Imagine a device that combines the intuitive voice control of a smart speaker with the versatility of a touchscreen. Best smart home displays revolutionize your home experience by allowing you to control smart devices, play music, and stream videos with ease.
Since Amazon pioneered the touchscreen Echo in 2017, we’ve thoroughly tested each major release, evaluating their design, sound quality, and functionality. Our top pick is the Amazon Echo Show 15 smart home, but we also offer alternatives for every budget and need. Dive into our comprehensive reviews to discover the perfect smart display for you!
Echo Show 8 (Newest gen) | HD smart touchscreen with spatial audio, smart home hub and Alexa | Charcoal
| Specification | Technical Details |
| Display | 8-inch, 1280 x 800 resolution smart display |
| Speakers | 2x 2-inch neodymium stereo speakers with passive bass radiator |
| Camera | 13MP centered camera with built-in shutter |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Voice Assistant | Alexa |
| Hub Functionality | Yes (Zigbee + Matter + Thread Border Router) |
| Dimensions | 7.9 x 5.5 x 4.2 inches (200 x 139 x 106 mm) |
| Weight | 36.6 oz (1.04 kg) |
| Material | Made with 29% recycled materials |
| Advantages | Added Thread and Zigbee supportFast and responsive performanceExcellent audio qualityAdaptive Content and Visual ID personalizationReflective screen (though brightness helps offset this)Sharp, bright and responsive smart home touch displayImproved sound qualityEdge-to-edge glass display |
| Disadvantages | Same camera and display resolution as previous generationDisplay bezels are still thickSlightly more expensive than predecessor |
The Amazon Echo Show 8 (newest gen) combines a crisp 8-inch smart home touch screen with powerful audio capabilities, making it a versatile hub for controlling your smart home display device, enjoying entertainment, and staying connected.
With its faster octa-core processor featuring Amazon’s AZ2 Neural Network Engine, the Echo Show 8 delivers responses that are 40% faster than its predecessor, whether you’re asking Alexa to translate phrases, control smart lights, or initiate video calls.
The centered 13MP camera with auto-framing capability follows you during video calls, while personalization options like Visual ID adjust content based on who’s using the device. With robust support for Zigbee, Matter, and Thread protocols, this device serves as a comprehensive home control display that can fill a one-bedroom apartment with impressive sound while maintaining responsive touch controls.
However, its audio quality lacks deep bass and clarity in midranges, the interface can feel intrusive with frequent pop-ups, and it struggles with seamless YouTube access, making it less ideal for heavy media consumption or audiophile use cases.
Is the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) Worth Buying?
Yes, if you want great sound, smooth video calls, and smart home control.
No, if you’re budget-conscious or prefer Google Assistant (Nest Hub is better).
In a glance:
| Buy it if you | Don’t buy it if you |
| Want an all-in-one solution for smart home display control and entertainment | Already have the 2nd gen model and don’t need the speed improvements |
| Enjoy watching content or making video calls while doing other activities | Need only basic smart speaker functionality |
| Want a smart display for home that’s enjoyable to use as your main household hub | Are on a really tight budget |
| Need a comprehensive smart home hub to manage all your devices | Don’t want to get on the smart home bandwagon |
Echo Show 5 (Newest gen) | Smart display and alarm clock with clearer sound | Charcoal
| Specification Details | |
| Display | 5.5-inch touchscreen, 960 x 480 resolution smart home lcd |
| Audio | 1.6-inch speaker |
| Camera | 2-megapixel front-facing camera with privacy shutter |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, micro USB port |
| Voice assistant | Amazon Alexa |
| Dimensions | 5.8 x 3.4 x 2.9 inches (14.8 x 8.6 x 7.3 cm) |
| Color | Charcoal, Glacier White, Deep Sea Blue |
| Material | Made from post-consumer recycled fabric |
| Advantages | Visual Alexa responses with additional on-screen informationCan double as a home smart display security cameraImproved camera for sharper video callsAffordable smart displayEnvironmentally friendly materialsCompact size fits anywhere |
| Disadvantages | No 3.5mm headphone socket for private listeningNo YouTube app (only accessible via browser)Low-resolution video qualityAudio lacks powerful bassCannot act as a Zigbee smart home hub |
The Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest generation) represents Amazon’s most compact and affordable smart home screen, delivering a perfect blend of functionality and convenience in a sleek, compact design. This versatile 5.5-inch Echo Show 5 smart home brings Alexa to life visually.
