(checked 2026-10-10)
Wirecutter's and CNET's top pick and PCMag's Best Overall (4.5/5). Its included room sensor and humidity-aware Eco+ mode kept Wirecutter's test home the most evenly comfortable. It's expensive, though, advanced settings need a web browser, and Wirecutter found ecobee's phone support poor. About 1 in 8 Amazon ratings are 1 or 2 stars.
Subscription: Optional: Smart Security plan from $5/mo for camera storage and alerts (PCMag); not needed for thermostat features
Top complaints
- Expensive, with paid security extras
PCMag lists 'pricey' and 'some features require a subscription' as cons; its review says the Smart Security plan starts at $5 a month. CNET calls it 'very expensive'. On Amazon, value for money is mixed, and some owners call it a costly disappointment.
- Doesn't always hold the set temperature
Amazon's review summary says some owners report it doesn't reach the set temperature and some see connectivity problems with smart-home systems. Wirecutter says it first changed temperatures too drastically to save energy, so its heat pump ran almost nonstop until it was fine-tuned by hand.
- Weak customer support; setup is not the simplest
A Wirecutter editor waited 30 minutes on hold, never got the promised callback, and had the case closed with no solution. Wirecutter also says it isn't the easiest model to set up and advanced settings need a web browser. Most homes need a C wire; a power adapter kit for homes without one is included.
Source: Wirecutter, PCMag review
What owners love
- Most consistently comfortable in testing
Wirecutter says it kept its three-level test home more consistently comfortable than any other model, helped by Eco+, which uses indoor humidity to heat or cool a little less.
Source: Wirecutter - Best room sensor included
The included SmartSensor detects temperature and presence, so the room you're in can be prioritized. Wirecutter calls it the best remote sensor it has tested, and PCMag notes support for up to 32 sensors.
Source: Wirecutter, PCMag review - Works with every major platform
PCMag lists Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, IFTTT and SmartThings support, plus a built-in Alexa speaker and air-quality monitor. Wirecutter says Siri and AirPlay also work through the speaker.
Source: PCMag best picks, Wirecutter
- You want the cheapest way to get app control
- You want to set it and forget it without fine-tuning
- You don't want a microphone on your wall (it can be turned off)
- Homes with hot or cold rooms (presence-sensing room sensor included)
- People who want Alexa or Siri built into the thermostat
- Mixed Apple, Google and Alexa smart homes
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Top pick (updated 2026-01-20): the best performer at keeping the whole house comfortable, with the best remote sensor and a best-in-class privacy policy. The flaws are a complex setup for power users, intrusive Alexa notifications by default, and poor customer support.
- PCMag: Best Overall, 4.5 Outstanding (list re-checked 2026-09-22). It's pricey and some features need a subscription.
- CNET: Best overall (8.3/10): learning and vacation modes, reliable air-quality monitoring and an included sensor, but very expensive.