Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) vs Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen)

Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) wins with its higher owner rating, sharper and larger screen, spatial audio, snappy processor and full Zigbee, Thread and Matter hub radios. Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) wins only on price and footprint.

Performance and hub duty. The Show 8 is fast and fluid where the Show 5 is noticeably laggy, and the Show 8 coordinates Zigbee and Thread devices directly while the Show 5 only bridges Matter. Sound quality is also a class apart on the Show 8.

For voice-controlling Wi-Fi and Matter devices, yes. But the Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) cannot pair Zigbee sensors or serve as a Thread border router, so homes with those devices need the Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) or another hub.

Yes, each has a camera with a physical privacy shutter for calls and quick room checks. The Show 8's camera and screen make video calls markedly better; the Show 5's setup suits glanceable bedside use.

Choose Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) for a nightstand or small desk where price and footprint rule: alarm clock, timers, music and quick Alexa control, accepting slower menus.

Choose Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) everywhere else: it is the best-balanced Echo display, with excellent sound, speed, video calling and full smart home hub capability for a modest step up in price.