When it comes to smart speakers, Amazon’s Echo lineup is a household name. But with so many options, especially the Echo Dot and the Echo Show, choosing the right device can feel like splitting hairs. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll describe the Echo Show vs Echo Dot in every possible way, from design and sound quality to practical use cases and value for money. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just looking for a smarter home, this guide will help you decide: which is better, Echo Dot or Echo Show?
Original model, decent HD display and solid sound quality. Offers basic smart display functions through Alexa, including video calls and visual info. Design is more basic compared to later generations.
Compact original model with basic speaker and no screen. Supports core Alexa voice features like music playback, smart home control, and questions. Simpler design and less advanced audio compared to newer Dots.
| Devices | Pros | Cons |
| Echo Dot (5th Gen) A compact, budget-friendly smart speaker that fits anywhere and covers all the basics with Alexa. | Compact and discreetImproved sound over previous DotsEasy to set up and useMultiple color options | No display for video or visual infoThe sound is good, but not room-fillingLimited to audio feedback |
| Amazon Echo Show A feature-packed smart display with a touchscreen, camera, and superior sound ideal for visuals, video calls, and more. | Touchscreen display for video, visuals, and callsVideo calling and Drop-In featuresVisual smart home controlsGreat for recipes, news, and video contentEnhanced sound in larger models | More expensive than DotLarger footprint, less discreetSome third-party Alexa skills don’t make full use of the screen capabilities |
Design and Build Comparison
Let’s compare the Echo Show v Echo Dot from the design perspective. The Echo Dot is a small, spherical smart speaker that fits almost anywhere, on a shelf, nightstand, or kitchen counter. As mentioned in the Echo speaker review, the 5th generation comes in several colors, including white and blue, and features a fabric mesh exterior with simple touch controls on top. It’s the definition of “good things come in small packages.”
On the other hand, the Echo Show is a smart display, available in various sizes (5, 8, 10, and 15 inches). It features a touchscreen, a built-in camera, and a more substantial build. The Show 5 is compact, while the Show 10 and 15 are designed for a more prominent display (the Show 15 can even be wall-mounted).
When comparing the Echo Dot 3 vs Echo Show 5, the size difference is quite noticeable. The Dot 3 is much smaller and more compact, while the Show 5 offers a handy touchscreen that adds bulk but also functionality. This size trade-off continues with newer models, as seen in the Amazon Echo Dot 4 vs Echo Show 5 comparison, where the Dot 4 maintains its small footprint but the Show 5’s screen remains a key differentiator.
The difference between Echo Dot and Echo Show is shown in the following table:
| Model | Dimensions (mm) | Weight | Display Size | Colors |
| Echo Dot 5th Gen | 100 x 100 x 89 | ~340g | None | White, Blue, etc. |
| Echo Show 5 | 148 x 86 x 73 | 410g | 5.5” | Charcoal and white |
| Echo Show 8 | 200 x 135 x 99 | 1037g | 8” | Charcoal and white |
| Echo Show 10 | 251 x 230 x 172 | 2560g | 10.1” | Charcoal and white |
| Echo Show 15 | 402 x 252 x 35 | 2150g | 15.6” | Black |
Echo Dot and Echo Show Display and Visuals
The Echo Dot with Clock vs Echo Show 5 debate often centers on whether the LED clock on the Dot is enough visual feedback, or if the larger size and higher price of the Show 5 justified by its full touchscreen.
Except for the Echo Dot 5th Gen with Clock, the Echo Dot does not have a display so all user feedback is provided through audio only.
Whereas the Echo Show features a touchscreen display that can be used for video calls, recipes, weather updates, security camera feeds, and more, with screen sizes varying by model, including the Show 5, Show 8, Show 10, and Show 15.
If you want to see lyrics, video calls, or your calendar at a glance, the Echo Show is the clear winner.
Echo Show vs Echo Dot Sound Quality
In the Amazon Echo Dot 5th gen review, it’s said that this device boasts a 1.73” front-firing speaker with clearer sound and deeper bass than previous generations. It’s great for music, podcasts, and Alexa’s responses, but not as powerful as larger speakers.
On the other hand, Echo Show’s sound quality improves with screen size. Looking at Echo Dot 5 vs Echo Show 8, the Show 8 steps up with richer, more immersive sound thanks to larger speakers, while the Dot 5 offers surprisingly good audio for its size but can’t match the Show’s depth. The Show 10 even includes a rotating base to direct sound and visuals to where you are.
So, what is better Echo Dot or Echo Show? For audiophiles or those wanting a mini home theater, the Echo Show 8/10/15 outshines the Dot.
Echo Show and Echo Dot Smart Home Control
To compare Alexa Dot vs Show, reviewers say that both devices can control smart home gadgets including lights, thermostats, and plugs using Alexa. The Echo Show, however, makes it easier to manage devices visually, thanks to its touchscreen interface. Some Show models even include a built-in Zigbee hub for direct connection to compatible devices. If you’re shopping for a good smart speaker, consider how the Dot and Show stack up against the Google Home review and Google Home Mini review.
Calling and Communication
It may not be one of the best smart speakers, but the Echo Dot lets you make voice calls and Drop-In audio calls with other Alexa devices, but it doesn’t support video calls.
On the other hand, the Echo Show includes video calling, which is great for families, remote work, or just staying in touch with loved ones. Plus, if you’re concerned about privacy, you can easily cover or disable the camera whenever you want.
