Echo devices are the smart speakers that let you summon the famous Alexa. Over the years, Amazon has developed a huge catalog of different devices. The online retail giant has thus adapted to each user and every way they use the smart assistant. If you want to get your first Echo, but you're still not quite sure what each model offers, you've come to the right place. In the following lines, we'll show you how to choose the best Amazon Echo for you. This way, you'll have a much easier time making your final decision and avoid making a mistake in the process. Let's get started.
Why should I buy an Amazon Echo?
This is perhaps the key question that you must answer before making the decision to purchase one of these devices. Smart speakers are spreading among us to help us with simple tasks and make our lives easier. Tasks that we could do ourselves but with the help of Alexa, Amazon's virtual assistant, become more bearable activities.
A few years after the release of the first smart speakers, Amazon now has many models in its catalog with different features and aimed at different types of users . We'll now tell you the most important details about each of them. Before we begin, we'd like you to keep in mind one detail (quite obvious, but just to be clear) about these devices: they all include the Alexa virtual assistant . Their differences lie mainly in the hardware they are made of and, in some cases, in how the assistant interacts with us.
If you're still unsure whether to buy one of these speakers , check out the following video on our YouTube channel where we explain how Alexa has become a part of our lives and what tasks it helps us with:
Amazon Echo Dot
The first speaker we want to tell you about is the Echo Dot . It's the simplest, smallest, and , as expected, most affordable of all Amazon speakers. The Echo Dot is a bestseller, and Amazon currently sells both the third and fourth generations. The first two generations were discontinued to make way for these newer models.
Echo Dot 3rd generation
Echo Dots can be placed virtually anywhere , maintaining their aesthetic appeal thanks to their design and the option to purchase them in various colors offered by Amazon. You can ask them to play music, ask them the meaning of a word, or even use the third generation of this speaker as an alarm clock , thanks to the LEDs on its front.
If you're thinking about getting into the world of smart speakers, home automation, and IoT devices, this is a great starting point without spending too much.
4th Generation Echo Dot (Discontinued)
The fourth generation of Amazon's Echo Dot arrived with a redesigned, elegantly spherical shape, and, like its predecessor, was offered in two versions: one without a clock and another with an LED clock . Sound improvements were also made, with the addition of a 1,6" speaker for enhanced music and voice reproduction.
Currently the 4th generation Echo dot has already been discontinued and is not sold on Amazon Spain. Even so, if you are interested in knowing all the differences in detail between the 3rd and 4th generation model, we leave you a comparative table below.
Differences between the 3rd and 4th generation
Here you can see in a comparative table the differences between the two generations.
| 3rd Gen Echo Dot | 4rd Gen Echo Dot | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 43 x 99 x 99 mm | 100 mm x 100 mm x 89 mm |
| Weight | 300 grams | 328 grams |
| Connectivity | Dual band Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n (2,4 and 5 GHz) Bluetooth-A2DP | Dual band Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2,4 and 5 GHz) Bluetooth-A2DP |
| Sound | 40mm speaker | 41mm speaker |
| Compatibility | Your Alexa app is compatible with Fire OS, Android and iOS devices | Alexa app is compatible with Fire OS, Android and iOS devices |
| What is in the box? | Echo Dot, power adapter (15W), and quick start guide | Echo Dot, power adapter (15W), and Quick Start Guide |
| Version with clock? | discontinued | Yes |
| Available Colours | Anthracite, light grey, dark gray and mauve | Anthracite, blue-gray and white |
| line in/out | 3,5mm input/output | 3,5mm output |
| Official price | 59,99 euros (current discount of 39,99 euros) | 59,99 Euros |
If you're torn between the 3rd and 4th generation models (assuming you can still find one somewhere or buy a used Echo ), beyond aesthetics, the most important factor to consider is how you'll use the speaker. We've tested both models at home for a long time, and the 4th generation is much more responsive to commands. This isn't to say its predecessor is a bad product, but it will perform worse in noisy environments . Keep that in mind.
5th generation Echo Dot
Released in late 2022, the Echo Dot 5 features a slightly tweaked design, but remains largely unchanged from its predecessor. Its main strength lies in the redesigned internal components. This model boasts an improved processor called the Amazon AZ2 Neural Edge, developed in collaboration with MediaTek, and offers compatibility with Matter, the new smart home standard.
The arrangement of the microphones inside also allows you to pick up audio with less interference and greater clarity. The same happens when playing content, as Amazon ensures that this model has twice as powerful bass.
See offer on AmazonRegarding colors, it's available in Anthracite, White, and Navy. The model with a clock has also been updated with a new dot-matrix display that now allows us to view some graphics.
