GoControl Smart Thermostat

Last updated: December 17, 2019


We looked at the top Smart Thermostats and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Smart Thermostat you should buy.

Product Details

In our analysis of 124 expert reviews, the GoControl Smart Thermostat placed 9th when we looked at the top 9 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

The go control z-wave battery-powered smart thermostat is a battery-powered z-wave thermostat that connects to all z-wave hubs including the 2gig gc2 panel, giving you control over your homes comfort wherever you are. This model is designed to be incredibly easy to install and includes a front-loading battery compartment to hold 4 aa batteries to power the thermostat for 2 full years. Or, it can be powered by the hvac systems 24-volt ac c-wire. The 7-character scrolling display makes programming simple.

Our Expert Consultant

Vicki Liston 
Home Improvement Expert

Vicki Liston writes, produces, and narrates “On The Fly…DIY,” an award-winning home improvement and DIY show of unique project tutorials for the casual DIY’er.

Home improvement and all things DIY have been Liston’s passion since she bought her first house in 2007 and she started making video blogs in 2014. She’s performed hundreds of DIY projects, from small ones to major, wall-smashing renovations and can teach you how to make a trendy DIY barn door for cheap. The proceeds earned from “On The Fly…DIY” are donated to no-kill animal shelters and rescue organizations.

Expert Reviews


What reviewers liked

The thermostat is Z wave compatible and supports Z wave FLiRS functionality. You’ll find the installation manual within the box that allows easy installation. Low voltage integration ensures compatibility with contemporary central HVAC systems (both heating and cooling).
This model supports 95 percent of existing HVAC systems, is straightforward to operate, and hides advanced features like Z-wave connectivity and Alexa support behind its ordinary appearance. It can replace any existing thermostat and is a bargain considering how big of an improvement it is over standard models.
The display screen is very simple, showing only the current temperature, temperature range and whether you’re in heating or cooling mode.
We like that this is a more basic model that is easier to use too. You simply press the mode button to access the different modes and the fan button to automatically turn on your fan.
Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and 2GIG GoControl security system
The model works excellent with an application installed on your phone or laptop. It gives you the best results with accuracy.
An affordable and easy-to-setup model that's compatible with Z-Wave and Alexa devices. Economical to use; powered by 4 AA batteries that last up to 2 years.
Installing and programming the thermostat is a breeze. Mounting hardware and batteries are included in the box.
I did not struggle to install it. The thermostat comes with all details on how to fix it. I took a few minutes to get it ready. It is also priced affordably making it among my top picks.
This very product is cheap in price. But that doesn't mean that it will come up with features that won't be useful at all. Take the HVAC connectivity as an example. It connects to HVAC systems in two ways.
You are probably just looking for a reliable thermostat that will do as its told. The GoControl thermostat is a popular choice for a simple but effective thermostat.
Works with 3-stage heat and 2-stage cooling systems
It is an excellent value for the price—it doesn’t have very advanced features, but it covers the basic needs.

What reviewers didn't like

There’s no remote way to check the thermostat’s battery level. Doing so requires you to access an option hidden away in the physical unit’s menu. There are no warnings when the battery is low – the thermostat simply stops working.
The batteries in this thermostat may not last as long as you would like. Some customers registered complaints about the manufacturer’s poor customer service too.
Requires a Z-Wave hub to work with Alexa, Google Home, etc.
Doesn't have a fancy touchscreen or many bells/whistles. Occasionally freezes; resets when batteries are removed and put back in place.
It relies on physical buttons and does not have a touchscreen. Plus the screen is very small.
Hub sold separately
​Nothing special until you get a smart hub.
May not support auxiliary heat or emergency heat
The downsides of the GoControl are that the thermostat screen is quite small and does not have touchscreen capabilities. This thermostat is also non-programmable and does not monitor humidity.
View our Smart Thermostat buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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