I got a nice note from Gary in San Antonio, Texas, the other day. To answer your questions, Gary: Yes, Komando is my real last name — and yep, I definitely can help you choose a smart speaker.
Gary asked about Amazon Echos, in particular. Even though I use an iPhone, I also went with an Echo over the Apple Home. They’re a lot more affordable and easy to use, and I already have an Amazon account. You probably do, too.
The trickiest part is narrowing down what to buy because there are a lot of options. I’ve got your back.
The best Echo for everyone, in one handy list
Checks all the boxes for under $100: The new Echo Show 8, released in 2023, is a good mid-range option with a nice screen that won’t break the bank. It uses spatial audio (nerd speak for sounds extra good), a camera for video calls and an adaptive color display to cycle through family photos — when you’re not using it for smart home hub tasks or streaming your fave show.
A TV alternative: The Echo Show 15, with a 15-inch screen, built-in Fire TV display and included remote, is the top-of-the-line option. Great for the kitchen, so you can watch food shows or ask Alexa for meal-planning inspiration, recipe lists or delivery services. It’s also the most pricy, at nearly $280.
Got kids? The Echo Show 5 Kids (there’s an optional bundle with smart lamp Echo Glow, too) offers kids-focused Alexa services. Think “Alexa, help me with my homework!” It also has parental controls like time limits, language filters and activity reviews.
For kids, sans screens: The Echo Pop Kids ($50) has roughly the same features as the Echo Show 5 Kids, but without the display. Bonus: Alexa’s voice can sound like one of their favorite Disney characters, including Olaf, Mickey or Dory.
What if all I really care about is listening to music?
You have options here, too, depending on how much you want to spend, your desired audio quality and even your space.
Premium full-room sound: Ideal for the largest rooms, the new Echo is your best option for sound quality, and it’s around $100. You can connect it to other devices like your smart TV for a movie theater-like experience.
Half the price, better sound: The 5th-gen Echo Dot is about $50 and reminds me of the three bears of sound quality — not as good as the newest Echo, but better than the Echo Pop below. It’s better for slightly larger rooms.
Small space, full sound: The new Echo Pop is a compact speaker ideal for bedrooms. At $40, it’s the most affordable option, especially if you plan to buy a few for around the house.
🤗 Need help deciding what model or version of tech to buy? I’m your gal. Drop me a note here with what you want to see. And if you know anyone who’s been noodling on an Echo, share this list!
🐦 Why don’t pigeons echo? A coo sticks. (Yes, you can steal that one from me!)
We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.