See offer on AmazonThis is undoubtedly the most advanced model to date in the dot range and certainly a significant leap forward . It's considerably smaller in person than it appears in photos—seriously, you have to hold it in your hand—and overall, it boasts a very good and attractive finish. The version with a clock , which is the one we tested, looks quite good, and now you can not only check the time at a glance but also see the temperature or, for example, the name of the artist and song you're listening to.
It's not the best Echo if you're primarily looking for sound quality, keep that in mind, but it does a good job, and it also allows connection with other Echo devices (up to 5 more, not necessarily Dots) to set up your own multi-room sound system.
This is possibly our favorite Echo device because of its superb value for money . If you decide to go for it, you're unlikely to regret it.
Differences between the 3rd and 5th generation
Since the 3rd generation of the Echo dot is still being sold, it doesn't hurt to have a comparative table at hand with which you can see its differences with respect to its 5th generation brother:
| CPU | AMD Ryzen R1600 |
| Frequency | 2-core 2.6 (base) / 3.1 (turbo) GHz |
| Architecture | 64-bit |
| Conference proceedings | 2 GB DDR4 (Pre-installed) |
| Memory slots | Maximum 2 x 16 GB drives (32 GB total) |
| Bays | 2 HDD |
| Possibility of expansion? | 5 extra bays with the Synology DX517 |
| NVMe slots | 2 slots for 2280 drives |
| Compatible units | 3.5 "SATA HDD 2.5 "SATA SSD M.2 2280 NVMe SSDs |
| Ethernet ports | 2 x RJ-45 1GbE LAN with Failover / Link Aggregation support |
| USB | 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 |
| PCIe expansion port | 1 x Gen3 x2 Network Upgrade Slot |
| Size | 166 mm x 106 mm x 223 mm |
| Weight | 1,51 kg |
| Energy consumption | 21,07W (Access) 8,62 W (HDD hibernation) |
Amazon Echo
We raise the level to look at the Echo range. This has also evolved a lot from its first version (which we will talk about below so that you have it a bit in perspective) and the current one, no less than the 5th generation.
Echo (Discontinued)
This basic model was replaced by the fourth generation model, with a different design which we detail below , although we want you to know about the evolution that has taken place.
The standard Amazon Echo represented a quality upgrade over the Echo Dot. It had the same design as its predecessor, but its body was considerably longer, reaching a height that could be compared to three Echo Dots stacked on top of each other.
While its smaller sibling includes four microphones to listen to us when we talk to Alexa, the Echo model included seven microphones , allowing it to better pick up our voice, even when playing music through its speakers.
Furthermore, this smart speaker boasts improved audio quality and power thanks to its 76mm woofer and 20mm tweeter , complemented by Dolby technology.
Therefore, if you are the type of user who values that extra bit of better sound, this was one of your options.
Echo (4th generation)
The "just dry" Amazon Echo range, which is no longer there, was renewed with a new spherical aesthetic, like its younger brothers. But the most important changes are inside this one:
- On the one hand, now this 4th generation Echo combines the advantages of the old Echo and Echo Plus. By this we mean that they include the digital home controller compatible with Zigbee and Bluetooth. Therefore, we will be able to manage all the home automation of our home from this device and without the need for external connection bridges.
- On the other hand, at the level of audio improvement, they add a 3,0-inch woofer, two tweeters and Dolby processing that offers stereo sound. Also, just like the Echo Studio, this automatically detects the acoustics of spaces and adjust audio playback. Therefore, with this new model we will have one of the best audio experiences possible.
This Amazon Echo model is available for around €65 , a significant discount from the original €99,99 . Given the model's age, we don't recommend buying it unless it's at this reduced price.
See offer on AmazonEcho Plus (Discontinued)
Now it's time to get a little more specific. We mentioned earlier that the standard Echo was very similar to the Echo Dot, and in this case, the Plus model is exactly the same as the Amazon Echo , but with one exception: it includes a Zigbee controller.
There are various home automation devices (such as light bulbs, switches, sensors, etc.) that require a Zigbee bridge to function. However, in this case, if you chose the Echo Plus, you didn't need to purchase a separate bridge, as it's built into the device itself.
This model has since been withdrawn from the market anyway, so if you want the most advanced speaker of all, you have to make the jump to the incredible Echo Studio.
Echo Studio
The most powerful equipment in the family and the one that makes the greatest commitment to sound. Shaped like a tower, this speaker enjoys immersive sound that you won't get with any other model.
Especially designed for those who enjoy high-fidelity and immersive sound, thanks to its adaptability to any room it is in, this Echo Studio includes three two-inch midrange drivers along with a woofer of just over 5 inches that, together, allow you to enjoy the best possible audio quality, ensuring audio with deeper and clearer bass, less distortion, dynamic midranges and crisp highs.
