When it comes to choosing the right smart thermostat for your home, the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation options are two popular choices.
Understanding the differences and similarities between these thermostats is important in making an informed decision.
In this comprehensive comparison, we will explore the features of both the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats, their compatibility with smart home integration, and other key factors to help you determine which one is best suited for your home.
The Differences Between Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation
The Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats have several differences that set them apart.
The Nest 3rd Generation has a higher resolution screen, supports Bluetooth and WiFi 5Ghz, has safety alerts and Farsight, and is compatible with the Remote Sensor accessory.
On the other hand, the Nest 2nd Generation does not support Bluetooth or WiFi 5Ghz, lacks safety alerts and Farsight, and is not compatible with the Remote Sensor accessory.
These differences play a crucial role in determining which thermostat is the better choice for your home.
Table: Comparison Between Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation Thermostats
| Features | Nest 3rd Generation | Nest 2nd Generation |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | Higher resolution screen | Lower resolution screen |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth and WiFi 5Ghz | No Bluetooth or WiFi 5Ghz |
| Safety Alerts | Yes | No |
| Farsight | Yes | No |
| Remote Sensor Compatibility | Compatible | Not compatible |
As shown in the table above, the Nest 3rd Generation offers a superior display with higher resolution, allowing for clearer and more detailed information.
Its support for Bluetooth and WiFi 5Ghz enables seamless connectivity to other devices and networks, enhancing its functionality.
The inclusion of safety alerts and Farsight provides added convenience and peace of mind for homeowners.
Additionally, the compatibility with the Remote Sensor accessory allows for more precise temperature control in different areas of the home.
On the other hand, the Nest 2nd Generation lacks these advanced features and capabilities.
With a lower resolution screen and no Bluetooth or WiFi 5Ghz support, it may not offer the same level of convenience and connectivity.
The absence of safety alerts and Farsight can also be seen as limitations, as they provide valuable notifications and visual cues.
Furthermore, the lack of compatibility with the Remote Sensor accessory may limit the ability to optimize comfort in every room.
Ultimately, it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing between the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats.
If you value higher resolution, advanced connectivity options, safety alerts, Farsight, and the ability to use Remote Sensors, then the Nest 3rd Generation may be the better choice for you.
However, if these features are not essential and you are satisfied with basic functionality, the Nest 2nd Generation could still be a suitable option.
The Similarities Between Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation
While comparing the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats, it’s important to acknowledge their shared features and similarities.
Both thermostats offer a range of functionalities that make them popular choices among homeowners.
Smart Home Integration
One key similarity between the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats is their compatibility with smart home integration.
Both models support iOS and Android platforms, allowing you to control your thermostat using your smartphone or tablet.
Additionally, they are both compatible with popular smart home systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and more.
This means you can conveniently adjust the temperature and settings using voice commands or through the respective smart home apps.
Energy Efficiency Features
Both the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats prioritize energy efficiency.
They offer features such as auto-away, which detects when no one is home and adjusts the temperature accordingly to save energy.
They also provide energy reports, allowing you to track and monitor your energy usage over time. These features contribute to reducing energy consumption and lowering utility costs.
User-Friendly Interface
Both thermostats boast a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate.
With clear and intuitive controls, you can easily adjust temperature settings and create customizable schedules.
Both models also have a sleek design with a high-resolution screen, providing a modern and visually appealing addition to your home.
Overall, the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats share several similarities in terms of smart home integration, energy efficiency features, and user-friendly interface. Whether you choose the 3rd Generation or the 2nd Generation will ultimately depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Side By Side Comparison Chart
To provide a clear visual comparison between the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats, a side-by-side comparison chart is included below.
This chart outlines the key specifications and features of each thermostat, allowing you to easily compare and contrast their capabilities.
| Nest 3rd Generation | Nest 2nd Generation | |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Resolution | Higher resolution screen | Lower resolution screen |
| WiFi Connectivity | Supports WiFi 5Ghz | No WiFi 5Ghz support |
| Smart Home Integration | Compatible with Amazon Alexa and other smart home integration products | Compatible with Amazon Alexa and other smart home integration products |
| Safety Alerts | Includes safety alerts | No safety alerts |
| Farsight | Includes Farsight feature | No Farsight feature |
| Remote Sensor Compatibility | Compatible with Remote Sensor accessory | Not compatible with Remote Sensor accessory |
This side-by-side comparison chart should help you better understand the differences between the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats.
