Amazon Echo Show 21 vs Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen)

The Amazon Echo Show 21 wins overall thanks to its 21-inch screen, full Zigbee/Thread/Matter hub, and higher owner rating. The Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) is the pick only if you want a compact, low-cost bedside display.

Size and hub reach. The Echo Show 21 is a wall-mounted 21-inch display that works as a Zigbee coordinator and Thread border router, while the Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) is a 5.5-inch nightstand screen that only bridges Matter.

No. The Echo Show 21 includes a Zigbee coordinator, Thread border router, and Matter bridge, so it can control those devices directly. The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) supports Matter bridging but is not a Zigbee coordinator or Thread border router.

For a tight space, yes. The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) costs far less, comes in several colors, and suits a nightstand or desk, with owners praising its clear screen and better-than-expected sound for the size.

Buy the Echo Show 21 if you want Amazon's largest wall-mounted display to replace a kitchen or living room TV, run family calendars, and control a full Zigbee/Thread/Matter smart home.

Buy the Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) if you want an affordable, compact Alexa screen for a bedside table or desk and do not need a large display or built-in Zigbee and Thread hub.