When it comes to smart thermostats, ecobee has become a household name. Their ecobee 3 and 4 models have become the go-to devices for many homeowners looking to upgrade their home’s temperature control system. But which one is better for you? Let’s dive deep into a detailed comparison of the two devices and help you make an informed decision.
A brief comparison of the ecobee 3 and 4
The ecobee 3 and 4 share many similarities, but there are also some significant differences between the two models. The ecobee 3 has a slightly smaller display screen than the ecobee 4, measuring 3.5 inches compared to 4.3 inches. The ecobee 4 also has an Alexa voice service built directly into the device. Meanwhile, the ecobee 3 requires an external Amazon Echo device to be voice-controlled.
The ecobee 4 also has a more advanced occupancy detecting sensor that can detect room occupancy accurately. This intelligent feature allows the device to conserve energy by adjusting the temperature automatically when there’s nobody in the room. The ecobee 3, on the other hand, only detects occupancy through motion and can be less accurate in some situations.
Another difference between the ecobee 3 and 4 is the presence of a built-in speaker in the ecobee 4. This speaker allows the device to play music, make phone calls, and even communicate with other smart home devices. The ecobee 3 does not have a built-in speaker, so it cannot perform these functions without the help of an external device.
Design differences between the ecobee 3 and 4
Apart from the size of their display screens, the ecobee 3 and 4 also have some minor aesthetic differences. The ecobee 4 features a sleeker design with a glass finish, while the ecobee 3 is made of polycarbonate plastic. Both devices have a similar black colour scheme and a rectangular appearance. If looks matter to you, the ecobee 4 would be the better choice.
However, the differences between the ecobee 3 and 4 are not just limited to their appearance. The ecobee 4 comes with built-in Amazon Alexa voice control, allowing you to control your smart home devices and ask for information using voice commands. On the other hand, the ecobee 3 does not have this feature and requires a separate Amazon Echo device for voice control. If you prefer the convenience of voice control, the ecobee 4 would be the better option for you.
Understanding the features of the ecobee 3 and 4
Both the ecobee 3 and 4 come equipped with a variety of features that make temperature control much easier. The devices use Wi-Fi to connect to your home’s network and enable remote control from anywhere. This means that you can control the temperature of your home using your smartphone or computer, even when you’re not at home. Additionally, both devices come with a free mobile app that lets you control the temperature and view usage reports.
The ecobee 4’s built-in Alexa voice service is a game-changer. You can ask it to perform a variety of tasks, including playing music, giving weather forecasts, and setting timers. The ecobee 4 can also integrate with other smart home devices like light bulbs and switches, enabling you to control your whole home using voice commands.
Another feature that sets the ecobee 4 apart from the ecobee 3 is its occupancy sensor. The device can detect when someone is in the room and adjust the temperature accordingly. This means that you don’t have to worry about manually adjusting the temperature every time you enter or leave a room. The ecobee 4 also comes with a sleek, modern design that looks great in any home.
Which device offers better energy savings?
Both the ecobee 3 and 4 can save you a significant amount of energy and reduce your energy bill. The devices use sensors to detect occupancy and adjust the temperature accordingly, helping you to save on heating and cooling costs. The ecobee 4’s more advanced occupancy sensor can detect if there is anybody in the room accurately, which minimizes false positives and saves even more energy over the long run.
Additionally, both devices offer features such as smart scheduling and remote access through a mobile app, allowing you to control your home’s temperature from anywhere. The ecobee 4 also includes a built-in Amazon Alexa voice assistant, which can further enhance your home automation experience. Ultimately, both devices offer excellent energy savings and convenience, so the choice between them may come down to personal preference and specific needs.
The performance difference between ecobee 3 and 4
When it comes to performance, both the ecobee 3 and 4 are highly rated. However, the ecobee 4’s upgraded sensor helps it infer more data, which means that it can respond faster to changes in temperature or settings. Additionally, the ecobee 4’s Alexa integrated voice assistant allows you to perform various tasks, making it a more convenient device.
Another notable difference between the ecobee 3 and 4 is the presence of a built-in occupancy sensor in the ecobee 4. This sensor detects whether someone is in the room and adjusts the temperature accordingly, which can lead to energy savings. The ecobee 4 also has a sleeker design and a higher resolution display compared to the ecobee 3. Overall, while both models offer excellent performance, the ecobee 4’s additional features make it a more advanced and convenient option.
