Hands-on With The Amazon Echo Show 5: A Compact Competitor To Google's Smart Displays

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Post on Mar 04, 2025

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Hands-on with the Amazon Echo Show 5: A Compact Competitor to Google's Smart Displays

The smart display market is heating up, and Amazon's Echo Show 5 is throwing its hat into the ring as a compelling, compact competitor to Google's Nest Hub and other larger smart displays. But does its smaller size compromise functionality, or does it offer a compelling alternative for those looking for a less imposing smart home hub? We spent some time with the Echo Show 5 to find out.

A Tiny Package, Big on Features:

The Echo Show 5 immediately impresses with its diminutive design. Measuring just 5.5 inches, it's perfectly sized for bedside tables, desks, or even kitchen counters where space is at a premium. Unlike its larger siblings, the Echo Show 5 doesn't feel overwhelming, blending seamlessly into various environments. This compact form factor makes it an ideal entry point for those new to smart displays or those who want a less intrusive presence in their home.

The 5.5-inch display offers vibrant colors and sharp visuals, perfectly adequate for viewing photos, following recipes, or checking the weather. While not as expansive as larger models, the screen size is surprisingly effective for its intended uses.

Alexa at its Best (and Smallest):

Naturally, the Echo Show 5 is powered by Alexa, Amazon's ever-evolving voice assistant. Setting up the device is straightforward, mirroring the simplicity of other Echo devices. We found Alexa’s responsiveness to be quick and accurate, even in somewhat noisy environments. Controlling smart home devices, setting alarms, playing music, and making video calls are all seamless experiences.

What Sets it Apart? Key Features and Considerations:

• Compact Design: The biggest selling point is undeniably its small footprint. It's perfect for limited spaces.
• Affordable Price: The Echo Show 5 typically sits at a lower price point than its larger competitors, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious consumers.
• Built-in Camera Cover: A crucial privacy feature, the physical camera cover offers peace of mind when you don't want to be seen.
• Zigbee Hub Functionality: This allows you to control compatible smart home devices directly without needing a separate hub, streamlining your smart home setup.

Areas for Improvement:

• Speaker Quality: While adequate for casual listening, the single speaker doesn't offer the same rich audio experience as larger smart displays. Audiophiles might find the sound a little underwhelming.
• Screen Size Limitations: Certain tasks, like browsing websites or viewing detailed recipes, might feel cramped on the smaller screen.

Conclusion: A Solid Contender in the Smart Display Arena:

The Amazon Echo Show 5 is not aiming to replace larger smart displays; instead, it carves its own niche. Its compact size, affordability, and robust functionality make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize convenience and a smaller footprint. While the speaker quality and screen size are limitations, they're easily outweighed by its advantages for many users. If you're looking for a powerful and compact smart display that doesn't break the bank, the Echo Show 5 is definitely worth considering. It's a strong competitor in the smart display market, offering a compelling alternative to Google's offerings and proving that size isn't everything.