Nest Thermostat: Gen 3 vs. Gen 4: Which Nest is best?
Ever feel like your old thermostat just isn’t cutting it anymore? Maybe you want lower energy bills, a smarter home, or just something that looks sleeker. If you’re using Google smart home devices, chances are you’ve heard of the Nest Thermostat—and there’s a reason people love it!
Now, with newer models hitting the market, which one should you choose? That’s exactly what we’re here to figure out. Today, we’re comparing Nest Thermostat 3rd Generation vs. 4th Generation to help you pick the best one for your home.
Google has been making its smart home devices smarter and more efficient; these thermostats are no exception. With learning technology and energy-saving features, they do more than adjust the temperature—they learn your habits and help you cut costs on heating and cooling.
We’re keeping things simple and straight to the point. No fluff, just facts—so you can decide which thermostat is the best match for your home and budget in 2025.
Nest Thermostat 3rd Generation: The Reliable Classic
The Nest 3rd Gen is a trusted favorite in smart home climate control. It keeps the classic round design with a bright, easy-to-read screen. One of its standout features is Farsight—walk into the room, and the display lights up to show the temperature or time.
It’s smart, too! Over time, it learns your heating and cooling habits and creates a schedule that keeps you comfortable while saving energy. With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can control it from anywhere using the Google Home app. Even though it’s been around for a while, it’s still a top choice for those who want a dependable, intelligent thermostat.
Nest Thermostat 4th Generation: The Sleek Upgrade
The Nest 4th Gen brings a modern, slim design with a rectangular shape and a touch-sensitive side panel. It’s built for simplicity, blending seamlessly into your home’s decor.
While it doesn’t have Farsight, it still learns your preferences and helps cut energy costs. A big upgrade? Battery-powered flexibility, making installation even easier in some cases. It’s positioned as Google’s go-to thermostat, offering a fresh look and updated tech for smart home users.
The Feature Face-Off: Nest 3rd Gen vs. 4th Gen
1. Nest 3rd Gen vs. 4th Gen: Design & Display Showdown
Let’s talk looks and usability! The Nest 3rd Gen keeps its classic round shape with a bright, colorful display, while the Nest 4th Gen goes for a sleek, rectangular design with a touch-sensitive side panel.
One big difference? Farsight—on the 3rd Gen, the screen lights up when you walk into the room, showing the temperature or time. The 4th Gen ditches Farsight but keeps things minimalist and modern.
Here’s a quick comparison:
📋 Nest 3rd Gen vs. 4th Gen: Design & Display
| Feature | Nest 3rd Gen | Nest 4th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Round, classic design | Slim, rectangular design |
| Display | 2.08-inch LCD, vibrant colors | Transmissive LCD, clear readability |
| Controls | Rotating ring for manual adjustments | Touch-sensitive side panel for swiping |
| Farsight Feature | Yes—the screen lights up when you enter | No—focuses on a minimalist look |
| Occupancy Sensor | Detects the presence of Farsight | Detects the presence of energy-saving |
| Materials | Stainless steel or copper | Polycarbonate with ceramic-like finish |
✅ Which One Should You Choose?
- Want a bright, colorful display with Farsight? → Nest 3rd Gen
- Prefer a sleek, modern design with touch controls? → Nest 4th Gen
Both are great choices, but the 3rd Gen is better for visibility, while the 4th Gen blends in more seamlessly with modern decor.
2. Nest 3rd Gen vs. 4th Gen: Smart Features & Functionality
Both Nest 3rd Gen and Nest 4th Gen thermostats are packed with smart learning technology that adapts to your habits, helping you stay comfortable while saving energy. They connect via Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) and allow remote control through the Google Home app.
One key difference? Farsight vs. Occupancy Sensing:
- Nest 3rd Gen has Farsight, which lights up the display when you walk into the room, showing temperature or time.
- Nest 4th Gen doesn’t have Farsight but uses occupancy sensing to detect when the home is empty and adjust settings for energy savings.
📋 Feature Comparison
| Feature | Nest 3rd Gen | Nest 4th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Learning Capabilities | AI-powered predictive scheduling | AI-powered predictive scheduling |
| Remote Control | Google Home app (Wi-Fi) | Google Home app (Wi-Fi) |
| Geofencing | Yes—adjusts based on phone location | Yes—adjusts based on phone location |
| Smart Alerts | Yes—detects system issues & energy-saving tips | Yes—detects system issues & energy-saving tips |
| Farsight Feature | Yes—the screen lights up when you enter | No—focuses on occupancy-based energy savings |
| Occupancy Sensing | No—relies on manual scheduling | Yes—adjusts temperature when home is empty |
| Zoned HVAC Support | Yes—requires separate thermostats per zone | Yes—requires separate thermostats per zone |
| Subscription Needed? | No—core features work without extra cost | No—core features work without extra cost |
✅ Which One Should You Choose?
