6 Best Honeywell Smart Thermostats (October 2026)
The best Honeywell smart thermostats include the Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat for compatible staged systems, the Honeywell X2S Smart Thermostat for mixed weekly routines, and the Honeywell Home T5 Smart Thermostat for changing arrival times.
On this page (7 sections)
- Which best Honeywell smart thermostat pick suits your home?
- How do you confirm a Honeywell thermostat will work?
- Which daily controls will you actually use?
- How should you prepare for installation and setup?
- How do you keep comfort steady and avoid wasted energy?
- Which common buying mistakes should you avoid?
- Which best Honeywell smart thermostat should you choose?
The best Honeywell smart thermostat on our shortlist is the Lyric T6 Pro when its equipment and wiring requirements match your home. Choose the X8S when you want an included room sensor, or the X2S when schedule choice matters most.
Your heating system decides which models belong on the shortlist. Your routine then decides whether location-based control, room sensing or a clear wall display will be worth using.
Start with our smart thermostat wiring-first guide if you haven't identified your system. The guide to choosing a smart thermostat covers the wider choice between comfort controls and energy features.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for compatible staged systemsHoneywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat
8.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for changing arrival timesHoneywell Home T5 Smart Thermostat
7.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itHoneywell X8S Premium Thermostat with Sensor
Best for bedroom comfort priorities - 5
Check itHoneywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat
Best for gradual sensor upgrades - 6
Check itHoneywell X7B Smart Thermostat
Best for screen-focused households
Which best Honeywell smart thermostat pick suits your home?
The T6 Pro leads by score, but another model can be a better match for a specific job. The X8S addresses selected-room comfort, the T5 follows changing arrival times, and the X2S offers several ways to group your weekly schedule.
We compared equipment support, power requirements and daily controls. A higher score doesn't override an incompatible system or a feature you need that another model provides.
Use the table to narrow the choices, then read the tradeoffs below. In particular, keep heat pump stages separate from conventional heating stages when comparing support.
| Product | Best for | Heat pump | Conventional | Control | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat | compatible staged systems | Up to 2 heat/1 cool | Up to 2 heat/2 cool | 8.3 | |
| Honeywell X2S Smart Thermostat | mixed weekly routines | Up to 2 heat/1 cool with electric backup | Up to 2 heat/2 cool | 7.9 | |
| Honeywell Home T5 Smart Thermostat | changing arrival times | 7-day schedule or geofencing | 7.7 | ||
| Honeywell X8S Premium Thermostat with Sensor | bedroom comfort priorities | Up to 3 heat/2 cool with electric backup | 7.6 | ||
| Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat | gradual sensor upgrades | 7.4 | |||
| Honeywell X7B Smart Thermostat | screen-focused households | Up to 3 heat/2 cool with electric backup | Up to 2 heat/2 cool | 6.9 |
Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat
Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat
- Wi-Fi programmable thermostat
- Multi-stage conventional and heat pump support
A starting point for homes that need programmable Wi-Fi control and whose equipment fits its stage limits. Confirm power, backup heat and platform requirements before choosing.
Pros
- Supports multi-stage conventional equipment
- Supports compatible heat pump systems
- Wi-Fi programmable control
Cons
- Power and wiring requirements need confirmation
- Smart home platform support needs confirmation
The T6 Pro suits buyers whose main goal is programmable Wi-Fi control for compatible staged equipment. It supports up to 2 heat/1 cool heat pumps or 2 heat/2 cool conventional systems.
Those numbers describe control capacity, not a promise that every system within them will work. Backup heat, terminal functions and power requirements still need to match your installation.
Choose it when you've identified your equipment and want a thermostat built around that supported configuration. It also belongs on the shortlist for a planned replacement where an installer can confirm the exact model before work begins.
Skip it if an included room sensor, a named smart home platform or a particular app is a firm requirement you haven't verified. The X8S and X2S give clearer reasons to choose them for those priorities.
For this model, finish the compatibility check before committing. A familiar brand name and enough heating stages are useful starting points, but they don't replace a complete wiring match.
Honeywell X2S Smart Thermostat
Honeywell X2S Smart Thermostat
- Matter certified
- Several weekly schedule patterns
- Auto-away
- Filter reminders and humidity display
Several schedule patterns suit households with different weekday and weekend routines. First Alert app control and Matter support give you more ways to manage temperature.
