A smart shower valve can make it easier to set a comfortable temperature, but the products in this category do not all work the same way. Some show the water temperature on an LED display, while others use a separate digital controller to manage a thermostatic valve and multiple shower outlets. The picks below range from a basic display valve to Moen components and a complete shower system, so check what is included and what your plumbing requires before you buy.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison
| Product | Type | Temperature feature | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backnets Digital Display Shower Valve | Single-function mixing valve | LED temperature display | A basic display at the valve |
| Moen S3102 2-Outlet Digital Thermostatic Valve | Two-outlet valve | Thermostatic temperature control; needs a compatible controller | A Moen smart shower with two fixtures |
| Moen S3104 4-Outlet Digital Thermostatic Valve | Four-outlet valve | Thermostatic temperature control; needs a compatible controller | A Moen setup with more outlet options |
| SunCleanse 8-Inch Shower System | Shower system with rough-in valve | Hydro-powered LED temperature and time display | A complete system with a visible temperature readout |
| Moen TS3302TB 2-Outlet Digital Controller | Digital controller, not a valve | Digital temperature setting and presets | Adding controls to a compatible Moen valve |
Our Picks: Best Smart Shower Valves With Digital Temperature reviews
Backnets Digital Display Valve: A Simple Temperature Readout
The Backnets is a mixing valve with an LED temperature display. Its control rotor lets you adjust the temperature, and its brass body and polished chrome panel give it a more substantial feel than a basic plastic control. Unlike the Moen system components below, it does not appear to require a separate smart-home controller to show the temperature.
This is the most straightforward choice for someone who mainly wants to see the water temperature at the shower. The listing describes standard US plumbing connections, but its connection details are not fully consistent: it mentions a 3/4-inch inlet and 1/2-inch outlet, while other specifications list 1/2-inch NPT connections. Confirm the actual fittings and valve layout with the seller or a plumber before planning an installation.
Keep expectations focused on the display and mixing function. The supplied details do not describe app control, voice assistance, or multiple independently controlled outlets, so this is not a substitute for a full digital shower system.
Pros:
- LED display shows the water temperature at the valve.
- Brass construction and polished chrome exterior.
- Designed as a single-function mixing valve.
Cons:
- Connection-size details in the listing need to be confirmed.
- No app or voice control is described.
Verdict: Choose the Backnets if a visible temperature reading and a relatively simple valve are your priorities, but verify its plumbing connections before ordering.
Moen S3102: A Two-Outlet Thermostatic Valve for a Smart Shower
The Moen S3102 is a thermostatic valve built for use with a compatible U by Moen digital shower controller, which is sold separately. Its ExactTemp feature is designed to let you set and maintain a preferred temperature. The two-outlet layout can serve fixtures such as a showerhead and hand shower.
This valve makes the most sense if you are planning a Moen smart shower rather than replacing a standalone mixing valve. It has 1/2-inch connections, a compact design intended to fit a standard 2-by-4 wall, and a 30-foot data cable for placement flexibility. The product details also state that the valve and power supply should not be installed where temperatures may exceed 104°F or where freezing can occur.
The main trade-off is that the valve alone is not a complete digital shower. You will need the compatible controller and a suitable installation plan, so account for those parts before choosing it. Compared with the four-outlet S3104, this model is a more focused fit for a setup with two fixtures.
Pros:
- Thermostatic control is designed to maintain a selected temperature.
- Two outlets can serve a showerhead and hand shower.
- Compact design and a 30-foot data cable support flexible placement.
- Brass construction and a stated limited lifetime manufacturer warranty.
Cons:
- Requires a compatible U by Moen controller, sold separately.
- Installation location must avoid freezing and excessive ambient heat.
Verdict: The S3102 is a sensible foundation for a two-outlet Moen digital shower if you are prepared to buy the matching controller and plan the installation as a system.
Moen S3104: Four Outlets for a More Flexible Shower Layout
The Moen S3104 is a four-outlet thermostatic valve for a compatible U by Moen digital shower controller, sold separately. Like the S3102, it uses ExactTemp technology to help set and maintain a chosen temperature. Its four-port configuration gives a system designer more outlet options than the two-outlet model.