It also features Dolby Atmos technology and HD audio support , demonstrating its clear motivation to prioritize the quality of what you are listening to above all else.
The device features a Zigbee controller like the Echo Plus and can be paired with an Amazon Fire Stick 4K to enjoy surround sound while playing content on your TV. It also has physical controls on the top, in case you get tired of talking to Alexa and prefer to use your fingers to pause playback or adjust the volume.
See offer on AmazonJust like we mentioned with the 5th generation Echo Dot, the Studio model is a smart speaker that 's worth seeing in person . It boasts an attractive and impeccable finish, especially in its new white color, which is the one we were able to test and which we're sure will win you over at first sight, just as it did us.
Its inclusion of Dolby Atmos is a significant advantage , as is its internal configuration, making this a model for users who truly care about the quality of their audio—and who also want its smart features, of course. Considering this, its price is excellent, as it's difficult to find these features combined at a similar cost these days.
Remember therefore: if what matters to you is Alexa, bet on the Echo Dot; If, in addition to the Amazon assistant, you want a powerful speaker with good sound definition and in which audio quality is paramount, then your Echo is the Studio. Without a doubt, Alexa never sounded so good.
Echo Show
The Amazon Echo Show is the best alternative if you want an Amazon smart speaker that, in addition to having Alexa, also includes a touch screen to interact with.
There are many models of this speaker that differ mainly in the size of their screen: 5 inches for the smallest, 8 inches for the medium one , 10 inches for those who need something bigger, and for those who want it all, Amazon has released the 15-inch Echo Show.
In general, the basic operation is the same for all, although we will see that there are some key differences in the 10 and 15-inch models, and that's why we examine them in more detail.
This screen allows us to interact with the assistant and, unlike previous versions, view details about the weather, our calendar of tasks, or even control our home automation system in a more visual way than through voice commands alone. It also includes a small front-facing camera that allows us to make video calls with other users who have Alexa-enabled devices or, if they don't have a screen, voice-only calls.
The Echo Show also includes stereo speakers and pretty good audio quality for playing music or, thanks to its panel, any other multimedia content we want to view on it.
Echo Show 5 2nd Gen
Here you can find the 5,5-inch model in its second generation from 2021. It's the most basic and, perhaps today, accustomed as we are to phones that are larger than this one, it's starting to feel a bit small.
See offer on AmazonEcho Show 8-inch (1st and 2nd generation)
For the 8-inch Echo Show model, we especially recommend the second generation from 2021 , as the screen is HD and the camera has automatic framing adjustment and goes up to 13 MP for better video calls.
See offer on AmazonHowever, if you don't need high resolution because you won't be consuming content like series and movies, and you won't be making video calls, the first-generation Echo Show 8 is much cheaper.
However, its screen is significantly worse than the latest generation, and the camera is a paltry 1 MP . Furthermore, this 2019 version uses a quad-core, 28-nanometer MediaTek 8163 processor, older than the faster, octa-core, 12-nanometer MediaTek 8183 that powers its newer incarnation.
In other words, it is becoming obsolete and, if you want to invest in the future, the approximately 50 euros that they take make a difference.
See offer on AmazonEcho Show 10 3nd Gen
The Echo Show 10 features a 10-inch HD screen that automatically rotates when it detects your movement , ensuring it's always facing you. The best part is its completely silent motor , so you won't hear a sound when it rotates. This tracking offers advantages for video calls, as you'll always remain centered in the camera's view as you move. The camera has also been upgraded to a 13-megapixel resolution.
Along with the screen's movement, the audio system, featuring two front tweeters and a woofer , also moves, providing directional sound wherever you are. Of course, it also includes a Digital Home controller , compatible with Zigbee and Bluetooth. Its price on Amazon is €249,99.
See offer on Amazon15-inch Echo Show
If you want it all and not leave your eyes reading the recipe you cook, or making sure you watch your series well, you have the Echo Show 15.
Here we're talking about playing in the league of Full HD monitors that you can position vertically or horizontally . You can take advantage of the extra screen space with Alexa widgets , and the camera is 5 MP. However, even though you can choose the device's orientation, it's recommended to use it horizontally, as this model also allows you to enjoy various video services. This is especially interesting after the update it received in September 2022, since then this model has Fire TV built-in.
The price starts at around 250 euros without a tilting stand (many choose to hang it on the wall) and 30 euros more if you want said stand.
