Tech Talk

Since there are so many options, it can be difficult choosing the right Alexa display in 2020. We've broken down the pros and cons of the Echo Show 5 vs. the Echo Show (2nd Gen) to determine which is a better fit for most people.

After testing the smaller unit, we can say that these are both solid Alexa speakers with decent displays. However, the Echo Show 5 offers a lot of convenience at a much lower price than the Echo Show (2nd Gen), even if the latter provides better image and sound quality. The Echo Show 5 allows you to browse the internet, make and receive video calls, control your smart home devices, and do many other things without needing to put a massive dent in your wallet. For a more detailed look at the smaller device, check out our Echo Show 5 review.

Echo Show 5 vs. Echo Show (2nd Gen): The differences

The relatively low price of the Echo Show 5 definitely makes it a contender among all other smart home displays. It sells for $70, which is less than half the price of the larger Echo Show (2nd Gen). The least expensive video assistants up until this point had been the Nest Hub which started out retailing for around $130 and now sells for $90, or $20 more than the Echo Show 5. Now, there is the Lenovo Smart Clock that sells for around $50, but the Echo Show 5 has more features and capabilities. No matter which smart display you compare it to the Echo Show 5 is still the best value option.

With a 5.5-inch screen, the display is about the same size as an average smartphone. The thing to note here is that the resolution for this display is only 960 x 480 pixels, which is considerably lower than most modern smartphones of the same size. Since the screen is relatively small, you might not notice this too much when using the Echo Show 5 to control smart home devices or to check the weather. But this could be noticeable when using the display to stream shows and watch YouTube videos.

Echo Show 5 vs. Echo Show (2nd Gen): Daily use

When it comes to audio, the Echo Show 5 only has one 4-watt speaker. Physically, the speaker is roughly the same size as what's inside the Echo Dot (3rd Gen), so although it's smaller than what you find in the Echo Show (2nd Gen), it should be good enough for most scenarios. The compact size of the device makes it ideal for end-tables and nightstands. No matter where you put it, it won't feel like it's taking up too much space. Plus, when it's not actively being used, the screen acts as a clock, so it's always helpful.

When it comes to privacy, the Echo Show 5 has an added measure to protect you from spying eyes. In addition to being able to push a button that turns off the mic and camera, you can slide a built-in cover over the lens to ensure nothing gets through. Speaking of the camera, the one inside this budget unit is only 1 megapixel, which is much smaller than the one found in the Echo Show (2nd Gen).

Considering that the primary camera in the average smartphone typically is 4 - 8 megapixels, this is disappointing. This means that during video phone chats, anyone receiving your call might not have as good of an image. For the best results, you'll want to use this device in a well-lit room.

Echo Show 5 vs. Echo Show (2nd Gen): Best in show

The Echo Show 5 can do just as many things as the Echo Show (2nd Gen) but at a much lower price. The resolution and audio quality might not be as powerful, but they work well with the small size of the display. The camera is the biggest thing you'll need to watch out for. Make sure to use the video call feature when you're in a well-lit room, and you shouldn't have problems. Plus, you'll get an added measure of privacy knowing you can manually cover the camera with the built-in shutter when you aren't using it.

The Echo Show (2nd Gen) is definitely more powerful than the mini Echo Show 5; however, it costs more than twice as much. With a 10.1 inch display, the screen is roughly the same size as the largest Amazon Fire Tablet. In addition to the screen being almost twice as big as the Echo Show 5, the resolution is much higher with 1280 x 800 pixels. Mind, it's nothing groundbreaking, but it will likely make for a better viewing experience when watching a show.

The front-facing camera operates at 5 megapixels, which on its own, is respectable, but it is much better when compared with the Echo Show 5's 1-megapixel camera. Those you call with will likely have a better visual. You can still turn off the microphone and camera by pressing a button. However, there is no built-in shutter to protect your privacy better. Since this more expensive device features two 10-watt speaker drivers and a Dolby processor, the sound it produces is a lot more enhanced than what you get with the Echo Show 5. That's fitting, given the larger size of this device.

The Echo Show (2nd Gen) communicates with your smart home devices by using Zigbee, which is an industry-standard for smart home hubs. Zigbee has a farther reach than Wi-Fi and communicates with smart home devices using mesh networking. It also consumes less power and has more battery life than Wi-Fi devices.

The Echo Show (2nd Gen) is a sound home display. In addition to having a larger screen, the speakers, camera, and resolution are all more potent than what the Echo Show 5 offers. However, the higher price may be a bit much for many buyers. You can get all the capabilities this device provides at a lower price.

Echo Show 5 vs. Echo Show (2nd Gen): When to splurge

As mentioned previously, the higher price tag of the Echo Show (2nd Gen) is a considerable con for this smart display. However, if you mainly plan on streaming videos or making video calls, you might want to go with the more expensive unit. It can function as a small, versatile TV and give you a better camera along with better resolution and sound quality.

Echo Show 5 vs. Echo Show (2nd Gen): Which should you buy?

Both the Echo Show 5 and the Echo Show (2nd Gen) are quality devices that can help you manage internet and smart home needs. The low price of the former makes it a far more accessible option. While it doesn't have the best speakers or the best resolution on the market, it produces quality sound and good visuals that fit its size. We especially like the added measure of security that the camera cover provides. Most importantly, the Echo Show 5 will help you take care of all of the things that the Echo Show (2nd Gen) allows you to without costing an arm and a leg.

The right price

Echo Show 5

$70 at Amazon $70 at Best Buy $70 at B&H

The best value Alexa display

This display is significantly cheaper than other Alexa display devices. It features a front-facing camera, a camera cover for privacy, and speakers. Use it to control your Alexa-enabled smart home devices, surf the internet, make video calls, watch shows, and more.

The splurge

Echo Show (2nd Gen)

$180 at Amazon $180 at Best Buy $180 at B&H

A larger display with Alexa compatibility

This large screen display is roughly the same size as the most giant Fire Tablet. It's great for watching movies and YouTube videos, as well as making video calls. Use it to control your smart home devices, check smart camera feeds, and much more.