With an upgraded 2-megapixel camera that delivers sharper video calls and can double as a home security camera, the Echo Show 5 provides an immersive way to stay connected, follow recipes, check weather forecasts with detailed hourly breakdowns, control smart home devices with screen, and enjoy entertainment content from services like Prime Video and Netflix.
This compact smart display for home fits comfortably in any room, making it an ideal bedside companion or kitchen assistant for users seeking Alexa’s capabilities enhanced with visual feedback.
As the main weaknesses, you can say its sound quality is weak with subdued bass and hazy midranges, and its small screen paired with limited third-party streaming support. So, this device may not be the one for immersive entertainment or video-heavy tasks.
Does Echo Show 5 (Newest Generation) Suit You?
Yes, if you want a compact smart display for your bedside or kitchen, with improved sound, Alexa features, and smart home control.
No, if you need a high-quality camera for video calls or want a bigger screen, then a larger Echo Show model or a Google Nest Hub is better.
| Buy it if you | Don’t buy it if you |
| Need a compact device for bedside or kitchen | Watch a lot of YouTube videos (consider Google displays) |
| Are on a budget but want a smart screen for home | Don’t need a screen (consider Echo Dot instead) |
| Want to see and hear Alexa show home screen responses | Need a device for personal listening with headphones |
| Opt for a secondary Echo with a screen for smaller space | Already have the previous generation |
| Want to make video calls and check home security | Want powerful audio quality |
All-new Amazon Echo Show 15 | Full HD 15.6″ smart display with Alexa, built-in Fire TV and Alexa Voice Remote
| Feature | Specification |
| Display | 15.6-inch Full HD display smart home |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 |
| Processor | Amazon AZ2 Neural Edge |
| Camera | Built-in camera with physical shutter |
| Audio | Stereo speakers |
| Controls | Touch interface and Alexa Voice Remote included |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Mounting | Wall-mountable or stand (sold separately) |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Works with Alexa-compatible devices |
| Streaming | Built-in Fire TV |
| Advantages | Can display multiple widgets simultaneouslyBuilt-in Fire TV functionalityIncluded Alexa Voice RemoteSmart home wall display design saves counter spaceLarge 15.6-inch Full HD display |
| Disadvantages | May be too large for smaller spacesHigher price point than smaller Echo modelsDoesn’t excel at either primary functionStruggles with dual identity as Fire TV and smart home status display |
The All-new Amazon Echo Show 15 smart home combines the functionality of a smart home hub display with a Fire TV in a sleek, wall-mountable 15.6-inch Full HD display.
This 2024 model attempts to serve as both a central command center for your smart home and an entertainment device with its built-in Fire TV capabilities and included Alexa Voice Remote. While the large screen provides ample space for widgets, video calling, and streaming content, the device appears to struggle with its dual identity.
