Smart home technology: Amazon Echo Show 15 (3rd Gen) vs. Google Nest Thermostat (2024)
Quick Verdict
The Amazon Echo Show 15 is a smart display hub, while the Google Nest Thermostat is a smart thermostat focused on energy efficiency and HVAC control.
- The Amazon Echo Show 15 (3rd Gen) has a significantly larger display and focuses on visual and voice interaction within the Alexa ecosystem.
- The Google Nest Thermostat (2024) excels in energy efficiency, smart thermostat features, and broader smart home ecosystem compatibility, including Google Home, Alexa, Apple Home, and SmartThings.
- Both devices offer smart home integration, but the Echo Show 15 acts as a central hub, while the Nest Thermostat focuses on HVAC control and energy savings.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Amazon Echo Show 15 (3rd Gen) | Google Nest Thermostat (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size (inches) | 15.6 | 2.7 |
| Voice Assistant Compatibility | Alexa | Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. It also works with Siri through Matter. |
| Smart Home Hub Integration | Zigbee, Matter, Thread | Works with Google Home and Matter. It can be added to Alexa, Apple Home, and SmartThings ecosystems. |
| Thermostat Compatibility | Yes | Compatible with most 24V systems |
| Energy Efficiency Certification | Not available | ENERGY STAR certified |
| Mobile App Support | Alexa app | iOS and Android via the Google Home app |
Overall Comparison
Display Size: Echo Show wins; Voice Assistant: Both compatible; Energy Efficiency: Nest wins; Smart Home Integration: Both strong
Pros and Cons
Amazon Echo Show 15 (3rd Gen)
Pros:
- Integrates with a wide range of smart home devices
- Responsive voice assistant
- Customizable home screen with widgets
- Multiple layers of privacy controls
Cons:
- Plastic build with fabric covering
- Energy consumption management features information not available
Google Nest Thermostat (2024)
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Integrates with Google Home and Matter
- Works with Alexa, Apple Home, and SmartThings ecosystems
- Responds instantly to Google Assistant voice commands
- Can save an average of 12% on heating bills and 15% on cooling bills
- High-resolution display that automatically adjusts brightness
- Google Home app allows remote control, scheduling, and energy savings tips
- Customizable display
- Smart Schedules allow for dynamic temperature control
- Beautifully designed and built to last
Cons:
- Connectivity issues can arise from various factors
- Requires the Google Home app
User Experiences and Feedback
Amazon Echo Show 15 (3rd Gen)
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
Google Nest Thermostat (2024)
What Users Love
- Easy to install with step-by-step instructions
- Effective at managing energy consumption and reducing utility bills
- User-friendly mobile app with remote control, scheduling, and energy savings tips
- Offers customization options for the display and temperature control
- Addresses privacy and security concerns with options to turn off learning features and manual temperature adjustments
Common Complaints
- Connectivity issues can arise from Wi-Fi range, router settings, and interference
Value Perception
- Nest thermostats can save an average of 12% on heating bills and 15% on cooling bills.
User Recommendations
- Most homeowners completing the process in 20-30 minutes using the Nest app's step-by-step instructions.
- It responds instantly to Google Assistant voice commands.
- The display automatically adjusts brightness for readability.
- Google assures users that their information is not shared with third parties.