- Want a thermostat that lights up when you enter? → Nest 3rd Gen
- Prefer occupancy-based energy savings? → Nest 4th Gen
Both models learn your habits, adjust automatically, and work seamlessly with Google Home. The 3rd Gen offers a more interactive display, while the 4th Gen focuses on energy efficiency.
3. Nest 3rd Gen vs. 4th Gen: Energy Efficiency & Savings
Both Nest 3rd Gen and Nest 4th Gen thermostats are Energy Star certified, meaning they meet high energy efficiency standards. Their smart learning technology and Eco Mode help reduce unnecessary heating and cooling, cutting down on energy waste.
One key difference? Occupancy Sensing vs. Farsight:
- Nest 3rd Gen uses Farsight, lighting up when you enter the room, but doesn’t directly adjust based on occupancy.
- Nest 4th Gen detects when the home is empty and automatically adjusts settings to save energy.
📋 Feature Comparison
| Feature | Nest 3rd Gen | Nest 4th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Star Certified | Yes | Yes |
| Learning Capabilities | AI-powered predictive scheduling | AI-powered predictive scheduling |
| Eco Mode | Yes—adjusts to energy-saving settings when away | Yes—adjusts to energy-saving settings when away |
| Occupancy Sensing | No—relies on manual scheduling | Yes—adjusts temperature when home is empty |
| PID Control Algorithms | Yes—precise temperature management | Yes—precise temperature management |
| Utility Rebates | Varies by provider | Varies by provider |
✅ Which One Saves More?
- Want a thermostat that learns and adjusts automatically? → Both models work well
- Prefer occupancy-based energy savings? → Nest 4th Gen
Both models optimize heating and cooling cycles, but actual savings depend on your HVAC system, climate, and usage habits. If you want more
4. Nest 3rd Gen vs. 4th Gen: Compatibility & Smart Home Integration
Both Nest 3rd Gen and Nest 4th Gen thermostats work with a wide range of HVAC systems, including forced air, heat pumps, radiant heating, oil, and gas systems. However, before purchasing, it’s essential to check compatibility using Google’s official Compatibility Checker.
When it comes to smart home integration, both models seamlessly connect to Google Home, allowing voice control via Google Assistant and automation through Google Home Routines. They also support Amazon Alexa, giving users flexibility across different smart home setups.
📋 Feature Comparison
| Feature | Nest 3rd Gen | Nest 4th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC Compatibility | Works with most systems (forced air, heat pump, etc.) | Works with most systems (forced air, heat pump, etc.) |
| Google Home Integration | Yes—voice control & routines | Yes—voice control & routines |
| Amazon Alexa Support | Yes—basic voice control | Yes—basic voice control |
| Smart Home Automation | Works with Google Home Routines | Works with Google Home Routines |
| Compatibility Checker | Recommended before purchase | Recommended before purchase |
✅ Which One Should You Choose?
- Want full Google Home integration with voice control? → Both models work well
- Need to check HVAC compatibility? → Use Google’s Compatibility Checker before buying
Both thermostats connect smoothly with smart home platforms, but ensuring HVAC compatibility is the most important step before purchasing.
5. Nest 3rd Gen vs. 4th Gen: Installation & Setup
Both Nest 3rd Gen and Nest 4th Gen thermostats use low-voltage (24V AC) wiring, meaning installation involves connecting wires from your old thermostat to the Nest baseplate. If you’re comfortable with basic electrical work, DIY installation is possible, but following the wiring diagrams carefully is essential.
One key difference? C-wire vs. Battery Power:
- Nest 3rd Gen typically requires a C-wire for stable power.
- Nest 4th Gen can run on battery power in simpler setups (like heating-only or cooling-only systems), making installation easier in some cases.
📋 Feature Comparison
| Feature | Nest 3rd Gen | Nest 4th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Wiring Type | Low-voltage (24V AC) | Low-voltage (24V AC) |
| C-wire Requirement | Usually required for stable power | Optional—can run on battery in simple setups |
| DIY Installation | Possible, but requires careful wiring | Easier in some cases due to the battery option |
| Professional Install Recommended? | Yes, for complex HVAC systems | Yes, for complex HVAC systems |
| Setup Process | Guided via the Google Home app | Guided via the Google Home app |
✅ Which One Should You Choose?
