The Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) features a 10.1-inch HD display and a motorized base that rotates the screen and camera, allowing users to view security cameras through the Alexa app. PCMag's Will Greenwald praised its sleek white mesh design and integration with existing Echo Show devices, though noted the motorized camera may produce slight feedback during manual movement. The device supports smart home automation and voice control via Alexa, making it a solid choice for those already in the Amazon ecosystem.
Full review
Motorized base performance
The Echo Show 10's motorized base enables it to rotate and follow users around the room, a feature that PCMag's Will Greenwald found particularly effective in larger spaces. The device's ability to track movement and maintain visual contact with users was noted as a significant upgrade from previous models, though techspot reviewer noted that the motion tracking can occasionally feel awkward. The screen's rotation is smooth and quiet, according to multiple reviewers, with techspot describing the panning as 'smooth and quiet'. However, the mechanical movement does not appear to be precise enough to track individuals moving quickly or in complex patterns, limiting its utility in more dynamic environments.
The pivoting screen's effectiveness was demonstrated in real-world usage scenarios, with makeuseof's Paul Antill noting that the device works well as a main Alexa hub and entertainment center. The motorized base allows users to maintain visual contact with the display while moving through the room, which is especially useful for following recipes or watching content while cooking. However, the base's construction feels somewhat flimsy according to techspot's review, with the plastic components not feeling robust enough for heavy use. The device's ability to follow users is most effective in controlled environments like kitchens or living rooms where movement is predictable, but less so in larger or more open spaces where the device might struggle to maintain optimal positioning.
Audio quality and speaker performance
Audio performance represents one of the Echo Show 10's strongest features, with techspot reviewers praising its 'incredible audio performance' and 'excellent sound quality'. The device's 3-inch woofer delivers clear, resonant sound that fills medium-sized rooms effectively, according to makeuseof's Paul Antill. The speaker system provides a balanced audio experience that works well for music, podcasts, and video content, though techspot reviewer noted that bass sometimes takes a back seat in the audio balance. The combination of the screen and speaker creates a compelling entertainment hub experience, with makeuseof's reviewer highlighting that the 'excellent screen & speaker combo' makes this device a strong choice for those seeking an all-in-one solution.
The audio quality is particularly effective for hands-free content consumption, with techspot reviewers noting that the device 'effectively doubles as a security camera' in addition to its audio capabilities. However, the speaker's performance is somewhat compromised by the device's premium pricing, with some reviewers suggesting that the audio quality, while good, doesn't quite justify the price tag for those who prioritize sound over visual features. The device's ability to produce clear audio even in bright environments was noted by multiple reviewers, though the screen's reflectivity in direct sunlight remains a concern for some users.
Screen quality and visibility
The Echo Show 10's 10.1-inch HD screen delivers vibrant, clear visuals that are easy to read even in bright conditions, according to makeuseof's Paul Antill. The screen's brightness and clarity are particularly impressive, with techspot reviewers noting that it's 'clear' and 'bright and vibrant' even on the sunniest days. The device's screen does a good job at following users when enabled, making it practical for those who move around while using the device. However, the screen is quite reflective, which can be an issue in rooms with bright overhead lights, especially when the screen is tilted back.
The screen's visibility is compromised by its thick bezels, which make the display appear somewhat dated according to techspot reviewers. Despite these concerns, the screen's resolution and color reproduction are praised by most reviewers, with makeuseof's Paul Antill describing it as 'sharp and easy to see or read even on the sunniest days'. The screen's ability to maintain visibility in various lighting conditions is a mixed bag, with some reviewers finding it suitable for most environments while others note significant limitations.
Smart home integration and Alexa capabilities
The Echo Show 10's integration with Amazon's Alexa ecosystem is one of its primary strengths, with makeuseof's Paul Antill noting that it 'syncs well with other Amazon services' and functions as 'perfect choice as your main Alexa hub'. The device's compatibility with Amazon's extensive library of skills and services provides users with extensive functionality for smart home control, entertainment, and information access. The device's ability to function as a security camera when the screen is in motion was noted as a useful feature by techspot reviewers, though they pointed out that the camera is only useful when it's light enough to see normally.