Anyhow, mounted in your kitchen, it can be your sous-chef extraordinaire, displaying recipes while you cook up a storm, or your family’s digital corkboard, keeping everyone on the same page, truly killing two birds with one stone!
| Buy it if you | Don’t buy it if you |
| Like the idea of a digital bulletin board for family organization | Are on a tight budget |
| Desire an all-in-one solution for smart home display screen control and entertainment | Have limited wall space or prefer a smaller display |
| Need a wall-mountable device that saves counter space | Primarily want a dedicated streaming device |
| Want a large-screen smart display for home | Need a device that excels specifically as a smart home hub |
Echo Show 10 (Newest gen) | HD smart display with motion and Alexa | Charcoal Fabric
| Feature | Specification |
| Display | 10.1-inch HD (1280 x 800) with auto-brightness |
| Camera | 13MP wide-angle with auto-pan and zoom |
| Audio | Dual front-firing tweeters and 3-inch woofer |
| Smart Home | Zigbee hub functionality |
| Colors | Charcoal or White mesh fabric |
| Dimensions | 9.9 x 9 x 6.7 inches (25.1 x 23 x 17.2cm) |
| Motion | Silent brushless motor with 360° rotation |
| Advantages | Responsive Alexa hub screenAdapts screen position for multiple peopleDoubles as security camera with remote viewingScreen automatically follows your movementsCamera provides crisp, smooth video calls |
| Disadvantages | Audio may be too bass-heavy for someNo dedicated YouTube appHigher price pointScreen quality adequate but not exceptionalRequires Alexa app for setting up routines |
The Amazon Echo Show 10 (newest gen) represents Amazon’s most advanced smart display featuring a revolutionary rotating 10.1-inch HD screen that follows you around the room. The cylindrical base houses powerful speakers while the 13MP camera automatically pans and zooms during video calls to keep you centered in frame.
Beyond video calling, it functions as a home security camera, streams content from Netflix and Prime Video, and serves as a Zigbee hub for smart home control. With its adaptive brightness, silent motor technology, and both voice and touch controls, it delivers a seamless user experience for everyday tasks.
Perfect for multitaskers, it keeps you in the loop whether you’re cooking, working, or relaxing. On the downside, its size can be a bit of a bull in a china shop for small spaces, and the rotating screen sometimes lags behind your movements, missing the beat.
| Buy it if you | Don’t buy it if you |
| Are invested in Amazon’s ecosystem | Don’t need visual output from your smart speaker |
| Cook frequently and follow digital recipes | Are looking for a budget-friendly option |
| Enjoy having media playing while multitasking | Prefer a static display that doesn’t move |
| Looking for a combination of smart home display devices and camera for more security | Find motion tracking uncomfortable |
| Need an excellent video calling device | Watch a lot of YouTube content |
Certified Refurbished Echo Show 8 | 3rd generation (2023 release), HD smart touchscreen with spatial audio, smart home hub and Alexa, Charcoal
| Feature | Specification |
| Display | 8-inch HD touchscreen with edge-to-edge glass |
| Audio | Custom-built spatial audio with room adaptation |
| Camera | 13MP (center-mounted) |
| Processor | Enhanced chip (40% faster response) |
| Smart Home | Built-in hub supporting Zigbee, Matter, Thread, Sidewalk |
| Special Features | Adaptive Content with proximity detection |
| Advantages | Enhanced video call qualityComprehensive home assistant smart display capabilitiesFaster Alexa responsesSuperior spatial audio experienceAdaptive screen content based on proximity |
| Disadvantages | Requires Amazon ecosystem commitmentLimited availability of Photos Edition outside USRefurbished might have minor cosmetic imperfectionsHigher price than previous generationSimilar core functionality to older models |
The Certified Refurbished Echo Show 8 (3rd generation) delivers Amazon’s latest best smart display for home technology with the reliability of factory-restored quality. Featuring edge-to-edge glass with elegant curves, this model showcases custom-built spatial audio that adapts to your room’s acoustics.