This valve is aimed at a larger shower plan with several fixtures or water outlets. It has 3/4-inch connections, so it is not a direct match for every existing plumbing setup. The listing describes a compact valve design intended for a standard 2-by-4 wall and includes a 30-foot data cable. Confirm the controller, plumbing, and intended outlet setup before installation; the product details are not fully clear about how all four outlets are configured.
Compared with the S3102, the S3104 offers more ports but also calls for careful planning around its larger connections and the rest of the Moen system. If you only need a showerhead and a hand shower, the two-outlet valve may be the simpler fit.
Pros:
- Four-outlet design offers more configuration options.
- Thermostatic control is designed to maintain the selected temperature.
- Includes a 30-foot data cable for flexible controller placement.
- Brass construction and a stated limited lifetime manufacturer warranty.
Cons:
- Requires a compatible digital controller, sold separately.
- 3/4-inch connections may not suit existing 1/2-inch plumbing.
Verdict: Pick the S3104 for a planned Moen digital shower that needs more outlet options, and confirm connection sizes and controller compatibility before buying.
SunCleanse Shower System: A Temperature Display with the Rough-In Valve Included
Unlike the separate Moen valve components, this SunCleanse listing describes a complete shower system with an 8-inch rain shower head, shower arm, handle, and rough-in pressure-balance valve. Its LED display shows water temperature and shower time. The display is hydro-powered, so the listing says it does not need batteries, wiring, or an external power supply.
The system uses a single handle for water flow and temperature, and the listing describes a cUPC-certified pressure-balance valve intended to help reduce temperature swings. It also calls out a solid brass valve, stainless steel shower head and arm, and silicone nozzles designed to make mineral buildup easier to wipe away. The stated connection is standard 1/2-inch NPT.
There is an important listing inconsistency to resolve before ordering: the product title identifies a nickel finish, while the description mentions a matte black finish. Check the selected option and images carefully. The instructions also say the old valve must be fully removed, so this is a replacement project rather than a trim-only upgrade.
Pros:
- Includes the rough-in valve and shower components in one system.
- Hydro-powered LED display shows temperature and shower time.
- Pressure-balance valve is described as helping limit sudden hot and cold changes.
- Uses standard 1/2-inch NPT connections, according to the listing.
Cons:
- Finish information conflicts between the title and description.
- Installation requires removing the old valve.
Verdict: Consider the SunCleanse if you want a complete replacement system with a visible temperature display, but verify the finish and plan for valve replacement before purchasing.
Moen TS3302TB: A Two-Outlet Controller for a Compatible Valve
The TS3302TB is the digital control panel for a Moen smart shower, not a valve. It has a 5-inch LCD screen with soft-touch buttons for temperature, power, presets, and two outlets. The controller is listed as compatible with a separate Moen two-outlet thermostatic valve, so make sure you have the required valve before treating this as a complete shower purchase.
The system is designed to let you set a temperature and use presets. The listing also describes voice control through Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri/HomeKit, Google Assistant, and the U by Moen app. A water-saving feature can notify you when the water reaches temperature and pause the flow until you are ready.
This controller suits someone building or upgrading a compatible Moen system who wants a wall-mounted digital interface. It is not the right pick if you only need a replacement valve or a standalone temperature display. The beige finish may also matter when matching it to your bathroom hardware.
Pros:
- Clear LCD with controls for temperature, presets, power, and two outlets.
- Listing describes voice-assistant and app control.
- Temperature-ready notification and pause feature can help limit water flow.
- Neutral terra beige finish.
Cons:
- Thermostatic valve is required and sold separately.
- Designed for a Moen system, not a universal shower control.
Verdict: Buy the TS3302TB as a controller component for a compatible Moen two-outlet shower, not as a standalone valve or complete kit.
