Nest releases temperature sensor, works with thermostats for better control

Nest launched a new temperature sensor that works with its line of thermostats yesterday.

The sensor is compatible with the third-generation of Nest Learning Thermostats and Nest Thermostat E and requires the latest version of the Nest app.

The sensors can communicate temperature information for specific rooms in your house to the thermostat. Users can prioritize different rooms at different times, as well as get more accurate temperatures in rooms with the sensor.

Right now, the sensor is available on Nest’s website in bundles. The first is a bundle that gives you $15 CAD off the price when you buy a sensor and a Thermostat E, bringing the total to $263. Additionally, the Learning Thermostat bundle is $25 off for $353.

If you already have the thermostat, the sensors are available for $49 on their own or in a three-pack for $125.

Comparatively, Toronto-based Ecobee has its own temperature sensors priced similarly to Nest’s. Instead of a three-pack, Ecobee offers a two-pack for $89 but doesn’t offer the sensor on its own.

Ecobee also offers room sensor bundles with its Ecobee 4 thermostat for $409 and Ecobee 3 Lite for $293. They come with three and two room sensors, respectively. For the extra $80 over the regular Ecobee 4, getting three room sensors is a good deal.

Considering how the sensors operate, having a network of them allows for more granular control of temperature throughout your home.