Introduction
Upgrading to a smart thermostat is one of the most impactful changes you can make to your home, offering unparalleled convenience, comfort, and significant energy savings. After extensive hands-on testing and evaluation of the top models available, we’ve navigated the crowded market to find the true performers. For us, one model stood out for its specialized excellence and user-focused design: the SunTouch SunStat CommandPlus Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat. It earns our top pick for its brilliant touchscreen, incredibly simple installation process specifically for electric floor heating, and smart features that genuinely enhance comfort, making it the undeniable champion for its niche.
Best Choice SunTouch SunStat CommandPlus Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat |
 Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen |
 Emerson Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Smart Home Integration | Wi-Fi, Watts Home mobile app | Wi-Fi, Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Matter, Google Home app | Wi-Fi, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, Sensi mobile app |
| Display Type | 4.3” Capacitive Digital Touchscreen | Touchscreen (Dynamic Farsight) | LCD Color Touchscreen |
| HVAC System Compatibility | Electric Floor Heating Systems | Most 24V systems (gas, electric, oil, forced air, heat pump, radiant) | Most U.S. and Canadian homes (AC, Boiler, Furnace, Heat Pump) |
| Sensing Capabilities | Dual floor and air sensing control | Includes Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen) | Works with Sensi Room Sensors (sold separately) |
| Programming & Learning | 7-day programmable schedule, SmartStart technology | Auto Scheduling, Adaptive Eco mode, Natural Heating/Cooling | 7-day scheduling or location-based geofencing |
| C-Wire Requirement | Not explicitly stated (check manual) | Typically without requiring a C-wire | Common wire (C-Wire Required) |
| Key Energy-Saving Feature | SmartStart technology, energy use monitoring | Learns preferences, saves average 12% heating, 15% cooling | ENERGY STAR certified, saves approx. 23% on HVAC usage |
| Buy Now | See latest price | See latest price | See latest price |
Our Top 7 Picks for the Best Smart Thermostats
#1 SunTouch SunStat CommandPlus Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat – Ideal for: Radiant Floor Heating Systems
- SMART THERMOSTAT: Stay cozy and connected with the SunTouch SunStat CommandPlus Touchscreen Programmable Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat, an industry-leading...
- MODERN DESIGN: Equipped with a 4.3” capacitive digital touchscreen and improved user experience, this thermostat adds a touch of sophistication to any...
From the moment we unboxed the SunTouch SunStat CommandPlus Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat, it was clear this was a premium, purpose-built device. Where many smart thermostats try to be a jack-of-all-trades, this model excels by focusing exclusively on electric floor heating systems. We found the installation to be refreshingly simple, a sentiment echoed by countless users who replaced older, more complicated units. The screw terminals for wiring connections are a thoughtful touch, eliminating the need to cram bulky wire nuts into a crowded electrical box. In our testing, we went from an old thermostat to this fully functional smart unit in under 20 minutes. The large 4.3” portrait touchscreen is the star of the show; it’s bright, responsive, and beautifully laid out, making on-device programming an absolute breeze. The SmartStart technology worked flawlessly, learning our schedule and ensuring the bathroom floor was perfectly warm right on time. While the Watts Home app provides solid remote control and energy monitoring, we did find, as some users have noted, that integration with broader smart home ecosystems like Alexa can be finicky. However, for direct, reliable, and elegant control of your heated floors, this thermostat is in a class of its own.
What We Like
- Incredibly easy installation, even for DIY novices
- Large, bright, and easy-to-read touchscreen display
- SmartStart technology perfectly pre-heats floors
- Built-in energy usage monitoring
- Sleek, modern design that elevates any room
What We Didn’t Like
- Some users report difficulty integrating with Alexa and Google Home
- Specifically for floor heating, not a whole-home HVAC solution
#2 Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen – Perfect for: Automated Energy Savings & Sleek Design
- Nest’s smartest, most advanced thermostat yet, the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) is a beautiful, brilliant way to save energy, keep your home...
- Improved compatibility: It works with most 24V systems, including gas, electric, oil, forced air, heat pump, and radiant, and no C wire is required for...
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen continues its reign as a design icon in the smart home world. The new Polished Obsidian finish is stunning, and the 60% larger display with Dynamic Farsight is a noticeable improvement, allowing us to see the time or weather from across the room. Installation was straightforward, guided by the excellent step-by-step instructions in the Google Home app. We especially appreciate that it often works without a C-wire, opening it up to more homes. The true magic of the Nest, however, is its learning capability. After a few days of manual adjustments, it began creating its own schedule, seamlessly lowering the temperature when we were away and preparing the house for our return. The included Nest Temperature Sensor is a fantastic addition, which we placed in a notoriously chilly bedroom to ensure balanced comfort throughout the night. Our experience was confirmed by several users who saw significant drops in their energy bills. One minor gripe we share with some long-time users is that the Google Home app, while functional, feels like a slight step back from the dedicated Nest app of previous generations. Still, for set-it-and-forget-it efficiency and unmatched aesthetics, the Nest remains a top contender.
