best upgrade to honeywell thermostat

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The landscape for thermostat upgrades changed dramatically when smart home technology entered the picture. Having personally tested a range of options, I found that a good upgrade isn’t just about better looks, but real smart features that make life easier. The Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat impressed me with its seamless integration with Apple HomeKit and Alexa, plus its reliable geofencing that automatically adjusts temperatures when you’re near or away.

It feels solid and intuitive, responding quickly to commands and schedules. Compared to simpler models like the Honeywell Home RTH7600D, which offers excellent programming with a touchscreen, the T6 Pro’s smart capabilities stand out—saving energy and reducing hassle. While the Honeywell Home Programmable Thermostat or the CT87K are great for simplicity, they lack the advanced connectivity and automation that make daily life smoother. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat for anyone wanting a true upgrade that combines reliability, smart features, and value.

Top Recommendation: Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat, 2H/1C or 2H/2C

Why We Recommend It: This product stands out due to its advanced Wi-Fi connectivity, compatibility with Apple HomeKit and Amazon Alexa, and geofencing features. It offers flexible scheduling and quick app control, making it perfect for modern smart homes. Its reliable performance and seamless integration outshine the more basic models, providing a truly upgraded experience.

Best upgrade to honeywell thermostat: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewHoneywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat, 2H/1C or 2H/2CHoneywell Home RTH7600D 7-Day Programmable TouchscreenNew! Honeywell Home Programmable Thermostat, Single-Stage,
TitleHoneywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat, 2H/1C or 2H/2CHoneywell Home RTH7600D 7-Day Programmable TouchscreenNew! Honeywell Home Programmable Thermostat, Single-Stage,
Display– (Touchscreen display on Product 2)Large touchscreen display (Product 2)Large screen with clear font (Product 3)
ConnectivityWi-Fi (Product 1)Wi-Fi (Product 2)Wi-Fi (implied for remote control, Product 3)
Scheduling7-day, 5-2, 5-1-1, non-programmable (Product 1)7-day menu-driven with 4 periods per day (Product 2)5-2 scheduling, non-programmable (Product 3)
CompatibilityHardwired C-wire required (Product 1)Multiple systems including single/multistage heating/cooling, heat pump (Product 2)1 Heat/1 Cool, hot water heat, forced air (Product 3)
Smart Home IntegrationApple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa (Product 1)– (not specified for Products 2 and 3)
Power SourceHardwired (C-wire required) (Product 1)Hardwired (Product 2)2 AA batteries (Product 3)
Display Backlight✓ (Product 1)✓ (Product 2)✓ (Product 3)
Additional FeaturesGeofencing, system alerts (Product 1)Real-time clock, filter alerts, smart response technology (Product 2)Change filter reminder, display customization, low-heat setpoint (Product 3)
Available

Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat, 2H/1C or 2H/2C

Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat, 2H/1C or 2H/2C
Pros:
  • Sleek, modern design
  • Easy setup and integration
  • Responsive touchscreen
Cons:
  • Requires C-wire
  • Slightly higher price
Specification:
Dimensions 4-1/16 W x 1-3/32 D x 4-1/16 H inches
Power Supply Hardwired with C-wire required
Connectivity Wi-Fi, compatible with Apple HomeKit and Amazon Alexa
Programming Options 7-day, 5-2, 5-1-1, 1-week, or non-programmable schedules
Control Features Geofencing and smart home integration
Display Not explicitly specified, but typically a digital touchscreen or LCD for smart thermostats

The moment I unboxed the Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro, I immediately noticed its sleek, compact design. Its dimensions, just over 4 inches square and a little over an inch deep, make it fit snugly on my wall without feeling bulky.

The crisp, modern look with its matte finish instantly elevates the room’s aesthetic.

Setting it up was straightforward, especially since I already had a C-wire in place. The touchscreen is responsive and feels quite sturdy, with easy-to-read labels.

I appreciated how quickly it connected to my Wi-Fi and integrated with my Apple HomeKit and Alexa apps, letting me control everything from a single place.

