Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Smart Displays

Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) vs Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen)

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) and Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) score essentially the same (4.1 vs 4.1). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen)
Ranked #2 in Best Smart Displays
Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen)
$89.99as of Jul 9

The Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) features a redesigned compact form factor with improved audio capabilities and a faster processor. PCMag's Will Greenwald noted its enhanced voice clarity and deeper bass, while YouTube reviewers highlighted the new processor and improved screen design for nighttime viewing. However, the device lacks Netflix compatibility and comes with a mismatched white power cable. This smart display is ideal for users seeking an upgraded Echo Show experience but may not suit those who rely heavily on Netflix streaming.

Strengths
  • Improved audio with greater voice clarity and deeper bass
  • New faster processor with Amazon A2 neural Edge
  • Compact design with Infinity Edge coverglass and improv screen for comfortable nighttime viewing
Watch-outs
  • Netflix is not currently compatible with the device
  • Power adapter cable is white, not matching the charcoal color of the device
Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen)
Ranked #3 in Best Smart Displays
Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen)
$179.99as of Jul 9

TechRadar reviewed the Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) and noted its 8-inch LCD display with 1280x800 resolution as well-suited for kitchen use, particularly for cooking tutorials and media viewing from 5-6 feet away. The improved audio quality was highlighted as a positive feature. However, the packaging was criticized for being excessive. YouTube reviewer Art from Futex praised the screen size for kitchen use and setup simplicity, though mentioned subtitle readability as a drawback. This device is best for users seeking a mid-sized smart display for active kitchen spaces rather than those preferring smaller bedroom models.

Strengths
  • 8-inch LCD screen with 1280x800 resolution provides clear visuals for videos and tutorials
  • Improved audio quality makes it suitable for both music and voice commands
  • Easy setup process that doesn't require a phone nearby
Watch-outs
  • Excessive cardboard packaging waste
  • Subtitle readability is poor on the screen

How they stack up

Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen)

The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) offers a compact form factor with improved audio and processor, but lacks Netflix compatibility that the Google Nest Hub Max provides, unlike the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) which features stereo speakers and spatial audio. It's more budget-friendly than the Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) but doesn't include the motorized camera functionality that makes the latter unique.

Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen)

The Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) stands out for its kitchen-friendly 8-inch screen and simple setup process, unlike the Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) which focuses on compact design and faster processor. While it's more affordable than the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) with its spheroid design and spatial audio, it lacks the advanced smart home hub capabilities and privacy features found in the newer models.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAmazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen)Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen)
Screen Size5.5 inches8 inches
Camera2 megapixel18 megapixels
ProcessorAmazon A2 neural EdgeMediaTek MT8183
Power22W15 W
Resolution1280x800 pixels
Audiodual 2.0-inch speaker drivers with a passive bass radiator
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