Best Smart Mini Split Thermostats (2026): Cielo vs. Mysa vs. Sensibo
Your mini split is efficient, quiet, and powerful. But let’s be honest: the remote control is dumb.
It doesn’t know when you leave the house. It doesn’t let you turn on the heat before you drive home from work. It’s just a piece of plastic with an infrared beam.
The Upgrade: Smart AC Controllers
For ~$100-$150, you can retrofit any “dumb” mini split with a Smart Thermostat. This gives you WiFi control, Geofencing, and detailed stats to track your electricity usage. It’s the single best upgrade for comfort and savings.
The Contenders: Quick Spec Sheet
| Feature | Cielo Breeze Max | Mysa for AC | Sensibo Air |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-Device Display | Yes (Touch) | Yes (LED) | No |
| Power Source | Hardwired (5V/24V) | Plug-in | Plug-in |
| Comfy Mode (AI) | Advanced | Basic | Advanced (Climate React) |
| Best For | Pro Control | Design Lovers | Tech Geeks |
1. Cielo Breeze Max
Editor’s ChoiceThe Cielo Breeze Max is the closest thing to a “Wall Thermostat” for a ductless unit. It looks and feels like a traditional Nest or Ecobee.
- Full Touch Screen: Control it without your phone.
- Universal Voltage: Can be wired to 24V thermostat wires or plugged into 5V USB.
- Size: It’s physically larger than the others.
2. Mysa for AC
Mysa is famous for its minimalist design. It doesn’t look like a gadget; it looks like modern decor.
- Discreet Display: LED numbers fade into the white casing.
- Table Stand: Can sit on a nightstand or mount on a wall.
- Limited Data: The app is simpler, less “nerdy” data than Sensibo.
3. Sensibo Air
Sensibo is the veteran of the industry. It’s tiny, powerful, and focuses entirely on the App experience.
- Climate React: Powerful automation logic. It can automatically activate Dry Mode if humidity spikes over 60%.
- Sensors: Can pair with separate room sensors for motion detection.
- No Screen: You MUST use your phone to see the status.
- Subscription: Some advanced stats are locked behind a paywall.
Client
Vacation Rental Owner (Florida)
Problem
Guests leaving AC at 60°F with windows open.
The Solution: We installed Cielo Breeze units in all 4 bedrooms. We programmed a “Range Limit” so guests couldn’t set the AC below 70°F. We also enabled “Comfy Mode” to automatically turn off the AC if the room temperature dropped too low.
Result: The owner saved over $500 in the first summer season. The devices paid for themselves in 2 months.
How Does It Work? (Installation)
Good news: You do not need to cut any wires. These devices act as “Super Remotes.” They contain an IR Blaster (Infrared) that sends signals to your AC unit just like your handheld remote. This is much simpler than a full DIY Mini Split Installation.
- Placement: Mount the device on a wall or place it on a table within line of sight of your Mini Split unit.
- Power: Plug it into a standard wall outlet (or wire it if using Cielo Breeze Max).
- Pairing: Open the App, point your old remote at the smart device, and press Power. The device learns your AC’s frequency instantly.
- Enjoy: You now have WiFi control.
The General’s Recommendation
If you want a physical screen on the wall, buy the Cielo Breeze Max. If you want a sleek, invisible setup, go for Mysa. Both will pay for themselves in energy savings.
Before buying, always check what size mini split you need to ensure maximum efficiency.
