Ecobee Premium vs Enhanced: $50 Price Gap – Is Premium Worth It?

Looking at the Ecobee Premium vs Enhanced thermostats, you might wonder if an $50 price difference really matters. The Premium model sits at $239.99, while the Enhanced version costs $189.99.

These smart thermostats share some basic features, but the Premium brings notable upgrades to the table. With its zinc body instead of plastic, built-in voice control for Alexa or Siri, and an advanced air quality sensor, the Premium model certainly packs more features. Additionally, it comes with a Smart Sensor for temperature and occupancy monitoring—a $99.99 value that’s not included with the Enhanced model.

Whether these premium features justify the higher price tag depends on what you’re looking for in a smart thermostat. In this comparison, we’ll break down exactly what you get for that extra $80 to help you make the right choice for your home.

Key Design and Display Features

The design differences between these Ecobee models start with their build materials. The Premium model features a zinc body with silver accents, giving it a more refined appearance and substantial feel. In contrast, the Enhanced version maintains the traditional plastic construction.

Premium’s Zinc vs Enhanced’s Plastic Build

The Premium’s zinc construction marks a significant departure from Ecobee’s previous all-plastic designs. This upgrade addresses a common criticism about Ecobee thermostats not matching the esthetic appeal of competitors. The zinc body adds weight and creates a more sophisticated look, particularly with its metallic accents that stand out against the wall.

Screen Size and Resolution Comparison

Both models showcase a dramatically improved display compared to previous versions. The screen size has increased by 50%, featuring a 4-inch diagonal square display. Furthermore, the resolution has been upgraded to 540 x 540 pixels, resulting in sharper text and clearer visuals. The full-color LCD touchscreen incorporates smooth waterfall edges and thicker glass, creating a more seamless appearance.

Touch Interface Improvements

Notably, the interface has undergone significant refinements to enhance usability. The larger display allows for better-spaced controls, making them easier to select accurately. One of the most practical improvements is the replacement of the previous slider control with an intuitive temperature wheel, complemented by plus and minus buttons.

Both thermostats incorporate a new radar sensor, replacing the older passive infrared technology. This upgrade provides:

• More accurate temperature readings
• Enhanced occupancy detection
• Wider angle coverage
• Better around-corner sensing capabilities

The blue squircle display indicator shows current temperature settings clearly, with the bottom section displaying scheduled temperature changes. These visual elements combine to create an interface that’s both functional and visually appealing.

Core Features Face-Off

Both Ecobee models share core sensing capabilities, yet differ significantly in their implementation. The Premium and Enhanced thermostats incorporate advanced radar technology, marking a major upgrade from previous models.

Temperature and Humidity Sensing

The Premium model comes bundled with one Ecobee Smart Sensor for monitoring temperature in another room of your house. These sensors maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home, primarily targeting your preferred temperature in occupied rooms rather than just where the thermostat is mounted.

Motion Detection Capabilities

The radar sensor represents a significant advancement over the previous passive infrared (PIR) technology. This upgrade delivers several key improvements:

• More accurate occupancy detection at greater distances
• Enhanced ability to sense movement around corners
• Wider angle coverage for better room monitoring
• More precise temperature readings throughout the space

The radar sensor’s implementation specifically addresses previous limitations in motion detection. Moreover, this technology enables the system to track occupancy patterns more effectively, consequently improving the thermostat’s ability to adjust temperatures based on actual room usage.

The Enhanced model essentially matches the Premium in these core sensing capabilities, as both utilize the same radar sensor technology. The Smart Sensor compatibility further extends these capabilities, though these additional sensors must be purchased separately for the Enhanced model at $99.99 for a two-pack.

For homeowners focused on basic temperature control and remote access, these core features prove sufficient. The system allows quick temperature adjustments through the mobile app, making it practical for those who travel frequently or want to manage their home’s climate from anywhere.

Premium-Exclusive Features

Voice control and air quality monitoring stand out as signature features that set the Premium model apart from its Enhanced counterpart.

Built-in Voice Assistant Benefits

The Premium model offers dual voice assistant compatibility, working with both Alexa and Siri. Unlike previous generations where voice control appeared as a light bar, the Premium fully integrates voice assistance into the display. Subsequently, when you say “Alexa,” an animation appears on screen, making interactions more intuitive.

Alongside basic temperature adjustments, the built-in voice control enables you to manage schedules and control other connected smart devices. This integration eliminates the need for a separate smart speaker, primarily benefiting those looking to streamline their smart home setup.

Air Quality Monitoring Value

The Premium’s air quality monitoring system represents a significant advancement in home climate control. The built-in sensor tracks:

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Carbon dioxide levels
• Relative humidity

The system calculates a clean air score, displayed both on the device and in the mobile app. When air quality deteriorates, the Premium sends alerts and provides specific tips for improvement. Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that the sensor’s effectiveness depends on the thermostat’s placement – optimal results require installation in frequently used areas rather than isolated spots.

The air quality monitoring feature primarily focuses on VOCs and CO2, offering a different approach from traditional air purifiers. The system includes automated filter change reminders, making maintenance more manageable. From an overall health perspective, this feature helps create a more conscious approach to indoor air quality, though its practical value varies based on home layout and thermostat location.

