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Introduction: Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen)
I’ve tested a lot of smart displays, from the first-gen models to tablets with Alexa built-in. I must say that the Echo Show 8 surprised me. It actually feels smart! It features thoughtful design, crisp visuals, and spatial audio. It also offers deep smart home integration. All of this comes in a size that still fits neatly on my kitchen counter.
🏆 Editor’s Choice Notice
Quick Navigation
Technical Specs
| Feature | Specification |
| Display | 8.0” HD Touchscreen with adaptive colour |
| Processor | Octa-core SoC with Amazon AZ2 Neural Engine |
| Camera | 13 MP (Centred) with auto-framing |
| Audio | 2 x 2.0” neodymium stereo speakers with spatial audio |
| Smart Home | Built-in Zigbee, Matter, and Thread Border Router |
| Connectivity | WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Dimensions | 200mm x 139mm x 106mm |
The Pros & Cons
| The Good 🟢 | The Bad 🔴 |
| Better audio with spatial depth – Music and voice content sounds more expansive and lively. | Higher price – Budget buyers might prefer the Gen 2 if they don’t need the hub features. |
| Sleek, premium look – Fits stylishly on a nightstand or counter-top with edge-to-edge glass. | Thick bezel remains – Looks slightly dated compared to modern tablets with slim bezels. |
| Advanced smart home control – Built-in Zigbee/Matter hub simplifies setup; no extra bridges needed. | Alexa-driven ads – Home screen suggestions can be intrusive and less useful than personalized info. |
| Responsive UI – The AZ2 processor ensures fluid navigation and zero lag. | No native YouTube/Disney+ apps – Reliance on the Silk browser limits streaming convenience. |
| Centered Camera – 13MP camera is finally in the right spot for natural video calls. | Stand sold separately – Sits flat by default; adjustable angles cost extra. |
What Makes The 3rd Gen Version Different ?
- Spatial Audio with Room Adaptation
This sound goes beyond the usual stereo. With embedded spatial processing and room acoustic sensing, it creates a surprisingly wide soundstage from its compact body. It’s not Atmos, but it delivers clear, immersive audio in the living room or kitchen. - Edge-to-Edge Glass & Centered 13MP Camera
The sleek, modern design replaces chunky bezels with polished glass. The camera now sits center-stage, which finally makes video calls actually feel natural. - Built-In Smart Home Hub
This isn’t just a screen—it’s a command center. It natively supports Matter, Thread, and Zigbee, meaning control of lights, locks, and sensors happens locally and faster than before. Alexa responds up to 40% quicker than with the last-gen. - Faster Performance with Neural Processing
Amazon’s AZ2 processor brings snappy responsiveness to touch and voice. It offers smooth scrolling and faster routines. There is zero lag when switching between apps.
Who Should Buy This Smart Display?
- Alexa or Prime users wanting smarter, more capable control over their home
- Those who value sharp visuals and better audio without price-jumping to larger screens
- Smart home DIY-ers — this acts as a smart home hub without buying anything extra
TRUK Scorecard
| Category | Score | Notes |
| Design & Build | 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ | Premium glass finish and centred camera are huge improvements. |
| Audio Quality | 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ | Spatial audio fills the room surprisingly well for the size. |
| Smart Features | 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | The inclusion of Matter, Thread, and Zigbee makes it a powerhouse. |
| Value | 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | More expensive than its predecessor, but the hub features justify it. |
| Overall | 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ | Highly Recommended |
TRUK Final Verdict
The Echo Show 8 isn’t just another smart display; it has evolved into a sophisticated centrepiece for modern homes. The enhanced audio, faster performance, elegant design, and robust home hub features outpace more tablet-like rivals.
While some limitations stick around—specifically the lack of native apps for YouTube and the persistence of on-screen ads—it holds its own exceptionally well. The Echo 8 is balanced, highly capable, and is currently my go-to recommendation for a smart hub.
Who Should Buy It?
- Alexa Power Users: If you want faster response times and local voice control.
- Smart Home DIY-ers: It acts as a hub for Zigbee, Matter, and Thread devices without extra hardware.
- Video Callers: The centred 13MP camera makes a massive difference in call quality.
💰 Price Disclaimer: Prices are accurate at time of publishing but are subject to change, check links for live pricing & stock.
FAQs
Can the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) replace a Zigbee hub?
Yes. It has a built-in smart home hub that supports Zigbee, Matter, and Thread. You can connect compatible lights, plugs, and sensors directly to the Echo Show 8 without needing a separate bridge from manufacturers like Philips Hue (for Bluetooth/Zigbee bulbs) or others.
Does the Echo Show 8 have a camera shutter?
Yes, it includes a physical built-in camera shutter. You can slide it over the lens to physically block the camera for privacy. There is also a microphone/camera off button on the top of the device.
Is the stand included in the box?
No, the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) does not come with an adjustable stand. It sits flat on its base. If you want to adjust the viewing angle, you will need to purchase the magnetic stand separately.
Echo Show 8 (Latest Gen)
The Echo Show 8 isn’t just another smart display; it has evolved into a sophisticated centrepiece for modern homes. The enhanced audio, faster performance, and robust home hub features outpace more tablet-like rivals.
Product Brand: Amazon
Product In Stock: InStock
4.5
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