The 4th Gen Nest Learning Thermostat represents a significant leap forward in smart home climate control. Released as an evolution of the previous “Learning” model and the 2020 Nest Thermostat, this latest iteration boasts a refined design, seamless integration with the Google Home app, and includes the new Nest Temperature Sensor right in the box. Packed with features and intelligent capabilities, it promises to redefine home comfort and energy efficiency.
After spending two months thoroughly testing the new Nest Thermostat (4th Gen), it’s clear this isn’t just another gadget. It’s a sophisticated home automation device designed to work quietly in the background, ensuring your home’s temperature is perfectly attuned to your preferences without constant intervention. This long-term evaluation allowed for real-world usage, tweaking settings, incorporating the temperature sensor, and observing its learning capabilities over time.
Living with the $280 Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) for an extended period reveals its true value and impact on daily life. Let’s delve into the details of this premium smart thermostat in our comprehensive review.
Key Highlights of the 4th Gen Nest Learning Thermostat
Effortless Setup: True to Nest’s reputation, the 4th Gen Learning Thermostat is designed for straightforward self-installation. Google provides comprehensive guides, both written and video, alongside the intuitive Google Home app to assist users through the process. Even for those unfamiliar with HVAC systems, the clear instructions and user-friendly app make installation accessible.
The packaging includes everything needed for installation: the thermostat faceplate (available in Polished Silver, Obsidian, or Polished Gold – the reviewed unit was Polished Gold), the Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd Gen), base plate, metal plate, trim plate, and all necessary screws. This complete kit ensures a smooth and hassle-free setup experience.
It’s worth noting that while previous Nest Thermostats supported single-stage heating systems, the 4th Gen model expands compatibility to up to 3 stages. This advanced capability caters to modern, multi-stage HVAC systems, potentially justifying its higher price point compared to simpler models. For users with newer or more complex HVAC setups, this enhanced compatibility is a significant advantage.
Exquisite Design: The Nest Thermostat (4th Gen) transcends typical smart home technology with its stunning aesthetic. It’s a device that enhances home décor, functioning as both a smart device and a design element. The Polished Gold review unit exemplifies this, adding a touch of elegance to any wall.
The redesigned domed crystal display, 60% larger than previous models, combined with minimal bezels, creates a jewelry-like appearance. The reflective glass face has a captivating depth, drawing attention without being intrusive. Unlike earlier Nest models with prominent edges, the 4th Gen integrates a subtle bezel, blending seamlessly with the rounded glass for a sleek, touchable design. It’s an object that is both beautiful to look at and enjoyable to interact with.
The thermostat features a rotating outer ring for navigation and temperature adjustments, and a push-to-select mechanism, maintaining the familiar Nest interaction but with a more refined and satisfying feel.
Farsight Display and Digital Clocks: Introducing “Farsight,” the 4th Gen Nest Learning Thermostat offers a customizable always-on display, similar to smartphone technology. Beyond simply showing the current temperature when approached, Farsight can display the time with various clock faces, weather conditions, humidity levels, “feels like” temperature, air quality, and the date.
This feature transforms the thermostat into an informative hub, providing at-a-glance details about your home environment and the outside weather. While smartphones offer similar information, the dedicated display of the Nest Thermostat makes this data readily accessible and surprisingly useful, becoming a feature you’ll quickly appreciate.
Included Nest Temperature Sensor: A standout feature of the 4th Gen Nest Thermostat is the inclusion of the Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd Gen) in the box. While contributing to the overall price, this inclusion eliminates the need for a separate purchase and significantly enhances the thermostat’s functionality.
For homes with multiple stories or rooms with varying temperatures, the sensor is invaluable. It allows the thermostat to regulate temperature based on the sensor’s location rather than just the thermostat’s built-in sensor. This is particularly beneficial for homes without zoned HVAC systems, enabling more consistent comfort throughout different areas. Users can prioritize the sensor’s readings to manage hot or cold spots, or even move the sensor throughout the day to optimize temperature in occupied rooms. Schedules can also be customized to utilize sensor readings for targeted temperature control.
The inclusion of the temperature sensor is a significant value-add, making advanced temperature management accessible right out of the box.
