Our picks at a glance
Paid link: buttons go to the retailer. Prices change often, so we link to the current price instead of listing one.
Comparison table
| Feature | Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen)Best smart display | Amazon Echo (4th Gen)Best value speaker | Sonos Era 300Best for music |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verdict | Buy | Buy | Consider |
| Best for | Kitchens and bedrooms | Everyday Alexa | Spatial audio music |
| Key feature | Screen for video calls and recipes | Full sound with smart-home hub | Dolby Atmos music |
| Typical price | $130–$150 | $80–$100 | $450–$480 |
| Where to buy | Check price Paid link | Check price Paid link | Check price Paid link |
8.5/10 research score
Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen)
Screen for video calls and recipes. Our pick for kitchens and bedrooms.
- Buy it if
- You want Alexa with a screen for calls, recipes and cameras.
- Skip it if
- You want the best music sound.
Pros
- Good sound for its size
- Smart-home hub built in
- Camera shutter for privacy
Cons
- Shows promotions on screen
8.2/10 research score
Amazon Echo (4th Gen)
Full sound with smart-home hub. Our pick for everyday Alexa.
- Buy it if
- You want an affordable Alexa speaker that fills a room.
- Skip it if
- You care most about hi-fi music.
Pros
- Fuller sound than smaller Echos
- Zigbee hub built in
- Affordable
Cons
- Not hi-fi
8.2/10 research score
Sonos Era 300
Dolby Atmos music. Our pick for spatial audio music.
- Buy it if
- Music quality matters more than smart features.
- Skip it if
- You want a screen or a cheap speaker.
Pros
- Immersive spatial sound
- Excellent build
- Multi-room with Sonos
Cons
- Expensive
- Unusual shape
Compare more smart speakers & displays on Amazon Paid link
How we chose
Alexa and other smart speakers and displays compared on sound, screen and smart-home control. We compared specifications, manufacturer documentation, warranty terms and typical prices, then gave every product a clear verdict with the people who should skip it.
What to look for in smart speakers & displays
- Pick the voice assistant first; it decides which devices work smoothly together.
- A smart display adds video calls, recipes and camera feeds.
Frequently asked questions
Do smart speakers always listen?
They listen locally for the wake word. You can mute the microphones with a button.