![]() (Most smart thermostats require a C-wire so that they can receive a constant power source.) For more information on C-wires, plus advice on choosing the right thermostat for your home, see our comprehensive thermostat buying guide.įor the results on all the smart thermostats we test, see Consumer Reports’ smart thermostat ratings.ĬR’s take: The Ecobee Smart With Voice Control EB-STATe5-01 blends a simple interface with plenty of bells and whistles for precise programming. We also note whether each thermostat comes with a wiring adapter, which allows you to install the thermostat even if you have an older HVAC system that’s missing a C-wire. CR members can click on each model name to see detailed ratings and reviews. The list includes models from Ecobee, Google Nest, and Honeywell Home. “Combining this with a well-designed user interface and the ability to sense and learn by itself is what makes a great smart thermostat.”īelow are four top smart thermostats from our ratings that are widely available, listed in alphabetical order. “We find that the best smart thermostats are the ones that use or take advantage of the latest technology, like touch screens and sensors and GPS,” says John Galeotafiore, who manages thermostat testing at CR. Our lab tests show that some models offer far better automation than others, and that the most expensive models aren’t necessarily the smartest. We also assess how easy they are to adjust manually, at the thermostat itself. In Consumer Reports’ smart thermostat tests, we evaluate features such as voice control via digital assistants and how easy they are to connect to WiFi. ![]() Most of these high-tech thermostats use algorithms to “learn” your family’s temperature preferences and daily routines, and adjust the temperature for you rather than relying on manual changes or convoluted programming. If the internal contacts are damaged, the entire device has essentially been ruined.Tired of high heating or cooling bills? Consider giving your HVAC system an upgrade with a smart thermostat. Additionally, charging ports are susceptible to becoming clogged with everything from pocket lint to food. Wired chargers will power a device significantly faster than induction chargers, but you have to manually plug and unplug the cable every time you want to use it. The primary downside with induction QI charging is the charging speed. While the implementation of this technology is becoming more widespread, it has existed and been used for years in devices such as electric toothbrushes with no observed ill effects. Qi charging is a form of induction charging, in which the charger generates a magnetic field the device is designed to harvest and store as an electric charge. This allows you to casually pick up and put down a device without having to fuss with a charging cable or worry about damaging the charging port. Many modern electronic devices are moving away from charging ports and are increasingly utilizing wireless Qi charging instead. Alternatively, you could view it as exercise and use the mug as a weight for arm curls in your downtime. If you don’t want to carry around a thermos that weighs two pounds even before you add liquid, you may want to opt for a smaller design with less battery life. When purchasing a smart mug, consider the bulkiness and weight alongside the mug’s performance. While battery technology is advancing by leaps and bounds, smart mugs still take up a certain amount of space in your cabinets, and they can be heavy. This allows for greater flexibility, especially if you and other members of your household prefer drinks prepared in different ways. However, some feature a removable liner, which allows you to clean them with more confidence that you won’t damage the wiring or battery.ĭo you prefer hot or iced coffee and tea? Some smart mugs can not only keep liquids hot but also cold, primarily due to the presence of insulation and effective seals. If your main complaint is tea getting cold while in transit or meetings, you’ll want a travel mug with a battery.Īll smart mugs must be hand-washed, due to their sensitive electronics. ![]() If your primary complaint is coffee going cold at your desk, charger-dependent models may be a better option. This latter type should be regularly returned to its charger to maintain its temperature. There are effectively two kinds of smart mugs: those with an internal battery and heating element, and those that heat a mug while connected to a charging cable or pad. and make sure it’s at the perfect temperature from start to finish. Smart mugs are an innovative way to drink your favorite beverage.
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