Amazon Echo Show 5 (Newest Model) Review: Small Size, Big Sound!
Smart displays are becoming ubiquitous, offering a convenient way to manage your smart home, stay connected, and enjoy media. Today, we’re reviewing the Amazon Echo Show 5, a compact yet powerful option that promises improved audio and a stylish design. Let’s dive in and see if it lives up to the hype!
Detailed Review
The Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model) in Cloud Blue is a compelling addition to the Echo Show family, offering a blend of functionality and style in a compact form factor. The 5.5-inch display is perfect for bedside tables, kitchen counters, or any space where a larger display might be overwhelming. It’s ideal for viewing news and weather snippets, managing to-do lists, or following recipes.
One of the most significant upgrades in this iteration is the enhanced audio. Amazon claims 2x the bass and clearer sound, and based on our testing, the difference is noticeable. While it won’t replace a dedicated sound system, the audio is surprisingly robust for its size, making it enjoyable for streaming music, podcasts, and video content from Amazon Music, Spotify, and Prime Video. The visual component is also improved with a display that shows song titles, show information and more at a glance.
Beyond entertainment, the Echo Show 5 excels as a smart home hub. It seamlessly integrates with compatible smart devices, allowing you to control lights, thermostats, and more with voice commands or on-screen controls. The built-in camera provides added security and convenience. You can check in on your home remotely, view compatible video doorbells, or even “drop in” on family members.
The photo display feature is a nice touch. When not actively in use, the Echo Show 5 can display a rotating slideshow of your favorite photos, turning it into a digital photo frame. The ability to invite family and friends to share photos adds a social element, and Prime members benefit from unlimited cloud photo storage.
Video calling is a breeze with the 2 MP camera. You can easily connect with friends and family who have the Alexa app or an Echo device with a screen. The ability to make announcements to other compatible devices in your home is also a convenient feature.
Privacy is a paramount concern, and Amazon has addressed this with multiple layers of protection. A physical mic/camera off button and a built-in camera shutter provide peace of mind. The support for viewing end-to-end encrypted Ring video further enhances security. The device is also designed for sustainability, using recycled materials and recyclable packaging which is important in today’s market.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Improved audio quality with 2x the bass and clearer sound | 2 MP camera resolution could be better |
| Compact size is perfect for smaller spaces | Screen size might be too small for some users |
| Seamless smart home integration | Requires an Amazon account to fully function |
| Built-in camera with shutter for privacy | Some features are limited without a Prime membership |
| Sustainable design with recycled materials |
Excellent Alternatives
- Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) – A solid alternative with Google Assistant integration and sleep tracking capabilities.
- Amazon Echo Show 8 – Offers a larger display for those who prefer a more immersive viewing experience.
- Facebook Portal Go – A portable smart display with excellent video calling features.
Final Verdict
The Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model) is a well-rounded smart display that offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and design. The enhanced audio, compact size, and focus on privacy make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a smart display to their home. While the camera resolution could be better, the overall experience is positive, and we highly recommend it.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4.5/5
