WI
“Still the best smart thermostat for most people”
Is the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) worth it?
The Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) ($214.89) is a top pick with a 8.8/10 consensus score across 17 expert reviews. Experts highlight learns your schedule automatically and beautiful design and display. Wirecutter says: "Still the best smart thermostat for most people" Best for: Energy savers, Hands-off users, Google Home users.
Must Buy17 Expert Reviews
Price Range
Check Price on Amazon →$214.89
Verified 15d ago
Affiliate link — we earn a commission at no extra cost to you
Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen)
NM
Nicholas Miles · Editor-in-Chief & Methodology Owner
Climate
SHE ScoreAbove Average
SmartHomeExplorer proprietary rating
6.1/10
17 expert sources
Compatibility Breadth3.1/10
Setup Ease5.9/10
Reliability8.2/10
Value Rating8.5/10
Future-Proofing5/10
The Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) earns a SHE Score of 6.1/10, driven by strong value (8.5/10) with room to improve in compatibility breadth (3.1/10). Based on 17 expert sources and SmartHomeExplorer compatibility analysis.
How we calculate the SHE Score →Expert Consensus: 8.8/10 across 17 sources
Updated 6 days ago“Still the best smart thermostat for most people”
Key Features
- ✓ Auto-scheduling
- ✓ Eco mode
- ✓ HVAC monitoring
- ✓ Remote sensors
Best For
Energy saversHands-off usersGoogle Home users
What Experts Agree On
What Experts Love
- ✓ Learns your schedule automatically
- ✓ Beautiful design and display
- ✓ Excellent energy savings
- ✓ Remote sensor support
- ✓ Works with most HVAC systems
- ✓ Proven track record
Common Criticisms
- ✗ Expensive
- ✗ Learning takes time
- ✗ Requires C-wire for some systems
- ✗ Google account required
Tap any pick to check its live price on Amazon.
eufy X10 Pro Omni
$429.99RecommendedView on Amazon
Level Bolt Smart Lock
$159-$199RecommendedView on Amazon
eufy Security eufyCam S3 Pro 2-Cam Kit
$429.99Must BuyView on Amazon
Amazon eero Max 7 Mesh WiFi System (2-Pack)
$799.99Must BuyView on Amazon
iRobot Roomba Combo j5
$199.99RecommendedView on Amazon
Ring Battery Doorbell Plus
$179.99RecommendedView on Amazon
What The Experts Say
PC
“The learning algorithm actually works and saves money”
CN
“Premium price but delivers on the promise of effortless efficiency”
Ready to buy the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen)?
Check Price on Amazon$214.89 · 17 expert sources · 8.8/10 consensus
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) worth it?
The Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) earns a 8.8/10 consensus score across 17 expert sources and is rated "Must Buy". At $214.89, it is best for Energy savers. Wirecutter notes: "Still the best smart thermostat for most people"
How much does the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) cost?
The Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) is priced at $214.89. With a 8.8/10 score from 17 expert reviews and a "Must Buy" rating, that price represents strong value relative to the ~7.5/10 average for Climate products. Prices shift often, so check the live figure before buying.
Who is the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) best for?
The Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) is best for Energy savers, Hands-off users, Google Home users. Experts rate it "Must Buy" with a 8.8/10 consensus across 17 sources.
How does the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) compare to other Climate options?
Among the Climate products we have aggregated, the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) ranks above average with a 8.8/10 score. PCMag adds: "The learning algorithm actually works and saves money"
What smart home systems does the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) work with?
The Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) works with major smart home platforms. Check the compatibility notes above for any hub dependencies or setup requirements before you buy.
What are the best alternatives to the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen)?
If the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) ($214.89, 8.8/10) is not the right fit, the closest alternatives in Climate are Ecobee SmartThermostat, Honeywell T9, Amazon Smart Thermostat. Compare them on price, ecosystem support, and expert consensus to find your match.
What are the pros and cons of the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen)?
The main strengths of the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen) are learns your schedule automatically and beautiful design and display. The most-cited downside is expensive. Overall, 17 expert sources rate it "Must Buy" with a 8.8/10 consensus score.
Sources & Methodology
This review aggregates 17 independent expert reviews into a single consensus score. See how we build consensus scores and the SHE Score methodology.
Expert review sources cited on this page:
Affiliate disclosure: SmartHomeExplorer.com participates in the Amazon Associates program. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. This consensus review is based on 17 independent expert reviews — we did not test this product ourselves. Always verify current prices and availability before purchasing.