09 Apr
Blog

Amazon Echo Show 5 Review: A Smart Display Hidden in a Clock

Amazon Echo Show 5 review

"Amazon's Echo Show 5 is so much more than an intelligent alarm clock."

  • Compact size fits anywhere

  • Attractive design

  • Versatile functions

  • Improved data protection regulations

  • Starting price

  • Slow smart home touchscreen control

  • Alexa calls aren't easy enough yet

  • No Google Photos or YouTube

Despite its name, Amazon Echo Show 5 ($ 90) is the third generation of Alexa-enabled devices to pack a screen. It was developed for desktops, bedside tables, kitchens and shelves and is the most compact Echo Show to date with a 5.5-inch screen, an integrated HD camera and a number of functional improvements compared to the two larger brothers Amazon Echo Show 8 for 130 US -Dollar and $ 230 Amazon Echo Show (2nd generation).

We won't blame you if your head turns with the rapid development of intelligent displays. Amazon, Google, and Partners are all experimenting with form factors, features, and prices to find the sweet spot that drives users to distribute these devices around the house.

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Google's Nest Hub ($ 129) and Lenovo Smart Display 7 ($ 100) are two of its direct competitors and offer similar functions in a compact size. In contrast, Amazon has developed Echo Show 5 as a real entry-level device. At a price well below $ 100, the retail giant is repeating a strategy previously tested with the audio-only Echo Dot, but this is obviously a more powerful device. You can't buy three or five at the same time as hosiery like you did at Echo Dot, but Echo Show is cheap enough to treat yourself and pick up a second as a valuable gift.

An intelligent display that you would like to flaunt

Amazon has made a few attempts to turn the Echo Show into a form factor that few would call ugly, but this new model makes it possible. The plate-like designs of previous generations are available in charcoal or sandstone and have been replaced by playful dimensions, gentler curves and flowing lines. It doesn't quite have the feel of Nest Hub, but curved corners, an angled, material-wrapped rear, and a grippy, rubberized base make Echo Show 5 both pretty and practical.

While all Echo Show devices have a data protection button to deactivate the integrated camera and microphone array, the Echo Show 5 goes one step further with a bulky camera shutter that slides over the lens. For a device that is being installed in potentially millions of bedrooms around the world, this is an obvious and very eye-catching attempt to address user privacy concerns. Slide the shutter button to display a bright orange tab while the lens hood changes from black to white and a notification appears on the screen. You will always know when data protection is activated.

The compact dimensions of the Echo Show 5 are ideal on the bedside table.

Even better, the lock ensures that you can still talk to Alexa or family and friends on drop-ins, Skype and Alexa video calls with a hidden camera. It's a simple addition to Echo Show's privacy features, but welcome.

If you're used to a larger 7- or 10-inch smart display, the 5.5-inch Echo Show initially feels like a step down. Fortunately, the display is clear and colorful, and has a resolution of 960 x 480, which is more than sufficient for photos, videos and the Alexa user interface. The menus are clear and easy to read throughout the room, and information such as time, date and weather are clear at a glance.

However, we still prefer a larger display for the kitchen. Google Nest Hub's recipes and YouTube videos look fantastic on a 7-inch, higher-resolution screen, while photos come to life in family rooms. However, the compact dimensions of the Echo Show 5 are ideal on the bedside table.

Alexa at its best

It's no secret that a smart assistant with a screen is an overall more engaging and useful smart assistant. This is certainly the case with the Echo Show 5, which turns out to be a surprisingly versatile device with alarms, reminders, entertainment, smart home routines and much more. When you've thought about the similar-looking Lenovo Smart Clock, stop. Echo Show 5 does a lot more.

While mostly instructing Alexa by voice, you can swipe left on the screen to access a function panel for easy on-screen navigation. We found the touchscreen display to be very responsive, but it took a few seconds for some features, such as B. the smart home control, after the selection was displayed – longer than desired.

Amazon Echo Show 5 reviewTerry Walsh / Digital Trends

We love the ability to customize the home screen with alternative backgrounds, photos and a selection of rotating information. This is a major advance over the limited customization features of the Lenovo Smart Clock and helps make life with the Echo Show 5 feel more personal.