- Want a simple, battery-powered setup? → Nest 4th Gen
- Have a complex HVAC system? → Nest 3rd Gen (or use a C-wire with 4th Gen)
Both models offer guided installation through the Google Home app, but if you’re unsure about wiring, a professional installation is the safest choice.
6. Nest 3rd Gen vs. 4th Gen: Price & Value
When it comes to cost, the Nest 4th Gen is generally more affordable than the Nest 3rd Gen, making it a great entry point for budget-conscious buyers. However, sales and discounts can shift pricing, so it’s always worth checking multiple retailers before purchasing.
One key difference? Premium Features vs. Budget-Friendly Design:
- Nest 3rd Gen has Farsight and a higher-end build, which may justify its slightly higher price.
- Nest 4th Gen is more affordable and modern-looking, making it a strong value pick.
📋 Price Comparison
| Feature | Nest 3rd Gen | Nest 4th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| MSRP | USD 249 | USD 279 (includes Nest Temperature Sensor) |
| Typical Sale Price | As low as USD 169 | As low as USD 229 |
| Included Accessories | Thermostat only | Thermostat + Nest Temperature Sensor |
| Build Quality | Premium materials (stainless steel, copper) | Polycarbonate with ceramic-like finish |
| Best For | Users who want Farsight & premium design | Budget-conscious buyers who want modern features |
✅ Which One Should You Choose?
- Want a premium design with Farsight? → Nest 3rd Gen
- Looking for a budget-friendly, modern option? → Nest 4th Gen
Both models offer smart features and energy savings, but your choice depends on your budget and preferred features.
Summary: Nest 3rd Gen vs. 4th Gen: Which One Fits Your Home?
| Feature | Nest 3rd Gen | Nest 4th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Round, classic look | Slim, rectangular shape |
| Display | Bright, easy-to-read LCD with Farsight | Touch-sensitive side panel, no Farsight |
| Learning Features | Learns habits & adjusts temperature automatically | Improved AI learning for better energy efficiency |
| Installation | Requires C-wire for stable power | Can run on battery in some setups |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Works with Google Home & Alexa | Works with Google Home & Alexa |
| Price Range | Around USD 249 | Around USD 279 (includes Nest Temperature Sensor) |
FAQ
Q. What’s the difference between the Nest 3rd and 4th generation?
The biggest differences are design and features. The Nest 3rd Gen has a round shape with Farsight, which lights up when you enter the room. The Nest 4th Gen has a sleek, rectangular design with a touch-sensitive side panel but no Farsight. The 4th Gen is also more budget-friendly.
Q. Is it worth upgrading to Nest Gen 4?
It depends on your needs! If you want a modern look, lower cost, and battery-powered flexibility, the 4th Gen is a great choice. But if you love Farsight and prefer a premium build, sticking with the 3rd Gen might be better.
Q. Is there a 4th-gen Nest thermostat?
Yes! The Nest 4th Gen is available and is considered Google’s current standard thermostat.
Q. Which generation of Nest thermostat is best?
There’s no single “best” option—it depends on what you need.
- Want a bright, interactive display? → Nest 3rd Gen
- Prefer a sleek, modern design with easier installation? → Nest 4th Gen
Q. Is Nest 3rd generation worth it?
Absolutely! Even though it’s older, the Nest 3rd Gen is still a reliable, smart thermostat. If you find it at a good price, it’s a great choice, especially if you love Farsight.
Q. Is the Nest thermostat 3rd generation discontinued?
While not officially discontinued, Google is focusing on the 4th Gen, and the 3rd Gen is becoming harder to find new.
Q. How old is the Nest 3rd generation?
The Nest 3rd Gen was released in late 2015, meaning it’s been around for about a decade. Despite its age, it’s still a solid option thanks to its smart features and reliability.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Smart Thermostat Awaits
Both the Nest 3rd Gen and Nest 4th Gen are smart, energy-efficient thermostats that bring convenience and savings to your home. The 3rd Gen stands out with its Farsight feature, while the 4th Gen offers a sleek, modern design at a more budget-friendly price.
The best choice depends on your needs:
✅ Budget-conscious? → Nest 4th Gen is more affordable while still offering great smart features.
✅ Want a sleek, minimalist design? → Nest 4th Gen blends seamlessly into modern homes.
✅ Love Farsight and a bright display? → Nest 3rd Gen gives you at-a-glance info when you enter the room.
No matter which one you choose, a Nest thermostat helps you save energy, stay comfortable, and enjoy the convenience of a connected home.
You can also check out more details on Tom’s Guide and My Automated Palace.