Are you in the market for a smart thermostat and stuck between the Google Nest and British Gas’s Hive? Both have earned their reputations as leaders in the smart home space, but they cater to different preferences and needs. In this guide, we take an objective look at the two thermostats, cutting through the fluff to help you make an informed choice.
Factors We Considered in the Comparison
When comparing smart thermostats, we focus on core elements that matter to consumers:
- Price
- Design
- Ease of Installation
- Usability
- Energy-saving features
- Compatibility with virtual assistants
- Warranty periods
- Power supply
- Zonal heating capabilities
- Geolocation features
Let’s dive into the details and determine which thermostat reigns supreme in 2024.
Price: Budget Conscious vs. Premium
Price is always a key factor in choosing any gadget. When it comes to affordability, Hive edges ahead of the Nest. It’s typically more wallet-friendly and a great choice if you’re on a budget but still want the convenience of smart control. To see more about saving money with smart thermostats, check out our guide on how to save energy with smart heating.
However, Nest delivers more advanced features and performance for the extra money. If your priority is premium functionality, the price difference might be justified.
Price verdict: Hive wins for the budget-conscious, while Nest offers more for those willing to spend. If you’re curious about more in-depth comparisons, see our best smart thermostats in the UK for 2024.
Design: Simplicity vs. Style
Design plays a pivotal role in smart home gadgets, and both thermostats have their strengths here.
The Nest is celebrated for its sleek, award-winning circular design and high-resolution digital interface. This minimalist look makes it a seamless addition to any modern home. The absence of buttons and wires contributes to its clean aesthetic.
On the other hand, the Hive has a boxy, more traditional design. While it may look less contemporary, it’s still a reliable and visually appealing device. It even allows customization with colored thermostat frames, thanks to its partnership with Dulux. This might sway you if you’re into personalizing your home decor.
Design verdict: The Nest steals the show for its modern, elegant design, while Hive offers a practical, if slightly dated, appearance.
For more on the appearance and features of the Hive thermostat, visit our Hive Thermostat review.
Features: Learning vs. Manual Control
When it comes to features, Nest leaves Hive in the dust. The Nest has built-in auto-learning functionality, adapting to your daily routine over time. It automatically adjusts to your preferences and external factors like the weather, offering a highly personalized heating schedule. It’s perfect for hands-off users who want their thermostat to “just know” what they need.
On the other hand, Hive is more manual. While this means it lacks auto-learning, some users might prefer the greater control over their schedule. You can set specific temperatures and schedules via the app without the thermostat trying to predict your needs.
For more insight on the advantages of both thermostats, check out our smart thermostat features guide.
Features verdict: Nest wins for those who prefer automation, while Hive caters to users who want complete control over their settings.
Installation: DIY or Professional Help?
Both Nest and Hive thermostats offer the possibility of DIY installation, but the process differs slightly.
The Hive can run on AA batteries, making it portable and easy to install. You can mount it anywhere in the house or keep it on a stand, offering a high level of flexibility. However, it can also be hardwired for a more permanent setup if desired.
In contrast, the Nest requires a mains power connection, making installation a bit trickier. While it can be plugged into a socket with a USB adapter, most users prefer professional installation to integrate it into their home’s wiring system.
If you go for professional installation, both systems have dedicated networks. Nest Pro Installers offer an extended warranty (more on this later), while Hive installations can be done by certified British Gas engineers. Want to see how to install it yourself? Our guide on how to install a smart thermostat will walk you through it.
Installation verdict: Hive offers more flexibility for DIY enthusiasts, while Nest may require professional assistance to achieve optimal performance.
Read about: An Essential Guide to Heat Pumps
Power Supply: Flexibility vs. Consistency
Nest needs a continuous power source, typically achieved through a hardwired connection. While this offers stable performance, it also limits mobility.
Hive, with its battery-powered option, provides flexibility, allowing users to move the thermostat around the house. However, it does need battery replacements every couple of years, which could be seen as a downside for some.
Power source verdict: Hive wins in terms of flexibility, while Nest provides consistent power through its main connection.
Read about: How to Connect a Wireless Thermostat to a Boiler
Zonal Heating: Comprehensive vs. Limited
Zonal heating allows you to heat specific areas of your home individually. This feature is crucial for energy efficiency and comfort, especially in larger homes.
