Amazon Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen, 2021)

Compact size helps it fit into tighter spaces

Barely any new upgrades ; Sounds shrill at high volumes ; Performance can be laggy

“With barely any substantial upgrades, don't be surprised if you can't find a reason to buy this Alexa smart display.”

Alexa voice control ; Decent sound and video ; Nicely put together

Audio quality isn't the best

If you want to get into the world of the digital assistant with both audio and video, the Echo Show 5 is a great way to do it.

Alexa is always learning ; Great for smart home control ; Loads of smart features

No 3.5mm audio input ; Small screen ; Not that different to the 1st generation

This tiny smart display is incredibly easy to use, especially if you already own other Alexa devices. Its 5.5inch screen is slightly too small to use in a kitchen, but for a bedroom or small office, the Amazon Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen, 2021) is perfect.

Affordable Can double as a home security camera Lets you see and hear Alexa

No YouTube app Audio lacks bass Low-resolution video

The Amazon Echo Show 5 (2nd generation) is an affordable smart display that brings the benefits of seeing as well as hearing Alexa to those on a budget. It’s simple to use, it’s got an improved camera, and it comes in a new blue finish. While it’s a...

Affordable Small size for versatile placement Useful Alexa features including smart home control and home monitoring

No significant upgrades from previous version 3.5mm audio output has been removed

The second-generation Amazon Echo Show 5 is nearly identical to the previous version, and remains a capable smart display for virtually anywhere in your home, particularly your nightstand.

Great bedside device ; All the skills of Alexa ; Good sound for the size ; Usually available at a discount

Touch response is slow ; User interface isn't the best ; Low resolution lacks future potential ; Could dim better at night

Amazon's smallest smart display is a great choice if you want a smart bedside device. Video calling is offered, but that essential privacy shield will offer assurance. But it's really Alexa and its myriad Skills that make this affordable connected...

Can view camera remotely ; New colour ; Affordable

Unimpressive sound ; Sluggish performance ; No aux output

The 2021 updates to Amazon's smallest smart display are minimal, but it's still good value if you want one for bedside alarm, clock, and radio duties.

Attractive, compact design ; Improved camera and new proximity sensor ; Alexa is tops at smart home control ; Excels as an alarm clock

Annoying setup process ; 3.5mm audio jack is gone ; Sluggish touchscreen controls ; Can't pair portrait photos side-by-side like Google displays can

We’ve already established that there’s not much point in upgrading to the second-gen Echo Show 5 if you already have the first-gen version. But what if you’re a first-time buyer—is the new Echo Show 5 worth your money?

Upgraded 2-MP camera ; New deep blue color option ; Motion-activated routines ; Functions as an indoor camera ; New Kids edition

Small for video calls ; Expensive if you only want Alexa features

The 2nd gen Echo Show 5 is a solid addition to the Amazon lineup, with the key differences from the 1st gen model including the beefed up camera and additional Alexa functions like motion-activated routines and home monitoring.

New Deep Sea Blue color option ; Improved camera ; Small form factor fits just about anywhere

Adjustable stand sold separately ; No more 3.5mm audio jack ; Multimedia experience not as good as on larger Echo Show devices

Bottom line: "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" should be the official motto of the Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen). Amazon did the bare minimum to iterate on its popular smart screen, but that doesn't mean it's not still a great product. If you liked the...