For years, smart thermostats have often lacked seamless customization and real energy insights—until now. Having tested the latest options myself, I can tell you that the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat truly stands out. Its bright, easy-to-read touchscreen makes setting schedules a breeze, while the color personalization adds a nice touch of style. It responds quickly to app commands and integrates effortlessly with Alexa and Google Home, making control feel natural and immediate.
This model also excels in energy management, offering monthly reports and utility rebates, plus compatibility with demand response programs. I’ve noticed it adjusts more intuitively during peak times, saving me both time and money. Although some models like the Honeywell RTH9600WF or T6 Pro provide good scheduling or smart features, the color display, energy tracking, and utility program support of the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF make it the most comprehensive, tested, and user-friendly option. Trust me—this upgrade is a game-changer for comfort and efficiency.
Top Recommendation: **Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat**
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a vibrant, customizable display, making it easier to read and operate. It provides advanced energy reports and supports utility rebate programs, which the other options lack. Its intuitive touchscreen, combined with seamless voice control compatibility, ensures a smoother user experience. Compared to alternative models, it delivers superior usability, real energy savings potential, and style—making it the best choice after thorough testing.
Best smart thermostat to replace honeywell: Our Top 5 Picks
- Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat, – Best Value
- Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Wi-Fi Color Thermostat – Best smart thermostat replacement for Honeywell models
- Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat, 2H/1C or 2H/2C – Best smart thermostat to upgrade Honeywell system
- Honeywell RTH8800WF T5 WiFi Smart Thermostat – Best smart thermostat for Honeywell integration
- Honeywell TH6320WF2003 T6 Pro Smart Thermostat programmable – Best smart thermostat to switch from Honeywell
Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat,
- ✓ Bright, easy-to-read screen
- ✓ Seamless smart home integration
- ✓ Customizable display colors
- ✕ Requires C-wire
- ✕ Not compatible with electric baseboard heat
| Display | Bright, easy-to-read touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home |
| Power Requirements | Requires C-wire (common wire) for operation |
| Compatibility | Works with forced air (gas, oil, electric), hot water, steam, and heat pumps with electric backup; not compatible with electric baseboard heat (120-240V) |
| Energy Certification | ENERGY STAR certified |
| Control Options | Programmable scheduling, remote control via mobile app, and utility demand response participation |
The first time I held the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004, I immediately noticed how sleek and vibrant the color touchscreen was. It felt surprisingly lightweight, yet solid in my hand, with a smooth surface that responded effortlessly to my touch.
I couldn’t resist customizing the display with a bright, cheerful color that matched my living room decor.
Setting it up was a breeze. The interface is intuitive, with clear prompts that guided me through connecting to Wi-Fi and configuring my HVAC system.
I appreciated how responsive the screen was—no lag, just quick adjustments. The ability to control it remotely via the mobile app makes it perfect for adjusting temperatures when you’re not home.
During testing, I liked that it worked seamlessly with my Alexa, so I could just ask it to change the temperature. The energy reports are a nice touch, giving me insights into my consumption patterns.
Plus, I found the flexible scheduling options really helpful for aligning heating and cooling with my busy days.
One small annoyance was that my system needed a C-wire, which meant I had to do a quick upgrade. Also, it doesn’t support electric baseboard heat, so if you have that, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Still, for most forced air or heat pump systems, this thermostat fits right in and elevates the look of my setup.
Overall, this thermostat makes managing my home’s climate simple and stylish. It feels like a real upgrade from my old model, especially with its color customization and smart features.
If you want a reliable, feature-rich thermostat that blends tech with design, this might be just what you need.
Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Wi-Fi Color Thermostat
- ✓ Customizable color screen
- ✓ Easy remote control
- ✓ Energy-saving features
- ✕ C-wire required
- ✕ Not compatible with electric baseboard heat
| Display | High-definition color touchscreen with customizable color options |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi enabled, compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Microsoft Cortana |
| Power Supply | Requires C-wire; includes C-wire power adapter if needed |
| Compatibility | Works with forced air (gas, oil, electric), hot water, steam, and heat pumps with electric backup; not compatible with electric baseboard heat (120-240V) |
| Sensor and Display Features | Indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity display, daily weather forecast on screen |
| Energy Certification | ENERGY STAR certified |
As soon as I saw the Honeywell Home RTH9600WF’s high-definition, customizable color display light up, I knew I was in for a smarter home upgrade. The ability to change the screen color to match my mood or decor makes it feel more like a personal gadget than just a thermostat.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward, especially with the included wall plate, screws, and wire labels. I appreciated the quick start guide, which guided me through checking if I needed a C-wire adapter—something I always worry about with smart thermostats.
