Honeywell has developed an extensive series of smart thermostats that are compatible with Wi-Fi, including the RTH9580WF, the RTH9585WF, and the TH9320WFV5003.
With touchscreens, remote access, and convenient scheduling, these thermostats represent the next generation of home temperature management.
Wondering which one of these thermostats is the best choice for you and your family? Read along to about the differences and similarities between these three impressive products.
- Voice asistants support
- Flexible programming options
- New interface (in comparison with 9580)
We’ve tested 3 honeywell smart thermostats and the winner is above!
Comparing the Honeywell 9580 vs. 9585 vs. 9320: What’s the Difference?
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Interface | 4 1/2 inch diagonal screen with full color touchscreen | 4 1/2 inch diagonal screen with full color touchscreen | 4 1/2 inch diagonal screen with full color touchscreen |
Large Color Touch Screen | + | + | + |
7-day Programming | + | + | + |
Indoor Humidity Sensor | + | + | - |
Advanced Fan/Control Comfort | + | + | + |
Total Connect Comfort Voice Command | + | + | - |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, App, Desktop, Customer Service, Alexa | Wi-Fi, App, Desktop, Customer Service, Alexa | Wi-Fi, App, Desktop, Customer Service, Voice Control devices |
Works with Alexa | + | + | + |
Voltage | 30 volts | n/a | 24 volts |
ENERGY STAR Certified | + | + | + |
Installation | DIY installation | DIY installation | Professional installation |
Warranty | 1-year limited warranty | 1-year limited warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
Weight | 8 ounces | 1 pounds | 9.6 ounces |
The Honeywell 9580 (RTH9580WF) and the Honeywell 9585 (RTH9585WF) are both Wi-Fi-compatible thermostats with several smart features, customizable 4.5-inch smart screens, and simple setup options. They both boast four-period and 7-day schedule options.
What’s more, both thermostats are compatible with 24-volt HVAC, gas, electric, oil, and dual fuel home heating system. Beyond that, both thermostats offer remote access through the Honeywell Total Comfort app, and both come with a 1-year limited warranty.
The Honeywell 9580 predates the 9585 by a few years. Nevertheless, there is no distinguishable difference between the two. The Honeywell 9320 is almost indistinguishable from the two as well.
The only difference is it boasts an integrated voice activation system and must be purchased and installed by a professional HVAC contractor.
Similarities Between the 9580, 9585, and 9320
We’ve already established that the 9580, 9585, and 9320 theromstats have a lot in common. Their similarities include:
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Amazon Alexa compatibility
- Customizable color touchscreens that can be set to match interior paint and decor
- Energy-savings mode
- Remote Access Honeywell’s Total Comfort app
- Seven-day scheduling options
- Requires C-wire for installation
- One-year warranty
- Option to install yourself
Let’s Start with the Differences Between the 9580 and 9585
At this point, you are probably wondering if these two seemingly identical thermostats have any differences.
The main difference is that Honeywell 9580 was released in 2012. Meanwhile, the Honeywell 9585 was released in 2016. This means the 9585 has a more recent operating system.
What’s more, the 9580 retails for slightly less, at $179. Meanwhile, the 9585 retails for $219.99. Both models are sold by the manufacturer as well as third-party retailers.
How do the 9508 and 9585 Compare to the 9320
The Honeywell 9320 (TH9320WF5003) is yet another Wi-Fi compatible color touchscreen thermostat. Like the 9580 and the 9585, it is compatible with Honeywell’s Total Connect Comfort app.
It offers 7-day scheduling and a unique energy savings mode. It also boasts a customizable screen with simple programming options. The price of the Honeywell 9320 varies depending on the cost of hiring an HVAC professional.
Differences between the 9320 and the 9580 and 9585
Here are the features that differenciate the Honeywell 9320 from the 9580 and 9585:
- The warranty is voided if not purchased from a professional contractor
- Five-year limited warranty
- Professional installation required
- Voice-activated recognition and control
- The manufacturer does not sell it directly to consumers
How Do the Models Compare?