The Alexa Echo Dot 3 vs Echo Show 5 comparison highlights how the Show 5’s camera and touchscreen enable video calling and visual smart home management, features the Dot 3 lacks. Similarly, the Amazon Echo Dot 4 vs Echo Show 5 2nd generation comparison shows incremental improvements in voice recognition and display responsiveness on the Show side
Show vs Dot Entertainment
The Echo Dot, one of the good smart speakers for seniors, streams music, podcasts, and audiobooks but can’t play videos, while the Echo Show streams both music and video from services like Prime Video and Netflix, shows lyrics, recipes, and news, and makes Alexa’s jokes and games more engaging with its screen. This makes the Echo Show better for visual content and interactive features, whereas the Echo Dot focuses on audio-only playback.
Privacy and Security
Both the Amazon Echo Dot vs Show come with microphone mute buttons for quick and easy privacy control. Echo Show models go a step further by including a physical camera cover, so you can block the camera lens whenever you want extra security. These features make it simple to protect your privacy without any hassle. If you seek more security, the Echo Sub and the Nest Hub Max are good options as the former lacks an Alexa assistant and the latter lacks a built-in camera. See the Amazon Echo Sub review and the Google Nest Hub Max review for more information.
Echo Show vs Echo Dot Comparison Table
| Features | Echo Dot | Echo Show |
| Display | No | Yes (5.5”–15.6” touchscreen) |
| Form Factor | Spherical, compact | Rectangular, screen-based |
| Sound Quality | It’s good for its size. The bass is improved with 1.73” front-firing speakers and 4 microphones. | Superior, especially in Show 8/10/15 |
| Colors | Multiple (white, blue, etc.) | Charcoal, White, Black |
| Smart Home | Yes (voice only) | Yes (voice + visual interface, Zigbee hub on some) |
| Calling | Voice, Drop-In (audio) | Voice, Drop-In (audio/video), video calls |
| Entertainment | Audio streaming | Audio + video streaming, recipes, lyrics, etc. |
| Camera | No | Yes (1–13MP, varies by model) |
| Portability | Highly portable | Less portable, larger footprint |
| Privacy Features | Mic off button | Mic off button, camera cover |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth |
| Voice Assistant | Alexa | Alexa |
| Best For | Bedrooms, small spaces, budget users | Kitchens, living rooms, family communication |
Amazon Echo Dot vs Amazon Echo Show: Which Model Is More Suitable for You?
| User Needs | Echo Dot | Echo Show |
| Play music and podcasts | Yes | Yes |
| Video calls | No | Yes |
| Control smart home devices | Yes | Yes |
| Watch video | No | Yes |
| Compact size | Yes | Show 5: Yes, Show (8/10/15): No |
| Budget-friendly | Yes | No |
| Visual information | No | Yes |
| Privacy | Yes | Yes |
The difference between Echo Dot and Echo Show is crystal clear: the Dot is a compact, audio-focused smart speaker, while the Show is a full-fledged smart display with video, visuals, and a camera. If your needs are basic music, timers, and smart home voice control, the Echo Dot is a fantastic value. It’s perfect for bedrooms, offices, or anywhere space is tight. For a deeper dive into audio, don’t miss our Echo speaker review.
If you want a device that can do it all, video calls, recipes, security camera feeds, and more, the Echo Show is the way to go. It shines in kitchens, living rooms, and family spaces.
Is Echo Show better than Echo Dot? For visuals, communication, and versatility, yes. But if you just want a smart speaker without the bells and whistles, the Dot is tough to beat. In a nutshell, if you want a smart speaker that’s all ears, go for the Dot. If you want one that’s got eyes, ears, and a whole lot more, the Show is your ticket to the future. The ball’s in your court; choose wisely.
Buy the Echo Dot if you
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You’re on a budget
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You only need audio features
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You want a compact, affordable smart speaker
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You value superior sound quality in a compact speaker
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You have limited space
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You want a discreet device
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You’re on a budget
Buy the Echo Show if you
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You need a built-in camera
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You want to watch videos or see visual info
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You need a screen for video calls/recipes
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You want visual smart home controls
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You want the best sound quality
Conclusion
In the battle of Echo Dot vs Echo Show, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The decision boils down to your needs: screen or no screen, budget or features, compact or immersive. Both are powered by Alexa and offer seamless smart home integration, but the Show’s display opens up a world of possibilities. Whichever you choose, you’re getting a slice of the future right in your living room.
If you’re still on the fence, check out the Amazon Echo Dot with Clock (5th Gen) for a Dot with a handy LED clock, or read the reviews for more details. For those curious about the competition, see our Google Nest Audio review, Apple HomePod Mini review, and Google Nest Hub review.
What’s the main difference between Echo Dot and Echo Show?
The main difference is the screen. The Echo Dot is a compact smart speaker without a display, while the Echo Show includes a touchscreen that can show videos, recipes, video calls, weather, and more. If you want visual interaction, the Echo Show is a better fit.
Can the Echo Dot and Echo Show do the same things?
Yes, both devices use Alexa and can perform most of the same voice-activated tasks like setting timers, controlling smart home devices, answering questions, and playing music. However, the Echo Show can display additional information visually, which gives it an advantage in certain tasks like video calls or watching the news.
Is the Echo Show better for video calls?
Yes, the Echo Show is better for video calls because it has a built-in screen and camera. You can make Alexa-to-Alexa video calls or use services like Zoom (on some models). The Echo Dot does not support video calls because it lacks a screen and camera.
Which one is better for music: Echo Dot or Echo Show?
For sound quality, the larger Echo Show models generally offer better and richer sound than the Echo Dot. However, newer versions of the Echo Dot (especially the 4th and 5th generation) still provide surprisingly good sound for their size. If music quality is a top priority, choose the Echo Show or pair either device with external speakers.
Does the Echo Show need to be in the kitchen or can it be used anywhere?
The Echo Show can be used anywhere in the home—bedroom, living room, office, or kitchen. Many people like it in the kitchen for recipes and timers, but it also works well on a nightstand for alarms or as a digital photo frame. It’s more versatile than the Echo Dot thanks to its display.