How easy is it to install, setup and use the ecobee 3 and 4?
The installation and setup process of both devices are quite simple, especially if you have experience with smart home devices. The devices come with comprehensive guides and online resources, making the process easy to follow. Overall, the installation is not complicated, and the devices are easy to use, both coming with intuitive touchscreen panels.
Compatibility with other smart home devices
Both devices are compatible with a range of other smart home devices. They can integrate seamlessly with other devices such as Amazon Echo devices, Google Assistant, and SmartThings. This level of compatibility makes them ideal devices for smart home enthusiasts.
In addition to the aforementioned devices, both devices are also compatible with Apple HomeKit. This means that users can control their smart home devices using Siri on their Apple devices. This level of compatibility ensures that users have a wide range of options when it comes to integrating their smart home devices.
Smart thermostats vs traditional thermostats: Why upgrade to an ecobee?
If you’re still using a conventional thermostat, upgrading to a smart thermostat like ecobee is the way to go. Smart thermostats like ecobee offer better temperature control, energy savings, and more convenience. You can control your home’s temperature remotely and set custom heating and cooling schedules, saving you time and money in the long run. Additionally, they provide insights into your energy usage, so you can identify areas where you can save more energy.
Another advantage of ecobee smart thermostats is their compatibility with smart home systems. You can integrate ecobee with other smart devices in your home, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, to control your thermostat with voice commands. This makes it even more convenient to adjust your home’s temperature without having to physically interact with the thermostat. Furthermore, ecobee’s sensors can detect occupancy and adjust the temperature accordingly, ensuring that you’re only using energy to heat or cool occupied rooms. Overall, upgrading to an ecobee smart thermostat is a smart investment that can improve your home’s energy efficiency and save you money on your energy bills.
The cost difference between the ecobee 3 and 4
The ecobee 4 is more expensive than the ecobee 3, and the price difference between the two models varies depending on where you buy them. The ecobee 4 is generally more expensive due to its advanced features, including its built-in Alexa voice assistant. However, if you’re looking for a cheaper device, the ecobee 3 offers most of the features that the ecobee 4 offers.
One of the main differences between the ecobee 3 and 4 is their design. The ecobee 4 has a sleeker and more modern look, with a glass finish and a touch screen display. On the other hand, the ecobee 3 has a plastic finish and a non-touch screen display. This may be a factor to consider if you’re looking for a device that matches your home decor.
Another difference between the two models is their compatibility with different HVAC systems. The ecobee 4 is compatible with more HVAC systems than the ecobee 3, including dual fuel systems and ventilators. If you have a complex HVAC system, the ecobee 4 may be a better option for you.
Customer reviews: Which one do consumers prefer?
Both the ecobee 3 and 4 have many satisfied customers, but the ecobee 4 generally has more favorable reviews. Customers appreciate the ecobee 4’s built-in Alexa assistant, more advanced occupancy sensor, and sleeker design. However, those who do not need Alexa, do not see any need to upgrade from an ecobee 3 that offers almost the same features and performance.
It’s worth noting that some customers have reported issues with the ecobee 4’s Alexa assistant, such as difficulty hearing voice commands in noisy environments. Additionally, some users have experienced connectivity issues with the ecobee 4’s occupancy sensor, which can lead to inaccurate temperature readings. Despite these concerns, the majority of customers still prefer the ecobee 4 over the ecobee 3 for its added features and sleek design.
Conclusion: Which one is better for you?
When it comes to choosing the better device between ecobee 3 and 4, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you value Alexa integration, more accurate detection of occupancy, and a sleeker design, the ecobee 4 is the way to go. The ecobee 4 is an excellent investment if you’re looking for convenience and the latest technology. However, if you’re on a tight budget or do not need a built-in Alexa assistant, the ecobee 3 offers most of the features of the ecobee 4 at a lower cost. Ultimately, the choice is yours based on your needs and preferences.
It’s worth noting that both the ecobee 3 and 4 are highly rated for their energy-saving capabilities and ease of use. They both offer remote access through a mobile app, as well as compatibility with smart home systems like Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant. Additionally, both devices come with room sensors that can detect temperature and occupancy, allowing for more precise temperature control and energy savings. Overall, whether you choose the ecobee 3 or 4, you can feel confident that you’re making a smart investment in your home’s energy efficiency and comfort.