The Premium’s combination of voice control and air quality monitoring creates a more comprehensive smart home solution. These features extend beyond basic temperature control, offering insights and convenience that the Enhanced model doesn’t provide.

Smart Home Integration Options

Smart home compatibility extends beyond basic voice control for both Ecobee Premium and Enhanced thermostats. These devices seamlessly integrate with major smart home platforms, creating a unified control system for your home.

HomeKit and Alexa Support

Both models work harmoniously with leading smart home ecosystems. The integration options include:

• Apple HomeKit for iOS device control
• Amazon Alexa for voice commands
• Google Assistant compatibility
• Samsung SmartThings support
• IFTTT for custom automations

Alongside platform support, these thermostats enable scene creation and automation scheduling. Through SmartThings integration, you can incorporate temperature control into broader home automation routines, primarily focusing on comfort optimization and energy management.

Security System Integration

The security capabilities set these thermostats apart as true smart home hubs. Both models function as security base stations, offering comprehensive monitoring solutions through the Smart Security system.

Through a Smart Security subscription starting at $5 monthly, the system provides professional monitoring backed by RapidSOS emergency response platform. The security features include automated alerts for unexpected activities and environmental threats.

A notable advancement comes through integration with Yale and August smart locks. This partnership enables several practical security features:

• Automatic door locking when arming the system
• Remote lock control through the Ecobee app
• Real-time notifications about guest arrivals
• Seamless integration with video monitoring

The system also includes an energy-saving feature that automatically turns off HVAC operations if doors or windows remain open for five minutes. Once closed for 30 seconds, the system resumes normal operation.

For enhanced security coverage, you can expand the system with additional components. The SmartCamera, priced at $100, supports HomeKit Secure Video and includes built-in Alexa capabilities. Door and window sensors, available at $79.99 for a two-pack, provide comprehensive monitoring of entry points.

Smart Security subscribers might qualify for insurance benefits, with potential savings of up to 10% on home or rental insurance premiums. This integration of comfort, security, and energy management creates a more comprehensive smart home solution that goes beyond traditional thermostat functionality.

Real Cost Analysis

Understanding the financial implications helps determine if the Premium’s extra features justify its higher price tag.

Initial Purchase Price Breakdown

The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium retails at $239.99, primarily commanding an $80 premium over the Enhanced model’s $189.99 price point. This price difference becomes more nuanced considering the Premium includes a Smart Sensor ($99.99 value for a two-pack) in the package.

Long-term Energy Savings

Both thermostats deliver identical energy-saving potential, reducing heating and cooling costs by up to 26% annually. This translates to approximately $284 in yearly savings. The eco+ software, available on both models, optimizes these savings through:

• Automatic temperature adjustments based on occupancy
• Schedule optimization using learned routines
• Smart energy use during off-peak hours
• Grid-response programs offering utility provider incentives

Additional Sensor Costs

The sensor ecosystem affects the total investment differently for each model. While the Premium comes with one Smart Sensor included, the Enhanced requires separate sensor purchases. A two-pack of Smart Sensors costs $99.99, making the Enhanced potentially more expensive if you need multiple room monitoring.

The Enhanced model’s compatibility with Smart Sensors offers flexibility, accordingly allowing future expansion. However, purchasing these sensors separately could push the total cost above the Premium’s price. For comprehensive home coverage, door and window sensors are available at $79.99 for a two-pack.

Both thermostats qualify for Energy Star certification, simultaneously opening opportunities for utility provider rebates. During setup, these rebates can significantly offset the initial investment, making either model more affordable. The decision between Premium and Enhanced ultimately depends on whether the included Smart Sensor and premium features align with your home automation needs.

Comparison Chart

Feature	Ecobee Premium	Ecobee Enhanced
Price	$249.99	$189.99
Build Material	Zinc body with silver accents	Plastic construction
Display	4-inch diagonal square (540 x 540 pixels)	4-inch diagonal square (540 x 540 pixels)
Motion Detection	Radar sensor	Radar sensor
Included Smart Sensor	Yes (included)	No (sold separately)
Voice Assistant	Built-in Alexa and Siri	Not included
Air Quality Monitoring	Yes (VOCs, CO2, humidity)	No
Smart Home Integration	HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, IFTTT	HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, IFTTT
Security Features	Smart Security compatible	Smart Security compatible
Energy Savings	Up to 26% annually	Up to 26% annually
Touch Interface	Temperature wheel with +/- buttons	Temperature wheel with +/- buttons
Smart Sensor Compatibility	Yes	Yes (sensors sold separately at $99.99/two-pack)

Conclusion

Choosing between Ecobee Premium and Enhanced thermostats comes down to your specific needs and budget. Premium’s zinc construction, built-in voice control, and air quality monitoring justify its higher price tag for users seeking these advanced features. Additionally, the included Smart Sensor ($99.99 value) makes the $80 price difference more reasonable when considering total costs.

Both thermostats excel at their core functions, delivering identical energy savings and smart home integration capabilities. Premium stands out with its comprehensive feature set, while Enhanced offers a more budget-friendly entry point into smart climate control.

Ultimately, Enhanced proves sufficient for users focused on basic temperature management and energy savings. Premium makes sense for homeowners wanting built-in voice control, air quality insights, and immediate multi-room temperature monitoring without extra sensor purchases. Therefore, your choice should align with your home automation goals and desired features rather than price alone.