Deciding on a new Echo device can be a slight problem if you don’t understand the differences between them. Well, they’re all so new – how are you supposed to know which one is right for you? Let me make the decision easier for you by breaking down the similarities and differences. Here’s a summary of the Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, Echo Tap, and Echo Show.
What Do These Devices Have in Common?
If you’re looking at the new Amazon Echo devices and can’t seem to choose the right one for you, chances are you at least know one thing: these are smart devices for your home. Each of them is powered by Amazon’s brilliant, new “digital assistant,” Alexa. We’ve become acquainted with iOS’s Siri over the years; Alexa is like her cousin. The Echo, Dot, Tap, and Show are very different gadgets that allow you access to her wisdom and aid.
Aside from Alexa, here are some other commonalities that these gadgets have.
- Music and audiobook player
- Bluetooth enabled
- External smart device control
- Voice commanded
- Ever-growing features and intelligence
There are more differences than just the look of each of these gadgets, though. Here’s what makes each unique.
Amazon Echo
The original Echo introduces calling and messaging to anyone else with an Echo, Echo Dot, or Alexa App. It doubles as a speaker (360 degrees omnidirectional) with its sleek, tall, cylindrical design. Chances are, this is the first Echo device you heard about. Before you knew there were other options, this is what you are probably looking to purchase. Plus, you can accessorize this bad boy with Amazon Echo skins to make him look like R2D2 or a Stormtrooper if you want.
Echo Dot
Smaller and less expensive than the original design, the Echo Dot must connect to Bluetooth or stereo cable speakers in order for you to hear immersive audio playback. Dot can be used for inter-Alexa device messaging. If you are already in love with your speakers, choose the Dot – you’ll save money and get everything you need in a smaller package.
Echo Tap
The Echo Tap is basically a Bluetooth speaker on steroids with up to 9 hours of continuous playback. Messaging options and device control are NOT available with the Tap. If you don’t have any other smart gadgets in your home or friends using Alexa devices, this is probably the best option for you, as you don’t currently need as many tasks to be accomplished. And, if you’re into personalization, you can customize an Echo Tap skin to make it your own.
Echo Show
The obvious difference between the Echo Show and other Echo devices is the video screen. You can attach the Show to various cameras and video monitors. Unlike the original Echo and the Tap, there is no 360-degree omnidirectional audio speaker on this gadget, and inter-Alexa device messaging options are included. The Show’s speaker is front-facing, so the audio quality isn’t quite the same – a small price to pay for the increased functionality. When you want it all, and you’ve already got great speakers or you want to pair the Show with the Tap, this is the one you want.
Final Thoughts
When it comes time to choose an Echo device, the options can be overwhelming. I hope this helps you clear things up and you can make an informed purchase decision. Share this post with anyone having trouble deciding which to choose.
Author’s Bio:
Mitch Pazanski is the art department head at MightySkins, a vinyl skin company located in Florida. He helps design Amazon Echo skins, Google Home skins, gaming, and phone skins that are offered at MightySkins.
