Amazon’s mid-tier smart display gets a refresh with the All-New Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen, 2023 release). This iteration aims to enhance the user experience with improved audio, a refined design, and a more responsive interface, positioning itself as a versatile smart home hub for kitchens, living rooms, or anywhere you need a larger screen for Alexa interactions.

Key Specifications and Features

• Display: 8-inch HD touchscreen.
• Audio: Enhanced speakers with spatial audio processing for a more immersive sound experience.
• Processor: Upgraded octa-core processor for faster performance and responsiveness.
• Camera: Centered 13MP camera with auto-framing for improved video calls.
• Alexa Built-in: Full Alexa functionality for voice control, information, entertainment, and smart home management.
• Smart Home Hub: Built-in Zigbee, Matter, and Thread Border Router support for easier smart home device setup and control.
• Privacy Features: Physical camera shutter and microphone/camera off button.
• Entertainment: Stream music, podcasts, audiobooks; watch videos from Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu (support may vary), and other services.
• Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.
• Design: Refined edge-to-edge glass display and updated fabric finish.

Performance and Ease of Use

The 3rd generation Echo Show 8 delivers a noticeably smoother and faster user experience thanks to its upgraded processor. Navigating menus, launching apps, and Alexa’s response times are all improved. The standout feature is the audio quality; the spatial audio processing creates a wider and more engaging soundstage, making it a genuinely good device for listening to music. The 13MP camera with auto-framing significantly enhances video calls, keeping you centered in the frame.

As a smart home hub, the inclusion of Zigbee, Matter, and Thread support simplifies connecting and controlling a wide range of compatible devices. The 8-inch HD screen is bright and clear, suitable for viewing photos, recipes, or short video clips. While the Alexa interface is feature-rich, it can occasionally present a lot of information on screen, which might feel overwhelming to some users initially.

Who Should Buy The Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen)?

This mid-sized smart display is an excellent choice for:

• Users wanting a primary Alexa device with a good-sized screen and strong audio.
• Those looking to build out their smart home with a capable hub.
• Families who frequently make video calls.
• Anyone who enjoys listening to music and wants a device that sounds good.
• People upgrading from an older Echo Show 5 or a non-screen Echo device.

If you’re looking for a more portable device or a very budget-friendly option, the Echo Show 5 might be more suitable. For those wanting an even larger screen for extensive video watching, the Echo Show 10 or 15 would be the next step up.

Final Thoughts: The Sweet Spot in Amazon’s Smart Display Lineup

The All-New Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen, 2023 release) hits a sweet spot in Amazon’s smart display offerings. It provides a substantial upgrade in audio quality and performance over its predecessor and the smaller Echo Show 5, while remaining more accessibly priced than the larger models. Its enhanced smart home hub capabilities and improved camera make it a truly versatile device for any room where you want visual Alexa interactions, good sound, and robust smart home control. It’s a well-rounded and highly recommended smart display.

Ready to experience the best Echo Show 8 yet?

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