In this video, I am going to review the Amazon Echo Show 8

The echo show 8 is by far my favorite smart display. It sits nicely in between the larger 10-inch screen of the echo show and smaller 5-inch screen of the show 5. It is also slightly larger than the 10-inch screen you get with the google nest hub. For me, it is the perfect balance of size, sound, and price. Especially if you purchase the device when it is discounted, which it regularly is.

The screen comes in at 8 inches with a resolution of 1280 by 800 which is the same resolution on the larger show. Because of this, the images on the show 8 look a little sharper.
The device itself is wrapped in fabric, similar to what you will find on other modern Amazon Echo devices.

On the back of the device you have the power port, a 3.5mm audio output, and a micro usb port. Although this micro usb port has no functionality as far as I can tell.

Along the top of the device you have a Camera cover that allows you to cover the camera, this is great if you are concerned about anyone watching in on you. There is also a volume up and down button, as well as a microphone/camera on and off button. There are also 4 microphones on the top of the device.

I have found that the microphones have no problem picking up my voice, even if I am listening to music at a decent volume.

On the subject of volume the speakers are actually pretty good. They are much better then the speakers on the show 5, and while not as powerful as the speakers on the larger show they still pack enough of a punch to let you enjoy your music.

Most music services including Spotify, Amazon and Apple music are supported.

The device has a simple user interface where you can control the brightness and settings by swiping down, and control routines and devices by swiping right.

Feature-wise the only thing missing between the show 9 and the larger 10-inch show is the built-in hub for connecting lightbulbs and other smart devices. Although I don’t actually use the hub on my 10-inch show so it doesn’t bother me, but it is definitely worth considering before you make your purchase.

While I am talking about smart home controls, the show is defiantly more useful than the voice-only echo devices.

Like any echo, you are able to ask the assistant to turn the lights on and off, set timers, and turn up the heating etc. But the show adds another couple of layers to this, First of all as well as confirming your command the action is also displayed on the screen.

You can also use the screen to control the devices. Its as simple as sliding your finger from the right-hand corner of the screen, selecting smart home. You can then control your devices using touch. This is especially handy as you are likely to have this device by your bed, in the office or other places where it isn’t always ideal to talk to the device.

You can also use the screen for watching videos on prime video and youtube (although this isn’t as good an experience as it is on the google nest hub). Other video services are available with the notable exception being Netflix. You can use the browser to load Netflix but it will not play any videos. The device is the perfect size for placing on a kitchen counter for watching videos while you are cooking or clearing up.

You can use the show for making calls to anyone with an echo show, echo spot, the Alexa app or skype. The quality isn’t perfect but it is fine for most people's needs.

If you have a ring camera, or another Alexa enabled camera you can also use the show to view the feed. You can even use the show to alert you when someone is at the front door and talk to the person.

One of the most useful features is routines. I can set a routine called "good night". Whenever I say "good night" the echo show will turn the lights off, turn the thermostat down and tell me what's on my calendar tomorrow. You can create multiple routines that can do pretty much whatever you want them too.

Overall my verdict is that this is the best smart display on the market. The screen is crisp and large enough to enjoy what you are watching, but not so large that it gets in the way.

The sound is more than good enough for most use cases and the smart home integration is very helpful.

I would also consider looking at the google nest hub especially if you are in the google echo system. However, for me this is my favorite smart display at the moment.


Buy here US
Echo Show 5 - https://amzn.to/2XKmZ5S
Echo Show 8 - https://amzn.to/2se3nLE
Echo Show - https://amzn.to/37IPi9k
https://www.amazon.com/shop/danielwestow

UK
Echo Show 5 - https://amzn.to/2XH2SVS
Echo Show 8 - https://amzn.to/2OhlatL
Echo Show - https://amzn.to/2OJFJhF

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