Rita says: Buy it
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Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)
by Google
$279.99
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Rita's Full Review
After a six-year hiatus, Google revived the Nest Learning Thermostat in 2024 with a fourth-generation model that reaffirms why the original was revolutionary. The signature circular design returns with a premium stainless steel finish and a vibrant 3.2-inch color display that shows ambient room photography and custom backdrops — it genuinely looks like art on the wall. True Learning capability means the thermostat requires only one week of manual adjustments before it builds a reliable schedule autonomously, a feature no other premium thermostat replicates as elegantly. Gemini AI integration enables natural language control and predictive scheduling refinement. CNET named it the best smart thermostat of 2025. At $279.99 it's a luxury purchase, but for users heavily invested in the Google Home ecosystem — particularly those with Nest cameras, speakers, or displays — it's the obvious ecosystem choice. Matter support is a meaningful future-proofing advantage over Ecobee.
What Rita liked
- True learning capability — adapts automatically to your schedule without manual programming
- Matter certified — interoperable with Apple Home, SmartThings, and Alexa natively
- Signature aesthetic — the most visually refined thermostat available, looks premium on any wall
- Gemini AI integration for natural language temperature control and energy schedule optimization
What could be better
- No built-in air quality sensors (unlike Ecobee Premium)
- No bundled remote sensor (Ecobee includes one in the box)
- Requires C-wire or Nest Power Connector for most older HVAC systems
Key Specifications
| 3.2-inch backlit color display; premium stainless steel and Corning Gorilla Glass face | |
| Built-in Farsight display shows time, temperature, and ambient photography from across the room | |
| Matter 1.2 certified; works with Google Home, Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, SmartThings | |
| True adaptive learning schedule; Gemini AI integration; Home/Away Assist | |
| Energy Star certified; compatible with 95% of 24V heating/cooling systems; C-wire or Power Connector required |