Using the thermostat daily has been a smooth experience. The 7-day and custom scheduling options give me flexibility, especially during busy weeks.

The geofencing feature is surprisingly accurate, adjusting the temperature as I leave or approach home, saving energy without me having to think about it.

One thing I really like is that it feels like a true upgrade from older Honeywell models. The app interface is intuitive, and the voice controls work well even from across the room.

The thermostat’s build feels solid, and I like that it’s hardwired for reliability, though that means you’ll need a C-wire if your system doesn’t already have one.

Overall, this thermostat makes managing my home’s climate effortless. It’s reliable, smart, and stylish—perfect if you want a seamless upgrade that works well with your existing smart home setup.

Honeywell Home RTH7600D 7-Day Programmable Touchscreen

Honeywell Home RTH7600D 7-Day Programmable Touchscreen
Pros:
  • Easy to use touchscreen
  • Smart response learning
  • Clear display with current info
Cons:
  • Limited advanced scheduling options
  • Slightly bulky design
Specification:
Display 7-inch backlit touchscreen with current and set temperature readouts
Programming 7-day, menu-driven with 4 periods per day
Connectivity Compatible with single-stage and multi-stage heating/cooling systems, heat pumps, and other compatible HVAC systems
Features Smart Response Technology, temporary and permanent hold, daylight savings adjustment, filter replacement alert, low battery indicator
Power Source Battery-powered with low battery alert, compatible with standard 24V HVAC systems
Temperature Range Adjustable to suit various heating and cooling needs (specific temperature range not explicitly stated but typical for thermostats)

The first time I tapped into the Honeywell Home RTH7600D’s touchscreen, I was surprised by how responsive and clear the display was. The large, backlit interface made it easy to see both the current temperature and the set point without squinting or fiddling.

I quickly set up a weekly schedule, and the menu-driven system guided me through each step smoothly.

Setting the home and away temperatures felt intuitive, thanks to the dedicated buttons and easy-to-read icons. I appreciated the ability to temporarily or permanently hold a temperature when plans unexpectedly changed.

The real-time clock automatically adjusted for Daylight Savings, so I didn’t have to fuss with manual updates.

What really stood out was the Smart Response Technology. It learned how long my furnace and AC took to reach desired temps, which meant I was always comfortable right when I wanted to be.

The system also protected my compressor with a built-in delay, preventing damage from quick restarts.

Installation was straightforward—just a few screws and some wiring, and I was up and running. The alerts for filter replacements and low batteries are handy, saving me from unexpected system issues.

Plus, it’s compatible with a variety of heating and cooling setups, making it a versatile upgrade for many homes.

Overall, this thermostat combines ease of use with smart features, making it a noticeable upgrade from basic models. It’s reliable, customizable, and built for everyday convenience, all at a reasonable price.

New! Honeywell Home Programmable Thermostat, Single-Stage,

New! Honeywell Home Programmable Thermostat, Single-Stage,
Pros:
  • Easy installation process
  • Clear, large display
  • Customizable scheduling
Cons:
  • Does not support electric baseboard heat
  • Batteries not included
Specification:
Compatibility 1 Heat/1 Cool, 750 mV, hot water heat, forced air (gas, oil, or electric) [not compatible with electric baseboard heat (120-240V)]
Scheduling 5-2 day programming with non-programmable option
Display Large backlit screen with clear font
Power Source 2 AA batteries (not included)
Temperature Range Extended low-heat setpoint of 32°F
Installation Compatible with Honeywell UWP wall plate for easy installation and upgrades

You’re standing in your living room, about to give your old thermostat a much-needed upgrade. As you pull off the cover, you notice how dated and clunky it looks next to your sleek new Honeywell Home Programmable Thermostat.

You decide to replace it, and within minutes, you’re holding a modern device with a big, clear display and soft backlighting.

The setup process is surprisingly straightforward. The Honeywell UWP wall plate snaps easily onto your wall, making installation quick and hassle-free.

You’ll appreciate the large font and bright screen, which make adjusting settings a breeze even in low light.

What really stands out is the customizable options. You can set reminders for changing your air filter—something I often forget—and tweak display settings to match your decor or mood.

