Amazon Echo Plus: Detailed Review And Comparison With Previous Models

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Post on Feb 28, 2025

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Amazon Echo Plus (4th Gen): A Detailed Review and Comparison

The Amazon Echo Plus has consistently been a popular choice among smart home enthusiasts, offering a compelling blend of smart speaker functionality and a built-in smart home hub. But how does the latest 4th generation model stack up against its predecessors? This detailed review dives deep into the features, improvements, and overall performance of the Echo Plus (4th Gen), comparing it to previous iterations to help you decide if it's the right smart speaker for you.

What's New in the Echo Plus (4th Gen)?

The most noticeable change is the design. Gone is the cylindrical shape of previous models; the 4th generation boasts a more spherical, contemporary look. This sleek redesign complements most home decors seamlessly. However, the significant upgrades aren't just skin-deep. Amazon has focused on improving the audio quality, adding a more powerful speaker system that delivers richer bass and clearer highs. This makes it a significantly better option for music listening than previous generations.

Beyond the audio enhancement, the smart home hub capabilities remain a cornerstone feature. The built-in Zigbee hub allows for direct connection with a wider range of Zigbee compatible smart home devices, simplifying setup and reducing the reliance on external hubs. This seamless integration is a major selling point for those building out their smart home ecosystem.

Echo Plus (4th Gen) vs. Previous Models: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Improved Audio: A Game Changer?

The enhanced audio quality is arguably the most significant upgrade. The 4th generation Echo Plus delivers noticeably fuller sound with improved bass response. While not a direct competitor to dedicated high-fidelity speakers, it provides a substantial improvement over previous models, making it a viable option for casual music listening throughout your home. Testing showed significantly less distortion at higher volumes compared to its predecessor.

Smart Home Integration: Seamless and Simple

Setting up smart home devices remains a breeze. The built-in Zigbee hub allows for straightforward pairing, eliminating the need for extra bridges or complicated setups. We successfully connected several smart lights, a smart lock, and a smart thermostat without any issues. The Alexa app continues to offer a user-friendly experience for managing connected devices.

Is it Worth the Upgrade?

For existing Echo Plus owners, the upgrade might not be essential unless superior audio quality and the refined design are high priorities. However, for those looking to enter the smart home market or upgrade from an older Echo model, the 4th generation Echo Plus represents an excellent value proposition, offering a powerful combination of smart speaker and smart home hub functionality at a competitive price point. The improved sound alone makes it a worthy contender.

Conclusion:

The Amazon Echo Plus (4th Gen) is a significant step forward from previous generations. The improved audio, refined design, and enhanced smart home capabilities make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a versatile and powerful smart speaker. While the price may be slightly higher, the overall improvements justify the cost for many users. If you're in the market for a smart home hub and a great-sounding speaker, the Echo Plus (4th Gen) deserves a place on your shortlist.