An ambient sunrise function can gently brighten the display 15 minutes before your alarm is triggered. It works well to gently prepare you for the inevitable wake-up call. Sure, you can tell Alexa dazed to stop the alarm, but you can also hit a beat at the top of the screen (we tried to type) to set a snooze timer. If you spend a little time configuring Alexa Routines, you can start your day better with your favorite music and light scenes, set the thermostat, get the latest news, and find out about your daily routine.

Varied music and video selection, but still no YouTube

The loudspeaker of this echo is an appealing bedroom companion for music and radio with many low-end functions. Alexa’s verbal responses to your commands can be heard clearly throughout the room. Given Amazon's continued spats with Google, you won't find any dedicated YouTube or Google Photos apps on board – and let's be clear, both are overlooked – but with support for Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Prime Video, and more you have alternatives. It wouldn't be our first choice to watch an episode of Jack Ryan, but if you don't have a bedroom TV, this is a reasonable option.

It is the friendliest and most versatile smart display from Amazon.

Any Amazon Echo device can control your smart home with voice commands, but life is much easier with a screen. If voice commands don't work or you can't remember the exact name of a device to control it, you have a chic touchscreen controller on hand as a backup. While surfacing takes a few nervous seconds, you can access and control all of the lights, thermostats, cameras, and other smart home devices that Alexa knows. Depending on the device, the functions available may be restricted. For example, we could only change the color of our Philips Hue lights using voice commands, but touchscreen controls are definitely a useful backup.

On the other hand, smart home security systems such as the Ring Video Doorbell 2 offer enhanced functions for the Echo Show. When a visitor calls, you can see and communicate with them on the smart display. You no longer have to rush to the door half dressed to greet the UPS employee.

Alexa and Skype calls, messaging and more

In addition to Skype, the Echo Show 5 offers a number of Alexa voice, video call and messaging functions. Regardless of whether you choose a full video or just voice, the ability to communicate without pulling out your phone is liberating. With an exotic selection of Alexa-enabled devices like smoke detectors and intelligent thermostats, you can now yell at the kids from any room without the excuse of not being heard.

Amazon Echo Show 5 reviewTerry Walsh / Digital Trends

While we've found that conversations with the built-in speaker, dual microphone array, and 1-megapixel camera work well, finding the right contact using voice can be challenging, especially when using Skype. It's still very early for Alexa calls, and while we think this is a groundbreaking feature, Amazon still needs to do more to make external calls effortlessly.

Warranty information

As with all Amazon Echo devices, this new model is covered by a 1-year warranty.

Our opinion

Echo Show 5 is the perfect desktop companion for Alexa fans. We love its cute, compact shape, which represents a major advance over previous generations. Our initial concerns about the reduced screen size quickly resolved in use. It is the ideal size for a bedside table or at your desk.

It is important that it is so much more than an "intelligent alarm clock". While alarms, reminders, timers and basic information such as weather and news reports are the most popular applications, the Echo Show 5 is a capable companion at home, with decent entertainment options, improved smart home functions and hands-free communication.

In addition to the playful form factor, well-thought-out improvements such as new data protection functions, customization options and Sunrise settings make the Echo Show 5 Amazon the friendliest and most versatile smart display to date.

Is there a better alternative?

Google fans who are concerned about the lack of YouTube and Google Photos may opt for the more expensive Lenovo Smart Display 7 ($ 100) or Google Nest Hub ($ 129), while Alexa users find one larger screen, continue to purchase Echo Show 8 ($ 13). or second generation Echo Show ($ 230). For desktop or bedside tables, however, the Echo Show 5 offers fantastic value for money.

How long it will take?

We have found that Echo devices are robust and are well supported with feature updates. Of course, Amazon has been playing the customer support game for many years and they do better than most. No concerns here.

Should you buy it

Yes. Amazon Echo Show 5 is an easy pickup for Alexa fans and a great entry-level device for those considering their first smart display.

Editor's recommendations




09 Apr
Blog

Amazon Echo Show 8 Review: Third Time’s a Charm

Echo Show 8 Lenovo Smart Display Deals Amazon Walmart Rating 12 of 17 610x380 c

"Not too big, but not too small, Amazon has an absolute gem with the Echo Show 8."

