null
Amazon Echo Show 5 Review: Why This Compact Smart Display is a Must-Have for Your Home
If you’re new to the world of smart displays, the Echo Show lineup from Amazon sets the standard for blending voice assistance with a touchscreen. The newest Amazon Echo Show 5 brings a host of improvements in sound and design while keeping the compact form that makes it perfect for a nightstand or kitchen counter. For anyone building a connected ecosystem, this Alexa smart display offers a seamless way to control your home, stay in touch, and enjoy media. Before we dive deep, check out our guide on the best smart home hubs for central control if you’re planning a bigger setup.
What is the Amazon Echo Show 5?
The Amazon Echo Show 5 is a compact smart home display that combines the power of Alexa with a 5.5-inch touchscreen. Unlike a traditional smart speaker, the screen allows you to see information at a glance — from weather forecasts to security camera feeds. It’s designed to sit on a desk, bedside table, or shelf without taking up much space, yet it packs impressive audio upgrades including deeper bass and clearer vocals compared to previous generations.
Key Features at a Glance
The newest Echo Show 5 brings several meaningful upgrades. Let’s break down what you get:
- Improved Sound: 2x the bass and clearer vocals for music and calls.
- 5.5-inch Display: Ideal for viewing recipes, show snippets, and video calls.
- 2 MP Camera: Built-in camera for video calling and checking in on your home.
- Smart Home Control: Manage lights, thermostats, and more with voice or touch.
- Photo Frame Mode: Turns into a digital photo frame when idle.
- Privacy Features: Mic/camera off button and built-in shutter.
- Sustainable Materials: 100% recycled polyester fabric and aluminum.
According to a detailed review by PCMag, the Echo Show 5 works well for video calls, though the camera is softer than the larger Echo Show 8. It’s a trade-off for the compact size.
Sound and Display: Small Package, Big Improvement
One of the standout changes in the latest Echo Show 5 is the audio. Amazon claims 2x the bass and clearer sound, and early reviewers agree. The Reviewed.com analysis notes that it offers good sound and impressive screen resolution given its size. The 5.5-inch display has a 960×480 resolution — crisp enough for song lyrics, news headlines, and recipe steps.
For music lovers, the Echo Show 5 supports Amazon Music, Spotify, Apple Music, and more. You can also stream shows from Prime Video or watch brief clips from news sources. While it won’t replace a full-size TV, it’s perfect for background content while cooking or getting ready in the morning.
Smart Home Control and Camera
The smart home display aspect of the Echo Show 5 is where it truly shines. You can control compatible lights, thermostats, door locks, and more with just your voice or a tap on the screen. The built-in camera lets you check in on your family or pets when you’re away, and you can even view your front door using compatible video doorbells. For more on securing your home, read our comparison of wired video doorbells.
Video calling is made easy with the 2 MP camera. You can call anyone who has the Alexa app or another Echo Show device. The Mashable review compared the Echo Show 5 and Show 8, noting the smaller model is ideal for tighter spaces while still offering essential smart home features.
Privacy and Sustainability
Amazon has built multiple layers of privacy into the Echo Show 5. You can physically cover the camera with a built-in shutter, and there’s a button to disable the mic and camera entirely. Amazon also states it does not sell your personal information. Environmentally, the device uses 100% post-consumer recycled polyester for its fabric and 100% recycled aluminum. The packaging is fully recyclable, making it a more sustainable choice.
How Does It Compare to Other Smart Displays?
While the Echo Show 5 is compact, you might wonder how it stacks up against the larger Echo Show 8. The GadgetGuy review highlights the 5.5-inch 960×480 display and 2-megapixel camera. The Show 8 has a bigger screen and higher-resolution camera, but the Show 5 is more affordable and fits on smaller surfaces. For a detailed spec comparison, check out the versus.com facts which cover dimensions, lowest frequency, and more.
If you’re choosing between the regular Echo Show 5 and the Kids edition, the The Ambient comparison shows they share the same hardware — the difference is the Kids version comes with a protective case and parental controls. The CNET review also notes the sound quality is similar to the Echo Dot, making it a great upgrade from a screenless speaker.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact size fits anywhere | Camera quality is only 2 MP |
| Improved sound with deeper bass | Screen can feel small for video content |
| Physical camera shutter for privacy | No built-in Zigbee hub |
| Eco-friendly recycled materials | Limited to Alexa ecosystem |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Echo Show 5 make video calls?
Yes, it has a 2 MP camera for video calls via the Alexa app or with other Echo Show devices. You can also make announcements to compatible devices in your home.
Does it require an Amazon Prime subscription?
No, you can use most features without Prime. However, Prime members get unlimited cloud photo storage and access to Prime Video content.
Can I control my smart home devices?
Absolutely. The Echo Show 5 works with thousands of compatible smart lights, thermostats, locks, and more. You can also view feeds from compatible security cameras.
Is the Echo Show 5 portable?
It’s designed for AC power, not battery operated. But its small footprint makes it easy to move from room to room if you have multiple power outlets.
How does it compare to the Echo Dot with clock?
The Echo Show 5 adds a full touchscreen for visuals, while the Echo Dot with clock only shows time and weather in a simple LED display. The Show 5 is better for video calls and media.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Echo Show 5?
The Amazon Echo Show 5 is an excellent entry point into the world of Alexa smart displays. Its compact size, improved audio, and useful display make it a versatile addition to any room. Whether you want to control your smart home, make video calls, or just have a digital photo frame, it delivers without breaking the bank. For a larger screen and better camera, you might consider the Echo Show 8, but for most users, the Show 5 hits the sweet spot of price and functionality.
Get the Amazon Echo Show 5
The newest Echo Show 5 delivers deeper bass, clearer vocals, and a 5.5-inch display perfect for video calls, smart home control, and streaming. Upgrade your smart home today.
If you’re serious about automating your home, don’t miss our roundup of the best robot vacuum mops to pair with your Echo Show for a truly hands-free experience. For compatibility with broader ecosystems, our Matter smart home upgrade guide explains how to connect devices across platforms.
© 2025 Digituras. Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
