Nest Learning Thermostat vs. Nest Thermostat: What’s the difference? – CNET [CNET]

The Learning Thermostat is Nest’s flagship product, first introduced in the early 2010s, years before Google bought the emerging startup. Now in its third generation, the $249 (£219, AU$350) Nest Learning Thermostat continues to be a staple for the brand. 

Nest has added more than a dozen other devices in the last decade, including video doorbells, smart speakers, displays and routers. It’s also made an effort to introduce products for different budgets, especially within the smart thermostat category. 

That brings me to the $130 Nest Thermostat, announced in 2020 (and not yet available in the UK or Australia). This new thermostat has a lot to offer despite costing $119 less than the original. So, which Nest model is the best? Below we’ll dig into the key differences between these two Google thermostats.

Which Nest should you get?

There’s no wrong answer here; both thermostats are excellent. Just consider your specific needs before you buy. If you’re looking for a more substantial, premium design, go for the Learning Thermostat. It has more color finish options, comes with a trim kit and offers some advanced features, such as the learning algorithm, the Farsight feature and compatibility with the optional Nest Temperature Sensor accessory. 

The new Nest Thermostat is considerably less expensive than the Learning Thermostat. It offers an updated mirrored design in four color finishes and a refreshed side control thermostat interface. Your purchase doesn’t include a trim kit and the thermostat isn’t compatible with the Nest Temperature Sensor. It also doesn’t have the same learning algorithm or Farsight. But for over $100 less than the Learning Thermostat, the new Nest Thermostat is an excellent option that holds its own against Google’s flagship thermostat.

Read more: Best smart thermostat of 2021