Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen, 2023): A Compact Smart Display with a Big Boost in Sound

The Amazon Echo Show 5 is a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and affordable smart display. In 2023, Amazon released the 3rd generation of this device, boasting improvements in sound quality and processing power. But is it worth upgrading or the perfect entry point for smart display newbies? This review dives deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen).

A Familiar Design with a Subtle Upgrade

The 3rd generation Echo Show 5 retains the same compact and sleek design as its predecessors. It features a 5.5-inch touchscreen display with rounded edges and a slight footprint. The physical buttons for volume control and microphone mute remain on top, while the power adapter port sits at the back. The most noticeable design change is the speaker grille, now slightly wider, hinting at the improved audio quality within.

Color Options: The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) comes in the classic Charcoal Black finish, alongside a new Charcoal with a hint of blue for a more modern aesthetic.

Display Quality: The 5.5-inch display offers a decent resolution (1280 x 720 pixels) suitable for watching videos, viewing photos, and navigating menus. While it might not be the sharpest display on the market, it gets the job done for most everyday tasks.

Overall Design Impression: The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) prioritizes a familiar and user-friendly design. While there are no groundbreaking aesthetic changes, the subtle refinement and the new color option add a touch of freshness.

Sound that Makes a Difference: The Big Upgrade

The most significant improvement in the Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) lies in its sound quality. Amazon has replaced the 1.65-inch speaker with a larger 1.75-inch driver. This seemingly small change translates to a noticeable improvement in audio output.

• Louder and Clearer: Music, podcasts, and audiobooks sound noticeably louder and clearer on the 3rd generation Echo Show 5. The bass response is also slightly improved, offering a more well-rounded listening experience.

• Perfect for Smaller Rooms: While the sound quality won’t fill a large living room, it’s perfectly suited for kitchens, bedrooms, or nightstands. The improved clarity makes voice interactions and audio calls significantly more pleasant.

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  A Step Up from Previous Generations: If you own a previous Echo Show 5, the audio upgrade in the 3rd Gen is a welcome improvement. It elevates the overall entertainment value of the device.

Performance and Functionality: A Familiar Friend with a Boost

The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) runs on a new, faster processor from Amazon, dubbed the AZ2 Neural Edge. This upgrade translates to smoother performance and quicker response times.

• Improved Navigation: Swiping through menus, launching apps, and interacting with the touchscreen feels more responsive compared to previous generations.

• Enhanced Voice Assistant: Alexa, the built-in voice assistant, seems to respond slightly faster and understand commands more accurately.

• Focus on Everyday Tasks: The Echo Show 5 excels at everyday smart display tasks like setting alarms, checking the weather, controlling smart home devices, and video calling.

• Limited App Support: Compared to larger smart displays, the app selection for the Echo Show 5 is somewhat limited. However, popular options like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube are available.

Overall Performance: The performance boost in the 3rd Gen Echo Show 5 might not be earth-shattering, but it provides a noticeable improvement in user experience. The faster processor and more responsive touchscreen make interacting with the device smoother and more enjoyable.

Privacy and Security Considerations

Like all smart devices, the Echo Show 5 collects some user data. Here’s a breakdown of privacy and security features:

• Microphone Mute Button: A physical button allows you to easily disable the microphone, ensuring privacy when needed.
• Camera Privacy Shutter: The built-in camera comes with a physical shutter for added security.
• Voice History Management: You can access and manage your voice history through the Alexa app and choose to delete recordings.

Overall Security: Amazon outlines its security practices and data collection policies on its website. Users should be familiar with these policies before using the Echo Show 5.

Is the Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) Right for You?

The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) is a compelling option for several user groups:

• Smart Display Newbies: Its affordable price point and user-friendly design make it a perfect entry point into the world of smart displays.

• Smart Home Enthusiasts: The Echo Show 5 seamlessly integrates with Alexa-compatible smart home devices, allowing for easy control with voice commands or the touchscreen display.
• Nightstand Companions: The compact size and improved sound quality make it ideal for a nightstand, offering features like alarms, weather updates, and even bedtime stories.

However, there are also considerations:

• Limited Display Size: If you plan on watching a lot of videos or using the display for extended periods, a larger smart display might be a better fit.
• Basic App Selection: For users who heavily rely on streaming services or specific apps, the limited selection on the Echo Show 5 could be a drawback.

The Verdict:

The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) offers a well-rounded package at an attractive price point. The improved sound quality, faster processor, and familiar design make it a compelling option for many users. Whether you’re a smart display newbie or looking for a versatile bedside companion, the Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) is a solid choice. However, if you prioritize a larger display, a wider app selection, or more powerful sound capabilities, you might want to consider other smart display options in the market.

Beyond the Review: What’s Next for the Echo Show?

The 3rd generation Echo Show 5 marks a steady evolution in Amazon’s smart display lineup. Here’s a glimpse into what the future might hold:

• Even Smarter Displays: Expect continued advancements in AI capabilities, allowing for more intuitive voice interactions, personalized recommendations, and context-aware responses.
• Focus on Wellness: Smart displays could integrate with health and wellness apps, offering features like sleep tracking, medication reminders, and exercise routines.
• Improved Display Technology: Higher resolution displays, potentially even foldable or flexible designs, could enhance the visual experience on smart displays.

The Bottom Line:

The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) is a testament to Amazon’s commitment to refining its popular smart display. With its focus on user experience, affordability, and essential functionalities, it offers a glimpse into the future of how we interact with technology in our homes. As technology continues to evolve, smart displays like the Echo Show 5 will likely become even more integrated into our daily lives, offering a convenient and versatile way to control our homes, access information, and stay connected.