Pros
- Daily and grouped-day scheduling options
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit
- Supports 2.4 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi
Cons
- Requires a 24 VAC C-wire
- Does not support 120–240V electric baseboard heat
The X2S is the strongest fit for households with different weekday and weekend routines. Its scheduling options include 7-day, 5-1-1, 5-2 and 1-week patterns, plus a non-programmable option.
Use separate daily schedules when each day differs, or grouped days when workdays follow the same pattern. Fewer schedule entries are easier to maintain if your routine is mostly steady.
First Alert app control works alongside Matter certification and support for Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit. The thermostat connects to either 2.4 or 5 GHz Wi-Fi.
It supports up to 2 heat/2 cool conventional equipment or 2 heat/1 cool heat pumps with electric backup. A 24 VAC C-wire is required, and 120–240V electric baseboard heat is excluded.
Choose it for organized scheduling, auto-away and useful reminders. Skip it if your main problem is the temperature in a distant bedroom, since the X8S offers a more direct reason to buy for that need.
Honeywell Home T5 Smart Thermostat
Honeywell Home T5 Smart Thermostat
- 7-day scheduling or geofencing
- Auto home and away mode
- Monthly energy reports
- Remote smartphone or tablet control
Location-based control suits people whose return time changes from day to day. A weekly schedule is available if you prefer predictable temperature changes.
Pros
- Choice of schedule or location-based control
- Honeywell Home identifies it as ENERGY STAR certified
- Monthly energy reports and energy tips
Cons
- A C-wire power adapter may be required
- Heating-only oil furnace systems need a C-wire
The T5 suits people whose departure and return times change. Choose between 7-day scheduling and geofencing, which uses your smartphone's location to help manage home and away temperatures.
Location-based control makes sense when the person carrying the phone represents the home's occupancy. If someone often stays home without that phone, a regular schedule may be the better starting point.
Honeywell Home identifies the T5 as ENERGY STAR certified, and it offers monthly energy reports and energy-saving tips. Use those reports to spot changes in use, while accounting for weather and time spent at home.
Check whether your installation needs a C-wire power adapter before buying. Heating-only oil furnace systems require a C-wire.
Choose the T5 if you'll keep location permissions enabled and use its arrival-based control. Skip it if you dislike sharing phone location or want a room sensor included, since its strongest buying case is managing your routine.
Honeywell X8S Premium Thermostat with Sensor
Honeywell X8S Premium Thermostat with Sensor
- Wireless room sensor included
- 5-inch customizable touchscreen
- Humidity and ventilation control
- Matter certified
Choose this package when the temperature in a bedroom or living area matters more than the hallway reading. Humidity and ventilation controls may need additional equipment.
Pros
- Includes a room sensor for selected-room comfort
- Supports compatible higher-stage heat pumps
- Works with First Alert app and major voice platforms
Cons
- Requires a C-wire; adapter voucher must be redeemed by mail
- Some air quality controls require additional equipment
The X8S is the clearest choice for prioritizing a bedroom or living area from the start. Its included wireless room sensor can stand on a surface or attach to a wall.
Honeywell Home gives the sensor a range of up to 200 ft, though placement and building materials affect wireless links. Put it where people spend time, away from direct sun and supply vents.
The thermostat supports up to 3 heat/2 cool heat pumps with electric backup or 2 heat/2 cool conventional systems. It requires a C-wire, with a voucher for an adapter mailed after redemption.
Its 5-inch customizable display also supports viewing and speaking to visitors through compatible First Alert VX1 and Ring streaming doorbells, sold separately. Humidity and ventilation control may require additional HVAC equipment or accessories.
Choose it for selected-room comfort and those wall-screen features. Skip it if you only need a steady schedule at the thermostat's location, since the sensor would add little to that job.
Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat
Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat
- Optional Smart Room Sensors
- Geofencing
- Filter and temperature alerts
- Monthly energy report
The T9 suits a plan to add room sensors over time. Its alerts and energy reports also help you keep track of temperature settings and maintenance.
Pros
- Supports multi-room focus with added sensors
- Includes a power adapter
- Offers remote control and geofencing
Cons
- Room sensors are sold separately
- Heating-only oil furnace systems require a C-wire
The T9 suits a gradual move toward room-based control. It accepts Smart Room Sensors sold separately, letting you plan the thermostat replacement now and sensor purchases later.
Start by identifying the rooms you want to prioritize. Buying sensors without a clear comfort goal can leave you with extra readings but no useful change in how the system runs.
The T9 offers geofencing, mobile control, monthly energy reports, and filter and temperature alerts. Its smart response feature learns heating and cooling patterns to help reach the requested temperature at the intended time.
