Best Smart Thermostats Under $100 in 2024

Disclaimer

Our reviews are long and detailed. We aim to equip readers with the best possible insight in order help them make informed decisions.

Are you on the hunt for a smart thermostat that won’t break the bank?

Look no further! In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of the best smart thermostats under $100, bringing you affordable options without compromising on quality or features.

We understand that finding the perfect thermostat can be overwhelming, especially when you’re on a budget.

But fear not! We’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best smart thermostats under $100, taking into consideration your need for energy savings, convenience, and easy installation.

The MetaDomotics team of smart tech-savvy individuals have spent months rigorously testing these thermostats. Their efforts allow us to confidently introduce and recommend these top-notch thermostats to you.

Short on time? 

We have covered the in-depth review of our top picks below. To discover more interesting facts about your next smart purchase, continue reading. We have done the homework for you!

Here’s the #1 Best Smart Thermostat Under $100

1. LUX TX9600TS – Best Programmable Thermostat Under $100

Key Takeaways: Introducing the LUX TX9600TS thermostat, a true wonder in its class. This thermostat has exceeded our expectations.

It is the best programmable thermostat with swing control and what sets it apart from most thermostats in this price range is that we placed this unit strategically in the center of the house, close to the AC return vents.

While the outermost areas experience more rapid temperature fluctuations, LUX has ingeniously incorporated a calibration feature.

Which allowed us to fine-tune the thermostat by adjusting it up or down by 2 degrees in the summer or winter, respectively, ensuring the entire house remains consistently comfortable.

Surprisingly, this feature is often lacking in more expensive brands.

Discovering LUX TX9600TS and its remarkable versatility at such affordable pricing has truly made us ecstatic to put it on top of our list the best smart thermostats under $100.

Specifications

Get ready to take control, save energy, and elevate your comfort with this fantastic value-for-money product. Don’t miss out on the Lux TX9600TS thermostat – it’s time to make your home smarter, one touch at a time!

• Features

Lux TX9600TS thermostat, the ultimate touch of comfort at your fingertips! With its easy-to-read touchscreen display, you’ll never struggle to find that perfect temperature again.

Take charge of your comfort with programmable touch pad lockout, ensuring only authorized users can make changes. Worried about going too hot or too cold?

Fear not, as this thermostat lets you set temperature limits, keeping you in your cozy comfort zone. It’s your week, your way, with 7-day or 5/2-day temperature programming options to fit your schedule seamlessly.

The Lux TX9600TS is a shining example of convenience and clarity, featuring a large, illuminated display that makes programming a breeze.

The default Energy Star approved program helps you save even more on your energy bills without sacrificing comfort.

Plus, the 2 or 5-minute delay feature prevents short cycling, extending the lifespan and maintaining your HVAC system. Need a temporary temperature change?

The temporary temperature override allows you to make quick adjustments without disrupting your programmed schedule.

With a 12/24-hour clock, filter monitor, and energy usage monitor, you’ll have all the information you need to stay in control.

• Compatibility

This thermostat is a true team player, compatible with virtually all North American heating and cooling systems.

LUX TX9600TS thermostat is designed to work seamlessly with most 24V heating and A/C systems, including 1-stage heat, 1-stage cool, gas, oil, electric, and is also an incredible single-stage heat pump thermostat.

It’s also compatible with 2-wire heat-only hydronic systems, hot water baseboard and radiator systems, millivolt subsets, wall heaters, furnaces, and gas fireplaces.

So, if you’re looking for a thermostat that offers reliability, efficiency, and a touch of style, look no further than the LUX TX9600TS.

Reasons to Buy

• The LUX TX9600TS thermostat has been installed by one of our relatives and functioning flawlessly for nearly 4 years, showcasing its durability and long-lasting performance.

• It is easy to set up and adjust, allowing for hassle-free customization of temperature settings according to personal preferences.

• It has an optional recovery features that allows the thermostat to adjust the temperature setting earlier to reach the desired temperature at the scheduled time.

• The thermostat effectively maintains the desired temperature.

• Adjustable temperature variation tolerance adapts to small fluctuations, ensuring stable and consistent indoor climate by avoiding frequent on/off cycles.

• Aesthetically, the LUX TX9600TS has a pleasing design that is both sleek and modern, adding a touch of style to any home.

• Menu navigation and temperature programming are straightforward and intuitive. User-friendly touchscreen interface with blue backlighting enhances usability.

• The availability of downloadable and printable instructions from the manufacturer’s website makes installation and operation easier for the DIY-ers.

• The thermostat offers customizable settings, such as the “Swing” feature, which allows users to adjust the temperature range at which the system turns on and off.

• The “Swing” adjustment capability becomes a top priority for users who experience frequent cycling of their new furnace.

It offers adjustable swing settings, which allows you to set the temperature range in 1/4 degree increments, up to two degrees.

• Temperature accuracy is on point which was confirmed by comparing readings with a digital thermometer and a temperature gun.

• The thermostat provides the option to disable features that are not needed, such as the two-stage capability, ensuring simplicity and tailored functionality.

• The slight hum of the thermostat is only noticeable in a very quiet environment and doesn’t cause any disturbances.

• The touchscreen interface is designed in a way that minimizes accidental touches, particularly in the lower right-hand corner where there are no selectable options.

• The thermostat is powered by both the system’s power (24v) and battery power, ensuring continuous operation even during power outages.

• It provides the option to program up to four periods during the day for automatic temperature adjustments, although manual mode is also available for more control.

• Notable feature: View daily and previous day’s AC operating time, aiding in monitoring and managing energy consumption effectively.

• It has a built-in filter replacement timer, which counts the hours and reminds you when it’s time to replace the filter that ensures optimal performance and air quality.

• It has the ability to track and display fan hours separately, which is particularly useful for those who prefer to run the system fan continuously during the summer.

• The thermostat offers convenient programming options, such as the ability to program one day and quickly copy it to other days, as well as separate programming for weekends.

• The wall plate covers the old junction box completely and ensures a neat and secure installation without the need to disconnect any wires.

• For convenience, the thermostat can be programmed even when removed from the wall, as long as batteries are installed.

Reasons to Avoid

• The LUX TX9600TS thermostat is not compatible with certain Hi-Efficiency Gas furnaces with a specific Honeywell motherboard (P/N ST9120c 4040).

• Even in manual mode, the fan does not run as expected, which indicates that there might be a bug in the thermostat.

• The LUX TX9600TS thermostat has one significant downside during the summer cooling season, as it quickly drains batteries, requiring replacement every 10-14 days.

• Bug encountered during testing: Central air cooling operates intermittently, sometimes only blowing fan without producing cold air.

• Inconvenience: To set desired time/temperature, users must press hardware and software reset buttons in specific order.

Plus, this reset procedure is not specified in the instructions provided with the thermostat, we had to consult the technician to resolve this issue.

• When set at 72°F degrees, the temperature dropped at 70°F before the thermostat would reflect the set temperature and function accordingly.

However, adjusting the thermostat’s calibration helped improve the accuracy of the displayed temperature.

• The thermostat can be powered by a 24 volt AC or you can add a common wire to thermostat or you may install batteries as a backup. However, if the thermostat loses power for more than one minute, the current time and day need to be reentered.

• One downside of relying on batteries alone to power the thermostat is the need to remember to replace weak batteries and ensure fresh batteries are available.

That’s it in a nutshell for the LUX TX9600TS.

This smart thermostat stands out for its additional features such as filter replacement reminders, precise temperature control, separate fan hour tracking, user-friendly programming options, reliable technical support, and the availability of a compatible wall plate for various installation requirements.

2. Honeywell Home T5 – Best Runner-up Wi-Fi Thermostat Under $100

Key Takeaways: Meet the Honeywell Home T5, the thermostat that takes your comfort and convenience to a whole new level.

It’s a game-changer that works much better than those cheaper alternatives you may have tried before.

But let’s address a common issue we all face: why can’t we simply set our AC to turn on and off at specific times?

Instead, some thermostats have complicated schedules like wake, away, home, and sleep. It’s a hassle!

That’s why the T5 empowers you to take control. You can tell it exactly when to turn off without any unnecessary complications. Isn’t that great?

And that’s not all – the T5 goes above and beyond.

They listened to user feedback, and after the success of their Honeywell T6 Pro programmable thermostat for the main level heat pump…

They wanted to offer the same remote monitoring and control for your lower level heat pump.

It may not handle dual fuel units, but if that’s not your setup, the T5 is the perfect fit. Plus, it comes at a price that won’t break the bank, making it an even smarter choice.

Specifications

Introducing the Honeywell Home T5, the thermostat that’s not only smart but also a money-saving genius!

• Saving

Did you know that customers who used the T5’s scheduling feature saved between 8% and 16% on their heating and cooling bills? Now, that’s some serious dough!

Of course, the actual savings may vary depending on your own consumption, but hey, every penny counts, right?

But wait, there’s more! Get ready to be rewarded for your energy-saving efforts. Check with your energy provider for available rebates when purchasing the T5 to maximize energy savings.

And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can enroll in your local utility’s “DEMAND RESPONSE PROGRAM” where they might give you a little pat on the back (and maybe even a reward) for allowing them to make slight adjustments to your AC or furnace temperature settings during times of high energy demand.

• Smart Home Integration

The Honeywell T5 allows your voice assistant of choice do the heavy lifting for you.

It is compatible with with both iOS and Android devices: Apple Homekit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant , so no matter which team you’re on, you can enjoy the smart features and convenience of the T5.

• Features & Functionality

Now let’s talk about the T5’s incredible features. You have two options for controlling your comfort: 7-day flexible scheduling or location-based temperature control.

The choice is yours! With the 7-day scheduling, you can program your thermostat to match your weekly routine, ensuring the perfect temperature at all times.

T5 uses geofence tech to detect your absence or return based on your smartphone’s location, offering a hands-off approach.

It’s like having a thermostat that knows exactly when to turn up the heat (or cool things down) as soon as you step through the door.

Oh, and did we mention the T5 is ENERGY STAR certified? It’s a true champion in saving energy and reducing your environmental footprint.

You’ll even receive monthly energy reports to track your heating and cooling usage, along with personalized tips on how to further reduce your energy consumption.

It’s like having your very own energy-saving coach right at your fingertips!

• Installation

Now, before you rush to grab the T5, a quick heads up: you may need a C-wire power adapter for installation.

Side note: If you’re someone who prefers simplified installation and better compatibility (since some older homes or HVAC systems may not have a C wire available) then  you might want to check out our review of the “best smart thermostat without C wire“

So, make sure to check if your home is compatible with this thermostat and whether a C-wire is required.

The T5 works with most heat/cool oil furnace systems, but if you have a heating-only oil furnace, a C-wire is a must.

This thermostat may not be for you however, if you’re also specifically looking for a thermostat without C wire.

Reasons to Buy 

• It has a flat mounting design that avoids catching anything behind it.

• Seamless installation process, making it hassle-free for users.

• We are positive that this thermostat will offers a seamless plug and play upgrade with the same base, no wiring required for most users.

• Quick and easy setup procedure, taking only 5 minutes to configure.

• Supports 2 stages for both cooling and heating.

• Many users might appreciates the black background on the LCD screen, adding a stylish touch.

• Thermostat is easy to install and serves as a compatible upgrade to existing ProSeries models.

• Works well with liquid propane furnaces using a two-wire control with the addition of a C wire kit.

• Allows control of multiple thermostats through a single app.

• The Honeywell T5 is far superior to the Google Nest thermostat in terms of Wi-Fi connectivity and ease of operation.

• Stays connected to Wi-Fi, doesn’t lose connectivity spontaneously and is easy to program and operate

Reasons to Avoid

• The app for the Honeywell T5 thermostat is not quite intuitive and could be improved for easier installation.

• Bugs with the app requiring frequent closing and reopening for it to function properly.

• One of the bugs we encountered that later got fixed was despite being connected to a reliable fiber Wi-Fi network, the thermostat appears offline on all control apps (Resideo, Alexa, Ring)

• Our only major complaint is related to the temperature control app, which sometimes fails to recognize when the user is home and keeps the thermostat in “Away” mode instead of switching to “Home” mode.

• The thermostat’s limited swing range of 0.5 degrees is not adjustable, causing the furnace to start up and run excessively.

While this swing range may be suitable for boiler or baseboard heating systems, it is not ideal for forced air furnaces

That’s it in a nutshell for the Honeywell Home T5 Gen2. Say goodbye to high bills and hello to comfort and savings. It’s time to take control of your home’s temperature like a pro with the T5.

4. Sensi Lite Smart Thermostat – Best Wi-Fi Thermostat no C wire

Key Takeaways: We understand that you’ve been on the hunt for a smart thermostat under $100 that ticks all the boxes, and guess what? Sensi Lite is here to sweep you off your feet.

With its affordable price tag, easy installation, and user-friendly interface, it’s like finding a genie that grants your heating and cooling wishes.

Specifications

Meet the Sensi Lite thermostat, this savvy little device that will transform your home into a haven of comfort and efficiency!

• Installation

Installation is a breeze, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can go from old and outdated to sleek and modern.

In fact, you’ll have so much time on your hands, you might even consider taking up a new hobby like painting – after all, your thermostat deserves a stylish backdrop!

They’ve made it a breeze for you to upgrade your thermostat. With a built-in level and simple step-by-step instructions, you’ll have it up and running in no time.

• Compatibility

Plus, it works with the HVAC systems found in most homes, so no worries there. And guess what? No common wire required on most systems! We’ve taken the hassle out of installation.

If you have a dual-zoned house or simply want to upgrade your thermostat game, this is the gadget for you.

• Features

Sensi Lite is ENERGY STAR-certified and comes packed with features to help you keep more money in your pocket.

Flexible scheduling, geofencing, remote access – you name it, they’ve got it. With usage reports and smart maintenance reminders, you’ll have full control over your system’s efficiency.

Your personal information is your business, and they respect that. Sensi won’t sell your data to third parties or use your thermostat activity for pesky targeted ads.

Your privacy is as sacred to us as keeping your home at the perfect temperature.

It’s top-rated mobile app for Android and iOS devices puts the power of control in your hands. Whether you’re lounging on the couch or exploring the world, managing your comfort is just a tap away.

Sensi Lite has a bag of tricks up its sleeve. From the filter indicator that keeps your air fresh to its low voltage prowess, this thermostat has got you covered. It’s even daylight savings time ready – no more fumbling with clocks!

Sensi Lite plays well with others. It can be hand controlled, and it’s compatible with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and SmartThings. Seamless integration into your smart home ecosystem? Check!

Don’t let its small stature fool you. The Sensi Lite is just 0.88 x 5.07 x 3.13 inches, but it’s packed with power to revolutionize your home’s climate control.

Reasons to Buy 

• Installation is a breeze even in older homes and the app instructions are so straightforward, even your cat could probably install it (well, maybe not, but you get the point).

• Within minutes of installation, you’ll be connected to the internet, ready to control your thermostat and you’ll face 0 connectivity issues with this unit.

• It offers long distance remote control access so whether you’re in Colorado or anywhere else, you can conveniently set the AC for showings in your property in Arizona right from your phone.

• Say goodbye to troublesome “C” wires! Since it doesn’t require a C wire for most HVAC systems.

• Unlike Google, Ring, and other systems, this thermostat is not watching or listening to you unless you choose to connect it with Amazon Alexa. Your privacy is respected.

• With programmable settings and the ability to adjust the temperature based on occupancy, this thermostat helps you save energy and money while reducing your carbon footprint.

• The Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to control the thermostat from anywhere using your smartphone, tablet, or computer. You can easily set up schedules and adjust the temperature to ensure comfort when you return home.

• The Sensi thermostat works seamlessly with popular voice assistants like Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and SmartThings, allowing you to control it with simple voice commands.

• While similar to Google Nest in terms of features, this thermostat stands out with its rectangular design. It may not be available in various colors yet, but it can still complement your home décor.

• The built-in occupancy sensor automatically adjusts the temperature when you’re home or away, preventing energy wastage.

Reasons to Avoid

• It’s worth noting that the Sensi thermostat is not an Apple HomeKit thermostat, so Siri control is not available.

• The glossy front face can make it challenging to read the temperature display in bright sunlight.

• It’s only available in black color for now, which could be a concern for most people.

• The thermostat claims not to require a C-Wire, which is a bonus for users with a 2-wire system. However, the installation process in the app prompts for a C-Wire, causing some confusion and inconvenience.

• The app and the included manual fail to provide clear instructions on how to put the device into setup mode, leaving the user to resort to online searching for a solution.

The Sensi Lite Smart Thermostat is waiting to become the hero of your home. It’s highly recommended for its smart features, energy efficiency, and user-friendly interface.

Plus it’s compatibility with older HVAC units without a C-wire is a significant advantage.. Get ready to embrace comfort, savings, and a touch of smart sophistication.

3. Wyze Smart Thermostat – Best Value For Money Smart Thermostat Under $100

Key Takeaways: Meet the Wyze Smart Thermostat – the budget friendly hero you’ve been waiting for to save you from thermostat frustrations!

Say goodbye to short cycling furnaces, temperature overshoots, and complicated scheduling.

Wyze understands that sometimes all you need is simplicity, affordability, and reliability, without the unnecessary bells and whistles.

With the Wyze Smart Thermostat, you’ll get all that and more.

