Few smart thermostats are as well-rounded as the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium. Packed full of useful sensors and automations, it can save you a bunch of cash over the years while still keeping your home cool and comfortable. Ecobee also sells the Smart Thermostat Enhanced, which gets you some of the same functionality but clocks in at a more reasonable price.
That begs the question — do you need the Smart Thermostat Premium, or can you get by with the cheaper Smart Thermostat Enhanced? From pricing and design to installation and more, here’s everything you need to know about these two popular smart thermostats.
The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is $250, and the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced is $190. The overall designs of the two are also very similar, offering a rounded square footprint with massive touchscreen displays. Both look great once installed, and both are eligible for a wide range of rebates (depending on your location). Be sure to check these out before making a purchase, as some shoppers could save around $75 just by checking for a rebate.
Winner: Ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced
Both devices are “compatible with most HVAC systems,” according to Ecobee. You can use the online Compatibility Checker to ensure the devices will work with your home — though most modern buildings should have no issue. If you’re using HVAC accessories like humidifiers or dehumidifiers, you’ll be glad to know they’re supported by both smart thermostats.
You’ll be walked through the installation process via a mobile app, which gives you plenty of visuals to make the setup as painless as possible. Of course, if you’re having trouble, you can always contact an HVAC professional, though most folks will find the process to be rather straightforward.
A lot of features are shared between the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium and Ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced. Here’s a look at what you get with both products:
Some of these features may require a monthly subscription or additional accessories.
If you’re looking for even more functionality, the Smart Thermostat Premium gets you a built-in air quality monitor, an included SmartSensor, Siri or Alexa built-in, Spotify and Bluetooth streaming, and an intercom system.
Winner: Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium
When it comes to simply controlling your heating and cooling system, the Premium and Enhanced are evenly matched. Because of this, you’ll want to opt for the cheaper Ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced to save $60. Along with remote access to your system, the Enhanced is rated to save you up to 26% on your bills — the same as the Premium.
However, folks seeking a device with additional smart home functionality and air monitoring qualities will find the Smart Thermostat Premium to be the better choice. The ability to get Alexa or Siri built-in, stream music, and monitor air quality makes it a much better all-around device. That’s especially true if you’re planning to pick up a SmartSensor, as one is included with your purchase (they’re typically sold in a two-pack for $100).
If you need versatility, the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is a clear winner. But if you just need to bring smarts to your home, you’ll be served well with the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced.
Outdoor security cameras are not always practical if you live in an apartment or rental. Drilling into an exterior wall may be off-limits, while pointing a regular indoor camera through a window can create another problem once reflections start showing up after dark.
Baseus is trying to solve both issues with the new PrimeSentinel W1, a $69.99 security camera designed specifically to monitor the outdoors through glass. It mounts directly to a window without drilling and uses a 4K Starlight sensor with an F1.0 aperture for full-color monitoring during the day and at night.
This post is brought to you in paid partnership with Best Buy.
Technology evolves every day, transforming how we live and work. Our devices are becoming more than tools we use. They are increasingly capable companions that help streamline day-to-day routines and spark creative ideas. If you have been waiting for the right moment to upgrade your tech setup, the Discover Samsung Shopping Event offers an opportunity to explore what connected, AI-powered living can look like.
With AI progressing so fast, it's only a matter of time before we start getting AI companions like the ones we used to see in movies like R2-D2, Wall-E, or Baymax. Now, Singapore-based OKA Technology has unveiled Mori, a cute little AI companion that looks less like a conventional home robot and more like someone turned the Pokémon Foongus into a table lamp.
Mori isn't meant to clean your house or control your smart home, but to serve as what OKA calls a "Nature Companion." It uses subtle movements, warm lighting, nature-inspired sounds, and small reactions to make its presence around the house feel calming rather than distracting. Mori can sit quietly while you read, sway along to music, welcome you when you enter a room, or encourage you to slow down for a moment without requiring a screen or a conversation.