The 13MP camera enhances video calls, and the upgraded processor speeds up Alexa responses by 40%. Its standout Adaptive Content feature intelligently adjusts screen information based on your distance, offering personalized experiences when paired with Visual ID technology.
| Buy it if you | Don’t buy it if you |
| Seek the latest tech at a refurbished discount | Need a larger display for media consumption |
| Want content that adjusts to your movement | Already own the 2nd gen model |
| Make frequent video calls | Primarily use Google services |
| Value immersive audio experiences | Don’t need the latest adaptive features |
| Need a central Alexa home hub with screen |
Echo Show 8 | 2nd generation (2021 release), HD smart display with Alexa and 13 MP camera | Charcoal
| Feature | Specification |
| Display | 8-inch HD touchscreen (1280 x 800 resolution) |
| Camera | 13MP wide-angle with auto-framing |
| Processor | Octa-core |
| Audio | Dual speakers |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Smart Home | Alexa voice control (no Zigbee hub) |
| Port | No 3.5mm aux-out |
| Color | Charcoal, Glacier White |
| Advantages | Photo booth functionalityResponsive interfaceMid-range price pointHigh-quality camera for video callingCompact size for limited spaces |
| Disadvantages | Not compatible with all streaming servicesNo auxiliary audio outputMissing Zigbee smart home hubLimited display resolutionMediocre sound quality |
The Echo Show 8 (2nd generation) balances affordability and functionality with an 8-inch HD smart home display screen and substantial camera upgrade. Its 13MP wide-angle lens digitally pans and zooms to keep you centered during video calls, making virtual connections more engaging.
The octa-core processor ensures swift transitions between apps and responsive controls. While lacking certain premium features of newer models, it remains a capable visual command center for smart homes, entertainment hub for streaming services, and connection point for family video chats.
| Buy it if you | Don’t buy it if you |
| Prefer a static 7 Alexa home smart display | Desire the highest resolution screen available |
| Need a bedside or kitchen assistant | Plan to connect external speakers |
| Use Amazon services extensively | Want the latest adaptive screen technology |
| Want a cheaper alternative to newer models | Require comprehensive smart home integration |
| Prioritize video calling features | Need premium audio quality |
Certified Refurbished Echo Show 10 (3rd generation, 2020 release) | HD smart display with motion and Alexa, Glacier White Fabric
| Feature | Specification |
| Size | 251 x 230 x 172 mm |
| Weight | 2560 grammes |
| Display | 10.1” touchscreen with automatic rotation (+/- 175°) |
| Camera | 13 MP with cover |
| Audio | 2.1 system: two 1” tweeters and a 3” woofer |
| Processor | MediaTek 8183 + Amazon AZ1 Neural Edge |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee hub |
| Motion | Brushless Motor +/- 175° rotation |
| Material | 30% post-consumer recycled plastics, 100% recycled fabric/aluminum |
| Advantages | Adaptive color display for photosZigbee home smart display integrationRemote home monitoring accessAutomatic screen trackingSuperior directional sound |
| Disadvantages | Larger footprint than standard displaysMotion can be intrusiveHigher costNo Wi-Fi 6 supportRequires counter space |
The Certified Refurbished Echo Show 10 in Glacier White fabric boasts a 10.1-inch HD smart home touch display that automatically moves to face you, premium directional sound, and a 13MP camera with auto-framing for video calls.
Integrated with Alexa, it simplifies smart home control via Zigbee, allows remote home monitoring, streams entertainment from favorite services, and displays memories using Amazon Photos. Prioritizing privacy, it includes a microphone/camera off button, a camera cover, and motion disable options.
