The Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) is the latest iteration of Amazon’s mid-sized smart display, offering a perfect balance of functionality, screen size, and price. If you’re looking for a smart assistant with a vibrant screen for video calls, entertainment, and home automation, the Echo Show 8 is one of the best options available.
But is it the right choice for you? Let’s dive into this in-depth review to explore its features, usability, and how it compares to other Echo devices. Plus, if you’re convinced by the end, you’ll find easy ways to grab one for yourself!
Design and Build Quality
The Echo Show 8 has a sleek, compact design that fits seamlessly into any home setup. The 8-inch HD screen provides a clear, crisp display with vibrant colors, making it ideal for watching videos, viewing photos, or even following recipes in the kitchen. The fabric-wrapped back adds a modern touch, giving it a premium feel that blends well with contemporary home decor.
The device is slightly angled, making it easy to view from a countertop or desk without needing to adjust the screen. The responsive touch display allows smooth navigation, whether you’re adjusting settings, watching tutorials, or making video calls.
Performance and Sound Quality
The Echo Show 8 is powered by Amazon’s latest technology, providing a snappy and responsive user experience. Alexa quickly responds to voice commands, making it a seamless addition to your smart home ecosystem.
Audio Performance
One of the standout features of the Echo Show 8 is its rich, immersive sound. Equipped with dual stereo speakers, the device delivers crisp highs and deep bass, making it perfect for:
- Streaming music from Amazon Music, Spotify, or Apple Music
- Listening to audiobooks via Audible
- Watching YouTube videos or Amazon Prime Video
For its size, the Echo Show 8 packs an impressive audio punch, making it a great alternative to a Bluetooth speaker with added smart display features.
Smart Home Integration & Alexa Features
Like other Echo devices, the Echo Show 8 seamlessly integrates with smart home products. You can connect it with Ring doorbells, smart lights, security cameras, and thermostats to create a fully automated home setup.
Some of the key Alexa-powered features include:
- Hands-free control of smart home devices
- Video doorbell monitoring (works great with Ring)
- Multi-room audio to sync music across Echo devices
- Voice shopping with Amazon
- Daily briefings including weather, news, and calendar updates
The Echo Show 8 is a fantastic command center for your smart home, especially if you already use Alexa-compatible devices.
Video Calls & Camera Features
One of the biggest reasons to choose the Echo Show 8 over a standard Echo speaker is video calling. The 13MP auto-framing camera ensures you stay centered during video calls, making it feel more natural. It supports:
- Alexa-to-Alexa calls
- Zoom video calls
- Drop In feature to check in on family members
Whether you’re catching up with loved ones or hopping on a work call, the Echo Show 8 delivers clear video quality and good low-light performance.
Privacy Features
For those concerned about security, Amazon includes a built-in camera shutter and a mic/camera off button, allowing you to control your privacy with ease.
Entertainment & Streaming
With an 8-inch HD display, the Echo Show 8 is ideal for watching TV shows, movies, and YouTube tutorials. It supports popular streaming services like:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Netflix
- YouTube (via browser)
- Hulu
You can also stream music with lyrics displayed on the screen for a karaoke-like experience!
Cooking & Kitchen Companion
If you love cooking, the Echo Show 8 can be your ultimate kitchen assistant. With step-by-step recipes from Food Network, AllRecipes, and more, you can follow along hands-free while preparing meals.
Simply say: “Alexa, show me a chicken pasta recipe.”
And you’ll get a list of options with video or text instructions!
Comparison: Echo Show 8 vs. Echo Show 5 vs. Echo Show 10
If you’re wondering how the Echo Show 8 stacks up against its siblings, here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Echo Show 5 | Echo Show 8 | Echo Show 10 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 5.5 inches | 8 inches | 10.1 inches |
| Camera Quality | 2MP | 13MP | 13MP + auto-framing |
| Audio Quality | Decent | Great | Best |
| Motion Tracking | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Best For | Bedrooms, Small Spaces | General Use | Kitchen, Living Room |
✅ Best Overall Value? The Echo Show 8 hits the sweet spot between size, features, and affordability.
Final Verdict: Is the Echo Show 8 Worth It?
Absolutely! The Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) is the best mid-sized smart display for those who want high-quality video calls, great audio, and seamless smart home control at a reasonable price. It’s versatile, easy to use, and integrates smoothly with Alexa and Amazon services.
If you’re looking for a smart display that balances affordability and premium features, the Echo Show 8 is a fantastic investment.
What are your thoughts on the Echo Show 8? Drop a comment below if you already own one or if you’re considering getting one!