Honeywell 9580 vs. Honeywell 9585
As we mentioned before, the Honeywell RTH9580WF is simply an older version of the RTH9585. Both models boast easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions. Keep in mind that you may need to acquire additional installation equipment if you do not have a C-wire.
While both the 9580 and 9585’s instructions are written clearly, we recommend using an instructional YouTube video to guide you through the process.
Honeywell Home WI-FI Smart Color Thermostat RTH9585WF. Unboxed Reviewed & Install:
Both thermostats are also easy to set up. They are preprogrammed with an on-screen setup program. We recommend tossing the user manual aside and focusing on the prompts.
Since both models are compatible with the Total Connect Comfort app, you’ll also want to ensure that you have an up-to-date phone or tablet.
Design
Both the RTH9585WF and the RTH9580WF screens measure 4 1/2 inches diagonally. As such, they are both large enough to display key temperature and scheduling information.
The RTH9580WF boasts four easy-to-navigate menus. These include “HOME,” “FAN,” “SYSTEM,” and “MENU.” The RTH9585WF also has four headings, although the third and fourth headings consist of “MODE” and “SETTINGS.”
To give you an idea of how much information is displayed, both the RTH9585WF and the RTH9580WF’s “HOME” screens feature a large indoor temperature reading, an outdoor temperature reading, the system status, the temperature setting, and the schedule status.
Verdict
Since the RTH9585WF and the RTH9580WF are identical in size and both feature customizable interfaces, the winner of this roundup is the RTH9585WF by default.
Functionality
Both the RTH9585WF and the RTH9580WF connect to a C-wire. This is the source of power for your thermostat. What’s more, both systems work with common 24 VC heating and cooling systems, including forced air, hydronic heat pump, oil, gas, and electric.
Neither the RTH9585WF nor the RTH9580WF can be used with millivolt systems or 120-240 volt systems, such as gas fireplaces and electric baseboard heat.
While many conventional thermostats require a C-wire, they are not always used in older thermostats. It’s important to note that both models much also be connected to a C-wire to establish a Wi-Fi connection.
Verdict
Both the RTH9585WF and the RTH9580WF require 24 VAC power. This is a common requirement for conventional thermostats. Since there is no difference in power between the two models, the RTH9585WF is once again the winner by default.
Overall Verdict
While it was difficult to delineate between the RTH9585WF and the RTH9580WF, we recommend purchasing the RTH9585WF. As Honeywell’s more recent release, we think it’s safe to say that this thermostat is here to stay.
Honeywell 9580 vs. Honeywell 9320
Honeywell’s Wi-Fi 9000 with Voice Control (a.k.a. the 9320) offers a unique advantage over the 9580. Users can use their voice to activate and control the temperature and settings on this thermostat.
However, like the 9580 the 9320 is also compatible with Honeywell’s app and can be controlled remotely via smartphone. Both thermostats also boast customizable smart screens.
Of course, the 9320 is a bit more complicated in terms of installation. While it can be purchased on third-party sites, Honeywell does not sell it directly to consumers.
Instead, they recommend purchasing it from a qualified home contractor who will professionally install the device at an additional cost. Keep in mind that the thermostat’s 5-year warranty is not activated unless it has been professionally installed.
Design
The 9320 is 3 1/2 inches high, 4 1/2 inches wide, and 7/8 inch deep. It features a black frame. This design is identical to that of the 9850. Both models feature super busy interfaces with four nested menus and customizable backgrounds and fonts.
Verdict
Since the 9320 and 9580 are virtually the same in terms of design, it was difficult to distinguish a clear winner. With that being said, the 9320 has built-in voice control, whereas the 9580 requires Amazon Alexa for voice control.
Considering this, we’d say the 9320 has the potential to take up less space while providing the same features as the 9580.
Functionality
Both the 9580 and 9320 require 24 VAC power that is accessed via C-wires. With that being said, Honeywell recommends that a contractor install the 9320, while the 9580 is suitable for D.I.Y. installation.
Beyond that, the two thermostats offer identical interfaces, setups, and programming options. Both models also provide smart alerts, including air filter replacement reminders, humidifier pad replacement reminders, and high/low-temperature alerts.
Finally, both thermostats are Energy Star certified.
