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Add to SafariWhen comparing Tado Smart Thermostat vs Sensi Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat UP500W, the Slant community recommends Tado Smart Thermostat for most people. In the question“What are the best smart thermostats?” Tado Smart Thermostat is ranked 2nd while Sensi Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat UP500W is ranked 5th. The most important reason people chose Tado Smart Thermostat is:
You can configure the Tado thermostat to have one setpoint during the day while you're away at work or sleeping, and another setpoint when you are at home requiring heating.
Question Ranking
Pros
Pro Very configurable scheduling
You can configure the Tado thermostat to have one setpoint during the day while you're away at work or sleeping, and another setpoint when you are at home requiring heating.
Pro Great UI
The UI is similar across the different apps and webpage, which makes it easy to use any other UI if you're familiar with one. It's also laid out very nicely, and provides weather reminders as well.
Pro Cross platform support for all major operating systems
There is an Android app, an iOS app, and even a Windows Phone app. There is also a web app that lets you control the thermostat from any web browser. This is a thermostat that you won't need to worry about compatibility with.
Pro Automatic location based control
Based on your location, the Tado thermostat can automatically determine when it needs to be on and when it can stay in idle mode saving power. This location data isn't monitored by a motion sensor - instead it uses your phone's location so that by the time you arrive home it should already be a suitable temperature.
Pro Multi-zone
Supports multiple heated areas with different temperatures.
Pro Programmable from the thermostat itself
All of the functions of your phone can also be done right on the thermostat. If you frequently switch phones, or just prefer hardware controls this is a significant perk.
Pro Design is conservative, and looks like a regular thermostat
While most smart thermostats go the full mile when it comes to futuristic design, this Sensi thermostat takes a more traditional approach. Just by looking at it, you wouldn't be able to tell that this is a smart thermostat.
Cons
Con Requires a hub to be plugged into your router
You will need to use the hub, which is another piece of equipment in your house. It also needs to be plugged directly into the router which means one less available port on the router.
The requirement of the hub means that the range is limited, which could mean that the thermostat has connection issues depending on where it's installed (walls or far distances will lessen the signal strength).
Con Installation is very tough
Tado suggests you get the wiring done professionally. While it's convenient that there is a conversation between you and Tado to figure things out ahead of time - making sure the installation itself goes well - it's inconvenient that you need to have it set up professionally when the other major thermostats can usually be wired with relative ease.
Con Limited controls through the thermostat itself
The thermostat is minimal, and it lacks the functionality of normal thermostats if you want to control it through the physical wall mounted unit. Just about all of the controls will need to be done through the app.
Con No automation
This thermostat doesn't offer any smart learning or automation. While it does allow you to program a schedule into it and adjust the temperature remotely, that's just about the extent of its smarts. It doesn't offer motion sensors or track your location in any way.
Con Old fashioned looking
Most smart thermostats look the part - they look smart. This one looks just like any regular old thermostat, including the clunky buttons, large physical body and monochrome display.
