A thermostat is a component which senses the temperature of a physical system and performs actions so that the system’s temperature is maintained near a desired setpoint. Thermostats are used in any device or system that heats or cools to a setpoint temperature.

Nest recently announced the brand new Nest Thermostat E a less expensive smart thermostat with many of the same features as its more expensive sibling. If you are trying to decide between Nest’s thermostats, this guide will give you an idea of what each brings to the table.

The Nest Thermostat E is slightly smaller at 3.19 inches in diameter and its body is made of polycarbonate with a ceramic-feel finish. And this model is only available in white, with a less-vibrant “frosted” display that’s supposed to allow it to blend better into any room.

The Nest Learning Thermostat which is 3.3 inches in diameter comes in 4 colors which are white, copper, black and stainless steel. Besides, the adjustment ring around the outside of the device is made of metal.

Both the Nest Learning Thermostat and the Thermostat E pack in all the same functionality which is save for one special feature “Farsight”. Farsight uses the far-field sensor built into the Nest Learning Thermostat to detect when you walk by, lighting up to display the temperature, time or weather.

The Thermostat E same as Learning Thermostat has temperature, humidity, occupancy and ambient light sensors but it doesn’t have those far-field Farsight sensors.

As the rest of the feature set, both work with Google Assistant and other Nest products. They can be controlled from anywhere and do smart tricks like turn off the heating automatically when the system detects there’s no one at home.

For the Nest Learning Thermostat will cost $249 while the Nest Thermostat E is available for $169.

Which will you choose?

As you can see, many of the differences between the two Nest thermostat models are external.

The Nest Thermostat E is made from lower-quality materials and has fewer color options. But if you are more concerned with saving money, this lower priced model has the same key functions as the more expensive option. Just be sure to check the compatibility chart to see if the thermostat E will work with your heating and cooling system. If not, you will need to upgrade to the third generation Nest Learning Thermostat.

No matter which you choose, you will enjoy hands off heating and cooling, save money on energy and take advantage of all the core Nest thermostat functions.