Supported equipment includes forced air, hot water, steam and heat pumps with electric backup. It requires C-wire power, includes a power adapter, and excludes 120–240V electric baseboard heat.
Heating-only oil furnace systems need a C-wire, so don't assume the included adapter solves every installation. Choose the T9 for a staged sensor plan; choose the X8S if a sensor is essential on installation day.
Honeywell X7B Smart Thermostat
Honeywell X7B Smart Thermostat
- 4.3-inch customizable touchscreen
- Matter certified
- Humidity monitoring
- First Alert app control
A customizable idle screen suits households that use the wall control often. Humidity monitoring adds useful context when a comfortable temperature still feels clammy.
Pros
- Adjustable idle-screen color and style
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Home
- Supports 2.4 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi
Cons
- Requires a C-wire; adapter voucher must be redeemed by mail
- Does not support 120–240V electric baseboard heat
The X7B fits households that often use the wall control and want to personalize its appearance. Its 4.3-inch touchscreen lets you change the idle screen's color and style.
Humidity monitoring adds context when a room feels uncomfortable even at a familiar temperature. A humidity reading helps you notice a pattern, but it doesn't remove moisture or control separate equipment by itself.
First Alert app control, Matter certification, Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Home support provide several control options. It works with 2.4 or 5 GHz Wi-Fi.
Equipment support reaches 3 heat/2 cool heat pumps with electric backup or 2 heat/2 cool conventional systems. C-wire power is required, and the included adapter voucher must be redeemed for delivery by mail.
Choose it when screen use and appearance matter in daily life. Skip it if you mainly use a phone and want room-based comfort, since the X8S has the more useful package for that goal.
How do you confirm a Honeywell thermostat will work?
Confirm equipment type, stage count, backup heat and power before comparing convenience features. Matching only the number of wires or the old thermostat's brand is not enough.
Identify the equipment, not just the fuel
Find out whether you have a conventional furnace and air conditioner, a heat pump, hot water heat or steam. Gas or electric alone doesn't describe how the thermostat must control the system.
A heat pump can have separate compressor stages and auxiliary heat. Those functions need the right terminals and installer settings, even when the advertised stage count appears suitable.
Our guide to smart thermostats for heat pumps explains the checks for that system type. If you can't identify the backup heat arrangement, resolve that before removing the old control.
Treat wire labels as more useful than wire colors
Record the terminal letters on the old thermostat and photograph every connection before disconnecting anything. Wire colors can vary, so a blue wire isn't proof that you have a usable common connection.
An unused conductor behind the wall plate may help, but someone must confirm its connection at the equipment. Never connect a spare wire based on color alone.
Check the complete power path
A C-wire provides the common side of low-voltage power for a compatible thermostat. An adapter is a wiring solution for certain systems, rather than a universal substitute for every missing wire.
The X2S, X8S, T9 and X7B require that power arrangement. For the T5, check adapter needs; for the T6 Pro, confirm the exact power requirements before choosing.
Our guide to smart thermostats without a C-wire explains the main options. An adapter also doesn't turn a low-voltage thermostat into a control for line-voltage heating.
Which daily controls will you actually use?
Choose scheduling for predictable routines, location control for changing arrivals, and sensors for selected-room priorities. These features solve different problems, so decide which problem matters most before buying.
Best Honeywell smart thermostat controls for your routine
A schedule works well when wake-up, departure and bedtime follow a pattern. Start with a few useful changes rather than filling every available time slot.
Geofencing suits changing plans, but the phone's location must be a useful sign of occupancy. Consider children, guests, a partner working from home and anyone whose phone isn't part of the setup.
A manual hold can help during an unusual day, but check whether it expires. An accidental long hold can stop the schedule from doing the job you bought the thermostat to handle.
Room sensing changes the control point
A room sensor helps a compatible thermostat respond to a chosen room instead of relying only on the wall unit's location. That can matter when the thermostat sits in a hallway with a different temperature from the bedroom.
A sensor doesn't create a separate heating zone. In a single-zone system, longer heating or cooling for one room affects the other rooms served by that equipment.
Check open vents, blocked returns, strong sun exposure and door position before blaming the wall thermostat. Our guide to thermostats with remote sensors explains when this feature is useful.
App choice affects the whole household
Decide who needs access and how they'll change the temperature. A household that uses the wall control daily has different needs from one that relies on a shared smart home app.
