Alexa Plus Hands-On: Is This The Echo Upgrade You've Been Waiting For?

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Post on Feb 28, 2025

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Alexa Plus Hands-On: Is This the Echo Upgrade You've Been Waiting For?

Amazon's latest foray into smart home technology, the Alexa Plus, promises a significant upgrade to the Echo experience. But does it deliver on its ambitious claims? We spent a week putting the device through its paces to find out if it's worth the investment. This in-depth review explores the Alexa Plus's features, performance, and overall value, helping you decide if it's the Echo upgrade you've been waiting for.

Unboxing and First Impressions:

The Alexa Plus boasts a sleek, minimalist design, a significant departure from some of its bulkier predecessors. The improved sound quality is immediately noticeable, offering richer bass and clearer highs than previous Echo generations. Setup was straightforward, connecting seamlessly to our existing Wi-Fi network within minutes. The included power adapter is compact, a welcome change from previous, larger models.

Enhanced Sound and Audio Capabilities:

One of the most significant improvements is the audio quality. The Alexa Plus features significantly upgraded speakers, resulting in a more immersive and detailed sound experience. Whether streaming music, listening to podcasts, or making hands-free calls, the audio is crisp and clear, even at higher volumes. The improved bass response makes it ideal for listening to a wide range of music genres.

• Improved Bass Response: Noticeably deeper and richer bass compared to previous Echo devices.
• Crystal Clear Highs: Vocals and high-frequency instruments are reproduced with exceptional clarity.
• Enhanced Loudness: Enjoy louder volume without distortion, perfect for larger rooms.

Smart Home Integration and Control:

The Alexa Plus seamlessly integrates with a wide range of smart home devices. Controlling lights, thermostats, and other compatible appliances is intuitive and reliable. The improved voice recognition ensures commands are processed accurately, even in noisy environments. We tested its compatibility with Philips Hue, Nest, and Samsung SmartThings, and experienced no connectivity issues.

New Features and Functionality:

Beyond the improved audio and smart home integration, the Alexa Plus introduces several exciting new features:

• Enhanced Voice Recognition: Improved accuracy even in noisy environments and with multiple voices.
• Improved Privacy Features: Enhanced microphone controls and improved data encryption provide greater peace of mind.
• Customizable Routines: Create personalized routines tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Areas for Improvement:

While the Alexa Plus offers considerable improvements, there are a few minor areas for improvement:

• Price Point: The Alexa Plus sits at a higher price point than previous Echo generations. While the improved features justify the cost for some, others may find it expensive.
• App Integration: While app integration is comprehensive, some users might find navigating the app somewhat complex.

Is It the Echo Upgrade You've Been Waiting For?

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for a significant upgrade in sound quality, improved smart home integration, and enhanced voice control, then the Alexa Plus is a worthwhile investment. However, if you're on a tight budget or don't require the latest features, a previous generation Echo might suffice. The improved sound alone makes it a compelling upgrade for audiophiles, but the overall package warrants careful consideration of its price point. Ultimately, the Alexa Plus represents a significant step forward in the evolution of smart speakers, offering a compelling blend of performance, convenience, and smart home integration.