Smart home technology is now more affordable than ever, making it easy to upgrade your living space without spending a fortune. If you want to add more convenience and control to your home, there are plenty of the best smart displays under $50.
This guide will walk you through some of the top budget-friendly smart displays that offer practical features at a great price. No matter if you’re just starting to explore home automation or looking to expand your setup, these gadgets can help simplify your daily routine and make your home more responsive to your needs.
Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen)
The latest Echo Show 5 hits the sweet spot between functionality and affordability, making it a diamond in the rough among smart displays under $50. This compact powerhouse serves as an excellent bedside companion with its upgraded sound quality that packs quite a punch for its diminutive size.
According to an Echo Show 5 review, while this device won’t blow your socks off with bass response, it handles mid-range frequencies with aplomb, which makes it perfect for podcasts, news updates, and casual listening sessions. The sleek design and Sunrise alarm feature make this little wonder a cut above the rest for your nightstand. It’s gradually brightening the display until your wake-up time with a simple tap to snooze.
Unlike basic smart speakers such as the Amazon Echo Pop, this display shows useful information at a glance, such as timers, reminders, recipes, and photos, so you don’t always need to use voice commands
| Features | Specifications |
| Display | 5.5-inch touchscreen |
| Audio | Improved sound with reduced bass at high volumes |
| Camera | Basic 2MP camera for video calls |
| Assistant | Alexa built-in |
| Special Features | Sunrise alarm clock functionality |
This budget smart display is fine for quick video clips but may feel cramped for longer viewing. The audio is clear but lacks deep bass, so it’s better for casual listening rather than audiophile-grade music enjoyment. The Echo Show 10 review will give you precise information about the Echo 10 if you need something better than the basic Echo 5.
Buy it if
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You prefer a device with a physical camera cover for privacy.You want affordable, easy Alexa integration for smart home control.You prioritize clear voice responses and alarms over deep music bass.You want a compact smart display for your nightstand or small spaces. :
Don't buy it if
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You need robust third-party video streaming (YouTube, Netflix support is limited)You require a high-quality camera for frequent video callsYou expect strong bass or audiophile-level sound for musicYou need a large screen for comfortable video viewing. :
Certified Refurbished Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen)
This refurbished gem brings premium features down to budget smart display territory, offering tremendous bang for your buck. The Echo Show 8 stands as the crown jewel of Amazon’s smart display lineup, boasting redesigned audio that adapts intelligently to your room’s acoustics.
What sets Amazon Echo apart is its spatial audio capabilities that adjust volume based on your proximity to the device, creating an immersive experience that’s music to your ears. With its sharp 8-inch display and 13MP camera with auto-framing, video calls have never looked this good in this smart display under 50 dollars.
| Features | Specifications |
| Display | 8-inch HD touchscreen with adaptive color |
| Audio | Redesigned spatial audio with stereo speakers |
| Camera | 13MP with auto-framing technology |
| Assistant | Alexa built-in |
| Special Features | Smart home hub capabilities |
According to the Echo Show 8 review, Amazon’s certified refurbished products are thoroughly tested and come with the same limited warranty as new devices. You’re getting essentially the same premium experience at a significant discount. That’s why this Echo Show can be the best smart display deal under $50 for you.
Buy it if
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You want a device that can double as a smart home hub.You want spatial audio for a more immersive sound experience.You need a better camera with auto-framing for video chats.You want a larger, sharper display for video calls and smart home control. :
Don't buy it if
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You seldom engage in video calls or utilize sophisticated smart home functionalities.You prefer to have only the newest hardware, brand new and unopenedYou’re uncomfortable with refurbished products, even with warranty.You have limited counter space or want a very compact device. :
Google Nest Hub
Google’s contender in the affordable smart displays arena delivers sleek minimalism with powerful Google Assistant integration. This 7-inch marvel serves as your digital command center, seamlessly integrating with your Google ecosystem while maintaining a footprint small enough to nestle into any nook or cranny of your home.
While it deliberately omits a camera for privacy-conscious users, it makes up for it with an intuitive interface that makes controlling your smart home devices feel like second nature. Its adaptive display shines when showcasing your Google Photos collection, automatically adjusting brightness based on ambient lighting.
| Features | Specifications |
| Display | 7-inch 1024 x 600 touchscreen |
| Audio | 1.7-inch tweeter |
| Camera | None (privacy-focused design) |
| Assistant | Google Assistant built-in |
| Special Features | Thread radio support, sleep sensing (2nd gen) |
| Size | 118mm tall, 178.5mm long |
The Nest Hub is tailor-made for Google users, offering seamless integration with Google Maps, Calendar, YouTube, and other Google services. So, if you’re heavily invested in Google services (Gmail, Calendar, YouTube), this smart display under fifty dollars is an excellent command center for your digital life. Go for Amazon Echo Dot if voice commands are your only priority.
Buy it if
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You want seamless integration with Google smart home devices.You want a privacy-focused device with no camera.You appreciate adaptive brightness and minimalist design :
Don't buy it if
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You need a device that supports all Alexa-exclusive features.You rely on touch gestures for navigation and want flawless response.You want deep bass or room-filling audio.You need a camera for video calls or home monitoring. :
7-inch Touchscreen IPS Monitors
For the tech tinkerers looking for versatility beyond standard smart display functionality, this portable 7-inch monitor opens up a world of possibilities. This little powerhouse connects to various devices through dual HDMI and USB-C interfaces which makes it the Swiss Army knife of budget smart displays!
