The 2024 Echo Show 8 continues to build on Amazon’s lineup of Alexa-powered devices with a screen, offering a balanced combination of practicality and features. Positioned between the smaller Echo Show 5 and the larger Echo Show 15, the Echo Show 8 stands out as a versatile option for various spaces, like kitchens or bedrooms.
We’ve seen previous generations of Echo Show 5, Echo Show 8 and the larger form factor Echo Show 10 and 15 devices. All of them have some commonalities of solid sound, decent quality screens and the smart home factor that Amazon does very well.
The third-generation Echo Show 8 sports a sharper design, with a modern mesh-covered rear that feels more contemporary, although the bezel is still quite thick. Its audio capabilities are impressive for its size, featuring two rear speakers and a passive bass radiator that enhances the low-end tones. While it might not rival high-end wireless speakers, it performs well when you compare it to Bluetooth speakers of similar size, delivering enjoyable sound for casual listening or even small gatherings.
As with all Echo devices, Alexa is at the core of the experience, making voice-controlled music playback, smart home control, and general queries effortless. Setup is quick and done directly via the device’s screen, a step up from Echo speakers that require a companion app.
Display and Features
The 8-inch screen is a major selling point. It enhances the Alexa experience by providing visual responses to queries, like showing weather icons or timers.
The display can also function as a personal photo frame when not in active use, though some of the stock screens may feel less useful. The device can handle video streaming from services like Netflix, recipe assistance while cooking, and even video calls, thanks to its ability to track movement around the room. Privacy-conscious users will appreciate the physical shutter to cover the camera when not in use.
The Echo Show 8 also doubles as a smart home hub; delivering Matter, Zigbee and Thread connectivity for your smart home. This can integrate beautifully with Home Assistant if you’ve decided to go down that pathway.
The touchscreen interface allows for easy control of connected smart home devices without needing to rely solely on voice commands, making it a more flexible option than a standard Echo speaker.
Closing thoughts
The Echo Show 8 is an excellent middle-ground smart speaker with a display. It offers solid audio quality, a responsive and useful screen, and full Alexa integration, making it a great choice for anyone wanting an all-in-one device for music, video calling, smart home control, and more.
Probably my only real gripe is that there’s a lack of compatibility with some of the services I use regularly such as Kayo Sports, YouTube and YouTube Music. I know I could change to some other services, but Kayo is the sticking point for me.
Despite my minor issues, its size strikes a good balance—large enough to see and interact with but compact enough to fit comfortably in most rooms. Couple this with the feature set and cost; you’re onto a winner. You can check it out at your preferred local retailer for consumer electronics, or you can pick one up on Amazon for $249.00
Disclosure Statement
Amazon has not requested the return of the unit following review.