The Nest excels here, supporting up to 20 heating zones and allowing up to 10 people to access energy reports and control settings through the Nest Family Account. Whether you have a sprawling home or a family that wants individual control, Nest makes multi-zone heating effortless. Interested in learning more about the importance of zonal heating? Check out our dedicated guide on what is zonal heating.
On the other hand, Hive falls short, supporting only 3 heating zones and lacking multi-user functionality. This could be a drawback for larger families or those with expansive homes.
Zonal heating verdict: Nest clearly outshines Hive in zonal heating, making it the better choice for large or multi-user households.
Geolocation: Smarter Detection
Geolocation, or geofencing, is a feature that adjusts your thermostat based on your location. Forget to turn off the heat when you leave the house? Geolocation fixes that.
Both thermostats offer this feature, but Nest goes a step further by integrating a motion sensor that detects activity within the house. This allows it to adjust settings even if no one interacts with it directly.
Hive can also use geolocation, but it requires purchasing additional motion sensors to replicate what the Nest offers out of the box.
Geolocation verdict: Nest is the smarter choice here with built-in motion detection. Hive offers geolocation, but at an additional cost.
Read about: installation replacement cost
Compatibility: Ecosystem Matters
Both Nest and Hive are compatible with major digital ecosystems, including Amazon Alexa and Google Home, as well as third-party platforms like IFTTT and Samsung SmartThings.
However, if you’re already deeply invested in Google’s ecosystem, the Nest is the obvious choice. It integrates seamlessly with other Google devices like smart speakers, security cameras, and doorbells.
For those who rely on Amazon Alexa, Hive works just as well. But if you’re aiming for a fully integrated Google-powered smart home, Nest is the better choice.
Curious about Alexa vs. Google Home compatibility? Our comparison on Google Home and Alexa compatibility will help you understand which one suits your needs.
Compatibility verdict: Nest wins for Google-centric households, while Hive is an excellent choice for those leaning towards Amazon Alexa.
Warranty: Double the Protection
Warranty is an important factor, especially with expensive smart home devices. Nest offers a 2-year warranty, and if you have it installed by a certified Nest Pro, this can be extended to 4 years.
Hive, on the other hand, only provides a 1-year warranty.
Warranty verdict: Nest wins with a more generous warranty offering, especially when using a certified installer.
Read more: geothermal heat pump installation in the UK
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
In 2024, Nest remains the smarter, more feature-rich option. Its sleek design, extensive feature set, and advanced automation make it ideal for those looking for a truly smart home experience. The ability to zone heating, learn your schedule, and integrate smoothly into a Google-centric ecosystem makes it the clear winner.
However, Hive isn’t without merit. It’s easier to install, more affordable, and gives users greater manual control. If you’re looking for a simple, effective thermostat without all the bells and whistles, Hive is still a solid choice.
Still not sure if a smart thermostat is right for you? Check out our article on whether a smart thermostat is worth it in 2024.
Is the Hive as good as the Nest?
Hive and Nest are both popular smart thermostats, but each has its strengths. Hive is generally seen as more user-friendly, especially for UK-based users, and offers seamless integration with British Gas services. Nest, on the other hand, is known for its advanced learning algorithms, meaning it can adapt to your routine and adjust the temperature accordingly. Overall, if you want a simple, easy-to-use system, Hive is great. If you prefer a more advanced system that learns your preferences over time, Nest might be better.
What’s the difference between Hive and Nest?
Learning Capabilities: Nest has a learning feature that adjusts itself based on your behavior, while Hive requires manual scheduling.
Compatibility: Both are compatible with most heating systems, but Hive tends to be more commonly integrated with UK services.
Installation: Both devices require professional installation, though Nest tends to be slightly easier for DIY installation due to its auto-sensing features.
App Control: Both offer mobile app controls, but Hive’s app is more intuitive for users who are new to smart home tech.
Price: Hive tends to be slightly more affordable than Nest, though pricing may vary based on region and installation.
Are Hive thermostats being discontinued
No, Hive thermostats are not being discontinued. While there may have been some confusion due to changes in the smart home industry, Hive continues to support and develop its range of smart heating products. However, it’s always good to check with the manufacturer or service provider for the latest updates.