| Buy it if you | Don’t buy it if you |
| Enjoy streaming music and video | Prefer smaller devices |
| Value remote home monitoring | Want a budget-friendly option |
| Need comprehensive smart home control | Dislike motion tracking |
| Want a smart kitchen assistant | Prefer static displays |
| Make frequent video calls | Have limited space |
Echo Show 5 (3rd generation) | Charcoal + Blink Mini Indoor smart security camera | White, Works with Alexa – Smart Home Starter Kit
| Feature | Specification |
| Blink Mini Camera | 1080p HD video |
| Echo Show 5 Display | 5.5-inch touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi |
| Smart Home Integration | Works with Alexa |
| Camera Detection | Motion detection, night vision |
| Color | Charcoal (Echo Show 5), White (Blink Mini) |
| Setup | Simple guided setup |
| Dimensions | Compact |
| Advantages | Two-way communicationVoice-controlled security monitoringCompact and discreetEasy setup and integrationAffordable smart home security |
| Disadvantages | Lacks advanced featuresNo pan or tilt functionalityIndoor use only for Blink MiniLimited screen sizeRequires Blink subscription for full features |
The Echo Show 5 (3rd generation) and Blink Mini Indoor smart security camera bundle equips you with a smart home starter kit for security and convenience. The Echo Show 5 offers a compact display for managing your day, while the Blink Mini camera lets you keep an eye on your home. It’s an ideal, affordable entry point into the world of Alexa-enabled smart homes.
| Buy it if you | Don’t buy it if you |
| Want an easy-to-use system | Want professional monitoring and smart home display |
| Prefer affordability | Need local storage |
| Want to check on your home remotely | Need outdoor monitoring |
| Are new to smart home technology | Want a large display |
| Need a basic security setup | Require advanced security features |
Certified and Refurbished Echo Show 8 | 2nd generation (2021 release), HD smart display with Alexa and 13 MP camera | Glacier White
| Feature | Specification |
| Display | 8-inch HD touchscreen |
| Camera | 13MP with auto-framing |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Smart Home | Alexa hub screen integration |
| Color | Glacier White |
| Condition | Certified Refurbished |
| Privacy | Camera shutter, microphone off button |
| Port | No 3.5mm audio jack |
| Advantages | Alexa integration Video calling capabilitiesCompact sizeAffordable priceImproved camera quality |
| Disadvantages | Limited availability of accessoriesNot the latest modelNo aux outputLimited smart home hub functionalityRefurbished condition |
The Certified and Refurbished Echo Show 8 smart home (2nd generation) in Glacier White combines a smart display with Alexa functionalities. Its 8-inch HD screen and 13MP camera offer enhanced video calling, while its renewed status ensures affordability. The device is a hub for entertainment, communication, and smart home control.
| Buy it if you | Don’t buy it if you |
| Value compact design | Want a larger display |
| Enjoy Alexa home hub with screen integration | Want a new device |
| Like the mid-size display | Need an aux output |
| Prioritize video calling | Need the latest technology |
| Want a budget-friendly option | Want a built-in smart home hub |
Echo Pop | Charcoal, 2-pack + Philips Hue White Smart Light Bulb LED (E27), Works with Alexa – Smart Home Starter Kit
| Feature | Specification |
| Speaker | Echo Pop |
| Bulb | Philips Hue White Smart Light Bulb LED (E27) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Voice assistant | Alexa |
| Bulb type | E27 |
| Color | Charcoal (Echo Pop), White (Bulb) |
| Control | Voice or app |
| Setup | Simple setup with Alexa app |
| Advantages | Bundled convenienceCompact sizeVoice-controlled lightingAffordable entry pointEasy to set up |
| Disadvantages | Limited audio qualityNo screenOnly one bulb includedLimited featuresRequires Wi-Fi |
The Echo Pop and Philips Hue White Smart Light Bulb LED bundle is a starter kit, blending voice-controlled smarts with lighting. The Echo Pop offers Alexa show home screen in a compact design, while the Philips Hue bulb introduces smart lighting to your home. Control lights, play music, and more with voice commands.