How to Choose a Smart Shower Valve with Digital Temperature
Decide whether you want a readout or a full digital system
A temperature display does not always mean a shower is smart-home connected. The Backnets and SunCleanse listings describe visible LED readouts, while the Moen products use a separate digital controller for system settings and smart-home features. Decide whether you mainly want to check the water temperature or control a connected shower with presets, voice assistance, or an app.
Check what is included
Some products here are valves, one is a controller, and one is presented as a complete shower system. The Moen S3102 and S3104 require a compatible controller, while the TS3302TB requires a compatible thermostatic valve. The SunCleanse listing includes a rough-in valve and shower components. Confirm every part you need is included before comparing options.
Match the number of outlets to your fixtures
Count the fixtures you want to operate, such as a showerhead and hand shower. The S3102 is a two-outlet valve, and the S3104 is listed as a four-outlet valve. More ports can support a more involved system, but they do not automatically mean every outlet can run in the way you expect. Check the compatible controller instructions and installation plan.
Verify plumbing size and connection type
Connection sizes differ across these picks. The Moen S3102 uses 1/2-inch connections, while the S3104 uses 3/4-inch connections. The SunCleanse listing specifies 1/2-inch NPT. The Backnets details conflict about inlet and outlet sizes, so verify its fittings directly before purchase. A plumber can help confirm compatibility with your existing pipes.
Consider the installation scope
A valve replacement can involve opening the wall and changing plumbing, while a controller also needs to work with its matching valve and system. The SunCleanse listing specifically says the old valve must be removed. Moen describes its valve as fitting a standard 2-by-4 wall and includes a data cable, but a qualified installer should still assess your wall, wiring needs, and plumbing layout.
Look for temperature safety features
Thermostatic control is designed to hold a selected temperature, while a pressure-balance valve is intended to help limit temperature changes when water pressure shifts. These are different approaches, and neither replaces careful installation. If a visible readout matters to your household, check whether the display is on the valve or on a separate controller.
Check finish, location, and support details
Match the finish to your other bathroom fixtures and resolve any listing conflicts before ordering. The SunCleanse title and description give different finish information. For Moen, the S3102 listing cautions against installing the valve and power supply in freezing conditions or where ambient temperature exceeds 104°F. Also review the manufacturer support and warranty terms for the exact component you plan to install.
FAQs
What is the difference between a digital temperature display and a smart shower?
A digital display shows information such as the water temperature. A smart shower system may also let you set temperatures, use presets, control outlets, or connect to an app or voice assistant. Check the product details to see which functions are included.
Do the Moen S3102 and S3104 include a digital controller?
No. The supplied details say the Moen valves are used with a compatible U by Moen controller sold separately. The TS3302TB is a controller, but it also requires a compatible thermostatic valve.
Which Moen valve should I choose: the S3102 or the S3104?
The S3102 is the two-outlet option with 1/2-inch connections. The S3104 is listed with four outlets and 3/4-inch connections. Choose based on your planned fixtures, existing plumbing, and compatible controller—not just the outlet count.
Does the SunCleanse system need batteries or wiring for its display?
The listing describes its LED display as hydro-powered, meaning it uses water flow and does not need batteries, wiring, or an external power supply.
Can I install a digital shower valve without replacing the existing valve?
It depends on the product and your installation. The SunCleanse instructions say the old valve must be fully removed. A valve or controller upgrade may require changes behind the wall, so confirm the scope with the product instructions or a plumber.
Are these valves compatible with every shower setup?
No. Connection sizes, outlet counts, controllers, and installation requirements vary. Check the exact fittings and system compatibility before buying, especially for the Moen components and the Backnets valve.
Final Recommendation
For a complete system with an at-the-shower temperature readout, the SunCleanse is the most all-in-one option in this group, provided you confirm its finish and are ready to replace the rough-in valve. For a connected Moen setup, choose the S3102 for two outlets or the S3104 for a planned four-outlet layout, and budget for the required controller. If you only need a basic LED temperature display, the Backnets is worth considering after verifying its connection specifications. The TS3302TB is a controller component, not a standalone valve.