  • Size is perfect for any room

  • Easy setup on the device

  • Strong audio performance

  • The YouTube integration is missing

If Goldilocks somehow stumbled into Amazon's headquarters, it would have no affinity for either the 10-inch Echo Show or Echo Show 5. One is just too big, while the other would be too small. She would probably prefer something in the middle. Something like the Amazon Echo Show 8.

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Several new smart displays were introduced last year, such as the Lenovo Smart Display 7 and Google Nest Hub Max. However, the Echo Show 8 intends to remain a relevant player, especially given the sales and package deals that are constantly being offered by the Amazon.

The right size

Amazon has achieved the perfect size with the Echo Show 8. It doesn't look bad when placed on a table or desk, unlike the Echo Show 5, which looks quaint alongside other decorations. On the other hand, it doesn't look massive when placed in tight spaces. Whether on the coffee table in the living room or next to your bed on a bedside table – the Echo Show 8 is the perfect size for almost any place.

Amazon has achieved the perfect size with the Echo Show 8.

Although its size is one of its great advantages, the design doesn't differ from Amazon's previous iterations. It has an angled display that is anchored by a fabric-wrapped base and gives the profile a more distinctive, speaker-like appearance. It's not ugly, but Amazon could be inspired by Google's Nest Hub Max. Google’s design is friendlier, more accessible, and looks better in a home environment.

The volume controls and mute switch are at the top of Echo Show 8, while privacy appreciates the switch that instantly covers the 1-megapixel front camera. On the back there is a power connector, a micro USB connector for maintenance work and a 3.5 mm additional connector.

No smartphone required

Nobody wants to use a separate gadget to set up a new gadget. Fortunately, the entire setup process is limited to Echo Show 8 and nothing more. After entering the password for my Wi-Fi network and then my Amazon account information, the setup process was complete. I never had to touch my phone. Most competitors need to install an app before setup is complete.

Voice commands are the main method of interacting with Echo Show 8. The two microphones at the top of the display recognize the “Alexa” command, which works well in noisy conditions.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

Alternatively, you can use the Alexa app on your phone to do almost the same actions with voice commands. Of course, you can also use the touchscreen display, an 8-inch panel with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels.

It's sharp and crisp, has the same resolution as its 10-inch sibling, but is smaller. That means more details. On the face of it, it's an absolute joy, but nowhere is it as impressive as the ambient EQ technology that Google's smart displays achieve photo-realistic results.

YouTube what?

Getting to know the user interface takes some time, but after a few tries you will be familiar with the menu system and swipe gestures. During most of the idle time, the Echo Show 8 will display messages and various content tailored to you.

Not surprisingly, all of Amazon's native services are provided. Access to Prime Video for movies is just a tap away. In addition, it is a hub to access all connected smart home devices if they have been set up via the Alexa app.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

The Amazon-centered approach, however, has limits. Anyone who wants to play a quick YouTube clip for the kids will find the experience backwards. There is no YouTube app at all. Even if you instruct Alexa to play a particular clip on YouTube, Echo Show 8 will tell you that this is not possible. You can play YouTube videos, but only by visiting the YouTube mobile website on the device.

This is the biggest problem with Echo Show 8, but it works well with other companies. You can access some of your favorite music streaming services like Apple Music. And with an intelligent display, it has never been easier to stay in touch with people. You can make video calls using your Amazon account or make old-fashioned calls using your cell phone number.

Sweet melodies

The audio performance of the Google Nest Hub didn't blow my mind. It felt thin and underpowered. That's why I was shocked by the powerful sound of Echo Show 8. The smart display delivers large audio data that easily outperforms the main competitors.

Not only does the bass perfectly emphasize the lows, it is also practical that you can adjust it and the highs to achieve that perfect sound. The Amazon Echo 8 strikes beyond its weight.

Our opinion

If Goldilocks chose, she would probably go with the Echo Show 8. It is the right size and the right price. For $ 130, this is currently the best value for a smart display. Due to its size, it is ideal for almost any place in the household.