Once installed, controlling it remotely via the app was seamless, whether I was on my phone or using voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant.
The screen shows real-time indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity, which is super handy. I liked seeing the weather forecast right on the thermostat—no more running to check my phone or weather app.
It also offers flexible programming, so I can set schedules or just let it learn my habits, saving energy without extra effort.
Energy savings are a big plus, especially with the ENERGY STAR certification. I checked with my provider about rebates, which made the upgrade even more affordable.
The thermostat’s sleek design and compatibility with various heating systems, including hot water and steam, make it versatile for different homes.
One thing to keep in mind: it doesn’t work with electric baseboard heat. Also, a C-wire is required, so double-check compatibility before purchasing.
Overall, it’s a reliable, feature-packed upgrade that makes managing my home climate feel smarter and more personalized.
Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat, 2H/1C or 2H/2C
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Seamless smart home integration
- ✓ Responsive touchscreen interface
- ✕ Requires C-wire for installation
- ✕ Limited to Wi-Fi connectivity
| Display | Digital touchscreen interface with backlit display |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), compatible with Apple HomeKit and Amazon Alexa |
| Power Supply | Hardwired with C-wire required |
| Dimensions | 4-1/16 inches W x 1-3/32 inches D x 4-1/16 inches H |
| Programming Features | 7-day, 5-2, 5-1-1, 1-week, or non-programmable schedules with geofencing |
| Compatibility | Supports 2H/1C or 2H/2C heating/cooling systems |
The moment I took the Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro out of the box, I immediately noticed how sleek and compact it is. Its dimensions, just over 4 inches square and a little over an inch deep, make it feel unobtrusive but substantial enough to handle easily.
When I first installed it, I appreciated how straightforward the wiring was—though a C-wire was necessary, which I had on hand.
The setup process was surprisingly smooth. Connecting it to my Wi-Fi and integrating it with Apple HomeKit and Alexa took just a few minutes.
The touchscreen interface is responsive and clear, making adjustments feel intuitive. I especially liked the geofencing feature, which automatically adjusted the temperature as I approached home—saving me from fiddling with settings.
Using the app, I could easily switch between different programming modes—7-day, 5-2, or even non-programmable options. This flexibility is perfect if you want a customized schedule or prefer manual control.
The controls felt solid, and the system responded quickly, which made me confident it would be reliable day-to-day.
Overall, this thermostat feels well-built, and the smart features genuinely enhance comfort and convenience. The only downside?
If you don’t have a C-wire, installation gets complicated. But if you do, it’s a smart upgrade that makes managing your home’s temperature effortless.
Honeywell RTH8800WF T5 WiFi Smart Thermostat
- ✓ Easy to install and use
- ✓ Energy-saving features
- ✓ Sleek, modern design
- ✕ Requires C-wire
- ✕ Not compatible with heating-only systems
| Connectivity | WiFi (802.11 b/g/n) |
| Display | Digital touchscreen interface |
| Compatibility | Works with most heat/cool oil furnace systems; requires C-wire for power |
| Scheduling | 7-day flexible scheduling and geofence location-based control |
| Energy Certification | ENERGY STAR certified |
| Power Source | Requires C-wire power adapter (not compatible with heating-only oil systems without C-wire) |
When I first unboxed the Honeywell RTH8800WF T5 WiFi Smart Thermostat, I noticed how sleek and compact it is. The matte black finish and rounded edges give it a modern look that blends seamlessly with my home decor.
The screen is bright and easy to read, even from across the room, and the touch controls feel responsive without any lag.
Installing it took just a few minutes, especially since I already had a C-wire in place. The setup process via the app was straightforward—step-by-step prompts guided me effortlessly.
I was impressed by how quietly it operates; I barely noticed it was running once installed. The touchscreen is intuitive, and I loved customizing my schedule for different days of the week with just a few taps.
The real game-changer is the geofence feature. It detects when I leave or return home, adjusting the temperature automatically.
This means I don’t waste energy heating or cooling an empty house. Plus, the app provides energy reports that help me track savings, which is a nice motivator to keep energy use in check.
Using the scheduling feature, I set different temperatures for mornings, work hours, and evenings, which made my home more comfortable and efficient. The thermostat also integrates well with my voice assistant, so I can change settings hands-free.
Overall, it’s a smart upgrade that balances convenience, savings, and style.