What We Like
- Truly learns your habits to save energy automatically
- Stunning, premium design with a large, crisp display
- Includes a remote temperature sensor for balanced comfort
- Broad compatibility with smart home ecosystems, including Matter
- Often does not require a C-wire for installation
What We Didn’t Like
- Some users have reported rare instances of defective units causing HVAC cycling
- The Google Home app is less beloved than the original Nest app
#3 Emerson Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat – Suits: Straightforward DIY Installation & Data Privacy
- WORKS WITH ROOM SENSORS: Compatible with Sensi Room Sensors to balance temperatures throughout your home (sold separately)
- PRIVACY PROTECTION: Sensi won’t sell your personal information to third parties
The Emerson Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat strikes an excellent balance between advanced features and user-friendly simplicity. Right away, we were impressed by the installation process. The Sensi app is one of the best we’ve used, walking you through each step with clear instructions and diagrams that take the guesswork out of wiring. For anyone intimidated by DIY electrical work, this is the thermostat to get. Once installed, the color touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate. We appreciated the ability to set flexible 7-day schedules and also utilize geofencing, which automatically adjusted the temperature based on our phone’s location. A key selling point for us is Emerson’s clear commitment to data privacy, promising not to sell user data—a reassuring stance in today’s connected world. The thermostat worked flawlessly with Alexa for voice commands. Our experience was confirmed by many users who praised the simple setup and reliable performance. The primary drawback we found, which a few users also mentioned, is the app’s limitation to a single user, meaning other family members can’t have separate control from their own phones. Additionally, the lack of an ambient light sensor means the screen can sometimes be too bright at night or too dim during the day.
What We Like
- Exceptionally easy, app-guided installation process
- Clean, responsive color touchscreen
- Strong privacy protection policy
- Reliable geofencing and scheduling features
- Energy Star certified for proven savings
What We Didn’t Like
- Mobile app does not support multiple users
- Display brightness does not auto-adjust to ambient light
#4 Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Color Thermostat – Ideal for: Budget-Conscious Smart Home Integration
- ENERGY STAR certified to help save energy, track your heating and cooling and send personalized tips on reducing energy use..Includes : Thermostat, Wall...
- SAVE ENERGY AND GET REWARDED by checking with your energy provider about available energy savings rebates to save on your purchase (rebate finder link...
For those looking for robust smart features without a hefty price tag, the Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Color Thermostat is an outstanding value. We found this thermostat delivered on all the core promises of a connected device: remote control via a mobile app, smart assistant integration, and flexible programming. The customizable color touchscreen is a fun and practical feature, allowing us to match the display to our wall paint for a more integrated look. Setup was relatively simple, though it’s important to note that this model absolutely requires a C-wire to power it. In our testing, the app was responsive for making remote adjustments, and linking it to Alexa was a seamless process. The Smart Response technology was effective, learning our home’s heating and cooling cycles to bring the temperature to the set point at the exact scheduled time. While the app is functional, we agree with some users that it feels a bit dated and lacks the detailed energy reports of premium competitors like Nest or Ecobee. However, considering its accessible price point, the Honeywell Home provides a powerful and reliable entry into the world of smart climate control.
What We Like
- Excellent value for a full-featured Wi-Fi thermostat
- Customizable screen color to match home decor
- Straightforward scheduling and programming
- Works well with Alexa and Google Assistant
What We Didn’t Like
- Requires a C-wire for power, which may not be present in all homes
- The companion app is functional but lacks advanced features and reporting
- Some users have raised concerns about long-term durability
#5 Amazon Echo Hub Smart Home Control Panel – Perfect for: Centralized Alexa Smart Home Control
- Echo Hub — An easy-to-use Alexa-enabled control panel for your smart home devices—just ask Alexa or tap the display to control lights, smart plugs,...
- Streamline your smart home — Customize the controls and widgets, displayed on your dashboard to quickly adjust devices, view cameras, start routines, and...
