Echo Show 5 Vs Echo Show 8 – Which Should You Buy?

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Amazon Echo Show 8 and the Echo Show 5 have some key differences, but both offer Amazon’s smart home technology. However, Echo Show 8 is the more advanced with a larger display, stronger audio performance, and more powerful internals. The Echo Show 5 is more compact and budget-friendly option. Let’s explore their differences and similarities to find your perfect fit!

Feature-by-Feature Breakdown

Processor:

  • Amazon Echo Show 8 features an octa-core processor that increases speed and responsiveness for multitasking and voice command handling.
  • Amazon Echo Show 5 uses a quad-core processor.
Winner:

Amazon Echo Show 8

Display:

  • Amazon Echo Show 8 has an 8-inch HD display that enhances video playback, photo viewing, and interface navigation.
  • Amazon Echo Show 5 comes with a 5.5-inch screen.
Winner:

Amazon Echo Show 8

Camera:

  • Amazon Echo Show 8 includes a 13MP camera that supports auto-framing to keep you centered during video calls.
  • Amazon Echo Show 5 has a 2MP camera with fixed positioning.
Winner:

Amazon Echo Show 8

Audio Quality:

  • Amazon Echo Show 8 features dual 2-inch speakers with spatial audio to deliver richer bass and more immersive sound quality.
  • Amazon Echo Show 5 has single 1.75-inch speaker for small-space.
Winner:

Amazon Echo Show 8

Microphones:

  • Amazon Echo Show 8 has a 4-microphone array that improves voice detection accuracy from across the room.
  • Amazon Echo Show 5 includes a 2-microphone setup suited for short-range commands.
Winner:

Amazon Echo Show 8

Smart Home Integration:

  • Amazon Echo Show 8 comes with a built-in smart home hub that allows direct control of Zigbee and Thread devices.
  • Amazon Echo Show 5 does not support smart home hub integration.
Winner:

Amazon Echo Show 8

Room Acoustic Sensing:

  • Amazon Echo Show 8 supports room acoustic sensing to automatically optimize audio based on placement.
  • Amazon Echo Show 5 lacks room adaptation features.
Winner:

Amazon Echo Show 8

WiFi and Connectivity:

  • Amazon Echo Show 8 supports WiFi 6 that ensures faster, more reliable connectivity and lower latency for streaming and video calls.
  • Amazon Echo Show 5 uses WiFi 5.
Winner:

Amazon Echo Show 8

Power Adapter:

  • Amazon Echo Show 8 comes with a 30W power adapter for better performance and audio output.
  • Amazon Echo Show 5 includes a 15W adapter.
Winner:

Amazon Echo Show 8

Specs at a Glance

FeatureEcho Show 8Echo Show 5
Display Size8-inch HD touch display5.5-inch touch display
Resolution1280 x 800960 x 480
AudioSpatial Audio, room sensing2x bass, clearer sound
ProcessorOcta-coreQuad-core
RAM2GB1GB
Camera13MP with auto-framing2MP
Microphones4-mic array2-mic array
Smart Home HubBuilt-inNot included
Spatial AudioSupportedNot supported
Room SensingSupportedNot supported
WiFiDual-band WiFi 5Dual-band WiFi 5
BluetoothYesYes
Power Adapter30W15W
Dimensions7.9” x 5.4” x 3.6”5.8” x 3.3” x 3.2”

 

Who Should Buy What?

Buy the Echo Show 8 if you:

  • Want a larger screen for videos, recipes, and smart home control.
  • Need a high-quality camera and mic setup for frequent video calls.
  • Value spatial audio and adaptive room sensing for better sound.
  • Use Zigbee or Thread smart devices and want a built-in hub.
  • Prefer a faster processor for smoother operation and multitasking.

Check Echo Show 8 Best Price

Buy the Echo Show 5 if you:

  • Need a compact smart display for a bedside table or small kitchen.
  • Want a more affordable Alexa-enabled screen with core functions.
  • Do not plan to make many video calls or use high-end audio.
  • Are okay using external hubs for advanced smart home setups.
  • Prefer a lightweight device that’s easy to place in tight spaces.

Check Echo Show 5 Best Price

Winner by Category

CategoryWinner
Display SizeEcho Show 8
Audio QualityEcho Show 8
Camera ResolutionEcho Show 8
WiFiEcho Show 8
MicrophoneEcho Show 8
Smart Home HubEcho Show 8
Spatial AudioEcho Show 8
Room Acoustic SensingEcho Show 8
Processor PerformanceEcho Show 8
Video Calling FeaturesEcho Show 8
Power AdapterEcho Show 8

What They Have in Common

  • Alexa Voice Assistant: Both devices feature Alexa built-in, allowing users to control smart home devices, ask questions, and manage tasks with simple voice commands.
  • Touchscreen Display: Each model includes a vibrant touchscreen, making it easy to view recipes, watch videos, and interact with widgets visually.
  • Video Calling: Both support video calls through Alexa-to-Alexa calling and apps like Skype, enabling hands-free communication with friends and family.
  • Smart Home Control: Both devices act as a smart home hub, letting users monitor security cameras, control lights, and manage connected devices from one screen.
  • Entertainment Options: Each model lets you stream music, watch Prime Video, and listen to audiobooks, providing a compact all-in-one entertainment solution.

FAQ (Quick Answers)

Does the Echo Show 8 support a smart home hub?
Yes, the Echo Show 8 (newest model) includes a built-in smart home hub with support for Zigbee and Thread, allowing you to directly control compatible smart devices without needing an extra hub.

Can I make video calls with the Echo Show 5?
Yes, you can make video calls with the Echo Show 5 using its 2MP camera, although it lacks advanced features like auto-framing available in the Echo Show 8.

Is there a big difference in screen quality between the two models?
Yes, the Echo Show 8 features an 8-inch HD display with higher resolution, making it better for watching videos and video calls. The Echo Show 5 has a smaller 5.5-inch screen with lower resolution, suitable for basic use.

Do both devices support Alexa voice assistant?
Yes, both the Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 5 come with Alexa built-in, allowing you to control smart devices, get news updates, play music, and more using voice commands.

Can I stream music and video on both devices?
Yes, both models support streaming from services like Amazon Music, Spotify, and Prime Video. However, the larger display and better audio on the Echo Show 8 provide a more enjoyable experience.

Does the Echo Show 8 have better sound than the Echo Show 5?
Yes, the Echo Show 8 supports spatial audio and room sensing, which create a richer and more immersive sound. The Echo Show 5 has improved bass over older versions but lacks advanced sound features.

Can I use either device as a digital photo frame?
Yes, both the Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 5 can display photos from Amazon Photos or Facebook, making them useful as smart photo frames when idle.

Do these devices support Bluetooth pairing with external speakers?
Yes, both models support Bluetooth, so you can pair them with external speakers for better audio output if needed.

Is the Echo Show 5 better for smaller spaces?
Yes, the Echo Show 5 is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for small rooms, nightstands, or areas with limited space.

Which device is better for future-proof smart home use?
The Echo Show 8 is better suited for long-term smart home setups thanks to its built-in smart home hub, more powerful processor, better camera, and superior audio system.

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