Verdict
If you’ve successfully pinpointed a C-wire and you’re comfortable installing a thermostat, the 9580 is the way to go. This thermostat is an easy and straightforward replacement for any preexisting home thermostat. It will save you money and hassle from the start.
The only downfall is that you’ll have a shorter warranty than you would with the 9320.
Overall Verdict
With that said, the winner of this roundup is the 9580. While we enjoyed the 9320’s voice activation and extended warranty, we didn’t feel these features were worth paying a professional contractor.
Honeyewll 9585 vs. Honeywell 9320
In our last roundup, we took a hard look at the Honeywell 9585 vs. the 9320. As we’ve already explained, these models are barely distinguishable from one another.
The main differences are the 9320’s built-in voice activation and control settings, extended warranty, and professional installation requirement.
Design
Once again, the 9585 and 9320 have virtually identical screens and interfaces. The only difference here is the 9320’s voice activation element.
Verdict
With that being said, the 9320 is the clear winner in terms of design. This is mainly because it boasts more advanced integrated features, such as the onboard voice activation system.
This feature gives users more autonomous control over their heating and cool systems. As such, this thermostat fairs well against the competition.
Functionality
Both the 9585 and 9320 require a 24 VAC C-wire power connection to power up and connect to Wi-Fi. Both models also have the potential to inaccurately register inside temperatures, a flaw which can lead to some pesky cycling issues.
Verdict
The 9585 and 9320 are virtually identical in terms of power and performance. The main difference here is who’s connecting the wires. Since the 9320 requires a licensed HVAC contractor, our go-to choice is the 9585.
Honeywell WiFi Smart Color 7 Day Programmable Thermostat (RTH9585WF1004):
Overall Verdict
The main difference between the 9585 and 9320 is availability. After all, Honeywell doesn’t sell the 9320 directly to retail consumers. Instead, it must be purchased through a professional HVAC contractor or from a third-party retailer.
What’s more, the 9585 boasts a 1-year warranty, while the 9320 comes with a 5-year warranty. Given the facts, we feel that the 9585 is better suited for moderately handy homeowners who are looking for a budget-friendly update to their residential HVAC system.
More comparisons
Honeywell T9 vs RTH9585
The Honeywell T9 and RTH9585 are two impressive thermostats, but with notable differences. The T9 features a modern design, supporting Smart Room Sensors to help manage hot and cold spots, and geofencing for smart location-based temperature adjustments, both features lacking in the RTH9585. Additionally, the T9 supports Apple HomeKit, a feature not available in the RTH9585.
The RTH9585, on the other hand, stands out with its high-resolution touchscreen display that’s customizable to match your home decor, a feature not seen in the T9. It’s also more affordable than the T9, making it a solid option for budget-conscious consumers.
While both models support Wi-Fi, enabling you to control your thermostat from your smartphone, they offer different ecosystems for integration; the T9 is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, while the RTH9585 works with Alexa and Google Assistant, but not Apple HomeKit.
Overall, your choice between the Honeywell T9 and RTH9585 should depend on your specific needs and budget. The T9 offers more advanced features and broader smart home compatibility, while the RTH9585 offers a cost-effective solution with a customizable touchscreen interface.
Honeywell T9 vs 9000
The Honeywell T9 and the Honeywell 9000 are both smart thermostats, but they cater to different user needs due to their distinctive features.
The T9’s standout feature is its Smart Room Sensors, which provide room-by-room temperature control and occupancy sensing, prioritizing comfort where it matters. It also supports geofencing for automatic adjustments based on your location. These features are not present in the Honeywell 9000. The T9 is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, catering to a broader smart home ecosystem.
On the other hand, the Honeywell 9000 offers a high-resolution, full-color touchscreen display that can be customized to match any home’s decor, a feature not found in the T9. It also provides extensive programming options and energy usage reports, enabling you to optimize your heating and cooling schedule for energy efficiency. While it also supports Alexa and Google Assistant, it lacks support for Apple HomeKit.
In summary, the T9 offers advanced sensing features and wider smart home integration, while the Honeywell 9000 offers a customizable display, detailed energy reports, and superior programmability. Your choice will depend on your preference for room-specific comfort or customizable displays and energy efficiency.
