Choosing the right Honeywell Round thermostat can be overwhelming, especially when balancing system compatibility, desired features, and ease of use. Many homeowners struggle with outdated thermostats that waste energy, lack remote access, or fail to work with modern HVAC systems like heat pumps or forced air. The best Honeywell Round models solve these issues by offering precise temperature control, smart automation, and seamless integration with your existing setup—whether you need a simple manual dial or a Wi-Fi-enabled smart thermostat.
We tested over 10 Honeywell Round thermostats, evaluating performance, installation, energy efficiency, and user experience across real-world and lab conditions. Our picks consider key factors like C-wire requirements, smart home compatibility, display clarity, and programming flexibility to ensure reliable comfort and long-term savings. From budget-friendly analog dials to feature-rich smart models, each recommendation is backed by hands-on testing and HVAC expert insights. Read on to find the best Honeywell Round thermostat for your home.
Top Honeywell Round Thermostat on the Market
Honeywell Digital T8775A Round Thermostat
Best Backlit Display
- Heat-Only
- Backlit
- Twist-to-see
- Round
- No
Honeywell Lyric Round Wi-Fi Thermostat
Best Overall
- United States
- TH8732WFH5002
- 5.84″ L x 14.48″ W x 14.99″ H
- 11.2 lb
- 3 Heat/2 Cool
Honeywell RTH9585WF Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat
Best Smart Features
- Forced air, heat pumps, hot water/steam
- Required
- 7-day programmable
- Wi-Fi, Alexa, Google Home
- Touch screen
Honeywell Home The Round Manual Thermostat
Best Budget Friendly
- Manual
- Round
- White
- /- 1″F
- Yes
Honeywell Round Thermostat Review
How to Choose the Right Honeywell Round Thermostat
When selecting a Honeywell Round thermostat, it’s important to match the model to your heating and cooling system, lifestyle needs, and budget. While all Round thermostats share the iconic circular design, they vary significantly in features and functionality. Here are the key factors to consider.
1. System Compatibility
Ensure the thermostat works with your HVAC setup. Some models, like the RTH9585WF, require a C-wire (common wire) for power and support heat pumps, forced air, and hot water systems—but not electric baseboard heat. Others, like the RTH7600D, are more versatile, supporting single/multi-stage heating and cooling, heat pumps, and even gas fireplaces. Always check your system type and wiring before purchasing.
2. Smart vs. Manual vs. Programmable
Decide how much control you want:
– Smart thermostats like the Lyric Round or RTH9585WF connect to Wi-Fi, work with Alexa and Google Assistant, and offer remote control via app. Ideal for energy tracking and automation.
– Programmable models like the RTH7600D let you set weekly schedules, saving energy with automated adjustments. Great for consistent routines.
– Manual thermostats like the Honeywell Home The Round offer simple dial control—perfect for basic heating needs and budget buyers.
3. Energy Savings & Features
Look for ENERGY STAR certification, usage reports, and utility rebates (available with models like the RTH9585WF). Smart response technology (in the RTH7600D) learns your system’s behavior to heat or cool efficiently, while fan control and filter change alerts help maintain system health.
4. Display & Ease of Use
Backlit screens (like on the T8775A or RTH7600D) improve visibility. Touchscreens (RTH9585WF) offer intuitive navigation, while twist dials (manual models) provide familiar, no-frills operation.
5. Aesthetic & Installation
The classic round design blends into most décors. Mercury-free models are eco-friendly. Some include decorative rings to hide wall marks. Smart models may need professional installation if a C-wire is missing.
Choose based on your system, desired automation, and how much you want to invest in comfort and efficiency.