Matter certification helps with platform integration, but it doesn't mean every feature appears in every app. Keep the thermostat's own app available for settings and functions that your chosen platform doesn't expose.
How should you prepare for installation and setup?
Prepare wiring records, equipment details and network access before shutting the system down. That avoids discovering a missing adapter or uncertain terminal connection halfway through the job.
Before removing the old thermostat
Read the exact model's installation instructions and confirm the supported equipment. Photograph the old screen settings as well as the wires, since system configuration can matter as much as physical connections.
Turn off power to the heating and cooling equipment as directed in the instructions. If you find unfamiliar wiring, damaged insulation or signs of line-voltage controls, stop and use a qualified installer.
Keep wires from slipping into the wall while the old plate is removed. Label them by their original terminals and keep the old thermostat until the replacement is working correctly.
Plan for adapters and network access
A mailed-adapter voucher isn't an adapter ready for installation. If you need one, allow time for delivery and confirm that it fits your equipment before choosing an installation day.
Have the Wi-Fi name, password and relevant app account ready. Check signal strength at the thermostat's wall position, since a good connection near the router doesn't establish coverage across the house.
Read our guide to smart thermostat installation costs and hiring help if your job includes uncertain wiring or equipment configuration. That is a better point to arrange help than after disconnecting the old thermostat.
Confirm operation before adding automation
Set the equipment type and stages carefully during initial setup. Follow the instructions for checking heat, cooling and fan operation, including any required delays or outdoor-temperature limits.
If the equipment behaves differently from what the control requests, switch it off and review the setup. Avoid repeatedly changing modes while trying to diagnose a wiring problem.
Add schedules, location control and smart home routines after basic operation is correct. Start with one automation source so you can tell which setting caused a temperature change.
How do you keep comfort steady and avoid wasted energy?
Use modest schedule changes and clear control priorities, then adjust from what you notice at home. Large swings and overlapping routines can make comfort harder to manage.
Start with a simple schedule
Choose comfortable occupied temperatures and a reasonable away setting for your climate, household and building. Leave time to see how the home responds before changing several settings at once.
Heat pump users should be careful with large heating setbacks. Recovery can involve auxiliary heat depending on equipment and settings, so ask an installer about a schedule that suits your system.
Keep sensors and controls in useful locations
Place a room sensor at a representative spot in the occupied room. Avoid windowsills, sunny shelves, electronics that release heat and direct airflow from vents.
If you move a sensor, watch how that changes comfort across the home. A location that suits sleeping may be less useful when the same room is empty during the day.
Keep thermostat openings clear and clean the exterior according to its care instructions. Don't spray cleaner into the control or cover it with decorations.
Use reminders as prompts to inspect
A filter reminder is a prompt to check the filter, not proof that it needs replacement on that exact day. Dust, pets, filter type and system use affect how quickly it gets dirty.
For energy reports, compare similar conditions where possible. A colder month, more time at home or different settings can change use without indicating a thermostat fault.
Review utility programs before enrolling
Utility demand-response programs may adjust settings during periods of high demand. Read the participation rules, event timing and override options before joining.
Rebates can also depend on the exact model, account eligibility and application timing. Check those details before assuming a thermostat qualifies.
Which common buying mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid buying for an app feature before confirming system fit. A thermostat that cannot control your equipment correctly is the wrong choice, regardless of its screen or integrations.
- Treating a stage count as complete compatibility. Check backup heat, terminal functions and supported system type too.
- Assuming all Honeywell models use the same app. Choose the exact model around the controls your household needs.
- Confusing sensor-ready with sensor-included. Decide whether room control is needed immediately or can wait.
- Expecting humidity monitoring to remove moisture. Monitoring and equipment control are separate functions.
- Using several competing schedules. Thermostat programming, phone routines and utility events can overlap.
- Expecting guaranteed savings. Your old settings, weather, building and equipment all affect the outcome.
Which best Honeywell smart thermostat should you choose?
Choose the T6 Pro after a complete compatibility check if you want programmable Wi-Fi control for its supported equipment. Choose the X2S for a mixed weekly routine or the T5 when arrival times change often.
Pick the X8S when selected-room comfort is needed now. Choose the T9 when you plan to add sensors later, or the X7B when the wall screen is central to how your household uses the thermostat.
The best Honeywell smart thermostat is the one that matches both your equipment and the way you manage comfort. Before buying a sensor-focused model, use our Honeywell T9 vs ecobee Premium comparison to check the closest alternative.
Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat
- Wi-Fi programmable thermostat
- Multi-stage conventional and heat pump support
A starting point for homes that need programmable Wi-Fi control and whose equipment fits its stage limits. Confirm power, backup heat and platform requirements before choosing.
Pros
- Supports multi-stage conventional equipment
- Supports compatible heat pump systems
- Wi-Fi programmable control
Cons
- Power and wiring requirements need confirmation
- Smart home platform support needs confirmation
Honeywell X2S Smart Thermostat
- Matter certified
- Several weekly schedule patterns
- Auto-away
- Filter reminders and humidity display
Several schedule patterns suit households with different weekday and weekend routines. First Alert app control and Matter support give you more ways to manage temperature.
Pros
- Daily and grouped-day scheduling options
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit
- Supports 2.4 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi
Cons
- Requires a 24 VAC C-wire
- Does not support 120–240V electric baseboard heat
Honeywell Home T5 Smart Thermostat
- 7-day scheduling or geofencing
- Auto home and away mode
- Monthly energy reports
- Remote smartphone or tablet control
Location-based control suits people whose return time changes from day to day. A weekly schedule is available if you prefer predictable temperature changes.
Pros
- Choice of schedule or location-based control
- Honeywell Home identifies it as ENERGY STAR certified
- Monthly energy reports and energy tips
Cons
- A C-wire power adapter may be required
- Heating-only oil furnace systems need a C-wire
Honeywell X8S Premium Thermostat with Sensor
- Wireless room sensor included
- 5-inch customizable touchscreen
- Humidity and ventilation control
- Matter certified
Choose this package when the temperature in a bedroom or living area matters more than the hallway reading. Humidity and ventilation controls may need additional equipment.
Pros
- Includes a room sensor for selected-room comfort
- Supports compatible higher-stage heat pumps
- Works with First Alert app and major voice platforms
Cons
- Requires a C-wire; adapter voucher must be redeemed by mail
- Some air quality controls require additional equipment
Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat
- Optional Smart Room Sensors
- Geofencing
- Filter and temperature alerts
- Monthly energy report
The T9 suits a plan to add room sensors over time. Its alerts and energy reports also help you keep track of temperature settings and maintenance.
Pros
- Supports multi-room focus with added sensors
- Includes a power adapter
- Offers remote control and geofencing
Cons
- Room sensors are sold separately
- Heating-only oil furnace systems require a C-wire
Honeywell X7B Smart Thermostat
- 4.3-inch customizable touchscreen
- Matter certified
- Humidity monitoring
- First Alert app control
A customizable idle screen suits households that use the wall control often. Humidity monitoring adds useful context when a comfortable temperature still feels clammy.
Pros
- Adjustable idle-screen color and style
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Home
- Supports 2.4 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi
Cons
- Requires a C-wire; adapter voucher must be redeemed by mail
- Does not support 120–240V electric baseboard heat
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for compatible staged systems
Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat
8.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for changing arrival times
Honeywell Home T5 Smart Thermostat
7.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
Which Honeywell smart thermostat is best for most homes?
The Lyric T6 Pro is our first choice for homes that fit its supported equipment and wiring requirements. Choose by system fit before rank: the X8S makes more sense when you need an included room sensor, while the X2S suits households that want several weekly schedule patterns.
Do Honeywell smart thermostats need a C-wire?
The X2S, X8S, T9 and X7B require C-wire power, although compatible adapters can help with some installations. Check the T5's adapter needs and confirm the T6 Pro's power requirements before buying.
The X8S and X7B include mailed-adapter vouchers.
Our C-wire guide explains the wiring question.
Which Honeywell thermostat includes a room sensor?
The X8S includes a wireless room sensor, while the T9 takes Smart Room Sensors sold separately. Choose the X8S when selected-room comfort is part of your plan from the start.
Our guide to smart thermostats with room sensors explains how room-based control differs from separate heating zones.
Do Honeywell smart thermostats work with heat pumps?
Several models support heat pumps, but stage limits and backup heat must match your equipment. A thermostat that supports conventional heating is not automatically right for a heat pump.
Use our heat pump thermostat guide to identify the system details you need before choosing a model.
Will a room sensor fix a bedroom that stays too hot?
A room sensor can help the thermostat respond to that bedroom's temperature, but it cannot fix restricted airflow, poor insulation or undersized equipment. Running the system longer for one room may make other rooms less comfortable.
Check the room's vents, door position and sun exposure before changing control priorities.