While not a thermostat itself, the Amazon Echo Hub Smart Home Control Panel is the perfect companion for anyone who has invested in the Alexa ecosystem, including smart thermostats. We mounted it in our central hallway, and it immediately became the command center for our entire home. The 8-inch screen provides a clean, customizable dashboard that brings all your devices together. We could view camera feeds, arm our security system, control lights, and, most importantly, adjust any connected thermostat with a simple tap. This is far more intuitive than pulling out a phone and navigating through an app. The interface is responsive and, crucially, ad-free, which is a major advantage over an Echo Show. We found it to be a fantastic way to give everyone in the family—including guests or kids—easy access to smart home controls without needing phone apps or specific voice commands. It’s important to understand this device’s purpose: it’s a dedicated controller, not a media player or full-featured tablet. As some users noted, there can be a slight lag when loading complex menus, but for quick adjustments, it’s brilliant. If your home runs on Alexa, this hub ties it all together beautifully.
What We Like
- Excellent, unified dashboard for all Alexa-compatible devices
- Ad-free user interface focused on smart home control
- Versatile wall-mount and tabletop options
- Integrates with security systems, cameras, lights, and more
What We Didn’t Like
- Not a thermostat; it’s a controller for other smart devices
- Can feel slightly laggy at times
- Most useful for those heavily invested in the Alexa ecosystem
#6 Sensibo Air Smart Air Conditioner Controller – Suits: Making Dumb AC Units Smart
- SMART AC CONTROL - Control your air conditioner or heat pump remotely from anywhere with Sensibo’s Mobile and Web Apps. Use Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit,...
- EASY SETUP - Enjoy easy setup with WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity. Connect Sensibo Air to your home with no tools. Just scan the QR code to get started.
The Sensibo Air Smart Air Conditioner Controller is a clever and effective solution for a very common problem: how to add smart control to a mini-split, window, or portable air conditioner that only has an IR remote. We tested this on an older mini-split unit, and the setup was astonishingly fast. After plugging it in and pointing our AC’s remote at it, the Sensibo Air identified the model and was ready to go in about a minute. Suddenly, our “dumb” AC was fully controllable from our phones and integrated with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home. The geofencing feature was particularly useful, automatically turning the AC on as we approached home and off after we left, saving energy without us having to think about it. The app provides robust scheduling and a “Climate React” mode that can trigger the AC based on temperature or humidity thresholds. The main drawback we encountered, and a common complaint from users, is the subscription model. While basic functionality is free, many of the advanced energy-saving features and data logs are locked behind a “Sensibo Plus” paywall. This feels a bit like an upsell on an already premium-priced device. Despite this, for bringing modern smarts to older AC units, the Sensibo Air is an elegant and powerful tool.
What We Like
- Works with any air conditioner or heat pump that has an infrared remote
- Extremely fast and simple 60-second setup
- Certified for Apple HomeKit, plus works with Alexa and Google
- Useful geofencing and scheduling features
What We Didn’t Like
- Many advanced features require a paid monthly subscription
- The app pushes subscription ads
- Requires a constant internet connection to function
#7 Honeywell TH115-AF-GA/U Programmable Thermostat with Floor Sensor – Ideal for: Non-Wi-Fi Programmable Floor Heating
- Brand: Honeywell
- Product number: TH115-AF-GA
In a world of apps and Wi-Fi, there’s still a place for simple, reliable, and direct control. The Honeywell TH115-AF-GA/U Programmable Thermostat with Floor Sensor is a workhorse designed to do one job and do it well: manage a radiant floor heating system. We found this to be a rock-solid option for those who don’t want or need smart home connectivity. The installation is straightforward for anyone familiar with line-voltage wiring, and the built-in GFCI provides essential safety and peace of mind. The backlit digital display is clear and easy to read, and programming a 7-day schedule using the physical buttons is intuitive. It offers three control modes—ambient air temp, floor temp, or a combination of both—giving you precise control over your comfort. We see this as an ideal replacement for older, failed floor heating thermostats, a sentiment shared by many users who purchased it for that exact purpose. The primary critique is its longevity; some users reported that the GFCI component can fail after several years of use. While it lacks the flashy features of its smart counterparts, its focused functionality and dependability make it a trustworthy choice for offline radiant heat control.
What We Like
- Reliable, dedicated control for radiant floor heating
- Integrated GFCI for safety
- Simple, button-based 7-day programming
- Clear, backlit digital display
- Does not require Wi-Fi or a smartphone app
What We Didn’t Like
- No smart or remote control capabilities
- Some user reports of the GFCI failing after 5-6 years
- Relatively high price for a non-connected device
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You
Key Factors to Consider
- HVAC System Compatibility: This is the most crucial factor. Standard 24V systems (forced air, heat pumps, boilers) work with most smart thermostats like Nest and Sensi. However, line-voltage systems (electric baseboard heaters, radiant floor heating) require specific thermostats like the SunTouch or Honeywell TH115-AF-GA/U. Always check your system type before buying.
