Is the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) worth it?
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) is worth considering with a 7.4/10 consensus score. Experts highlight wires to a 2-stage heat pump with aux and emergency heat and self-installs in about 30 minutes, the easiest setup of any pick here. and heat pump balance lets you bias the system toward comfort or savings, and the farsight display and auto-scheduling are still the most polished in the category.. Best for: Geo owners who prioritize ease of use over fine aux control, Households already invested in the Google Home ecosystem.
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Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen)
Climate Control
Expert consensus
How we scoreKey Features
- ✓ 2-stage heat-pump support with aux and emergency heat wiring
- ✓ Heat Pump Balance comfort-versus-savings bias control
- ✓ Built-in compressor short-cycle lockout
- ✓ Auto-scheduling, Farsight display, and Home/Away Assist
- ✓ Stainless steel display with Alexa and Google Home control
- ✓ ~30-minute DIY install
Best For
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) vs. the alternatives
How the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) stacks up against other Climate options on price, expert consensus, and ecosystem support.
| Product | Price | Consensus | Works With | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen)This page | — | 7.4/10 | Google Home, Amazon Alexa | Good Value |
| Dyson Purifier Cool TP07 | — | 9.1/10 | Amazon Alexa | Must Buy |
| Dreo Pilot Pro S | $99.98 | 8.9/10 | Google Home, Amazon Alexa | Must Buy |
| Levoit Smart 42-Inch Tower Fan | $129.99 | 8.6/10 | Amazon Alexa | Recommended |
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) earns a 7.4/10 expert consensus, versus the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium at $259.99 list (8.8/10 consensus). It works with Google Home, Amazon Alexa.
What Experts Agree On
What Experts Love
- ✓ Wires to a 2-stage heat pump with aux and emergency heat and self-installs in about 30 minutes, the easiest setup of any pick here.
- ✓ Heat Pump Balance lets you bias the system toward comfort or savings, and the Farsight display and auto-scheduling are still the most polished in the category.
- ✓ Built-in compressor lockout protects against rapid cycling, and the stainless display works with Alexa and Google Home for voice control.
- ✓ At about $220 it is widely available and the most recognizable smart thermostat, with strong resale and ecosystem support.
Common Criticisms
- ✗ Its setback-and-learning philosophy actively fights geothermal: HVAC pros widely report it triggers expensive resistive aux heat on geo systems that run best with no setback, wiping out efficiency savings.
- ✗ Aux engagement is tuned more by Nest's algorithm than by a clean outdoor-temperature lockout, so geo owners lose the fine aux-control granularity the Sensi, ecobee, and Honeywell stats give them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) worth it?
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) earns a 7.4/10 consensus score and is rated "Good Value". It is best for Geo owners who prioritize ease of use over fine aux control. It ranks among the top picks in its category.
How much does the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) cost?
We do not have a verified current price for the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen). It earns a 7.4/10 consensus score with a "Good Value" rating, which is a premium ask relative to the ~7.5/10 average for Climate products. Check the live figure at the retailer before buying.
Who is the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) best for?
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) is best for Geo owners who prioritize ease of use over fine aux control, Households already invested in the Google Home ecosystem. Experts rate it "Good Value" with a 7.4/10 consensus.
How does the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) compare to other Climate options?
Among the Climate products we have aggregated, the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) ranks below average with a 7.4/10 score. See our full category comparison for head-to-head details.
What smart home systems does the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) work with?
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) works with Google Home, Amazon Alexa. Check the compatibility notes above for any hub dependencies or setup requirements before you buy.
What are the best alternatives to the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen)?
If the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) (, 7.4/10) is not the right fit, the closest alternatives in Climate are Emerson Sensi Touch 2 (ST76), Honeywell Home T6 Pro Smart (TH6320WF2003). Compare them on price, ecosystem support, and expert consensus to find your match.
What are the pros and cons of the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen)?
The main strengths of the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) are wires to a 2-stage heat pump with aux and emergency heat and self-installs in about 30 minutes, the easiest setup of any pick here. and heat pump balance lets you bias the system toward comfort or savings, and the farsight display and auto-scheduling are still the most polished in the category.. The most-cited downside is its setback-and-learning philosophy actively fights geothermal: hvac pros widely report it triggers expensive resistive aux heat on geo systems that run best with no setback, wiping out efficiency savings.. Overall, experts rate it "Good Value" with a 7.4/10 consensus score.
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Sources & Methodology
Consensus score based on available data. See how we build consensus scores.
Affiliate disclosure: SmartHomeExplorer.com participates in the Amazon Associates program. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.This is a consensus review — we did not test this product ourselves. Always verify current prices and availability before purchasing.
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