Added to this are the various sales and package deals on Echo Show 8. Amazon has currently granted a $ 90 discount, saving you $ 40 off the MSRP. In addition, some of the bundle offers offer a smart plug, an adjustable stand or an Echo Flex – without increasing the final price.

Is there a better alternative?

If you're looking for something that takes center stage at home, the larger 10-inch Echo Show (2nd generation) is the better choice. However, you pay $ 100 more for basically the same smart display in a larger package.

Do you prefer the Google ecosystem? The Lenovo Smart Display 7 is the ideal candidate as it is similar in size, offers video calls and is perfect for controlling your smart home.

How long it will take?

Since it stays stationary, you can expect the Echo Show 8 to last a long time. Software updates will further improve the experience and bring new functions. This is an investment that gets better over time. Amazon offers a 1-year limited warranty with service in the event of a defect.

Should you buy it

Yes. The Amazon Echo Show 8 is the right size and price.

Editor's recommendations




09 Apr
Blog

Amazon Echo Studio review: Gorgeous Bass Meets 3D Sound

"The best Amazon speaker you can buy literally takes music to a whole new level."

  • Class leading bass

  • Chic and simple setup

  • Support for Dolby Atmos and 360 Reality Audio

  • Large, spacious sound stage

  • All Alexa smart

  • Occasionally subdued middle class

  • Brittle note for lighter instruments

  • 3D music is still limited

Amazon's new Echo Studio Smart Speaker is not only good – sometimes it's fantastic. It is also one of the few smart speakers that you can buy that actually compete with the Sonos One. This is partly due to impressive functions that you won't find in any other intelligent loudspeaker on the market, not least thanks to the surprising support from Dolby Atmos.

Even putting the Echo Studio in the same sentence as the One is proof of how far Amazon has come in recent years. With products like the studio and the new Echo Buds, Amazon has proven that it can no longer be left out of the audio conversation.

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With the studio's 3D sound stage and a burgeoning new Amazon ecosystem that feeds it, Amazon is starting its own conversation, in which other loudspeaker manufacturers will certainly participate.

Roll out the barrel

With a large, rounded housing and an oversized CD feed cut through the base, the Echo Studio offers a unique profile. It is by no means repulsive and the exterior of the acoustic fabric offers a certain seal of approval, but is many times larger than the Sonos One and Apple's HomePod. The well-known Echo LED atrium on the top of the studio is wide enough to actually fit on an angel's head.

There are good reasons for the size of the studio. It is equipped with hardware, including two 2-inch drivers on the sides, a 1-inch tweeter on the front and a full 5.25-inch woofer for firing basses. There is another 2-inch driver on board, pointing up towards the ceiling to enable the hemispherical immersion, for which 3D sound formats such as Dolby Atmos and the new 360 Reality Audio System from Sony are valued. More on that later.

On the round top of the studio are control buttons, including the action button to manually call Alexa (if you don't want to call the speaker using the "Alexa" command), volume buttons, and my personal favorite, a mute button that rotates this rainbow-blue Alexa LED Darth Vader red, which ensures that the speaker doesn't listen to you.

As someone with a natural reluctance to allow listening devices in my house, the red hoop is a comforting reminder that my conversations are safe. It is also part of Amazon's ongoing efforts to restore confidence in its discretion.

As with all Echo loudspeakers, a microphone array in the housing enables voice activation via the “Alexa” voice command (or some other information) and acoustic calibration to adapt the sound signature of the loudspeaker at any location.

Ready, hired, streamed

Sonos, the undisputed king of simple speaker configuration for a long time, has real competition. Setting up the studio couldn't be easier. Sorry Sonos. You learned it by watching you.

After installing the Alexa app on your phone, follow the on-screen instructions and you can start streaming in no time. You can quickly add your favorite streaming service, including Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, Tidal, and of course Amazon Music (among others).

It's not just the setup that's intuitive. Amazon's Alexa app makes it easy to customize basic audio settings, control playback, and connect to other devices, from an echo subwoofer to other echo speakers for a multi-room speaker system.

