Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Generation)
Edit8-inch HD smart display with spatial audio, 13MP auto-framing camera, built-in smart home hub (Zigbee/Matter/Thread), and Alexa.
Our Verdict
The Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) is the best smart display for most households. The Goldilocks-sized screen, improved audio, faster processor, and built-in smart home hub make it incredibly versatile. Whether you want a kitchen assistant, video calling device, or smart home control center, this does it all exceptionally well. The $150 price is fair for what you get—though watch for frequent sales that drop it to $100 or less.
What We Like
- Perfect 8-inch screen size for most spaces
- 40% faster performance with AZ2 chip
- Spatial audio with room adaptation
- Centered 13MP camera with auto-framing
- Built-in smart home hub (Zigbee/Matter/Thread)
- Edge-to-edge glass display
- Visual ID and Adaptive Content
- Physical camera privacy shutter
- Excellent for video calls and recipes
- Streaming apps: Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu
What Could Be Better
- Price increased to $149.99
- Heavily tied to Amazon ecosystem
- Limited third-party app selection
- Occasional ads and product suggestions
- No battery—requires constant power
Specifications
| Display | 8-inch HD touchscreen (1280x800) |
| Camera | 13MP with auto-framing, privacy shutter |
| Audio | Dual 2" speakers, passive bass radiator |
| Processor | Octa-core with AZ2 Neural Network |
| Smart Home Hub | Zigbee, Matter, Thread |
| Connectivity | WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Dimensions | 7.9 x 5.4 x 4.2 inches |
| Weight | 2.2 lbs |
| Privacy | Mic/camera off button, camera shutter |
| Colors | Charcoal, Glacier White |
Full Review
Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) Review: The Perfect Smart Display
The Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Generation) hits the sweet spot for smart displays. With an 8-inch screen large enough to see across the room, improved spatial audio, and a built-in smart home hub, it's the ideal kitchen companion and home control center.
The Goldilocks of Smart Displays
The Show 5 is too small, the Show 15 is too large, but the Show 8 is just right. The 8-inch edge-to-edge display is perfect for recipes, video calls, and watching content without dominating your counter space. The new streamlined design is more modern and premium than ever.
40% Faster Performance
Powered by an octa-core processor with Amazon's AZ2 Neural Network Engine, the 3rd generation delivers 40% faster responses compared to its predecessor. Navigation feels fluid, Alexa responds quicker, and smart home commands execute almost instantly.
Room-Filling Spatial Audio
Dual 2-inch neodymium speakers with a passive bass radiator deliver impressive sound for the size. Software-based spatial audio and room adaptation technology analyze your space and optimize sound automatically. It won't replace a dedicated speaker, but it's surprisingly capable for music, podcasts, and video.
Centered 13MP Camera
The repositioned camera now sits in the center of the display, making video calls feel more natural. Auto-framing technology follows you as you move around the room—tested to track users from over 15 feet away. The physical privacy shutter provides peace of mind when you want it.
Complete Smart Home Hub
A major upgrade: the Echo Show 8 now includes Zigbee, Thread, and Matter support, transforming it into a full-fledged smart home hub. Control compatible lights, cameras, thermostats, and more without separate hubs. Local processing of common commands makes everything 40% faster.
Adaptive Content
Visual ID recognizes family members and shows personalized content. Adaptive Content automatically switches to larger text and images when you're far from the screen—typically around 5 feet away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch Netflix on Echo Show 8?
Yes! The Echo Show 8 supports Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, and other streaming services. You can also cast content from your phone or use voice commands to find shows.
Does Echo Show 8 work as a security camera?
Yes, when you're away, you can use the Alexa app to view the Echo Show's camera feed remotely. It can also function as a baby monitor or pet cam.
What smart home devices work with Echo Show 8?
It supports thousands of devices via Zigbee, Matter, Thread, and WiFi. Popular brands include Ring, Philips Hue, August, Ecobee, and many more. Matter support ensures future compatibility.
Is Echo Show 8 or 10 better?
The Show 10 has a larger rotating screen that follows you around the room—great for video calls. The Show 8 is more compact and affordable. For most kitchens and bedrooms, the Show 8 is the better choice.
Can I make video calls to non-Alexa devices?
Yes, you can make video calls to anyone with the Alexa app on their phone, other Echo devices, or even Zoom meetings. It also supports Skype calls.
Share this review:
