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The Google Nest Thermostat (2020 model) brought Nest smart features to a sub-$100 price point for the first time, and it remains one of the highest-return smart home purchases you can make. We have been running one for over a year — here is how it holds up.
In-Depth Look
Google Nest Thermostat (2020)
The Google Nest Thermostat strips away the Learning Thermostat’s higher price while keeping the features that actually save money: Schedule Suggestion (which builds a heating schedule automatically based on your manual adjustments), Energy History (showing exactly when and why your system ran), and remote control from anywhere via the Google Home app. The mirror-finish display is attractive enough to call a design feature, and setup from unboxing to first smart schedule takes about 25 minutes.
✅ Pros
- Typically pays for itself in one heating season
- Works with most HVAC systems
- Schedule Suggestion builds a smart schedule automatically
- Remote control from anywhere via Google Home
- Attractive mirror display
❌ Cons
- Needs C-wire for best reliability
- Self-learning requires Nest Learning Thermostat (upgrade)
- Google Home app mandatory — limited Alexa integration
- Compatibility checker is essential first step
Google Nest Thermostat (2020)
At under $100, the Nest Thermostat is one of the highest-return smart home purchases you can make. Check compatibility first, install in 25 minutes, and let the energy savings roll in from day one.
🛒 Check Price on AmazonWhat to Consider Before Buying
Compatibility is the first check before buying — use Google’s compatibility checker tool with your current thermostat’s wiring to confirm the Nest will work with your HVAC system.
The common-wire (C-wire) provides continuous power; without it, the Nest uses a power-stealing technique that is incompatible with some HVAC systems and may cause short-cycling.
If you want the self-learning schedule that adapts automatically without any manual programming, step up to the Nest Learning Thermostat — the standard model requires you to either set a schedule or use Eco Temperatures.
The Google Home app is required for setup and remote access — if your household primarily uses Amazon Echo devices, consider the Amazon Smart Thermostat for tighter Alexa integration.
Verdict
The Google Nest Thermostat typically pays for itself within a heating season through the energy savings from Eco Temperatures and schedule optimization. At under $100, it is one of the most cost-effective smart home upgrades available — if your HVAC is compatible, there is very little reason not to buy one.