Echo Show 8 2nd Gen Vs 3rd Gen – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Echo Show 8 2nd Gen & Echo Show 8 3rd Gen share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Echo Show 8 3rd Gen rather than the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen. 

Why Do I Recommend The Echo Show 8 3rd Gen

  • The Echo Show 8 3rd Gen has an advanced Amazon AZ2 Neural Edge processor for faster performance, improved AI-driven tasks, and smoother Alexa responsiveness, compared to the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen’s MediaTek MT 8183.
  • Echo Show 8 3rd Gen features a built-in smart home hub with Zigbee, Matter, and Thread support for seamless smart device control, while the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen requires an external hub.
  • It supports Wi-Fi 6 for faster, more stable internet connectivity and smoother video streaming, compared to the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen’s Wi-Fi 5.
  • The Echo Show 8 3rd Gen features improved spatial audio with enhanced bass and clarity for a richer listening experience, compared to the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen’s standard stereo speakers.
  • Echo Show 8 3rd Gen features enhanced auto-framing and centered subject tracking for better video calls, compared to the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen’s standard auto-framing.
  • It introduces Adaptive Content for dynamic display adjustments based on ambient lighting and user activity, compared to the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen’s basic adaptive color adjustment.
  • The Echo Show 8 3rd Gen has an improved far-field microphone array for better voice recognition and more accurate Alexa responses, compared to the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen’s standard mic setup.
  • Echo Show 8 3rd Gen features a modern curved-edge design with a repositioned, more centered camera for an improved aesthetic and better video call framing, compared to the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen’s traditional rectangular design.

Maybe the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Echo Show 8 3rd Gen. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureEcho Show 8 3rd GenEcho Show 8 2nd Gen
ProcessorAmazon AZ2 Neural EdgeMediaTek MT 8183
AI PerformanceFaster AI-driven performanceStandard processing
Smart Home HubZigbee, Matter, and Thread supportNo built-in hub
Camera13 MP with enhanced auto-framing13 MP with auto-framing
Audio SystemImproved spatial audio2.0″ stereo speakers
Microphone SetupImproved far-field microphone arrayDual-mic array
Display FeaturesAdaptive with improved ambient adjustmentAdaptive color adjustment
User InterfaceAdaptive UIStandard Alexa interface
DesignModern curved-edge designTraditional rectangular design
Camera PlacementMore centered for better framingTop-right corner
ConnectivityWi-Fi 6, Bluetooth supportWi-Fi 5, Bluetooth support
Smart Home IntegrationImproved smart home compatibilityWorks with Alexa routines
Processing SpeedFaster and more responsiveStandard
Voice Control ResponsivenessImproved accuracy and response timeStandard
Video CallingEnhanced subject trackingAuto-framing with tracking
Streaming QualityOptimized video streamingStandard Alexa video support
PriceCheck 3rd Gen PriceCheck 2nd Gen Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Screen Size & Resolution: Both Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) and 3rd Gen feature an 8.0-inch HD display with a 1280 x 800 resolution, providing a clear and bright viewing experience for video calls, streaming, and smart home controls.

  • Touchscreen Interface: Both models include a fully interactive touchscreen, allowing users to navigate menus, play media, adjust smart home settings, and browse content by touch.

  • Front Camera & Auto-Framing: The 13 MP camera on both devices provides high-quality video calls and includes auto-framing that tracks movement to keep users centered during video chats.

  • Privacy Features: Both models have a physical camera shutter and a mic-off button, ensuring privacy by allowing users to disable the camera and microphone when needed.

  • Alexa Voice Assistant Integration: Both the 2nd Gen and 3rd Gen come with Alexa built-in, offering voice control for smart home devices, music, news, weather, and more.

  • Video Calling Capabilities: Users can make video calls via Alexa, Zoom, and Skype, with support for Drop-In and intercom features across Alexa devices.

  • Streaming Services for Video & Music: Both models support streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Hulu for video content, along with Amazon Music, Spotify, and Apple Music for music playback.

  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Both the 2nd and 3rd Gen support Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to connect external speakers or stream music from mobile devices.

  • Wi-Fi Compatibility: While the 3rd Gen supports Wi-Fi 6, both models are compatible with Wi-Fi 5 networks, ensuring smooth connectivity.

  • Smart Home Device Integration: Both models work with Alexa-enabled smart home devices, such as smart lights, cameras, thermostats, and plugs.

  • Dual Stereo Speakers & Multi-Room Audio: Both devices include stereo speakers, supporting multi-room audio functionality for synchronized playback across multiple Echo devices.

