As someone who's tried multiple smart thermostats, I was intrigued by Amazon's offering, especially given its partnership with Honeywell. The installation process was surprisingly smooth, though the C-wire requirement might trip up some users. I love how the Alexa app guides you through setup—no fumbling with Wi-Fi passwords!
The design is sleek and modern, blending well with any home decor. The optional backplate is a nice touch for covering old thermostat holes. Performance-wise, it does its job well, but I did notice occasional hiccups with network reconnection after power outages—something to keep in mind if you live in an area prone to storms.
Energy savings are where this thermostat shines. The app provides detailed insights into your usage, and the automatic scheduling based on your presence is a game-changer. However, the scheduling options are somewhat limited compared to pricier models like Nest.
Voice control via Alexa is hit or miss. While basic commands work fine, more specific requests sometimes fall flat. The lack of auxiliary heat visibility in the app is a notable downside for heat pump users.
Overall, this is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers already invested in the Alexa ecosystem. It's not perfect, but at this price point (especially with potential energy rebates), it's hard to beat.