Overview
Echo Show 8 (newest model) uses an 8.7-inch HD touchscreen with 800 x 1340 resolution. Also, it delivers room-filling spatial audio through dual full-range drivers and a 2.8-inch woofer.
The device is designed to stream music and shows, display recipes and calendars, and manage shopping lists. It supports smart-home control through its touchscreen or voice controls. In addition, Omnisense technology supports routines based on temperature, presence, or visual ID detection.
For practical expectations, the smart display supports Prime Video and Netflix apps. It also supports additional video through a browser, though video support may vary by streaming service. The audio system is designed to provide room-filling spatial audio.
Key takeaways
- The 8.7-inch HD touchscreen uses 800 x 1340 resolution.
- Audio hardware includes two full-range drivers and one 2.8-inch woofer.
- The built-in smart-home hub supports Zigbee, Matter, and Thread Border Router.
- A 13 MP camera supports auto framing, 3.3x zoom, and noise reduction technology.
- Setup uses three steps and connects the device to a Wi-Fi network.
- Buyers commonly mention good sound quality, clear display quality, and easy everyday use.
What the product is designed to do
This smart display serves as an entertainment and connected-home hub. Also, it supports streaming music, watching shows, viewing recipes, checking calendars, and managing shopping lists.
The built-in hub works with smart devices that support Alexa. It lets users manage lights, thermostats, routines, and other compatible controls through the display or voice commands.
If smart-home control matters more to you than entertainment or video calling, our Amazon Echo Hub Review looks at Amazon’s more dedicated wall-mounted smart-home dashboard.
Omnisense technology supports visual ID, presence detection, proximity detection, temperature sensing, adaptive brightness, and adaptive color. As a result, routines can respond to temperature, presence, or visual ID detection.
The device also supports video calls through a centered, auto-framing camera. Its calling tools include 3.3x zoom and noise reduction technology. A closer look at the smart display covers its core controls and entertainment functions.
Materials, dimensions, and technical details
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8.2 x 5 x 5.9 inches |
| Weight | 37 ounces |
| Display | 8.7-inch HD touchscreen, 800 x 1340 resolution |
| Camera | 13 MP with auto framing |
| Audio | One 2.8-inch woofer and two full-range drivers |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E support and tri-band Wi-Fi |
| Smart-home hub | Zigbee, Matter, and Thread Border Router |
| Processor | AZ3 Pro with AI Accelerator |
| Sensors | Temperature, ambient light, presence detection, and camera |
| Bluetooth | A2DP and AVRCP support |
| Included items | Smart display, 30W power adapter, and quick start guide |
| Languages | Alexa speaks English and Spanish |
The device supports 802.11a, b, g, n, and ac networks. However, it does not support ad-hoc Wi-Fi networks. Bluetooth speakers that require PIN codes also do not receive support.
Installation and placement notes
Setup follows three steps and connects the device to a Wi-Fi network. Also, Wi-Fi simple setup supports connecting compatible smart devices in a few steps.
The Alexa app works with Fire OS, Android, and iOS devices. It also works through a web browser. An adjustable stand supports tilt and swivel placement and comes separately.
Countertop and table placement support touchscreen access, voice controls, camera feeds, routines, and connected-device management. For another control-focused option within the same ecosystem, see this smart-home control panel guide.
Performance characteristics described
The audio system provides room-filling spatial audio through dual full-range drivers and a 2.8-inch woofer. Also, the audio wording covers crisper vocals, a wider sound stage, and up to twice the bass of the 2023 release.
The display uses an 8.7-inch HD touchscreen with 800 x 1340 resolution. It also provides 15 percent more viewing area than the 2023 release.
Video calls use a centered, auto-framing 13 MP camera. In addition, calling support includes 3.3x zoom and noise reduction technology. Live View supports checking on family, pets, and other spaces while away.
The home screen can turn into a photo slideshow when the device is idle. Alexa+ features support finding specific photos or creating a personal slideshow. The audio and display specifications bring these features together in one device.
Review patterns buyers commonly mention
Buyers commonly mention a crystal-clear, extremely HD display and good sound quality. Also, repeated feedback covers easy setup and straightforward everyday use.
Responsiveness, connectivity, and reliability receive mixed feedback. Some experiences cover quick operation and compatibility with smart devices. However, other feedback covers slow physical response time, connection issues, and features stopping unexpectedly.
Pros
- Room-filling spatial audio uses dual full-range drivers and a 2.8-inch woofer.
- The 8.7-inch HD touchscreen uses 800 x 1340 resolution.
- The built-in hub supports Zigbee, Matter, and Thread Border Router.
- The 13 MP camera supports auto framing, zoom, and noise reduction technology.
- Buyers commonly mention clear display quality and easy setup.
Cons
- Buyers commonly mention mixed responsiveness.
- Connectivity feedback includes connection issues.
- Reliability feedback includes features stopping unexpectedly.
- Some Bluetooth speakers requiring PIN codes do not receive support.
FAQ
What display does the device use?
It uses an 8.7-inch HD touchscreen with 800 x 1340 resolution.
What audio hardware does it include?
It includes one 2.8-inch woofer and two full-range drivers. Also, the system provides room-filling spatial audio.
Does it include a smart-home hub?
Yes. The built-in hub supports Zigbee, Matter, and Thread Border Router.
What video-call features does it support?
The 13 MP camera supports auto framing, 3.3x zoom, and noise reduction technology.
What comes in the box?
The box includes the smart display, a 30W power adapter, and a quick start guide.
What streaming services does it support?
It supports Prime Video and Netflix apps. Also, it supports additional video through a browser, with support varying by streaming service. A full feature summary covers its entertainment and connected-home functions.