By considering these specifications and features, you can make an informed decision on which thermostat is best suited for your home.
Amazon Alexa and Smart Home Integration
One of the key features of both the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats is their compatibility with Amazon Alexa and other smart home integration products.
This means that you can easily control your thermostat using voice commands or through the respective smart home apps.
Whether you prefer to use your voice or your smartphone, integrating your Nest thermostat with Amazon Alexa or other smart home devices allows for seamless control and convenience.
You can simply say commands like “Alexa, set the temperature to 72 degrees” or use the mobile app to adjust the temperature from anywhere in your home.
With smart home integration, you can make your Nest thermostat an integral part of your connected home ecosystem.
In addition to Amazon Alexa, the Nest thermostats are compatible with a wide range of other smart home devices, such as Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and Samsung SmartThings, among others.
This versatility allows you to choose the smart home ecosystem that best suits your needs and preferences.
Whether you already have an existing smart home setup or are just starting to build one, the Nest thermostats seamlessly integrate with various platforms, providing you with a connected home experience.
With smart home integration, you can not only control your thermostat with ease but also create automated routines and schedules.
For example, you can set your Nest thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when you leave the house or go to bed.
You can also integrate your thermostat with other smart home devices, such as smart lighting or smart locks, to create personalized home automation scenarios.
By combining the power of smart home integration and the advanced features of the Nest thermostats, you can optimize your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.
| Nest 3rd Generation | Nest 2nd Generation |
|---|---|
| Amazon Alexa Integration | Amazon Alexa Integration |
| Google Assistant Integration | Google Assistant Integration |
| Apple HomeKit Integration | Apple HomeKit Integration |
| Samsung SmartThings Integration | Samsung SmartThings Integration |
Airwave and Nest Leaf
The Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats both feature Airwave and Nest Leaf technologies.
Airwave detects when cold air is trapped in the system and turns off the air conditioner, allowing the fans to blow and distribute the remaining cold air.
This helps save energy and reduce costs.
The Nest Leaf, on the other hand, is a visual aid that encourages energy-saving behaviors by showing a leaf icon when energy-efficient temperatures are set.
Both of these features contribute to increased energy efficiency and cost savings.
With Airwave, you can enjoy the benefits of a comfortable home while minimizing your energy consumption.
By optimally using the remaining cold air, you can reduce the need for excessive air conditioning, saving you money on your energy bills.
The Nest Leaf feature provides a simple yet effective way to encourage energy-saving habits.
When you see the leaf icon on your thermostat, you know you’re making a conscious effort to reduce your energy usage.
This visual reminder can help you make sustainable choices and contribute to a greener environment.
Whether you choose the Nest 3rd Generation or the 2nd Generation, you’ll have the advantage of Airwave and Nest Leaf to help you create an energy-efficient home.
These features not only provide practical benefits but also serve as a constant reminder to make conscious choices that have a positive impact on both your wallet and the planet.
| Feature | Nest 3rd Generation | Nest 2nd Generation |
|---|---|---|
| Airwave | Yes | Yes |
| Nest Leaf | Yes | Yes |
Heat Link and Cool to Dry
The Nest 3rd Generation thermostat offers two unique features not available in the Nest 2nd Generation thermostat: Heat Link and Cool to Dry.
These features provide enhanced functionality and comfort, making the Nest 3rd Generation a more versatile option.
Heat Link
The Heat Link feature of the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat allows for precise control over both the hot water and hot air in your home.
This high-voltage regulator monitors the heater and ensures that the temperature remains at the desired level. With Heat Link, you can enjoy optimal comfort and efficient heating throughout your home.
Cool to Dry
Cool to Dry is another valuable feature of the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat.
This built-in humidity sensor detects when the humidity levels in your home are too high and automatically activates the air conditioner to reduce moisture in the air.
By maintaining a comfortable and dry environment, Cool to Dry helps prevent mold, mildew, and other issues caused by excessive humidity.
These additional features provided by the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat make it a more advanced and capable device, catering to the diverse needs of homeowners.
Whether you require precise control over your heating system or want to maintain optimal humidity levels in your home, the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat has you covered.
Farsight and Sunblock
The Nest 3rd Generation thermostat offers two unique features not available in the Nest 2nd Generation: Farsight and Sunblock.
These features enhance the usability and functionality of the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat, providing a better user experience.