  • Drop-In, Intercom & Announcements: Both models allow users to Drop-In on another Echo device, use the intercom feature, and make announcements throughout the house.

  • Customizable Home Screen & Photo Display Mode: Both devices feature a customizable home screen, allowing users to personalize content, widgets, and background images. They also support photo display mode, enabling users to showcase pictures from Amazon Photos.

  • Wall Mounting Support: Both Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) and 3rd Gen can be mounted using compatible stands, making them flexible for different room setups.

Common Features

FeatureEcho Show 8 3rd GenEcho Show 8 2nd Gen
Screen Size8.0-inch HD display8.0-inch HD display
Resolution1280 x 800 pixels1280 x 800 pixels
TouchscreenYesYes
Front Camera13 MP13 MP
Auto-FramingYesYes
Privacy FeaturesPhysical camera shutter, mic-off buttonPhysical camera shutter, mic-off button
Alexa Voice AssistantYesYes
Video CallingAlexa video calling, Zoom, SkypeAlexa video calling, Zoom, Skype
Streaming ServicesAmazon Prime Video, Netflix, HuluAmazon Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu
Music StreamingAmazon Music, Spotify, Apple MusicAmazon Music, Spotify, Apple Music
Bluetooth SupportYesYes
Smart Home CompatibilityWorks with Alexa-enabled devicesWorks with Alexa-enabled devices
Dual Stereo SpeakersYesYes
Multi-Room AudioYesYes
Drop-In FeatureYesYes
Intercom & AnnouncementsYesYes
Customizable Home ScreenYesYes
Photo Display ModeYesYes
Weather & News UpdatesYesYes
Timers & AlarmsYesYes
Built-in Web BrowserSilk, FirefoxSilk, Firefox
Control via Alexa AppYesYes
Third-Party Skill SupportYesYes
USB/HDMI PortsNoNo
Battery BackupNoNo
Wall Mounting SupportYesYes
Price Check 3rd Gen Price Check 2nd Gen Price

FAQ

What is the screen size and resolution of both Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) and 3rd Gen?
Both devices feature an 8.0-inch HD touchscreen display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. This ensures a sharp and vibrant viewing experience for video calls, media streaming, and smart home controls.

Do both models support video calling, and what platforms can they use?
Yes, both Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) and 3rd Gen support video calling through Alexa, Zoom, and Skype. They also allow Drop-In and intercom communication between Echo devices.

Is there a difference in camera quality between the two models?
No, both models feature a 13 MP front-facing camera with auto-framing, ensuring that users remain in focus during video calls. However, the 3rd Gen offers improved subject tracking for a better video call experience.

Do both Echo Show 8 models support Alexa voice commands?
Yes, both models come with Alexa built-in, allowing users to control smart home devices, ask questions, set reminders, and play media using voice commands.

Are there any privacy features on these devices?
Both Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) and 3rd Gen include a physical camera shutter and a mic-off button, allowing users to disable the camera and microphone for enhanced privacy.

Can both devices be used as a smart home control hub?
The Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) requires separate smart home hubs to control Zigbee, Matter, or Thread-enabled devices, whereas the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) has a built-in smart home hub with Zigbee, Matter, and Thread support.

Is there a difference in audio quality between the two models?
Yes, while both models have dual stereo speakers, the 3rd Gen features enhanced spatial audio with improved bass and clarity for a more immersive listening experience.

Do both Echo Show 8 models support music and video streaming services?
Yes, both devices can stream music from Amazon Music, Spotify, and Apple Music, as well as video content from Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Hulu.

What type of connectivity do these models support?
Both models support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. However, the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) has an advantage with Wi-Fi 6 support, ensuring faster and more stable internet connections.

Can I use these devices to control other Alexa-enabled smart devices?
Yes, both models can control compatible smart home devices such as lights, security cameras, and thermostats using Alexa voice commands.

Do these devices support multi-room audio?
Yes, both models allow multi-room audio, meaning they can be synchronized with other Echo devices for whole-home music playback.

Is there a difference in design between the 2nd Gen and 3rd Gen?
Yes, the Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) has a traditional rectangular design, while the 3rd Gen features a new curved-edge design with a more centralized camera placement.

Can both devices be wall-mounted or placed on a stand?
Yes, both models can be mounted using compatible stands, offering flexibility in placement.

Do these devices have built-in batteries for portable use?
No, neither the Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) nor the 3rd Gen has a built-in battery. Both require a continuous power connection to function.

What is the price difference between the two models?
The Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) launched at $129.99, whereas the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) launched at $149.99. The price increase is due to the improved processor, smart home hub integration, enhanced audio, and Wi-Fi 6 support in the 3rd Gen.

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