Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium Review

The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is a high-end smart device with a hefty price tag. All told, it's a great device with some unique features, such as an air quality sensor. However, it has some stiff competition in the class where performance and cost are concerned.

Performance Comparison

Ease of Use

The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is one of the easier devices to set up, schedule, and operate in the class. This assessment results from the unit's well-designed smartphone app and Wi-Fi connectivity. However, we hit a few bumps when scheduling temperature settings for individual days. But, this is merely a two-step process requiring one to establish "comfort settings" and then place those in the schedule. All this can be done from the comfort of the couch — or really anywhere — with the Ecobee app.

Connecting the Ecobee to the Wi-Fi also saves the step of setting the time and date as the unit automatically sets itself. Conveniently, the unit and the app mirror one another, so you can make changes as needed with either method. Additionally, the Premium integrates with smart home platforms such as Amazon Alexa and Apple Homekit, which allows for voice commands.

Install & Support

Installing a new smart thermostat doesn't have to be a pain — at least not if you go with the Ecobee. This unit has taken care of every detail to make installation a breeze. And if you run into trouble, the device provides several ways to resolve the issue. While there are the typical quick set-up guides and detailed booklet included with the purchase, the app proves most effective at making set up a breeze. Once installed, the app will connect with the thermostat via Wi-Fi and set the time and date automatically. Next, the app walks you through the setup with step-by-step instructions and images. If the app or the booklets fail to resolve a problem, Ecobee has some of the best customer service we've encountered. When we filled up their support ticket, they got back to us the same day with a polite and satisfactory answer to our query.

For the consumer who is not a "tool person," the Ecobee minimizes the need for handyman skills. The unit's backing has a built-in level, and the wire ports are push-button. The only way this device could be easier to install is if Ecobee showed up to install it.

Remote Access

As discussed above, the Ecobee has a wonderful app that makes accessing the device a breeze. In fact, a few more features are available on the app than on the device. The device also integrates with smart home platforms, making voice commands possible. Our only complaint about the remote access is that the app home screen requires refreshing to display the current air temperature. Aside from this minor complaint, the app is easy to navigate and operate.

Accuracy

The thermostats we have encountered in our tests are generally quite accurate—usually within a fraction of a degree. However, the Ecobee models struggle in this regard. To be clear, this Ecobee model was only off by 2.5 degrees. Yet, that discrepancy represents one of the poorer performances in the class.

Should You Buy the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium?

The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is a great product, but, as the name suggests, it comes at a premium. While we do not think anyone who can afford it will be disappointed with the purchase, there are other options that will perform just as well (or better) for less money.

What Other Thermostat Should You Consider?

If you do not need a thermostat that will integrate with a smart home platform, the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced is the same device as the Premium, just with a little less accuracy in temperature and a significant price reduction. Also, the Honeywell Wi-Fi Smart Color is cheaper than the Premium, rates higher, and maintains similar smart home capabilities.