# Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Generation) Review: The Ultimate Smart Thermostat
The **Nest Learning Thermostat** has been a significant player in the smart home landscape, transforming the way we control our home’s climate. With the launch of the **4th Generation Nest Learning Thermostat**, Google has elevated this celebrated device, presenting an exquisite design, improved functionalities, and greater compatibility with smart home systems. But does it truly meet expectations? Let’s explore the specifics.
## An Eye-Catching New “Floating” Aesthetic
One of the most notable alterations in the 4th generation model is its **aesthetic**. Maintaining the well-known circular shape and rotating bezel for adjustments, the new version brings in a **“floating” appearance**. The base of the thermostat projects from the wall, and the larger glass display creates the impression that the device is suspended when observed from particular perspectives. This design is contemporary and sophisticated, making it an attractive addition to any household.
The **glass display** is framed by a shiny metallic border, contributing to a luxurious feel. However, the glossy surface comes with a small drawback: **glare**. Depending on your home’s lighting, the glass may reflect light, hindering the visibility of the display from various angles. This issue can be especially bothersome when trying to utilize the **Dynamic Farsight** feature, meant to convey information like the time or temperature from a distance.
Notwithstanding this slight inconvenience, the overall design represents a notable improvement. The thermostat is also relatively simple to install, and unlike certain rivals, it doesn’t necessitate a **C-Wire** for power. This presents a significant benefit for older residences with only two wires, removing the necessity for unsightly power converters.
## Intelligent Features for Smarter Homes
As anticipated, the 4th Generation Nest Learning Thermostat is filled with **intelligent features** aimed at conserving energy and maximizing convenience. The thermostat can still **adapt to your routine** and modify the temperature accordingly, or you can set temperature changes manually. However, Google has enhanced the device’s capability to comprehend how your home naturally heats and cools, enabling more efficient adjustments.
A standout feature is the bundled **remote temperature sensor**. This is particularly beneficial for multi-level homes or spaces with varying temperatures. For instance, you can install the thermostat on one floor and the sensor on another, allowing the system to adjust based on conditions from both places.
Arguably the most thrilling addition for smart home aficionados is **Matter support**. Matter is a newly established smart home standard that facilitates the seamless interaction of devices from diverse ecosystems. With Matter compatibility, the Nest Learning Thermostat can now be incorporated into **Apple’s HomeKit**, empowering users to manage the thermostat via the Home app or Siri, all without needing to download the Google Home app. This revolutionizes interaction for homes with mixed smart home environments.
## User-Friendly Software and Easy Controls
The software on the 4th Generation Nest Learning Thermostat has been revamped as well. The interface is user-friendly and straightforward to navigate. When you approach the thermostat, the display indicates the current temperature, and you can adjust it just by rotating the outer ring. Pressing the ring reveals a menu where you can explore settings, modes, and additional options.
A new feature called **Dynamic Farsight** showcases details like the time, outside temperature, and humidity as you get near the thermostat. While visually appealing, the display can occasionally be too dim, rendering it challenging to read in certain lighting conditions. A brighter screen would enhance usability, particularly in bright rooms.
One limitation of the Dynamic Farsight feature is its deactivation when the thermostat fails to detect movement. This means that if you’re seated on the couch, the display will eventually turn off, requiring you to move to reactivate it. While this approach likely conserves energy, the option for an **always-on display** would be appreciated, especially for those who wish to utilize the thermostat as a clock.
## Advantages and Disadvantages
### Advantages:
– **Eye-catching design**: The floating aesthetic and high-quality materials make the thermostat a stylish addition to any space.
– **Matter support**: The thermostat is now compatible with a broader range of smart home ecosystems, including Apple HomeKit.
– **User-friendly**: The accessible interface and straightforward controls make it easy for all users to handle.
– **Extensive system compatibility**: The thermostat accommodates a wide variety of heating and cooling systems.
– **Temperature sensor included**: The remote sensor aids in managing temperature across multiple levels or rooms with different temperatures.
### Disadvantages:
– **Screen could be brighter**: The display may be difficult to read under certain lighting, especially with glare.
– **Dynamic Farsight deactivates**: The display shuts off when