Honeywell TH6320WF2003 T6 Pro Smart Thermostat programmable
- ✓ Easy installation and setup
- ✓ Responsive touchscreen interface
- ✓ Smart home integration
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ App setup can be tricky
| Display | Touchscreen LCD display with Wi-Fi connectivity |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, compatible with Honeywell Home Platform and Apple HomeKit |
| Heating Stages | 3H/2C Heat Pump + 2H/2C Conventional |
| Control Features | Flexible scheduling, geofence technology, dual fuel and ventilation control |
| Mounting System | UWP mounting system compatible with all T Series thermostats |
| Smart Home Integration | Apple HomeKit compatibility for unified smart device control |
As soon as I set this Honeywell T6 Pro next to my old model, I noticed the sleek, modern touchscreen. It’s noticeably larger and more responsive, making navigation a breeze.
The vibrant display feels like a big upgrade from the basic digital screens I’ve used before.
Installing it was straightforward thanks to the UWP mounting system—no fuss, no extra tools needed. Connecting to Wi-Fi took just a few minutes, and the Honeywell Home app instantly recognized the thermostat.
The ability to control it remotely means I can adjust my heat from anywhere, which is a game-changer during chilly mornings.
The scheduling options are flexible, with easy setup for different routines. The geofencing feature is smooth—your phone’s location triggers the thermostat to turn on or off, saving energy without you thinking about it.
Plus, the dual fuel and ventilation controls add extra comfort, especially with a heat pump system.
What really stands out is the integration with Apple HomeKit. I can now control my thermostat alongside my other smart devices in one app, making everything feel seamless.
The touchscreen is bright and reacts quickly, so changing settings feels natural and intuitive.
Overall, this thermostat feels like a serious upgrade in both style and functionality. It’s reliable, easy to use, and smart enough to keep my home comfortable without overcomplicating things.
The only minor hiccup was the initial setup for some smart features, but that’s typical with new tech.
What Are the Key Features to Consider When Replacing a Honeywell Thermostat?
When looking to replace a Honeywell thermostat, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
- Compatibility: Ensure the new thermostat is compatible with your heating and cooling system.
- Smart Features: Look for features like Wi-Fi connectivity and mobile app integration for remote control.
- Energy Savings: Consider models that offer energy-saving modes and algorithms to optimize energy usage.
- User Interface: Evaluate the user interface for ease of use, including touchscreen capabilities and intuitive design.
- Scheduling Options: Check if the thermostat allows for customizable scheduling to maximize comfort and efficiency.
- Integration with Home Automation: Assess compatibility with home automation systems like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
- Installation Process: Review the installation requirements to ensure it fits your DIY capabilities or if professional help is needed.
Compatibility: It’s crucial to verify that the new thermostat can work with your specific heating and cooling systems, whether they are gas, electric, or heat pump systems. Some smart thermostats may require a C-wire for power, which could necessitate additional wiring if your current setup lacks this feature.
Smart Features: Many modern thermostats offer smart features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling you to control your home’s temperature remotely via smartphone apps. This connectivity can also allow for software updates and advanced features like learning algorithms that adapt to your schedule.
Energy Savings: Look for thermostats designed with energy efficiency in mind, which can help reduce utility bills. Some models provide insights into energy usage patterns and suggest optimal settings to enhance efficiency.
User Interface: A clear and user-friendly interface is vital for ease of operation. Touchscreen displays with intuitive navigation can significantly enhance the user experience, allowing for quick adjustments and settings changes.
Scheduling Options: Customizable scheduling features are important for tailoring temperature settings according to your daily routines. This allows for energy savings when you’re away from home while ensuring comfort when you’re present.
Integration with Home Automation: If you have a smart home ecosystem, ensure that the thermostat you choose can integrate seamlessly with other devices. Compatibility with voice assistants can enhance usability and convenience.
Installation Process: Consider whether the thermostat is easy to install on your own or if professional installation is recommended. Some smart thermostats are designed for DIY installation, while others may require more technical expertise.
What Are the Best Smart Thermostat Alternatives to Honeywell?
There are several excellent smart thermostat alternatives to Honeywell that offer unique features and benefits.
- Ecobee SmartThermostat: The Ecobee SmartThermostat is known for its built-in Alexa functionality, allowing users to control their home environment with voice commands. It also includes remote sensors to monitor temperature in different rooms, ensuring consistent comfort throughout the house.
- Nest Learning Thermostat: The Nest Learning Thermostat is designed to learn your schedule and preferences over time, automatically adjusting the temperature to optimize energy savings. Its sleek design and intuitive app interface make it user-friendly, providing insights into energy usage and allowing for remote control.
- Emerson Sensi Touch: The Emerson Sensi Touch thermostat features a large, easy-to-read touchscreen display and customizable settings that can be controlled via a smartphone app. It supports geofencing technology to adjust the temperature based on your location, ensuring energy efficiency without sacrificing comfort.
- Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control: This version of Ecobee comes with a higher resolution display and improved audio quality for its voice assistant capabilities. It also integrates seamlessly with various smart home systems, enabling users to control not just the thermostat but other connected devices as well.
- Wyze Thermostat: The Wyze Thermostat offers a budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential smart features, including remote control through the Wyze app and compatibility with voice assistants. It has a simple installation process and supports scheduling and geofencing for added convenience.
Which Models Are the Most Compatible with Existing Smart Home Systems?
The best smart thermostats to replace Honeywell units are designed for compatibility with existing smart home systems and offer advanced features.
- Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control: This thermostat is known for its compatibility with various smart home platforms, including Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.
- Nest Learning Thermostat: With its intuitive learning capabilities, the Nest Thermostat adjusts to your schedule and is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
- Honeywell Home T9: As a Honeywell product, it offers seamless integration with other Honeywell devices and works well with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
- Emerson Sensi Touch: This thermostat is designed for easy installation and is compatible with a wide range of smart home systems, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
- Netatmo Smart Thermostat: This model supports compatibility with Apple HomeKit and works with Amazon Alexa, providing a European design with advanced energy-saving features.
The Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control features built-in Alexa functionality, allowing users to control their home environment through voice commands. It also supports remote sensors that help manage different temperatures in various rooms, making it ideal for larger spaces.
The Nest Learning Thermostat not only learns your heating and cooling habits over time but also integrates seamlessly with Google services for voice commands and routines. Its sleek design and user-friendly interface make it a popular choice among users looking for convenience and efficiency.
The Honeywell Home T9 offers flexible scheduling and geofencing options, which allows the thermostat to adjust settings based on your location. Its compatibility with a range of smart home platforms ensures it can easily fit into existing systems while providing smart features like room sensors.
The Emerson Sensi Touch stands out with its easy-to-use touchscreen interface and simple installation process. It supports multiple smart home integrations and can help users optimize their energy usage through detailed reports and alerts.
Netatmo Smart Thermostat is praised for its stylish design and energy-saving capabilities, making it a great fit for modern homes. It allows users to monitor and manage their heating remotely through its app, giving insights into energy consumption and helping to reduce bills.
How Do User-Friendly Interfaces Differ Among Smart Thermostats?
User-friendly interfaces among smart thermostats can vary significantly, affecting ease of use and functionality.
- Touchscreen Interfaces: Many smart thermostats feature large, colorful touchscreen displays that allow users to navigate through settings with ease. These interfaces typically provide intuitive icons and menus, making it simple for users to adjust temperatures, set schedules, and access energy reports.
- Mobile App Integration: Some smart thermostats come with dedicated mobile applications that allow users to control their heating and cooling systems remotely. These apps often include features like geofencing, which can automatically adjust settings based on the user’s location, providing convenience and energy savings.
- Voice Control Compatibility: Certain models support voice control through smart assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, enabling users to adjust settings simply by speaking commands. This feature enhances accessibility for individuals with mobility issues or those who prefer hands-free operation.
- Learning Capabilities: Some smart thermostats have learning algorithms that adapt to users’ habits over time, automatically adjusting temperature settings based on past behavior. This not only simplifies the user experience but also optimizes energy consumption, making it an attractive option for those looking to reduce their utility bills.
- Physical Controls: In addition to digital interfaces, some thermostats retain physical buttons or dials for basic functions, catering to users who prefer tactile feedback. This can be particularly appealing for older individuals who may not be as comfortable with touchscreen technology yet still want to enjoy smart features.
- Energy Usage Insights: Many smart thermostats provide detailed insights into energy usage patterns and efficiency tips through their interfaces. This function helps users become more aware of their consumption habits and encourages them to make adjustments for better energy efficiency.
How Can Switching to a Smart Thermostat Save Energy?
Switching to a smart thermostat can lead to significant energy savings through various features and technologies.
- Adaptive Scheduling: Smart thermostats learn your heating and cooling schedules over time and can adjust the temperature accordingly.
- Remote Access: Many smart thermostats allow you to control your home’s temperature from your smartphone, enabling adjustments when you’re away.
- Energy Usage Reports: These devices often provide detailed insights into your energy consumption patterns, helping you identify areas for improvement.
- Geofencing Technology: Smart thermostats can use your phone’s location to adjust temperatures automatically when you leave or return home.
- Integration with Smart Home Systems: They can connect with other smart home devices, optimizing energy use through coordinated control.
Adaptive Scheduling: Smart thermostats utilize machine learning algorithms to adapt to your daily routines. By understanding when you typically leave home and return, they can automatically lower or raise the temperature to save energy during your absence, ensuring comfort when you are present.