Farsight
Farsight is an innovative feature that allows the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat to activate its screen and display temperature, time, and weather information when it detects movement from a distance of up to ten feet.
This means that even from across the room, you can conveniently view important information without having to get up or go near the thermostat.
Farsight enhances the accessibility and visibility of the thermostat, making it easier to read and control.
Sunblock
The Sunblock feature in the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat is designed to intelligently detect direct sunlight and adjust the thermostat accordingly.
By detecting direct sunlight, the thermostat can prevent false cooling and ensure accurate temperature readings.
This feature helps maintain a comfortable and consistent indoor temperature by compensating for the heat generated by sunlight.
Sunblock contributes to the overall energy efficiency and performance of the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat.
| Nest 3rd Generation | Nest 2nd Generation | |
|---|---|---|
| Farsight | ✓ | N/A |
| Sunblock | ✓ | N/A |
As shown in the table above, Farsight and Sunblock are exclusive features of the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat.
These features provide added convenience and functionality, ensuring that the thermostat can adapt to different environmental conditions and user preferences.
Furnace Heads Up
The Nest 3rd Generation thermostat offers a unique feature called Furnace Heads Up, which sets it apart from the Nest 2nd Generation thermostat.
This feature provides valuable alerts and notifications regarding any issues or abnormalities detected in your heating system.
By monitoring the performance of your furnace, the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat can proactively detect potential problems and notify you in advance, allowing you to take action and prevent major issues down the line.
With Furnace Heads Up, you can stay ahead of any heating system malfunctions and ensure that your home remains comfortable and safe.
The feature provides real-time insights into the health of your furnace, giving you peace of mind and saving you from unexpected breakdowns or costly repairs.
By addressing issues early on, you can avoid discomfort, inconvenience, and potentially expensive emergency HVAC services.
By leveraging advanced technology and intelligent monitoring, the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat with Furnace Heads Up goes beyond basic temperature control.
It adds an extra layer of convenience and peace of mind, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who value proactive maintenance and preventative measures to keep their heating system running smoothly.
| Nest 3rd Generation Features | Nest 2nd Generation Features |
|---|---|
| Furnace Heads Up | N/A |
| Higher resolution screen | Lower resolution screen |
| Safety alerts | N/A |
| Remote Sensor accessory compatibility | N/A |
| Supports Bluetooth and WiFi 5Ghz | Does not support Bluetooth or WiFi 5Ghz |
What We Like About the Nest 2
When it comes to the Nest 2nd Generation thermostat, there are several standout features that homeowners appreciate.
One of the key advantages is its compatibility with a wide range of smart home integration products.
Whether you have Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit, the Nest 2nd Generation thermostat seamlessly integrates with these platforms, allowing you to control your thermostat with ease.
Another noteworthy feature of the Nest 2nd Generation thermostat is its energy-saving capabilities.
With its intelligent programming and learning algorithms, the thermostat adapts to your schedule and adjusts the temperature accordingly.
This helps optimize energy usage and reduce utility costs without sacrificing comfort.
Furthermore, the Nest 2nd Generation thermostat is renowned for its simple installation process.
With easy-to-follow instructions and a user-friendly interface, even those with limited technical knowledge can set up the thermostat effortlessly.
This makes it a popular choice among homeowners looking for a hassle-free smart thermostat solution.
What We Like About the Nest 3
When it comes to the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat, several standout features make it an exceptional choice for homeowners.
Firstly, its larger screen with improved resolution provides a visually appealing interface that is easy to read and navigate.
Whether you’re checking the temperature or adjusting settings, the high-quality display enhances the overall user experience.
The Nest 3rd Generation thermostat also boasts enhanced sensing abilities, allowing it to accurately detect and respond to changes in your home’s environment.
This means that it can adapt to temperature fluctuations and optimize energy usage for maximum comfort and efficiency.
With its ability to learn your schedule and preferences, the Nest 3rd Generation ensures that your home is always at the perfect temperature when you need it.
Additionally, the Nest 3rd Generation offers a range of additional features that further enhance its functionality.
The inclusion of remote room sensors allows you to prioritize certain areas of your home for heating or cooling, ensuring optimal comfort in every room.
Safety alerts provide peace of mind by notifying you of any potential issues with your HVAC system, allowing you to take quick action to resolve them.
Automatic adjustments based on activity and occupancy contribute to energy savings and a more efficient home environment.