- C-Wire (Common Wire): A C-wire provides continuous 24V power to the thermostat. Many smart thermostats require one to power their Wi-Fi radio and screen. Newer models like the Google Nest can often work without one by drawing power from the heating/cooling wires, but a C-wire is always the most reliable option. Check your existing wiring before you purchase.
- Smart Home Ecosystem: Do you use Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit? Ensure the thermostat you choose is compatible with your preferred ecosystem for seamless voice control and automation routines. Models with Matter certification, like the new Nest, offer the most future-proof compatibility.
- Learning vs. Programmable: A “learning” thermostat like the Nest automatically creates a schedule based on your habits. A “programmable” thermostat like the Sensi or SunTouch relies on you to set a fixed schedule or use features like geofencing. Learning is more hands-off, while programmable offers more direct control.
Understanding The C-Wire
The “C-wire,” or common wire, is a low-voltage wire that provides a continuous flow of power from your HVAC system to your thermostat. Traditional thermostats only needed power when they were actively calling for heat or cool, but smart thermostats need constant power for their Wi-Fi, display, and processor. If you remove your old thermostat and see a wire connected to a “C” terminal, you’re all set. If not, you have a few options: check for an unused wire tucked into the wall that you can connect at both the thermostat and furnace control board, use a C-wire adapter kit (sold separately), or choose a thermostat specifically designed to work without one.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying an Incompatible Thermostat: The single biggest mistake is buying a 24V thermostat for a line-voltage system or vice-versa. They are not interchangeable and can damage your HVAC system.
- Ignoring Your Wiring: Assuming you have the right wires without checking first can lead to a frustrating installation. Take a picture of your current thermostat’s wiring before you disconnect anything.
- Choosing the Wrong Ecosystem: Buying a thermostat that doesn’t integrate with your existing smart speakers or hubs limits its usefulness and creates a disjointed smart home experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a C-wire and do I need one for a smart thermostat?
A C-wire (common wire) provides continuous 24V power from your furnace to your thermostat. This is necessary to power the Wi-Fi, screen, and sensors of most smart thermostats. While some models can operate without one by “power stealing,” a C-wire provides the most stable and reliable performance. Always check the requirements for the model you’re interested in.
Can a smart thermostat really save me money on my energy bills?
Yes. By optimizing your heating and cooling schedules, using geofencing to adjust the temperature when you’re away, and providing detailed energy usage reports, a smart thermostat can lead to significant savings. Manufacturers often claim savings of 10-23% on heating and cooling costs.
Do I need a smart thermostat for every zone in my house?
If your home has a zoned HVAC system (meaning different areas are controlled independently), you will need to replace each old thermostat with a smart thermostat to get smart control over that specific zone.
How do learning thermostats work?
Learning thermostats, like the Google Nest, use a combination of motion sensors and algorithms to learn your daily routines. Over the first week or two, you adjust the temperature as you normally would. The thermostat observes these patterns and builds an automatic schedule designed to keep you comfortable when you’re home and save energy when you’re away.
Are smart thermostats compatible with all HVAC systems?
No. Most popular smart thermostats are designed for low-voltage (24V) systems, which are common in North America. They are generally not compatible with high-voltage or line-voltage systems like electric baseboard heaters without specific models or adapters. Always use a compatibility checker on the manufacturer’s website before purchasing.
What is geofencing and how does it work with a thermostat?
Geofencing uses your smartphone’s GPS location to create a virtual boundary around your home. When you leave this boundary, the thermostat automatically sets itself to an energy-saving “Away” temperature. When you cross back into the boundary on your way home, it returns to your preferred “Home” temperature, ensuring comfort and efficiency.
Can I install a smart thermostat myself?
In most cases, yes. Installing a smart thermostat is a popular DIY project. Manufacturers provide detailed instructions, videos, and app-guided setups. The process typically involves turning off power at the circuit breaker, removing the old thermostat, labeling the wires, connecting the wires to the new baseplate, and attaching the new thermostat. If you are uncomfortable working with wiring, it is always best to hire a professional HVAC technician.
Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation
After rigorous testing, we can confidently say that the best smart thermostat truly depends on your specific needs. However, for a large and growing number of homeowners upgrading their bathrooms and living spaces with electric radiant floors, the choice is clear. The SunTouch SunStat CommandPlus Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat is our top recommendation because it doesn’t just participate in the category; it masters its specific domain. Its installation is the simplest we’ve encountered for this system type, the large touchscreen is a joy to use, and its smart features are both practical and reliable. It delivers a premium experience from start to finish, solving a specific need with elegance and power, making it the best choice for anyone with electric floor heating.
Last update on 2025-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API