Again, the Sonos app feels very similar, which makes it user-friendly and, in my experience, much more stable and intuitive than Google Home. I also like the fact that unlike Sonos products, you can easily connect to the studio through other apps, including Spotify Connect.

There are more ways to connect than just Wi-Fi. The Echo Studio offers a Bluetooth connection if necessary. There is a dual-use 3.5mm optical / Toslink connection on the back of the speaker for connection to a TV or other device.

Unfortunately, you cannot decode Dolby Atmos movies over an optical link, but there is a workaround. If you have a newer Fire TV device, you can pair the studio with it to stream Dolby Atmos content from selected apps.

This is a fairly specific use case, and it means that you can't get Atmos from the biggest source to the speaker right now. 4K Blu-rays. Although you can certainly set up the Echo Studio as a soundbar replacement, this isn't the best way to use it for your money. Amazon also has other plans for its new 3D speaker.

Alexa stuff

Before we get to the audio extras for those new to the world of smart speakers, let's talk about how much the Amazon Echo line, including the studio, can do. There is a lot to discover, from connecting and controlling a smart home system to checking the weather, shopping and numerous other smart home skills. In fact, the Alexa app offers a whole range of new and old abilities to try out.

This includes controlling the playback of the speaker with your voice. This is easy and works better now than it did a year or two ago. The speaker had few stumbling blocks when he was put through his paces, even with music. With Spotify, the studio seemed to know what I wanted to hear more often than not.

Amazon Echo Studio

As part of the Echo family, the studio can also do things that most third-party Alexa speakers can't. B. Intercom calls throughout your home through your Echo Collection. However, the Sonos One can speak both Alexa and Google.

Amazon Music is growing

You can't talk about Echo Studio without mentioning Amazon Music, as both parts are important to Amazon's plans to lead Spotify and Apple Music.

In early fall, Amazon announced that it would add high-definition music to its subscription music service for just $ 5 more. This undercuts the price of all these competing services and adds something that Apple and Spotify don't have at all.

Just as important for our purposes are "millions" of tracks with a resolution of up to 24 bit / 192 kHz selected songs mixed in Dolby Atmos and 360 Reality Audio (or newly mixed). Dolby and Sony also appear to be realizing their new plans and adding important studio partnerships.

Chills at 360 degrees

The biggest question I had after Amazon unveiled Echo Studio in its latest Alexa product extravagance was simple. What does Dolby Atmos actually mean in an intelligent speaker?

Most Atmos systems surround you with a barrage of speakers to get the 360-degree audio effect, including at least two uploaded speakers to bounce the sound off the ceiling. Even mentioning Atmos for a humble intelligent speaker seems bold. After tracking down the few tracks on Amazon Music (which thankfully have a 360 audio playlist), I was impressed with what this speaker can do.

It gave me something that I've never had from a $ 200 piece of plastic. Chills.

The first song I wrote was Elton John's Rocket Man. At first it was just a few slide effects that spread like a sound aura over the speaker. But as the song started up, the piece's expansive synthesizers stretched from the top of the speaker to the walls and finally blossomed into a cloud of swirling sounds at the front of the room.

The studio couldn't completely submerge me, but it gave me something I never got from a $ 200 piece of plastic: chills.

Stage against signature

While the side and up firing drivers are paramount to the studio's 360 tricks, the powerful, authoritative bass must be the speaker's best asset for everyday listening. Any great speaker can boom, with Google's Max being one of the best examples. But the studio's bass isn't just great. It's clean, tight, and well controlled.

The second song on Amazon's 360 playlist was Ariana Grandes 7 Rings, and although I'm not a Grande super fan, I was impressed by the tight jackhammer bass that the studio reproduced as a chorus beat hit. This powerful bass in combination with the bubbling 360-degree stage ensures a brilliant ride through the entire playlist.

Amazon Echo Studio

However, the studio is not perfect. Because of the only tweeter in the front, the speaker has a little bit of a problem when it comes to delivering detail and clarity in the midrange, especially when singing. It can also become thin at heights when lighter mixtures are fed.

In this regard, the Sonos One and also the Apple HomePod are clear of the ground. This becomes clear when you move away from 360 and high resolution tracks. And let's face it, most of us are stuck listening to compressed music every day.

