Hands-On With Amazon's New Echo Show: A Smaller, Cheaper Smart Display Review

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Post on Apr 08, 2025

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Hands-On with Amazon's New Echo Show: A Smaller, Cheaper Smart Display Review

Amazon has unveiled a smaller, more affordable addition to its popular Echo Show lineup, and we got our hands on one to see if it lives up to the hype. The new Echo Show (we'll call it the "Mini" for clarity) boasts a compact design, a lower price point, and surprisingly robust features. But does it compromise too much to hit that lower price target? Let's dive in.

A Refreshing Design: Small but Mighty

The first thing you notice is the size. The Echo Show Mini is significantly smaller than its predecessors, making it ideal for smaller spaces like nightstands, kitchen counters, or even desks. Its compact footprint doesn't sacrifice style; it maintains the sleek, modern aesthetic of the larger Echo Show models. The 5.5-inch display is smaller, but still bright and vibrant, offering clear visuals for video calls, recipe viewing, and smart home control. The overall build quality feels solid, despite its lower price.

Performance and Features: Surprisingly Powerful

Despite its smaller stature, the Echo Show Mini doesn't skimp on functionality. It retains core Echo Show features, including:

• Crystal-clear audio: While not as booming as the larger models, the audio quality is surprisingly good, perfect for listening to music or podcasts.
• Seamless Alexa integration: Control your smart home devices, set reminders, make calls, and access information with ease via Alexa.
• Video calling: Make video calls to other Echo Show devices or those using the Alexa app.
• Visual recipe guidance: Follow along with step-by-step cooking instructions on the screen.
• Personalized news and weather: Stay up-to-date with personalized news and weather briefings.

What's Missing? A Few Minor Trade-offs

To achieve the lower price point, Amazon has made a few compromises. The camera resolution isn't as high as on the larger models, and there's no built-in Zigbee hub. However, for most users, these omissions won't be deal-breakers.

The Verdict: A Great Value for the Price

The Amazon Echo Show Mini is a compelling smart display option for those on a budget. While it lacks a few features of its more expensive siblings, it offers a surprisingly robust package of functionality in a compact and stylish design. The improved audio and bright display make it a joy to use, and the seamless Alexa integration is as impressive as ever. If you're looking for an affordable way to bring smart home convenience into your life, the Echo Show Mini is definitely worth considering.

Who Should Buy It?

• Budget-conscious consumers: Seeking affordable smart home integration.
• Users with limited space: Needing a compact smart display for smaller rooms.
• Those prioritizing ease of use: Appreciating simple, intuitive Alexa integration.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

• Users needing high-resolution video calling: Requiring superior camera quality.
• Smart home enthusiasts needing Zigbee control: Preferring built-in Zigbee hub functionality.

Final Thoughts:

Amazon has cleverly crafted a smaller, cheaper version of the Echo Show without sacrificing too much functionality. The Echo Show Mini proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy the benefits of a smart display. Its compact design, impressive features, and affordable price make it a strong contender in the crowded smart home market. We highly recommend checking it out.