The 5-2 scheduling feature allows you to personalize your comfort, whether you want a different routine on weekends or weekdays. Plus, the extended low-heat setpoint gives extra peace of mind during chilly nights.

Using the thermostat feels intuitive. The buttons are responsive, and the options for programming are flexible enough to suit most schedules.

It’s compatible with your gas furnace and hot water heat, which covers your home’s needs. The batteries last well, and the one-year warranty adds confidence in its durability.

Overall, this upgrade makes controlling your home’s temperature simpler and smarter. It doesn’t have every high-end feature, but it hits the right notes for convenience and ease of use at a great price.

Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat,

Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat,
Pros:
  • Bright, customizable touchscreen
  • Easy Wi-Fi setup
  • Compatible with smart assistants
Cons:
  • Requires C-wire
  • Not compatible with electric baseboard heat
Specification:
Display Bright, easy-to-read touchscreen
Connectivity Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home
Compatibility Forced air (gas, oil, electric), hot water, steam, heat pumps with electric backup; does not work with electric baseboard heat (120-240V); requires C-wire
Energy Certification ENERGY STAR certified
Control Options Programmable scheduling, fan control (On, Automatic, Circulate)
Power Requirements Requires C-wire or compatible power adapter

It’s a chilly Saturday morning when I decide to upgrade my aging thermostat. I grab the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004, and the first thing that catches my eye is how sleek and colorful the touchscreen is.

It’s bright, easy to read, and instantly makes my old thermostat look outdated.

Firing it up, I appreciate how simple the setup process is, especially with the Wi-Fi connection. The app quickly guides me through the wiring check and pairing, which is a relief.

I love that I can personalize the display with different colors to match my decor—no more boring gray screens!

During the first week, I used the scheduling feature to set different temperatures for mornings, evenings, and when I’m away. It’s intuitive and flexible, fitting perfectly into my routine.

The thermostat also reacts promptly to voice commands via Alexa, which makes adjusting the temperature a breeze even from the couch.

One feature I really value is the energy reports. They help me spot patterns and cut down my energy bills.

Plus, the ability to enroll in utility demand response programs means I get rewards for allowing slight temperature adjustments during peak times. That’s a smart way to save and earn at the same time.

Overall, this upgrade feels like a real step forward—more control, smarter energy use, and a friendly, colorful interface. It’s a worthwhile investment if you want a modern, customizable, and energy-efficient thermostat that plays well with your smart home.

Honeywell Home CT87K1004 Round Heat-Only Manual Thermostat

Honeywell Home CT87K1004 Round Heat-Only Manual Thermostat
Pros:
  • Classic round styling
  • Precise temperature control
  • Easy to install
Cons:
  • Limited to heat-only
  • No digital display
Specification:
Temperature Control Range Adjustable within ±1°F accuracy
Design Style Classic round with decorative cover ring
Installation Type Wall-mounted, easy to install
Power Source Mercury-free, likely battery or line-powered
Material Durable plastic with decorative finish
Compatibility Suitable for standard heating systems

That familiar, round shape of the Honeywell CT87K1004 had been sitting on my wish list for a while, promising a simple upgrade to my old thermostat. When I finally installed it, I appreciated how effortlessly it fit into my wall, with the decorative cover ring hiding any wall marks perfectly.

It’s like a little piece of classic design that instantly refreshes the space.

The dial feels solid and smooth, and adjusting the temperature is intuitive thanks to the clear plus/minus markings. I love that it offers precise control within just a degree or two, which makes a noticeable difference in comfort.

Plus, it’s mercury-free, giving me peace of mind about safety and environmental impact.

Installation was straightforward—just a few wires and some basic tools. The manual was clear, and I was up and running in minutes.

I’ve used it in various rooms, and it maintains a consistent temperature without any fuss. The classic look doesn’t clash with my decor, making it a subtle but stylish upgrade.

Overall, this thermostat delivers on both style and function. It’s a reliable, affordable upgrade that makes controlling my heat easier and more accurate.

If you’re after something that’s simple, effective, and looks good, this is a solid choice.

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