You can get more clarity in the mid-range by disabling the studio's Stereo Spatial Enhancer, which may choke the mid-range on some tracks, but which also brightens the upper registers, which is sometimes uncomfortable. I found it helpful to reset the highs in the settings.

Regardless of this, the studio's sound signature takes a back seat to the soft, rich and detailed sound of the Sonos One. In addition, the 3D effects of the studio depend on the interior of your living room (especially on the walls and ceiling). 3D blends are currently limited. On the other hand, the sound stage and bass of the Sonos One are more reserved and compact compared to the spacious studio.

guarantee

Amazon's Echo Studio comes with a one-year limited warranty, and you can purchase an additional year.

Our opinion

The best smart speaker Amazon has ever made keeps its promise and offers a new way of listening in combination with Amazon Music. The Echo Studio is one of the most enticing new smart speakers on the market, offering premium bass and solid sound across the board.

Is there a better alternative?

For an Amazon spokesman, no. And if you want to immerse your toes in the world of Atmos Music, this is also your best choice for speakers. If you're looking for a rounded, everyday speaker with the versatility of Google and Alexa (and a more balanced sound signature), the Sonos One is the obvious alternative.

Although the price hasn't dropped since last fall's release, it should be noted that Amazon is currently offering a bundle that includes packages in a free Philips Hue Bulb.

How long it will take?

The speaker seems to be well built and has an expanded decoding for 3D audio formats that are just beginning to take shape. If anything, it's a bit ahead of its time.

Should you buy it

Yes. If you're looking for the best Amazon Alexa smart speaker you can buy – and especially if you're thrilled to dive into the latest musical limits – the Echo Studio is an easy choice.

Editor's recommendations




26 Mar
Blog

Amazon Echo Dot (3rd Gen) With Clock Review: The Time Is Now

Amazon Echo Dot 3rd generation watch front

Amazon Echo Dot with clock

"If you plan to build your smart home, the Amazon Echo Dot with clock is a smart choice to keep you up to date."

  • LED watch is useful and versatile

  • Physical buttons are easy to use

  • Tons of Alexa skills to add

  • Diverse compatibility with smart homes

  • Distortion at higher volumes

  • Cannot be transferred directly from apps

This review was last updated by Digital Trends smart home editor John Velasco on March 25th, 2020.

Although I'm often surrounded by cool technology, I have to admit that I've never used an Amazon Alexa speaker in my home before. This is partly because I first bought a Google Home and have been on the Google Assistant train since then. If you have invested in the ecosystem, it is also difficult to make the switch.

But here I am, switching to Amazon Alexa with the company's latest affordable smart speaker in the Amazon Echo Dot with Clock. I know what you're thinking. It's just the Amazon Echo Dot that was struck with an LED watch. But don't dismiss it just because it's a subtle change.

Try these new features

Thanks to frequent updates that expand their toolkit, Alexa is getting smarter. While there are some basic features you should definitely know, there are new tricks available every month. With the Amazon Echo Dot with Clock, you can try the following.

Get the latest weather alerts

Storms and other bad weather can occur immediately, which is useful for the latest warnings. The Echo Dot with clock can keep you up to date by saying, "Alexa, tell me if there's a storm alert."

Election updates

There will be a lot of news when the presidential elections are in full swing. So it is a good idea to know what is going on in politics. You can use the Echo Dot with clock to get the latest voting information, debate reviews, and more. All you have to do is say, "Alexa, what's my election update?" Or "Alexa, what happened in the last debate?"

Timekeeping at a glance

Amazon Echo Dot 3rd generation watch angleJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

With the advent of smartphones, the bedroom alarm clock has almost died out. So why in the world do we need another stationary thing to tell us the time? Now that even the Xfinity cable box in my bedroom has removed the clock from its design, there is actually no other way to tell the time when I'm not looking at my phone.

And that's why I can estimate the Amazon Echo Dot with a watch, because when you're half asleep you don't want to fumble around to determine the time. Instead, I can quickly take a look at the puck-sized speaker on my bedside table. Since the brightness of the LED watch adapts to the ambient light conditions, it is never too bright or too dark.

