Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th vs Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th (2026): Key Differences
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You are comparing the google nest learning thermostat 4th vs nest learning thermostat 4th. Both units are Google Nest Learning Thermostats from the 4th generation. They share core features like learning capabilities, a 60% larger display, and included temperature sensors. The main difference lies in their smart home integrations and specific finish options. One model supports Apple HomeKit via Siri, while the other lists only Alexa and Google Home. Both handle 24V systems without a C wire in most homes.
Key differences
| Aspect | Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) with Sensor | Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen with Sensor |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, Matter | Alexa, Google Home |
| Display Type | Borderless display with Dynamic Farsight | Borderless display with Dynamic Farsight |
| Color Options | Polished Gold, Polished Obsidian, Polished Silver | Polished Obsidian |
| Wiring Requirement | No C wire required in most homes | No C-wire required in most homes |
| Programmability | Learning | Learning |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) with Sensor if
- You use Apple HomeKit or Siri for voice control
- You want Matter compatibility for broader smart home integration
- You prefer a choice between Gold, Obsidian, or Silver finishes
Choose Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen with Sensor if
- You primarily use Alexa or Google Assistant
- You want a simpler setup with standard smart home assistants
- You prefer the Polished Obsidian finish
Verdict: Choose the first option if you need Apple HomeKit support or Matter connectivity. The second option is suitable if you only use Alexa or Google Home and want a straightforward setup. Both thermostats offer identical learning features and display quality.
Nest 4th Gen vs 4th Gen Comparison
smart home compatibility
Product A, the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen, 2024) with Sensor, lists compatibility with Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, and Matter. Product B, the Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen with Sensor, lists compatibility with Alexa and Google Home only. The inclusion of Apple HomeKit support via Siri and Matter support in Product A provides broader integration options for users with diverse smart home ecosystems. Product B lacks explicit mention of Siri or Matter support in its provided specifications.
energy savings claims
Product A states it can help save up to 31% on heating and cooling bills. Product B cites average savings of 12% on heating bills and 15% on cooling bills. Product A presents a higher maximum potential savings figure, which may appeal to users prioritizing significant energy reduction. Product B provides specific average percentages for heating and cooling separately. Both products reference energy efficiency as a core benefit, but the stated metrics differ in scope and magnitude.
display design
Both products feature a 60% larger display and Dynamic Farsight for visibility across the room. Product A describes it as a display that automatically adjusts brightness or allows manual adjustment. Product B specifies a borderless display design and notes automatic brightness adjustment with manual override options. Both units offer similar visual capabilities and readability features. The data does not indicate a functional difference in display performance or user control between the two models.
system compatibility
Product A works with most 24V systems, including gas, electric, oil, forced air, heat pump, and radiant. It notes no C wire is required in most homes. Product B also works with most 24V systems, including gas, electric, forced air, heat pump, and radiant. It similarly states no C-wire is required in most homes. Both products support a wide range of heating and cooling systems. The wiring requirement and system types listed are effectively identical in the provided data.
programmability
Both Product A and Product B are described as having learning programmability. Product A mentions it learns how outside temperatures affect inside temperatures for natural heating and cooling. Product B also highlights natural heating and cooling that learns outside temperature impacts. Both units pause systems to save energy based on these learned patterns. The core learning functionality and approach to temperature management are the same for both models.
included sensor
Product A comes with the Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen) and works with any Nest Temperature Sensor. Product B comes with the Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen) and works with any Nest Temperature Sensor. Both units include the same sensor generation and support expansion with additional sensors. This allows you to manage hot and cold spots in different rooms using the Google Home app for both products. There is no difference in sensor inclusion or compatibility.
Choose your Nest thermostat based on smart home needs
Users with Apple HomeKit or Matter devices
This model supports Siri and Matter, allowing integration with Apple HomeKit and other Matter-compatible hubs. Product B only lists Alexa and Google Home. If you rely on Apple ecosystems or want broader Matter support, this version ensures your thermostat connects seamlessly with your existing smart home setup without compatibility gaps.
Buyers wanting explicit energy savings data
This version specifies average savings of 12% on heating and 15% on cooling bills. The other model cites up to 31% savings. If you prefer concrete, specific percentages for your budgeting, this listing provides those distinct figures. Both units share the same learning engine and sensor support for managing hot and cold spots.
Shoppers preferring polished gold finish
This unit comes in Polished Gold, offering a warmer aesthetic option. The other model is listed in Polished Obsidian. If you prefer gold accents in your home decor, this specific colorway is available here. Both thermostats share the same 60% larger borderless display, Dynamic Farsight, and weight, so the choice rests on your visual preference.
The products compared
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) with Sensor
Best for: Users wanting sensor-based zone control and Matter support
- System Compatibility
- 24V; gas, electric, oil, heat pump
- Voltage
- 24V
- Wiring Requirement
- no C wire required in most homes
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, Matter
- Programmability
- Learning
- Sensor Support
- Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen)
View on Amazon: Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) with Sensor Affiliate link
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) is a 24V smart thermostat designed for energy efficiency. It features a 60% larger display with Dynamic Farsight and includes a Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen) to manage room-specific comfort. The device learns your schedule and supports Matter, Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant. It requires no C wire in most homes. This model suits users seeking advanced learning capabilities and precise temperature control across multiple zones.