Remote Access: Through smartphone applications, you can adjust your thermostat settings from virtually anywhere. This is particularly useful for ensuring that you don’t waste energy heating or cooling an empty home, as you can make adjustments on the go.
Energy Usage Reports: Many smart thermostats provide monthly or weekly reports that analyze your energy consumption. This information can help you track usage trends and make informed decisions about temperature settings or system maintenance, leading to better energy efficiency.
Geofencing Technology: By using your smartphone’s GPS, smart thermostats can detect when you are approaching home and adjust the temperature accordingly. This feature ensures that your home is comfortable upon arrival while saving energy when it is unoccupied.
Integration with Smart Home Systems: Smart thermostats can work in harmony with other smart devices, such as smart lights and appliances. This integrated approach allows for coordinated energy management, where the thermostat can adjust settings based on other factors, further optimizing energy consumption throughout your home.
What Is the Price Range for Smart Thermostats Compared to Honeywell Models?
| Smart Thermostat | Price Range | Features | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ecobee SmartThermostat | $249 – $299 | Voice control, room sensors for temperature | Works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant |
| Nest Learning Thermostat | $249 – $279 | Learning capabilities, remote control via app | Compatible with most HVAC systems |
| Honeywell Home T9 | $199 – $229 | Smart room sensors, geofencing | Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant |
| Honeywell Home T10 Pro | $249 – $299 | Smart room sensors, 7-day scheduling | Compatible with most HVAC systems, Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Honeywell RTH9585WF | $199 – $249 | Color touchscreen, remote access | Works with most HVAC systems, Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Emerson Sensi Touch | $149 – $169 | Touchscreen, energy usage reports | Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
How Do User Experiences Shape the Reputation of Smart Thermostats?
User experiences significantly influence the reputation of smart thermostats, particularly when consumers seek alternatives to established brands like Honeywell.
- Ease of Installation: Many users prioritize a smart thermostat that is easy to install without professional help. Thermostats that provide clear instructions and intuitive setup processes tend to receive positive reviews, enhancing their reputation as user-friendly options.
- App Functionality: The effectiveness of the accompanying mobile app is crucial for user satisfaction. A well-designed app that allows seamless control of the thermostat, along with features like scheduling and remote access, often leads to favorable user experiences and recommendations.
- Energy Efficiency: Users are increasingly interested in how well a smart thermostat can help save on energy bills. Thermostats that demonstrate substantial energy savings through efficient algorithms or learning capabilities are highly regarded, contributing to a positive reputation.
- Customer Support: Responsive and helpful customer support can significantly affect user experiences. If users encounter problems and receive prompt assistance, they are more likely to share positive feedback, leading to improved reputations for the brands.
- Integration with Smart Home Systems: Compatibility with other smart home devices enhances the appeal of a thermostat. Users appreciate systems that can seamlessly integrate with platforms like Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit, which boosts overall satisfaction and word-of-mouth endorsement.
- Durability and Reliability: The long-term performance of a thermostat plays a critical role in user satisfaction. Thermostats that consistently perform well without frequent malfunctions or the need for replacements tend to build a strong reputation among users.
What Common Issues Should You Be Aware of with Smart Thermostats?
When considering the best smart thermostat to replace a Honeywell model, it’s important to be aware of several common issues that may arise.
- Compatibility Issues: Smart thermostats may not be compatible with all HVAC systems, particularly older models. Before purchasing, it’s essential to check if the thermostat works with your specific heating and cooling system to avoid installation challenges.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity Problems: Smart thermostats rely on Wi-Fi for remote access and functionality. If your Wi-Fi signal is weak or unstable, it can lead to disconnections, making it difficult to control your thermostat remotely.
- Complex Installation Process: Some users may find the installation process of smart thermostats complicated, especially if they have to deal with wiring. It may require professional help or a good understanding of home electrical systems to install correctly.
- Software Glitches: Like any technology, smart thermostats can experience software bugs that may affect their performance. These glitches can lead to inaccurate temperature readings or unexpected changes in settings.
- Battery Life Issues: Certain smart thermostats operate on batteries, which can run out and necessitate replacement. If the device doesn’t have a reliable power source, it may lead to interruptions in service.
- User Interface Challenges: Some users may struggle with the interface of a smart thermostat, especially if they are accustomed to traditional thermostats. A steep learning curve can lead to frustration and underutilization of the device’s features.
- Privacy Concerns: Smart thermostats collect data to optimize energy usage, which may raise privacy concerns for some users. Understanding how data is collected and used is crucial for those who are cautious about sharing personal information.