Why this made the list
This is the Alexa answer to the Nest Hub, and it's a genuinely bigger step up for the money: a larger screen, noticeably better speakers, and a camera built in for video calls. For a household already using Echo speakers, it's the obvious next device rather than a new ecosystem to learn.
What it actually does
The current (3rd generation) Echo Show 8 has an 8-inch HD display at 1280 x 800, up from the smaller, lower-res screens on earlier models. Audio comes from two 2-inch drivers plus a passive bass radiator with spatial audio, a real step above a typical smart display speaker. A 13-megapixel camera sits centered above the screen and auto-frames you during video calls. It also works as a smart home hub, controlling compatible Zigbee and other connected devices directly through Alexa.
Who this is actually for
A household that already runs on Alexa and wants a countertop display for video calls, recipes, and music that sounds better than the cheapest smart displays on the market. It's a stronger pick than the Nest Hub specifically because of the built-in camera and speakers, if privacy on a camera-equipped device isn't a concern.
What to weigh before buying
- The built-in camera is a dealbreaker for anyone who wants a camera-free device in a bedroom, unlike the Nest Hub.
- It doesn't include Amazon's eero mesh Wi-Fi hardware, which some competing Echo devices do.
- If music is the main use case, reviewers point out dedicated speakers like the Echo Studio or a Sonos unit still sound noticeably better.
The verdict
The stronger all-around smart display if your household is already on Alexa and you want a camera and real speakers included. Not the pick if a camera on the nightstand is a problem for you.