Pros
- Includes Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen) for zone management
- 60% larger display with Dynamic Farsight for remote visibility
- Matter compatible for unified smart home integration
- No C wire required in most installations
- Learns habits and pauses system for natural heating/cooling
Cons
- Requires Google Home app for full management
- Learning programming may not suit rigid manual schedulers
- Higher complexity compared to basic programmable thermostats
Good fit if
- You want to manage hot and cold spots with sensors
- You prefer a thermostat that learns your schedule
- You use Matter-enabled smart home devices
Skip if
- You need a thermostat with a physical remote control
- You require a simple non-learning programmable device
- You cannot install a 24V system
Verdict: Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen is a strong choice for users who want precise, sensor-driven comfort and seamless Matter integration. It fits those who value automated energy savings and advanced scheduling over manual control.
Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen with Sensor
Best for: homes needing room-level temp control
- System Compatibility
- Most 24V gas, electric, heat pump
- Voltage
- 24V
- Wiring Requirement
- No C-wire required in most homes
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home
- Programmability
- Learning
- Display Type
- Borderless display
View on Amazon: Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen with Sensor Affiliate link
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) is a 24V smart thermostat with a 60% larger borderless display and Dynamic Farsight. It includes a Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd Gen) to manage hot and cold spots. The unit learns your schedule and uses natural heating and cooling to pause the system. It requires no C-wire in most homes and works with Alexa and Google Home.
Pros
- Includes Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd Gen)
- 60% larger borderless display with Dynamic Farsight
- No C-wire required in most homes
- Learns schedule and uses natural heating/cooling
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home
Cons
- Only supports Alexa and Google Home ecosystems
- No mention of Apple HomeKit compatibility
- Learning model may not suit users who prefer manual scheduling
Good fit if
- You want to manage hot and cold spots with an included sensor
- You prefer a large, readable display from across the room
- Your home likely does not have a C-wire
Skip if
- You rely on Apple HomeKit for smart home control
- You need a thermostat with a built-in humidity sensor
- You prefer a compact device with a smaller footprint
Verdict: Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen is a strong choice for users in Google or Alexa ecosystems who want precise room-level control via the included sensor. It suits those who value a large display and automated energy savings without a C-wire.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) with Sensor | Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen with Sensor |
|---|---|---|
| System Compatibility | 24V; gas, electric, oil, heat pump | Most 24V gas, electric, heat pump |
| Voltage | 24V | 24V |
| Wiring Requirement | no C wire required in most homes | No C-wire required in most homes |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, Matter | Alexa, Google Home |
| Programmability | Learning | Learning |
| Display Type | not stated | Borderless display |
| Sensor Support | Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen) | Nest Temperature Sensor |
| Width | 0.15 inches | 0.15 inches |
| Height | 0.15 inches | 0.15 inches |
| Weight | 5.71 ounces | 5.71 ounces |
| Size | One Size | One Size |
| Color | Polished Gold | Polished Obsidian |
| Model | CE911542 | 4th Gen |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen different from the standard 4th Gen?
They are the same 4th-generation device but differ in smart home support. The model with ASIN B01HHQZHRK supports Apple HomeKit and Matter. The other version only lists compatibility with Alexa and Google Home. Both include a temperature sensor and share identical physical dimensions and weight.
Which Nest thermostat works with Apple HomeKit?
Only the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) with Sensor, model CE911542, supports Apple HomeKit. It also features Matter support for broader compatibility. The Polished Obsidian version does not list Apple HomeKit in its attributes, limiting it to Alexa and Google Home ecosystems.
Do both models include a remote temperature sensor?
Yes, both units come with an included temperature sensor. This allows for room-level temperature control rather than relying solely on the thermostat location. Both devices share the same weight of 5.71 ounces and identical width and height specifications, ensuring consistent installation requirements.
What is the difference between Polished Gold and Polished Obsidian?
The finish color is the only visual difference. The Polished Gold version supports Apple HomeKit and Matter. The Polished Obsidian version does not list these protocols. Both share the same model generation, physical size, and included sensor technology for accurate temperature reading.
Can I use the Polished Obsidian model with Siri?
No, the Polished Obsidian model does not list Siri compatibility. It only supports Alexa and Google Home. If you need Siri integration, you must choose the Polished Gold version, which explicitly lists Apple HomeKit support alongside Matter capabilities for seamless control.
Are the physical dimensions different between the two versions?
No, the physical dimensions are identical. Both thermostats measure 0.15 inches in width and height. They also weigh the same at 5.71 ounces. The only variations are the color finish and the specific smart home protocols supported by each model.
Which model is better for Matter ecosystem users?
The Polished Gold model is better for Matter users. It explicitly lists Matter support in its attributes. The Polished Obsidian version does not mention Matter compatibility. Both models offer learning capabilities and sensor-based control, but only one integrates directly with Matter hubs.