The Amazon Echo Show 5 is one of the most popular smart displays on the market—but does its compact size deliver big value, or does it fall short compared to larger models? In this in-depth review, we’ll break down its features, performance, and real-world usability to help you decide if it’s the best pick or not for your smart home setup.
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Design & Build: Small but Mighty?
At just 5.5 inches, the Echo Show 5 is Amazon’s smallest smart display, making it ideal for tight spaces like nightstands, kitchens, or offices. The compact design is sleek, with a fabric-covered back and a sturdy base. But does its size limit functionality?
- Pros:
- Fits almost anywhere without dominating space.
- Decent 2MP camera for video calls.
- Physical camera shutter for privacy.
- Cons:
- Lower screen resolution (960 x 480) than larger Echo Shows.
- Small speakers—good for voice responses but not immersive music.
Features & Performance: Does It Deliver?
The Echo Show 5 runs on Alexa, meaning it handles all the usual smart assistant tasks—playing music, setting reminders, controlling smart home devices, and more. But how well does it perform in daily use?
Voice & Display Interaction
- Responsive touchscreen for quick adjustments.
- Alexa works flawlessly for routines, questions, and commands.
- Visual responses (weather, timers, recipes) are handy but limited by screen size.
Smart Home Control
- Works with thousands of smart devices (lights, plugs, cameras).
- Live camera feeds (like Ring doorbells) are usable but cramped on the small display.
Entertainment & Media
- Decent for podcasts & news briefings but lacks bass for music lovers.
- Video streaming (Prime Video, YouTube) is possible but not ideal due to screen size.
Privacy & Security: Should You Be Concerned?
Amazon has faced scrutiny over privacy, but the Echo Show 5 includes:
✔ Physical camera shutter (blocks the lens when not in use).
✔ Mic mute button (disables listening).
✔ Auto-delete recordings option in settings.
Still, if privacy is a top concern, you may want to evaluate how much trust you place in smart devices.
Echo Show 5 vs. Larger Models: Which One Should You Get?
| Feature | Echo Show 5 | Echo Show 8 | Echo Show 10 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 5.5″ | 8″ | 10.1″ |
| Resolution | 960 x 480 | 1280 x 800 | 1280 x 800 |
| Sound Quality | Basic | Better | Best |
| Best For | Small spaces | Balanced use | Premium experience |
Verdict: If you want a budget-friendly, space-saving smart display, the Echo Show 5 is a solid choice. But if you prioritize better sound or a bigger screen, consider upgrading.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Echo Show 5?
The Amazon Echo Show 5 is a handy, affordable smart display perfect for Alexa users who want a compact hub for smart home control, quick info, and video calls. However, its small screen and average speakers mean it’s not the best for media consumption.
If you need something just for basics—checking the weather, setting timers, or controlling lights—it’s a great pick. But if you want better audio or a larger display, you might want to look at the Echo Show 8 or 10.
Ready to see if the Echo Show 5 fits your needs? Check the latest price and deals on Amazon here.
Disclosure: This review was created independently, without sponsorship or compensation from the product’s creators. However, some of the links included are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission — at no additional cost to you — if you choose to make a purchase through them. This helps support the site and allows me to continue providing honest, unbiased content.