However, the device's integration with the Alexa ecosystem has limitations that reviewers have identified. The lack of native YouTube support was a recurring criticism, with techspot reviewers noting that 'there's still no YouTube app' on the device. Additionally, the device's operating system was described as 'still be slow in places' by techspot, indicating that the user interface doesn't always provide a seamless experience. The device's ability to automatically adjust settings or perform complex smart home routines was noted as limited, requiring users to access the Alexa app for more advanced functionality. The Echo Show 10's integration with other smart home platforms is also limited, with makeuseof's Paul Antill noting that 'Alexa eco-system isnt perfect and doesnt feel as refined as Google Home'.
Privacy and security concerns
The Echo Show 10's ability to function as a security camera was both praised and criticized, with techspot reviewers noting that it 'effectively doubles as a security camera' but also pointing out that 'camera is only useful when it's light enough to see normally'. The device's camera is positioned to track movement, but this functionality is limited to well-lit conditions, which reduces its effectiveness as a security tool in darker environments.
The Echo Show 10's privacy profile was described as 'not perfect' by makeuseof's Paul Antill, who noted that 'Alexa eco-system isnt perfect and doesnt feel as refined as Google Home'. The device's ability to record and transmit audio and video data was a concern for some reviewers, particularly those who were more privacy-conscious about smart home devices. The device's lack of local processing capabilities and reliance on cloud connectivity for most functions was also cited as a privacy risk by several reviewers.
User experience and interface
The Echo Show 10's user interface was described as 'pretty straightforward to use' by one reviewer, though techspot's analysis noted that 'operating system can still be slow in places'. The device's app experience for streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Netflix was praised for its similarity to mobile versions, according to makeuseof's Paul Antill. The interface's navigation was considered smooth for most functions, with techspot reviewers noting that 'video calls are smooth and crisp' and that the device 'effectively doubles as a security camera'. However, the device's performance was inconsistent in some areas, with techspot reviewers pointing out that 'the screen's rotation is smooth and quiet' but also noting that 'motion tracking can occasionally feel awkward'.
The device's ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously was noted as a strength, with makeuseof's Paul Antill describing it as 'perfect choice as your main Alexa hub' and 'excellent screen & speaker combo'. The device's ability to maintain visual contact with users while they move around the room was considered a significant advantage, particularly for those who use the device while cooking or performing other activities in the kitchen. The device's ability to function as a security camera was also limited by lighting conditions, which reduced its effectiveness as a comprehensive home security solution.
Value proposition and market positioning
The Echo Show 10's premium pricing was justified by reviewers as appropriate for its feature set, particularly its motorized base and audio capabilities. makeuseof's Paul Antill noted that 'it's tied with the Echo Show 15 as the priciest option, but for those who can afford it and feel that they will benefit from a screen that can follow you around so you can always see it, there's really nothing else like it'. The device's positioning as an 'all-in-one assistant' was praised by multiple reviewers, with techspot's analysis noting that it 'delivers powerful audio and adds a motorized base that lets the screen and camera rotate as you move around'. However, the device's value proposition was questioned by some reviewers who felt that the $249 price tag was excessive for its core functionality, particularly when compared to more affordable alternatives with similar features.
The Echo Show 10's value was considered strong by reviewers who saw it as a comprehensive smart home hub, with makeuseof's Paul Antill describing it as 'one of the best premium choices, perfect for use as a main entertainment or information hub'. The device's ability to function as a security camera, entertainment center, and smart home controller was noted as a significant advantage. However, the device's lack of YouTube support and limited smart home automation capabilities were seen as drawbacks that reduced its overall value. The device's positioning as a premium product was supported by its superior audio quality and unique motorized base, but some reviewers questioned whether these features were worth the additional cost for casual users who might not fully utilize all of its capabilities.
Strengths
- +10.1-inch HD touchscreen display
- +Motorized rotating camera for security viewing
- +Compatible with existing Echo Show devices for camera integration
- +White mesh design with sleek back panel and 30W power adapter
- +Supports smart home automation and voice control via Alexa
Watch-outs
- −Motorized camera may produce slight feedback during manual movement
- −Screen rotation may interfere with power cord placement
How it compares
The Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) distinguishes itself with its motorized rotating camera and 10.1-inch display. While it offers better security capabilities, it's more expensive and has potential interference issues with the power cord, unlike the more compact Echo Show 5.
Rating sources
Our 4.2 score is the average of the 5 scored reviews above; 1 more reviewed it without printing a score and is not in the average. More about methodology.
