Amazon’s Echo Show lineup continues to redefine smart displays, merging voice control with visual convenience. The 3rd-generation Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 5 deliver sharper screens, faster AI, and sleeker designs—but are they perfect? After hands-on testing, here are five standout features and three drawbacks you should know.
5 Things I Love About the New Echo Shows
1. Crisp, Vibrant Displays
The upgraded HD screens on the Echo Show 8 (13MP camera) and Show 5 offer brighter colors, sharper text, and adaptive brightness for any room. Video calls, recipes, and security feeds look stunning—making these displays a huge leap forward.
2. Faster, Smarter Alexa
Thanks to the AZ2 Neural Edge processor, Alexa responds instantly, handles multi-step routines, and even suggests proactive reminders (e.g., grocery restocking). The AI feels more intuitive, almost like a real assistant.
3. Seamless Smart Home Control
With Matter support and a built-in Zigbee hub (Echo Show 8), these devices sync effortlessly with Ring, Philips Hue, Nest, and more. The visual dashboard simplifies managing lights, cameras, and thermostats—no extra hubs needed.
4. Sleeker Design & Improved Audio
Gone are the bulky frames: the fabric-wrapped Echo Show 8 is more compact, while the Show 5 remains space-saving. Audio upgrades (richer bass, clearer vocals) make them great for music and podcasts.
5. Stronger Privacy Features
Amazon added a physical camera shutter, mic mute button, and voice-command data deletion (“Alexa, delete what I said today”). These privacy-first tweaks build much-needed trust.
3 Things I Don’t Love
1. Aggressive Ads & Amazon Promotions
The home screen pushes Prime Video, Music, and shopping deals—often feeling like an ad hub. While some can be disabled, non-Prime users may find it intrusive.
2. Limited Third-Party Apps
Compared to Google Nest Hub, the app ecosystem is lacking. YouTube is now available, but Zoom, WhatsApp, and others are missing. Amazon’s walled garden limits flexibility.
3. No Built-In Battery for Echo Show 8
Only the Show 5 has a (sold-separately) battery base. The Show 8 stays plugged in, missing a chance for true portability.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy?
The Echo Show 8 and 5 (3rd Gen) excel as smart home hubs with premium displays and lightning-fast Alexa. But ads, app gaps, and no Show 8 battery may deter some. Ideal for Alexa loyalists—but compare alternatives if you prioritize apps or minimal ads.
What’s your take? Would you upgrade? Share your thoughts below!
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