See offer on AmazonEcho Spot (Discontinued)
This Echo Spot is Amazon's smart speaker with the smallest screen. It's a spherical device with a circular panel on the front that allows you to play multimedia content, follow recipes using Alexa skills, or even make video calls thanks to its small integrated screen.
The strong point of this smart speaker is its size since, thanks to how small it is, it will fit in practically any room if what we are looking for is one of these devices with a screen. Of course, you can use it to play music but don't expect the same audio quality as its older brothers.
See offer on AmazonFire TV Cube
You might find it strange to find an Amazon device on this list whose primary function is to transform any screen into a Smart TV. But the truth is, the Fire TV Cube is much more than that.
This device combines the capabilities of a smart speaker with those of Amazon's popular Smart Sticks, thanks to its eight microphones and built-in speaker for receiving Alexa activation commands . For a more in-depth look, check out our video review on YouTube.
See offer on AmazonFireTV 2022
The Fire TV was also updated in 2022 with a new design, a significantly more powerful processor than its predecessor, and several connectivity improvements, most notably Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 . This model features an HDMI input port , which can be used to control an additional input.
See offer on AmazonEcho Flex
At the beginning of this article we told you that the Amazon Echo Dot was the cheapest and most versatile bet in the Echo family but, somehow, we have "cheated" you.
There is another smart speaker called Echo Flex that is cheaper (its recommended price without a discount is 29,99 euros but you can usually find it for around 15 euros ) and more versatile than the Dot since it connects directly to any plug in our house and without the need for a support surface.
The thing is, this device has all the features of the other Echo devices, but its speaker is considerably smaller and of lower quality . This Echo is designed primarily for little more than allowing others to communicate with you, and unlike the others, we don't recommend buying it to play music (although it has that capability).
It also features a USB port so you can charge your phone directly from it, or connect other devices like a motion sensor or nightlight, which you can find on Amazon. We didn't mention this model at the beginning of the post because it's not as versatile a solution as the Echo Dot. The Echo Flex is the kind of device you should buy if you have a fully automated home and don't want any awkward corners where you can't give commands. It's a great option for a bathroom, hallway, or entryway. If you're looking for more intensive use, the Echo Dot 3 offers much better value for money.
See offer on AmazonAuto Echo
However, if you'd like to take all of Alexa's capabilities beyond your own home, you can ask it to accompany you in the car with the Amazon Echo Auto.
It is an accessory that connects to our car and allows us to talk to the Amazon assistant with all the advantages that this entails. It incorporates a 7-microphone system so that Alexa can listen to us even with the music on and while driving it will act as an intelligent navigation system together with the phone.
Its main drawback is that it doesn't communicate with the car and is especially suited for vehicles that don't have a fully integrated infotainment system . It's the equivalent of turning an old TV into a Smart TV by connecting a Fire TV Stick… but inside your car.
See offer on AmazonGet the most out of your Echo
Now that you know all the different models and features of the different Amazon smart speakers, it is time for you to know some of the main functions that you can perform with them:
- Interact with Alexa: As we have already indicated to you from the beginning, the assistant will be present in each and every one of these speakers. By invoking it, you will be able to ask it about the weather, ask it to create reminders or save things to lists, ask it to tell you a joke, or even make purchases using voice commands on Amazon. The possibilities you have with Alexa are practically endless. From programming a reminder so that every day it notifies you that you have to take a medication to consulting any strange data that occurs to you at any time.
- Control your home automation: If you have some of these accessories that can be controlled remotely, you will have the possibility to control us with your smart speaker through voice commands. Also, if you have an Echo with a screen, you can do it in a much more visual way from the menu they have for it.
- manage the tv: If you have an Amazon Fire Stick or a TV compatible with Alexa without the need for this device, you can use any function of your TV from the speaker itself using your voice. Tell him to turn on the TV, look for action series, comedy movies, etc.
- Leisure: You can use your Echo device to consume podcasts, music and, if it has a screen, to play multimedia content on it.
These are some of the main uses you can give these devices, but they aren't the only ones. Keep in mind that a major advantage of these speakers is the Skills that developers create and implement daily. This way, these speakers gradually gain more functionality.
It's time to buy a smart speaker
Now is the time to choose a model and, depending on whether you want to give it an approach that focuses more on home control, sound quality, or, for example, you simply want to get started in the "world" of these accessories, opt for one or another of the teams that we have explained to you.
Think about how and why you're going to use the smart speaker , and it will be much easier to choose the best model for you. As you know, the easiest way to get started is with an Echo Dot . Both the Echo Dot 3 and 4 are ideal for learning the first commands and gradually discovering how a virtual voice assistant can make your life easier. Later, it will be up to you to discover new ways to take advantage of these devices, such as installing smart lights or security systems.
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