| Buy it if you | Don’t buy it if you |
| Prefer a minimalist design | Need a display screen |
| Are on a budget | Want a high-end speaker |
| Want voice-controlled lighting | Need advanced features |
| Want more than one smart bulb |
Echo Show 5 (3rd generation) | Charcoal + Philips Hue White Smart Light Bulb LED (E27), Works with Alexa – Smart Home Starter Kit
| Feature | Specification |
| Display | 5.5-inch touchscreen |
| Bulb | Philips Hue White Smart Light Bulb LED (E27) |
| Voice assistant | Alexa |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Color | Charcoal (Echo Show 5), White (Bulb) |
| Controls | Voice, touch, app |
| Setup | Simple setup via Alexa app |
| Camera | Built-in with privacy shutter |
| Advantages | Bundled convenienceVisual interfaceCompact sizeVoice and touch controlEasy to set up and use |
| Disadvantages | Requires Wi-FiBasic lighting controlLimited smart home hubSmall smart home screenOnly one bulb |
The Echo Show 5 smart home and Philips Hue White Smart Light Bulb LED bundle provides the foundations for a smart home. The Echo Show 5 offers visual and voice control, while the Philips Hue bulb lets you control your lights using voice or app. It’s perfect for controlling lights and more with voice or a tap.
| Buy it if you | Don’t buy it if you |
| Value simplicity | Need extensive customization |
| Need a compact device | Want premium audio |
| Prefer visual interfaces | Have many smart home devices already |
| Want voice-controlled lighting | Want advanced lighting features |
| Are new to smart homes | Need a larger display |
Product Comparison Table
| Feature | Echo Show 8 (Newest Generation) | Echo Show 5 3rd Generation | Echo Show 15 | Echo Show 10 |
| Screen size | 8-inch | 5.5 inch | 15.6 inches | 10.1 inch |
| Resolution | 1280×800 | 1080p HD video | 1920×1080 | 1280×800 |
| Processor | Octa-core Amazon AZ2 Neural Edge | Amazon AZ2 Neural Edge | MediaTek and Amazon AZ1 Neural Edge | |
| Audio | Spatial audio with two 51mm neodymium speakers and passive radiator | Stereo system | Dual front firing tweeters | |
| Camera | 13MP, centered placement with auto-framing | Built-in camera | 13MP | |
| Smart Home Hub | Built-in (supports Zigbee, Matter, Thread) and Alexa Echo Show 8 smart home hub | Alexa | Alexa home hub with screen | Zigbee hub |
| Special Features | Visual ID, Adaptive Content, spatial audio | Infinity Edge glass, improved screen for night viewing | Widgets, wall-mountable, portrait/landscape mode | The Echo Show 10 features a rotating screen for enhanced video calls and a built-in Zigbee hub for smart home control |
| Wi-Fi | Bluetooth and Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and Zigbee hub |
Why Should You Buy a Smart Display?
Smart home displays have evolved into essential household companions, blending voice control, touch interaction, and seamless smart home management into a single, intuitive device. A smart home hub display streamlines daily routines, controlling lights, checking security cameras, making video calls, and streaming entertainment, all with a glance or a simple voice command.
The latest models, like the Echo Show 8 (3rd gen) and Echo Show 15, offer faster performance, sharper cameras, and broader compatibility with smart home standards (Zigbee, Matter, Thread), ensuring your investment is future-proof.
If you’re looking to simplify your life, stay connected, and make your home smarter and more efficient, an Alexa show home screen is a practical and enjoyable upgrade. With options ranging from affordable and compact like Echo Show 5 to feature-rich and expansive like Echo Show 15, there’s never been a better time to bring one into your home. Choose the model that fits your lifestyle, and experience the convenience and versatility that only a modern smart display can provide.
What are the top-rated smart home displays in 2025?
Based on expert reviews and customer feedback, the leading smart home displays of 2025 include:
Amazon Echo Show 15 (2nd Generation): Features a 15.6-inch 4K display, enhanced audio, and customizable Alexa widgets.
Google Nest Hub Max (2025 Edition): Offers a 10-inch HD screen, improved speakers, and built-in Nest Cam for security.
Echo Hub 8″ Smart Home Control Panel with Alexa: An 8-inch display designed as a dedicated smart home dashboard, organizing devices into customizable widgets.
Which smart display is best for video calls?
Are there smart displays suitable for smaller spaces?
Which smart display offers the best integration with smart home devices?