While not a dedicated smart display out of the box, pair it with a Raspberry Pi or similar device, and you’ve got yourself a customizable dashboard for controlling your entire smart home ecosystem. The built-in dual speakers might not blow you away, but they get the job done for this jack-of-all-trades display.
| Features | Specifications |
| Display | 7-inch IPS 1024×600 touchscreen |
| Audio | Built-in dual speakers |
| Connectivity | Dual HDMI & USB Type C |
| Compatibility | Raspberry Pi 4 and other devices |
The 7-inch Touchscreen IPS Monitor isn’t ideal if you prefer a simple plug-and-play smart display experience over customization. Unlike dedicated smart displays for budget users, this requires additional hardware and setup to function as a smart display.
Buy it if
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You’re comfortable with technical setup and tinkering.You want a customizable display for DIY smart home projects. :
Don't buy it if
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You want a finished product with minimal configuration.You expect high-quality speakers or standalone smart features.You need built-in voice assistants or a ready-to-use smart device.You want a plug-and-play smart display with no setup. :
Amazon Fire HD 8 Tablet
The versatile Fire HD 8 tablet doubles as a respectable smart display when you need it and a portable entertainment device when you don’t. This versatile affordable smart display blends the best of both worlds: use it docked at home for Alexa-powered smart features, then take it with you on the move for entertainment wherever you go.
With its vibrant 8-inch HD screen and decent speakers, it’s a jack-of-all-trades that refuses to be pinned down to a single location. The latest generation brings improved performance that makes navigating apps and media a breeze compared to previous iterations.
| Features | Specifications |
| Display | 8-inch HD display |
| Memory | 3 GB RAM, 32 GB storage |
| Assistant | Alexa built-in |
| Release | 2024 model |
The Fire HD 8 is perfect for this use case, functioning as both a portable tablet and a stationary smart display when docked, giving you tremendous versatility for the price.
The standard model comes “with ads,” meaning you’ll see sponsored lock screen content. If this bothers you, consider paying slightly more for the ad-free version or looking at dedicated smart displays under $50 offers instead. Google Play is not supported on the Fire HD 8 Tablet. Read the Echo Show 15 review if you’re interested in more Google features.
Buy it if
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You appreciate expandable storage and flexible use cases.You want access to a wide range of Android apps (via Amazon Appstore).You need portable entertainment and Alexa access on the go.You want a device that doubles as a tablet and a smart display. :
Don't buy it if
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You expect long battery life when used continuously as a display.You require Google Play support or advanced smart display features.You dislike seeing ads on your device (unless you pay extra for ad-free).You appreciate expandable storage and flexible use cases. :
Comparison Table: Smart Displays Under $50
| Features | Echo Show 5 | Echo Show 8 (Refurb) | Google Nest Hub | 7″ Touchscreen | Fire HD 8 |
| Screen size | 5.5″ | 8″ HD | 7″ | 7″ IPS | 8″ HD |
| Assistant | Alexa | Alexa | Google Assistant | N/A (customizable) | Alexa |
| Camera | Basic | 13MP Auto-framing | None | None | 2MP |
| Audio | Improved speaker | Spatial audio | 1.7″ tweeter | Dual speakers | Stereo speakers |
| Best Use | Bedside/Alarm | Family hub | Google Integration | DIY projects | Portable/Entertainment |
| Smart Home Control | Yes | Yes (hub included) | Yes | With additional hardware | Yes |
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.3/5 | 4/5 | 4.2/5 |
Conclusion
Top smart displays under $50 offer an affordable way to combine voice control with a handy touchscreen. They help manage smart home devices and show weather, calendars, timers, recipes, and photos, all without needing to speak. Many also support video calls and act as digital photo frames.
Popular models like the Amazon Echo Show 5 feature clear sound and easy Alexa integration, making them perfect for bedrooms or kitchens. While smaller screens aren’t ideal for long videos, they’re great for quick info and daily tasks.
If you want a budget-friendly smart display to simplify your home, options under $50 deliver solid features and convenience.
What features can I expect from a smart display under $50?
Smart displays in this price range typically offer:
Compact screens (4–5.5 inches)
Basic voice assistant integration (Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant)
Essential smart home controls
Simple audio playback
Limited video streaming capabilities
For example, the Amazon Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) and Lenovo Smart Clock Essential are popular choices that provide these features.
Can I stream videos or make video calls on these devices?
Streaming capabilities vary by device:
Amazon Echo Show 5: Supports video streaming from platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix. It also allows video calls via Alexa.
Lenovo Smart Clock Essential: Does not support video streaming or video calls, as it lacks a camera and has a basic LED display.
Are these devices suitable as alarm clocks or bedside companions?
Yes, many users find them ideal for bedside use due to features like:
Alarm and timer functions
Display of time, weather, and calendar events
Compact size fitting on nightstands
Optional nightlight features (e.g., Lenovo Smart Clock Essential)
Do these smart displays support smart home device control?
Yes, they can control compatible smart home devices:
Amazon Echo Show 5: Works with Alexa-compatible devices.
Lenovo Smart Clock Essential: Integrates with Google Assistant-compatible devices.
What are the privacy features of these devices?
Privacy features include:
Physical camera shutters (e.g., Echo Show 5)
Microphone mute buttons
No camera on certain models (e.g., Lenovo Smart Clock Essential)
