Amazon has a wide variety of Amazon Echo devices to fit most any need. From a kids’ version to a display speaker, it’s hard not to find at least one device that fits your home, style, and voice assistant needs. While there are non-Amazon branded Alexa devices, this guide will focus specifically on the Echo line.
Also read:Smart Speaker Sound Quality Showdown
Echo Dot – For the Average User
The most versatile of the Amazon Echo devices is the Echo Dot (3rd Gen). It’s a great alternative to the original Echo and fits in with any room easily. Its small size makes it easy to sit almost anywhere. Of course, the $49.99 price doesn’t hurt.
It has a richer sound than the previous 2nd Gen. It pairs with other Echo devices for bigger sound. It’s the all-around best Echo for general, everyday use. Since it’s cheaper, it’s also easier to add more Dots and create a whole home intercom system.
Echo Dot Kids – For Kids and Families
The Echo Dot Kids (3rd Gen) isn’t much different than the Echo Dot. However, it does have parental controls built-in and comes in a fun rainbow color. It’s mainly made as a cute alternative to add to a kid’s room. Unless you just like the color or have a kid, the Echo Dot is still the better option. You can even enable parental controls on the standard Echo Dot. However, it’s still a great device at $69.99.
Echo – For the Average User Who Loves Music
The Echo (3rd Gen) is larger than the Echo Dot but offers richer sound. It’s also one of the best Amazon Echo devices if you want a good mix of sound quality and price. With 360-degree sound and dynamic bass, it fills a room well. As a comparison, the Echo Dot has a 1.6-inch speaker, while the Echo has a 0.8-inch tweeter and a 3-inch sub-woofer. The Echo also has Dolby audio built in.
Echo Show – For Video Calling, Home Fitness, Cooks
If you prefer Amazon Echo devices with a screen, the Echo Show line is perfect. Currently, Amazon has the Echo Show 5, Echo Show 8, and Echo Show Premium 10.1. The numbers refer to the screen size. All of them feature the ability to turn the camera and mic off for privacy. You can use them to make voice calls to other Echo Show devices and the Alexa app. They can also function as a nightstand clock complete with the current time and weather.
The Echo Show 5 is the most affordable at $89.99. The Echo Show 8 comes in at $129.99, while the Echo Show Premium 10.1 is $229.99. However, the Echo Show Premium features Dolby audio for better sound over the other two.
This line is best for users who want to do video calls to other Alexa users, fitness enthusiasts to watch videos, and home cooks to see recipes in action.
Echo Studio – For Superior Audio Quality
The Echo Studio stands out for its superior sound quality. It features Dolby Atmos technology and has five speakers. These include a 1-inch tweeter, three 2-inch mid-range speakers, and a 5.25-inch woofer. It automatically adjusts the sound to best fit your space. It’s also the only Echo device to support HD, 3D, and Ultra HD music.
If you want your music to sound better, the Echo Studio is a must at $199.99.
Echo Plus – More Support for Smart Homes
The Echo Plus (2nd Gen) looks, sounds, and functions much like the Echo. However, it’s made more for smart homes. It includes a Zigbee hub built in so you don’t need an additional hub for Zigbee smart home devices. You can still use it for other smart home devices that support Echo devices as smart home hubs.
It’s a great combination of smart hub and voice assistant for $149.99.
Echo Buds – For Alexa Users on the Go
Echo Buds aren’t one of your more traditional Amazon Echo devices. However, when paired with a smartphone that includes the Alexa app, you get Alexa with you wherever you go. You get high-quality sound that features Bose Active Noise Reduction. They’re sweat-resistant, making them ideal for exercise.
Talk to Alexa just like you would with a smart speaker. Use them to play music, get directions, or check the weather. You can even use them with Google Assistant and Siri if you’d prefer. They’re a great way to make Alexa portable and more convenient at just $129.99.
Overall, the Echo Dot satisfies most needs, but every device has its perks. Compare them all to get the best Echo device(s) for your home.
Once you have an Echo, you can then drop in on multiple Echo devices wherever you are. If you are giving your Echo away, remember to deregister it first before sending it out.
Image: Wikimedia Commons/Daylen
Our latest tutorials delivered straight to your inbox