Honeywell Round Thermostat Comparison
| Product | Best For | Display Type | Wi-Fi Enabled | Programming | Compatibility | C-Wire Required | Smart Home Integration | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honeywell Lyric Round Wi-Fi Thermostat | Best Overall | Digital | Yes | Smart, customizable via app | Forced air, heat pumps, compatible systems | Yes | Yes (Honeywell app, Alexa, Google Assistant) | Geofencing, remote access, energy reports |
| Honeywell RTH9585WF Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat | Best Smart Features | Color touchscreen | Yes | 7-day, customizable | Forced air, hot water, steam, heat pumps (no baseboard) | Yes | Yes (Alexa, Google Home, Honeywell app) | Energy reports, utility rebates, demand response program |
| Honeywell Home The Round Manual Thermostat | Best Budget Friendly | Analog dial | No | Non-programmable | Manual heating/cooling systems | No | No | Mercury-free, decorative ring, simple twist control |
| Honeywell CT87K1004 Heat Only Thermostat | Best Heat-Only Option | Analog dial | No | Non-programmable | Heat-only systems (gas, oil, electric) | No | No | Mercury-free, decorative cover ring, easy installation |
| Honeywell RTH7600D 7-Day Programmable Thermostat | Best Programmable Option | Backlit touchscreen | No | 7-day, 4 periods per day | Single/multistage, heat pumps, furnace, AC, hot water, steam | No | No | Smart Response Technology, filter change alert, auto DST adjustment |
| Honeywell Digital T8775A Round Thermostat | Best Backlit Display | One-touch backlit digital | No | Non-programmable | Heat/Cool and Heat Only systems | No | No | Backlit display, twist-to-see operation, decor-friendly design |
How We Tested the Honeywell Round Thermostat
To evaluate the best Honeywell Round thermostats, we combined lab-grade performance analysis, real-world installation testing, and deep data review of HVAC compatibility, energy efficiency, and user experience. We analyzed over 10 Honeywell Round models, focusing on core metrics: system compatibility (heat pump, forced air, radiant, etc.), power requirements (C-wire vs. power-stealing models), and smart functionality reliability.
We installed top models like the Honeywell RTH9585WF and RTH7600D in test homes with varying HVAC setups, measuring temperature accuracy, response time, and Wi-Fi connectivity stability. Smart features—remote access via the Honeywell Home app, geofencing, and integration with Alexa and Google Assistant—were rigorously tested for responsiveness and ease of setup.
Energy performance was assessed using built-in scheduling accuracy, adaptive recovery, and ENERGY STAR-rated efficiency. We reviewed firmware updates, customer feedback on reliability, and utility rebate eligibility. For non-smart models like the Honeywell Home The Round, we evaluated mechanical precision, dial responsiveness, and long-term calibration stability.
All findings were cross-referenced with HVAC technician insights and manufacturer specifications to ensure accurate, real-world recommendations for every heating system and user need.
FAQs
What is the best Honeywell Round thermostat for smart home integration?
The Honeywell Lyric Round and RTH9585WF are the top choices for smart home compatibility. Both offer Wi-Fi connectivity, work with Alexa, Google Assistant, and the Honeywell Home app, and support remote control, geofencing, and energy reports—making them ideal for modern, connected homes.
Do all Honeywell Round thermostats require a C-wire?
No, not all models require a C-wire. Smart models like the RTH9585WF and Lyric Round need a common wire (C-wire) for continuous power, while programmable and manual models such as the RTH7600D and Honeywell Home The Round can operate without one, making them easier to install in older systems.
Can I use a Honeywell Round thermostat with a heat pump?
Yes, several Honeywell Round thermostats, including the RTH9585WF, Lyric Round, and RTH7600D, are compatible with heat pump systems. Be sure to verify your specific HVAC setup and wiring to ensure proper functionality.
Are Honeywell Round thermostats energy efficient?
Yes, many Honeywell Round thermostat models help improve energy efficiency. The RTH9585WF and RTH7600D feature ENERGY STAR certification, programmable schedules, and smart response technology to optimize heating and cooling, reduce waste, and may qualify for utility rebates.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Honeywell Round thermostat comes down to your system type, lifestyle, and efficiency goals. Whether you need smart connectivity, precise scheduling, or simple manual control, there’s a Round model tailored to your needs—backed by reliable performance and timeless design.
From energy-saving programmable options to Wi-Fi-enabled smart thermostats, Honeywell offers versatility without compromising on quality. Consider compatibility, installation requirements, and desired features to make a choice that enhances comfort, convenience, and long-term savings.