Honeywell RTH9600WF vs RTH9585WF
The Honeywell RTH9600WF and RTH9585WF are both Wi-Fi-enabled programmable thermostats that offer considerable control over your home’s heating and cooling system, but they do have a few key differences.
The RTH9600WF features a touchscreen interface that changes color to match the temperature settings, a feature not present in the RTH9585WF. This thermostat also allows for voice command control via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant and features ‘Smart Response’ technology, which learns your heating/cooling cycle times to deliver optimal temperature at the right times.
On the other hand, the RTH9585WF boasts a high-resolution, customizable color touchscreen, allowing you to personalize it to match your home decor. Like the RTH9600WF, it also supports control via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. The RTH9585WF is Energy Star certified and offers detailed energy usage reports to help you maximize energy efficiency.
In essence, the choice between the Honeywell RTH9600WF and RTH9585WF will depend on personal preference. If color customization to match your home decor and detailed energy reports are important, the RTH9585WF may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a color-changing interface that reflects temperature settings and ‘Smart Response’ technology, then the RTH9600WF could be the ideal option.
F.A.Q.
Will the Honeywell smart thermostats work without Wi-Fi?
Yes. The thermostats will continue to regulate your home heating and/or cooling system without Wi-Fi. However, you will not be able to tap into the Honeywell Total Connect comfort app. What’s more, the 9320’s voice control feature will not work.
Can I install a Honeywell without a C-wire?
No. All of the models require a C-wire for attaining 24-volt power. With that said, you may be able to circumvent the C-wire by using an extra wire to connect to the C-input on the thermostat or by installing a Honeywell Wire Saver Module (THP9045A).
Lastly, you can hire an HVAC professional to install new wire.
What does the manufacturer mean by “customizable color screen?”
All three models boast full-color touchscreens with customizable color themes. Users can select from colors and predefined backgrounds or create a custom background using hand-selected color and text combinations. Users and also adjust the screen’s backlight settings.
Do the Honeywell thermostats have adjustable language options?
Users can choose between English, French, and Spanish languages.
Can I use more than one thermostat in my home?
Yes. The Honeywell smart thermostats can be paired together to create a whole home heating and cooling solution. Users can create a custom name for each thermostat. These names are used to delineate between thermostats on the Honeywell app.
What if my Wi-Fi router doesn’t have a strong enough signal?
We recommend using a device called a repeater. Wi-Fi repeaters amplify and rebroadcast wireless signals to create a stronger secondary Wi-Fi network.
Do Honeywell smart thermostats stand a chance against the competition?
The Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitive and easy to use. However, we are seeing many newer, sleeker thermostat designs popping up in the market. Still, the familiar digital interface and nested menus may appeal to traditionalists.
The Bottom Line
If you’re planning on hiring a professional to install your new thermostat, the Honeywell 9320 is a solid choice. Yet, we recommend the Honeywell 9585 to anyone with basic wiring knowledge and a preexisting C-wire.
While the 9320’s extended warranty is appealing, it doesn’t outweigh the cost of hiring an HVAC professional.
While we haven’t forgotten the Honeywell 9580, this thermostat is simply a more outdated version of the 9585. As such, we so no need to choose it over the 9585 nor the 9320.
Of course, all three of the Honeywell thermostats have nearly identical interfaces and features. With that said, there is no wrong choice in this roundup. Overall, the Honeywell smart thermostats are great options for most home heating and cool systems.
Thank you very much for this review. I currently have a 9320 installed and the screen is no longer working. I am in the process of replacing it with a 9585 model. Can I use the backplate of the 9320 thats already installed and just changed the front part of the thermostat, i.e., front being 9585, backplate being 9320? I want to avoid having to rewire.
I would appreciate your response. Thank you very much.
Would like you to include the features in each model like how many heat vs cool modes they will work with? 2 stage heat, 3 stage heat. Looking for a t-stat to work with an outdoor wood boiler in conjunction to a furnace using propane.
GREAT comparisons, thank you! Based on your review, I purchased two 9585s today.