When you are half asleep, you don't want to fumble around to set the time.

It would have been great to see different color options for the LED watch, but the design of this Echo Dot is refreshingly simple and intuitive. There is no fuss about it. You don't even have to touch your phone.

Amazon Echo Dot 3rd generation watch ringJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Current owners of the 3rd generation Amazon Echo Dot won't notice anything drastically different with the design of this latest model. Except for the addition of this LED watch, the rest of the speaker is the same. It has a fabric outer panel, physical buttons at the top and the characteristic light ring. Only available in sandstone at the moment, it complements any decoration style without overwhelming anything else you might have lying around.

While the Google Nest Mini has a more coherent appearance, mainly due to the use of LEDs and buttons embedded in the fabric cover, the Amazon Echo Dot with clock offers a more tactile experience. That makes it a lot easier when it's dazed.

Don't expect to rock

Due to its small size, the Amazon Echo Dot with watch is not the first choice if you want to listen to music when friends are over. That is definitely no! Audio performance is sufficient for smaller, isolated rooms, but distortion is noticeable at higher volumes, and it becomes clear how difficult it is for this speaker to maintain clarity.

When I started adding more skills and my different accounts, it became clear that Alexa was as capable as Google Assistant.

You can connect a speaker via the 3.5 mm additional socket to increase the music performance if you want. However, this may be a cumbersome solution.

The Amazon Echo Dot with clock is best suited for interactions with Alexa. The four microphones respond well to my voice commands, while Alexa's responses in their standard voice are far more natural compared to Siri or Google Assistant from Apple. All my requests were recognized by the speaker.

Various smart home integration

At first, Alexa didn't seem as smart as Google Assistant. However, when I started adding more skills and my different accounts, it became clear that she was just as capable. It can control my Philips Hue lights, make calls or order a pizza.

The Echo's LED clock provides the ability to display the countdown when a timer is set. It can also show the temperature if you ask Alexa about it. These are minor functions, but it is no longer necessary to fiddle around with my phone. In addition, the same functions that were available with the last one are still available here.

Amazon Echo Dot 3rd generation watch on the tableJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Although you can't deny Alexa's ability to control different smart home devices, there are still some minor issues I have with Alexa. For example, I can't adjust the volume of the speaker using the volume controls on my smartphone unless I start the Alexa app and choose the volume control option.

Another little complaint I made with Alexa is that I can't get something I hear on my phone through an app to the speaker. With Pandora, I can do this if I'm using a Google Home device but Echo devices don't. Instead, everything is managed through the Alexa app.

You could argue that all of these features can only be achieved by talking to Alexa, but sometimes I still like being in control of my smartphone.

Aside from this complaint, I have to admit that there is a huge library of Alexa skills that enhances the functionality of this virtual assistant using the Amazon Echo Dot with clock. It is impressive, even if it is not quite perfect.

Warranty information

The Amazon Echo Dot with watch comes with a 90-day limited warranty and service.

Our opinion

Adding an LED watch to an existing speaker may seem like a lazy update to Amazon, but the Echo Dot (3rd generation) with watch is still an outstanding example of, with its exceptional $ 60 smart home integration cost Entry-level smart speakers, powerful Alexa assistant, and a design that suits any style of decoration.

Amazon also offers several bundles that are worth a look. As a rule, another intelligent device is packaged without increasing the total costs. For example, the bundle that contains a smart light bulb increases its cost to $ 65 while another bundle with a Smart plug You will reset $ 70.

Is there a better alternative?

If you're just heavily invested in the Google ecosystem, the new Google Nest Mini is the obvious alternative. However, if you appreciate Alexa and just want better sound, you should consider either the new Amazon Echo (3rd generation) or Echo Studio.

Do you want more options? Check out our favorite 2019 smart speakers.

How long it will take?

Amazon has continually expanded Alexa’s feature portfolio to include various capabilities, so you can expect this speaker to continue to add new features. Since the Echo Dot with clock is built to be stationary and solid, it can remain functional for a long time.

Should you buy it

Yes, especially if you want to start building your smart home.

Editor's recommendations




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