The Nest 3rd Generation thermostat maintains the sleek design and user-friendly interface that users appreciate, making it a seamless addition to any home.
Overall, the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat offers advanced features, improved sensing capabilities, and additional functionalities that make it a highly recommended choice for those seeking a smart thermostat that combines style, convenience, and energy efficiency.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when comparing the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats, it is evident that both have their own unique features and advantages.
The Nest 3rd Generation offers several improvements and additional features that make it a more advanced and versatile smart thermostat.
With its higher resolution screen, support for Bluetooth and WiFi 5Ghz, safety alerts, Farsight, and compatibility with the Remote Sensor accessory, the Nest 3rd Generation provides enhanced usability and functionality.
However, if you already own a Nest 2nd Generation thermostat and are satisfied with its performance, upgrading may not be necessary.
The Nest 2nd Generation still offers compatibility with smart home integration products, energy-saving capabilities, and a sleek design.
If these features align with your needs and preferences, sticking with the Nest 2nd Generation can be a viable option.
In the end, the choice between the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats ultimately depends on your specific requirements and budget.
Assess your needs carefully, consider the features and differences outlined in this comparison, and choose the thermostat that best suits your home and lifestyle.
Whether you opt for the advanced features of the Nest 3rd Generation or the tried-and-true performance of the Nest 2nd Generation, both thermostats offer reliable and efficient solutions for controlling your home’s temperature.
FAQS
WHAT ARE THE MAIN DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE NEST 3RD GENERATION AND 2ND GENERATION THERMOSTATS?
The Nest 3rd Generation has a higher resolution screen, supports Bluetooth and WiFi 5Ghz, has safety alerts and Farsight, and is compatible with the Remote Sensor accessory.
The Nest 2nd Generation lacks these features.
WHAT ARE THE SIMILARITIES BETWEEN THE NEST 3RD GENERATION AND 2ND GENERATION THERMOSTATS?
Both thermostats support iOS and Android, have WiFi support, are compatible with Amazon Alexa and other smart home integration products, and offer features such as auto-away, remote control, and energy reports.
HOW DO THE NEST THERMOSTATS INTEGRATE WITH SMART HOME SYSTEMS?
Both the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats are compatible with Amazon Alexa and other smart home integration products, allowing you to control your thermostat with voice commands or through smart home apps.
WHAT ARE AIRWAVE AND NEST LEAF?
Airwave is a feature that detects trapped cold air in the system and turns off the air conditioner, allowing the fans to distribute the remaining cold air.
Nest Leaf is a visual aid that encourages energy-saving behaviors by showing a leaf icon when energy-efficient temperatures are set.
WHAT ARE THE ADDITIONAL FEATURES OF THE NEST 3RD GENERATION THERMOSTAT?
The Nest 3rd Generation offers features such as Heat Link and Cool to Dry.
Heat Link monitors the heater and controls hot water and hot air, while Cool to Dry detects high humidity and turns on the air conditioner to lower humidity.
WHAT ARE FARSIGHT AND SUNBLOCK?
Farsight allows the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat to activate the screen and display temperature, time, and weather information when it detects movement from a distance of up to ten feet.
Sunblock is a sensor that detects direct sunlight and adjusts the thermostat to prevent false cooling.
WHAT IS THE FURNACE HEADS UP FEATURE?
The Furnace Heads Up feature is exclusive to the Nest 3rd Generation thermostat and provides alerts and notifications regarding any issues or abnormalities detected in the heating system.
WHY DO HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE THE NEST 2ND GENERATION THERMOSTAT?
Homeowners appreciate the Nest 2nd Generation thermostat for its compatibility with smart home integration, energy-saving capabilities, easy installation process, sleek design, and user-friendly interface.
WHAT MAKES THE NEST 3RD GENERATION THERMOSTAT A TOP CHOICE?
The Nest 3rd Generation thermostat offers a larger screen with improved resolution, enhanced sensing abilities, compatibility with remote room sensors, safety alerts, automatic adjustments, and features like Farsight and Sunblock.
It maintains the sleek design and user-friendly interface of the Nest 2nd Generation.
WHICH NEST THERMOSTAT IS BETTER?
The choice between the Nest 3rd Generation and 2nd Generation thermostats depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
The Nest 3rd Generation offers more advanced features and versatility, but if you are satisfied with the Nest 2nd Generation’s performance, upgrading may not be necessary.
