient options certified by Energy Star?
Several alternatives hold Energy Star certification, including the Honeywell Home X8S, the Honeywell Home RTH9600WF, and the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential. These models are designed to help you track and reduce energy usage. The Essential model specifically prioritizes verified energy savings in a compact design. Choosing a certified unit ensures you meet recognized efficiency standards for your home.
Which thermostat is suitable for homes with forced air or heat pumps?
The Honeywell Home Smart Color Touchscreen Thermostat fits homes with forced air or heat pumps. It provides detailed climate data on a color screen. This model requires a C-Wire for installation and connects via Wi-Fi. It is a practical choice for users already invested in the Alexa or Google Assistant ecosystems, offering reliable programmable control for these specific HVAC types.
What is the most budget-friendly option with voice control?
The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is positioned as the best budget choice for voice control. It offers robust voice integration and environmental monitoring. This model fits users who value detailed home comfort data and have complex HVAC needs. It works well with Apple or Amazon users, providing advanced features like air quality tracking without a high upfront cost relative to its feature set.
Which thermostat is best for basic smart scheduling without advanced automation?
The Vine 2.8-Inch Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat is ideal for basic smart scheduling. It offers reliable voice control and essential features for standard systems. This model prioritizes core functionality over advanced automation or larger displays. It requires a C-Wire and connects via Wi-Fi. Buyers who need straightforward programmable control and Alexa compatibility will find this a practical, no-frills solution.