Echo Show 8 3rd Gen Review: The Smart Display That Balances Size and Smarts Perfectly

Introduction

If you’re in the market for a versatile smart display that fits comfortably into your home environment without overwhelming your space, the Echo Show 8 3rd Gen might just be what you need. This latest iteration of Amazon’s popular Echo Show series aims to strike the perfect balance between screen size, audio quality, and smart functionality. Whether you’re looking to manage your smart home, enjoy video calls, or simply have a handy assistant on your countertop, this device packs a lot into a sleek design.

Key Features & Specs

• Display: 8-inch HD touchscreen with 1280 x 800 resolution
• Camera: 13 MP wide-angle camera with auto-framing for video calls
• Audio: Dual 2-inch speakers with Dolby processing for clear, rich sound
• Processor: MediaTek MT 8183, optimized for responsive performance
• Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0
• Voice Assistant: Alexa built-in with extensive smart home compatibility
• Privacy Features: Microphone and camera on/off buttons, camera shutter
• Dimensions: 7.9″ x 5.4″ x 3.9″

Design & Build

The Echo Show 8 3rd Gen sports a modern, understated design that blends well in most home setups. Its 8-inch screen is large enough to enjoy videos and see details clearly but compact enough to fit on kitchen counters or nightstands without taking up too much space. The fabric-covered speaker grille adds a touch of warmth and softens the device’s presence.

Build quality is solid, with a slightly angled screen that improves visibility when placed on a surface. The camera sits discreetly on top, and physical buttons for volume, microphone, and camera shutter offer peace of mind when it comes to privacy. Overall, the design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Performance & Real-World Use

Performance-wise, the Echo Show 8 3rd Gen handles everyday tasks smoothly. Alexa responds quickly to voice commands, whether you’re setting timers, checking the weather, or controlling smart home devices. The 13 MP camera with auto-framing is a standout feature for video calls, keeping you centered in the frame as you move around.

Audio quality is impressive for a device this size. Whether streaming music, podcasts, or Alexa’s voice responses, the sound is crisp and well-balanced, thanks to Dolby processing. The screen’s HD display delivers vibrant colors and sharp text, making it enjoyable for watching videos or viewing recipes while cooking.

One of the biggest benefits is the device’s versatility—it works well as a digital photo frame, a video calling hub, a smart home controller, and a personal assistant, all rolled into one. The user interface is intuitive, and the added privacy controls make it easy to disable the microphone and camera when needed.

Pricing & Value

Positioned in the mid-range smart display market, the Echo Show 8 3rd Gen offers solid value. It’s more affordable than larger-screen smart displays but offers significantly more functionality and a better screen than smaller, budget models. If you want a device that’s not too big but still packs a punch in terms of features and performance, this is a strong candidate.

This product is best suited for individuals or families who want a multipurpose smart display that can handle video calls, smart home control, and media playback without dominating the room. It’s ideal for kitchens, bedrooms, or home offices where space is limited but smart functionality is desired.

Pros

• Sharp 8-inch HD display perfect for video calls and media
• Improved 13 MP camera with auto-framing technology
• Rich, clear sound with Dolby processing
• Strong Alexa integration with extensive smart home compatibility
• Good privacy controls including camera shutter and mic off button
• Compact and stylish design fits well in any room

Cons

• Not the largest screen available if you want a more immersive media experience
• Limited app ecosystem compared to tablets or smart TVs
• Alexa can sometimes misinterpret commands in noisy environments
• Speakers, while good, won’t replace a dedicated audio system

Final Verdict

In summary, the Echo Show 8 3rd Gen is a well-rounded smart display that hits the sweet spot between size, functionality, and price. Its improved camera and audio features make it a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their smart home setup with a device that’s equally good for video calls, media streaming, and voice assistance.

If you want a compact smart display that doesn’t compromise on performance or features, this is a highly recommended option. However, if you need a larger screen for immersive video or a device with a wider app selection, you might want to consider alternatives. Overall, it’s an excellent mid-size smart display that fits well into most homes.