Enhanced Google Home App Integration: The 4th Gen Nest Thermostat exclusively uses the Google Home app, representing a shift from older Nest models that were initially designed for the Nest app. The Google Home app integration is a notable improvement, offering a streamlined and user-friendly experience.
Setup within the Google Home app is intuitive, and managing settings and adjustments is straightforward. The app features a visually clear, bubble-style layout with a prominent temperature dial and quick access to heating/cooling modes, sensor settings, fan controls, schedules, and energy usage data. It also displays real-time information like humidity levels.
Navigating the app to adjust schedules or explore features is simple and efficient, a significant upgrade from the sometimes cumbersome Nest app. Customizing Farsight options, sharing device access, managing notifications, setting temperature preferences, and enabling home/away assist are all easily accessible within the app settings.
While the Google Home app may not be universally praised, its integration with the 4th Gen Nest Thermostat is well-executed, providing a cohesive and functional control interface.
Smart Learning and Advanced Features: As a “Learning” thermostat, the 4th Gen model is engineered to be intelligent. Google emphasizes its AI-driven capabilities for schedule learning and energy optimization, aiming to enhance home efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
Assessing the full extent of these “smarts” requires long-term usage. However, initial impressions are positive. Features like Natural Heating and Cooling utilize outdoor temperature data to potentially reduce HVAC usage by leveraging natural heating or cooling when appropriate. Window reminders can suggest opening windows to further conserve energy.
Adaptive modes intelligently adjust temperatures based on occupancy, optimizing efficiency when residents are away or approaching home. Humidity modulation and detailed energy dashboards provide insights into usage patterns and potential savings. Anecdotally, users may find they interact with the thermostat less frequently, suggesting its learning capabilities effectively maintain desired comfort levels.
While continued observation is needed to fully quantify the long-term smart functionalities, the initial experience indicates a genuinely intelligent and efficient thermostat.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks
While the 4th Gen Nest Learning Thermostat excels in many areas, the primary consideration is its price. At $280, it represents a significant investment for a thermostat. However, this price is arguably justified by its premium design, comprehensive smart features (without subscription fees), and the inclusion of the Nest Temperature Sensor.
The Google Home app, while improved, may still require some adjustment for users. Certain settings may not be immediately intuitive, and navigation can take time to master. However, Google provides readily accessible support documentation to guide users through any questions or feature exploration.
Compatibility is generally broad, especially with modern HVAC systems. The 4th Gen model supports multi-stage systems, expanding its applicability. Google also proactively addresses potential issues with software updates, demonstrated by a post-launch update to enhance screen brightness and manual adjustments.
For users considering an upgrade from older Nest models, the decision depends on individual needs. Older thermostats like the Nest Thermostat E remain functional. Upgrading to the 4th Gen is most compelling for those seeking advanced smart features, a significantly enhanced design, or compatibility with multi-stage HVAC systems. It’s also a forward-looking investment for users wanting to future-proof their smart home setup.
Interestingly, Nest Thermostats can also add perceived value to homes being sold. Real estate professionals often see them as indicators of a modern, updated home, even if the HVAC system itself isn’t new. This subtle benefit is worth considering for homeowners planning to sell in the future.
Overall, the 4th Gen Nest Learning Thermostat builds upon the legacy of Nest as a pioneer in smart thermostats. It retains the core Nest experience – intuitive controls, remote app access, and energy-saving aspirations – while elevating the design, features, and user experience to new heights. From its inception in 2013, the Nest Thermostat has evolved into an indispensable smart home device, seamlessly blending technology and home comfort.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)?
The smart thermostat market is competitive, with established players like Honeywell and emerging brands like Ecobee and Amazon. However, Google Nest has consistently led with innovative, design-focused, and intelligent thermostats. The 4th Gen Nest Learning Thermostat reinforces this leadership.
It stands out with its unparalleled design, ease of use, and robust smart features aimed at optimizing home energy efficiency. From simplifying scheduling to potentially detecting system issues, and all controlled through a refined Google Home app interface, this thermostat offers a comprehensive smart home climate solution.
While the $280 price point is considerable, the inclusion of the temperature sensor and the sheer quality of the device make it a worthwhile investment. The 4th gen Nest Learning Thermostat is not just a smart thermostat; it’s a statement piece that enhances your home while intelligently managing your comfort and energy usage.
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