Amazon Echo Show 5 (2021)
"Since there are hardly any major upgrades, don't be surprised if you can't find a reason to buy this Alexa Smart Display."
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Compact size helps to fit in tighter spaces
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Hardly any new upgrades
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Sounds shrill at high volumes
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Performance may be delayed
It's been a couple of years since the original Amazon Echo Show 5 was released, so it deserves a refresh. After seeing the Echo Show 10 (3rd Generation) grabbing attention due to some of its unique aspects, including rotating the display to follow you during video calls, we all figured it out for the next iteration of the Echo Show 5 is brewing something big.
However, this did not appear to be the case when Amazon announced it. On paper, it just seemed like another recycled successor – with the exception of a new 2-megapixel camera that replaced the 1-megapixel camera of its predecessor. Let's find out if there is more than this one notable upgrade.
Design: a new color
Even if I've never owned the original, the Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen 2021) spec sheet indicates that we're dealing with a very similar smart display. Its overall dimensions, weight and aesthetics are no different, which technically still makes it the most compact smart display in the Amazon portfolio. This means it is better equipped for tight spaces like bedside tables, bedside tables, and even a cramped desk. I definitely appreciate its good size, but it would have been nice to see it maybe a bit stripped down – either in terms of its overall size or maybe the bezels around the display.
John Velasco / Digital Trends
The only new feature is the additional Deep Sea Blue color option, which complements the existing Charcoal and Glacier White options. It's not as neutral as the other two colors, but it can certainly help add some contrast. Honestly, I was hoping for a lot more than just a new color with the design, but I can't fail to mention that this is common practice – just take a look at the Google Nest Hub (2nd generation) for an example.
Display: Nothing special, but does the job
While not a show stopper, the 5.5-inch 960 x 480 pixel display succeeds in not being an overwhelming distraction. This becomes particularly clear on my desk, which is already dominated by several other displays. It's sharp enough to be able to tell the time and outside temperature, as well as some of the messages and notifications that appear. I am not particularly convinced that it is the ideal replacement for a picture frame, not only because of its size, but also because of the fact that there is noticeable distortion when viewed from a slight angle.
Sound performance: do not use the maximum volume
John Velasco / Digital Trends
Smaller smart displays don't have the best reputation when it comes to audio performance, and the Amazon Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen. 2021) isn't breaking new ground in this area. It is powered by a 1.65 inch speaker driver suitable for small, cramped spaces. The audio power is enough to distract in the background while I work, but you really don't want to go beyond half the volume because it sounds high-pitched to the ear.
Interface: a bit of a delay
For some reason, there is a performance lag while navigating the user interface. It's very small and doesn't detract from the overall experience, but it's hard to determine if it's just a less-than-responsive touchscreen or a lack of momentum from the MediaTek MT 8163 processor that powers it. Regardless, I find that actions while a song is playing tend to show some lag.
The camera does not contribute significantly to the overall experience,
Fortunately, speech recognition doesn't seem to be affected at all, as evidenced by how the Echo Show 5 (2nd generation 2021) is able to trigger voice actions in noisy conditions.
Of course, the entire experience revolves around the Amazon ecosystem. Functionally, it is no different from other Alexa-powered smart displays, which are all connected to services such as Prime Music, Prime Video and many more.
Sure, the touchscreen makes it convenient to access various functions, such as: For example, viewing a live stream from my security camera or turning on my Philips Hue lights, but I relied a lot more on voice actions with Alexa.
Camera: A new camera that doesn't add a lot
I mentioned above that this new model has a slightly improved 2 mega-pixel camera. It is the only meaningful upgrade on paper to an otherwise familiar model. Unfortunately, it doesn't really add to the overall experience. There's a bit more detail, but the difference is negligible when looking at the live feed from my smartphone.
John Velasco / Digital Trends
Needless to say, it does the job related to video calling or using the drop-in feature to check things out while I'm on the go. It doesn't get the same pan-and-zoom treatment that its sibling got on the Echo Show 8 (2nd generation 2021), so video calls are best experienced right in front of or near the smart display. If you're worried about snoopers, there's a switch that covers the camera lens, but if you want to mute Alexa too, you'll have to press the appropriate button.
Our opinion
Amazon's decision to release a successor is puzzling to say the least. The only bonus I find on the Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen 2021) is that at $ 85, it's a bit cheaper than the original $ 90 price of its predecessor. But that's not enough, because we get practically the same model as before with just a slightly improved camera. The camera doesn't add much to the overall experience and is very similar to its predecessor.
Is there a better alternative?
If you're craving something with more substance, this is that Echo Show 8 (2nd generation 2021) and Echo Show 10 (3rd generation) are good options as they contain significant upgrades from their predecessors.
How long it will take?
Made from plastic, it feels sturdy enough to last over the long term. In the event a part breaks, there is a one-year limited warranty that covers any defects.
Should you buy it?
No, mainly because you can buy the previous model for $ 15 less than this – and still have all of the core features available.
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