Specifications

Side Note: Considering Wyze Thermostat for its affordability, easy installation, user-friendliness, integration with smart home platforms & other impressive features?

Check out our “wyze thermostat review“ where we leave no stone unturned!

Created by the innovative minds at Wyze, a Seattle-based startup on a mission to make smart home technology accessible to all, this thermostat is designed with you in mind.

• Installations

With Wyze, you can easily install the thermostat yourself, thanks to the step-by-step guided installation in the Wyze app. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have it up and running, working seamlessly with 90% of home systems.

And for those without a C-wire, fret not! Wyze has included a C-wire adapter, ensuring compatibility for homes that need it.

Check your heating and cooling system compatibility on the Wyze website using the Wyze Thermostat Compatibility Checker.

• Wyze App

Control is now in the palm of your hand, literally! With the Wyze app, you can effortlessly adjust the temperature no matter where you are.

Say goodbye to wasting energy when you’re away – simply turn off the thermostat remotely and prevent frozen pipes or keep your furry friends comfortable.

Plus, you can share control with guests and family members through the Wyze app, making life easier for everyone.

• Features

Voice commands? Absolutely! Wyze works seamlessly with popular voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. Just ask and watch as your thermostat responds to your every need.

And with 7-day scheduling, you can create customized schedules for Home, Sleep, and Away, eliminating the need to constantly adjust your thermostat.

But Wyze doesn’t stop at convenience; it also helps you save energy and money. The Wyze app acts as your energy-saving gnome, providing insights and recommendations based on your usage.

It’s like having your own personal energy coach right on your phone. The built-in motion sensor and phone location ensure that your thermostat automatically turns on and off, optimizing energy efficiency.

Compatibility is key and the Wyze Smart Thermostat is compatible with Vera, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa, seamlessly integrating into your existing smart home ecosystem.

Measuring at 4.7 x 2.5 x 1.2 inches, this sleek device boasts special features like a motion detector, temperature display, and programmability. It’s everything you need in one compact package.

Reasons to Buy

• The actual connection and installation of the thermostat takes only about 20 minutes, saving time and effort.

• The compatibility with the Wyze app made adding the thermostat to the existing smart home system a seamless experience with just a simple “add device” command.

• The thermostat was instantly connected to Alexa, enabling voice control of temperature adjustments, whether at home or while traveling.

• The Wyze app provides in-depth step-by-step installation process that allows users to check the wiring and compatibility of their current system before purchasing the Wyze Smart Thermostat.

The app prompts users with questions about their current wiring configuration and system, ensuring a smooth and successful installation. The installation is a seamless process even for people with no prior HVAC experience.

• The thermostat seamlessly connects to the wireless network without any issues, and the app functions smoothly.

• The thermostat does not experience lockouts or crashes, and it retains the programmed settings without randomly changing them.

• The app allows easy access to usage history for different time periods (day, week, month), which is highly valuable for users who are trying to reduce energy consumption.

• A standout feature is the sensor on the unit that detects movement. Even if the thermostat is set to AWAY mode, it adjusts the temperature accordingly when someone passes by.

• Creating a schedule for your AC is a piece of cake. It enables you to customize schedules that perfectly fit your lifestyle.

• The interface is designed to be intuitive and straight-forward.

• If you’re already rocking Wyze cameras, get ready to be wowed! The Wyze smart thermostat is like the cool cousin that effortlessly joins the party.

It plays super nice with the Wyze app, so you can control all your Wyze devices using just one app. No more jumping around different apps like a restless bunny.

Reasons to Avoid

• The thermostat may have a tendency to disconnect from Wi-Fi every now and then. We faced round about 3-4 disconnections in a span of 30 days.

• Wyze thermostat is not capable of reconnecting itself back to Wi-Fi after disconnection. Therefore, every time it loses connection you would have to manually connect it back to the network.

• It lacks compatibility with geothermal systems.

• The interface is a bit clunky in our opinion.

So, why settle for a mundane thermostat when you can have the Wyze Smart Thermostat? With Wyze, adjusting your home’s temperature is as easy as turning a dial – a truly smart choice for your smart home.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, if you’re on the lookout for the best smart thermostat under $100 without breaking the bank, these smart thermostats offer an array of features that can help you save energy, control your home temperature with ease, and even integrate with voice assistants for added convenience.

Remember, finding the best smart thermostat for your home depends on your specific needs and preferences. So, take a moment to consider the features that matter most to you and weigh them against the options we’ve discussed.