Our picks at a glance
Paid link: buttons go to the retailer. Prices change often, so we link to the current price instead of listing one.
Comparison table
| Feature | Best overallGoogle Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) | UK boilersHive Thermostat | Room controltado° Smart Thermostat X Starter Kit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verdict | Buy | Buy | Consider |
| Typical price | £200–£280 | £150–£230 | £120–£200 |
| Best for | Learning | UK boilers | Room control |
| Key feature | Learns your schedule | Easy UK installation and app | Expandable with smart radiator valves |
| Compatibility | Most UK boilers | Combi and system | Wide |
| Learning | Yes | — | — |
| Hub | — | Required | — |
| Radiator valves | — | — | Optional |
| Where to buy | Check Price Paid link | Check Price Paid link | Check Price Paid link |
Google · Smart thermostats
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen)
Learns your schedule.
- Buy it if
- you want a thermostat that learns your routine
- Skip it if
- you need hot water control
Pros
- Learns schedule
- Beautiful design
- Energy history
Cons
- Pricier
- Hot water needs extra kit
Key specifications
- Compatibility
- Most UK boilers
- Learning
- Yes
Hive · Smart thermostats
Hive Thermostat
Easy UK installation and app.
- Buy it if
- you want a reliable smart thermostat
- Skip it if
- you want learning features
Pros
- Works with most UK boilers
- Simple app
- Hot water control
Cons
- Hub required
- Paid extras
Key specifications
- Compatibility
- Combi and system
- Hub
- Required
tado · Smart thermostats
tado° Smart Thermostat X Starter Kit
Expandable with smart radiator valves.
- Buy it if
- you want room-by-room control
- Skip it if
- you dislike subscriptions
Pros
- Expandable
- Geofencing
- Works with many systems
Cons
- Auto-assist is paid
- Bridge needed
Key specifications
- Compatibility
- Wide
- Radiator valves
- Optional
Compare more Smart thermostats on Amazon Paid link
Who this list is for
Smart thermostats for UK boilers and heating systems, compared on features, compatibility and savings. We show what each model does best, what it typically costs in the UK and who should skip it.
How we chose
We compared manufacturer specifications, UK warranty terms, running costs and typical UK prices, then gave every product a clear verdict: Buy, Consider or Skip. Our verdicts are based on this research, not on lab tests we have not done.
What to look for
- Check compatibility with your boiler (combi, system or heat pump).
- Smart radiator valves add room-by-room control.
- Geofencing turns the heating down when everyone leaves.
Buying in the UK
Some UK energy suppliers offer discounted or bundled smart thermostats – check your supplier before buying outright.
Frequently asked questions
Do smart thermostats save money?
They can, mainly by heating only when and where you need it. Savings depend on how you used your old controls.
Will it work with my combi boiler?
Most popular models work with UK combi boilers; check the compatibility tool from the manufacturer.