Best budget thermostat for Apple Home
ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential
By the Plugged-In Home editors · Updated Sep 29, 2026
ecobee’s cheapest thermostat, with Apple Home support and room-sensor add-ons.
Usually under $150
8.4/10How we score
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Our take
The Essential brings ecobee’s reliable app and Apple Home support to a much lower price. Add a SmartSensor later if one room always runs hot or cold.
Our take
The Essential brings ecobee’s reliable app and Apple Home support to a much lower price. Add a SmartSensor later if one room always runs hot or cold.
What we like
- Works with Apple Home, Alexa, Google and SmartThings
- Supports add-on room sensors
- Reliable and easy to use
Watch out for
- No occupancy radar or built-in assistant
- Basic screen and build
- No sensor in the box
Skip it if you have no C-wire and don’t want to fit the adapter.
See alternativesSpecifications
- Made by
- ecobee
- Display
- 2.8-in color touchscreen
- Power
- C-wire (Power Extender Kit if none)
- Sensors
- Built-in temperature and humidity; add SmartSensors
- Works with
- Apple Home, Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings
ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential
8.4/10Usually under $150
