These devices have been selling out in record numbers. There are three reasons: First, the price is unbelievable and second, the functionality is hard to beat and third, owning one really makes life easier to stay connected to things we enjoy daily.. The price tag also makes it the cheapest voice-enabled touchscreen.
There are several similar Echo products designed to be used in different rooms of your house, but which should you choose?
Works as a solo device or as a smart home hub. Use Alexa voice control for music, home security, lighting, and reminders.
- Perfect smart home hub, control all your devices from your Echo.
- Better audio quality compared to the Echo Dot or Echo Flex
- Other devices may serve your needs better for a fraction of the price. If you will primarily use it for listening to music, you may want to opt for the Echo Dot instead, as it has most of the same features at nearly half the price but can’t function as a smart home hub.
While mostly similar in function and look compared to the regular Echo, the Dot is slightly smaller and can’t serve as a smart home hub.
- You want a device for voice commands and Bluetooth connectable speaker but don’t need it to function as a smart home hub.
- Slightly smaller than the regular Echo, doesn’t take up as much space
- LED Clock Display
- If you just want to use it as a Bluetooth speaker, there are less expensive speakers with similar or better quality.
All the functionality of a regular Echo with an added screen interface and video call capabilities. View recipes, watch tutorials, and video chat with loved ones all with Alexa voice commands.
- Screen display. If you like the functionality of the Echo but prefer an integrated display rather than voice controls only.
- Video call capabilities. If you don’t already have a device with video call functionality or want additional video-call capable devices.
- It may feel redundant if you already have a smartphone or tablet device.
- The price-tag. Other than the screen display, this functions the same as the Echo.
If streaming music isn’t your thing, Echo Studio allows you to control your CD players, turntables, and other RCA-connected devices with your voice through Alexa.
- Enhanced sound quality. Great if you’re planning to use your Echo for listening to music primarily.
- Also can function as a smart home hub.
- Works better if paired with multiple Echos or Bluetooth speakers to fully achieve studio-quality sound. Not a great option if you’re looking to only add one device and don’t have the budget to buy even more.
Echo on the Go
In addition to devices to help keep your home life in order, Echo offers Alexa-connected tech for voice controls on the go.
Connects to your car via Bluetooth or auxiliary cable connection, enabling hands-free control for your music, calls, reminders, and traffic alerts.
- Connects to the Alexa app on your phone and plays through your car’s speakers via auxiliary input or your smartphone’s Bluetooth connection.
- Designed for the road - With 8 microphones and far-field technology, Echo Auto can hear you over music, A/C, and road noise.
- Voice control Echo Auto makes any command very easy hands free.
- This device is a bit redundant. If you already have a smartphone, you have the same functions just by connecting your phone directly to your car via Bluetooth or auxiliary cable.
- The device also requires the app to be open to work, and therefore functions the same as using the Alexa app on your phone.
Wireless earbuds with Alexa voice controls, noise cancellation, and are cheaper than similar earbuds on the market.
- Cheaper than AirPods, Bose Sport Earbuds, and Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro
- Noise cancelling feature
- Needs an Alexa app to connect to your smartphone, as well as full access to your photos, mic, camera, and location.
- Short battery life. The charging case only powers up to 15 hours compared to other wireless earbud cases that offer 24 hours of charge.
All of Alexa’s functionality is built into sleek eyeglasses.
- Good handsfree call alternative if wireless earbuds don’t work for you.
- Built-in speakers are loud enough for you to hear but can be leveled so as to not disturb those around you.
- The mic provides clear audio quality for calls.
- Some eyeglass technicians refuse to install lenses to avoid potential damage to the device during installation. You may want to consult your glasses shop or optometrist if you require a specific prescription.
- Short battery life, making it not practical to wear for long periods of time.