Amazon Echo Plus (1st Gen): Still Smart? A Retro Review!

The Amazon Echo Plus, first generation, holds a significant place in the history of smart home devices. Released several years ago, it represented a significant leap forward in smart speaker technology. Its integrated smart home hub was a game-changer, simplifying setup and control for compatible devices. However, time marches on, and newer models have emerged. This review aims to provide a balanced perspective on the Echo Plus (1st gen), considering its strengths and weaknesses in the context of today’s market.

Table of Contents

Design and Build Quality

The Echo Plus (1st gen) boasts a cylindrical design, similar to other Echo devices of its era. Its fabric-covered exterior feels pleasing to the touch, offering a subtle yet sophisticated aesthetic; The build quality is robust, feeling substantial and durable. While not overly flashy, its understated elegance fits seamlessly into various home décor styles. The top features the familiar button array for controlling volume and muting the microphone. The overall design, while dated by today’s standards, still holds up remarkably well.

Sound Quality

For its time, the Echo Plus (1st gen) offered surprisingly good sound quality. The integrated speaker delivers a decent level of bass and clarity, exceeding the capabilities of many similarly priced smart speakers. While it won’t replace a dedicated audio system, it’s perfectly adequate for listening to music, podcasts, and audiobooks in smaller rooms. The sound is well-balanced, avoiding harsh highs or muddy lows. However, compared to the more powerful speakers found in newer Echo models, the sound might seem slightly less refined and impactful.

Comparing to Modern Speakers

Modern smart speakers often boast significantly improved audio capabilities. Features like Dolby Atmos processing and more powerful drivers deliver richer, more immersive sound experiences. While the Echo Plus (1st gen) holds its own in casual listening, those seeking a truly high-fidelity audio experience might find its output somewhat limited. The difference becomes more noticeable when listening at higher volumes. The sound can sometimes become slightly distorted at maximum volume. Still, for its age, the sound quality is commendable.

Smart Home Integration

One of the defining features of the Echo Plus (1st gen) was its built-in Zigbee hub. This enabled effortless integration with a wide range of Zigbee-compatible smart home devices, eliminating the need for separate hubs. This was a significant advantage, streamlining the setup and management of smart home ecosystems. Users could easily control lights, thermostats, and other compatible devices using voice commands. This seamless integration was a major selling point and remains a valuable feature for users with existing Zigbee devices.

Compatibility and Limitations

While the integrated Zigbee hub was a boon for many users, it’s important to note some limitations. Not all smart home devices are compatible with Zigbee, and the range of the hub might be restricted depending on the layout of your home. Thick walls or large distances can significantly impact the signal strength. Users with extensive smart home setups may need to supplement the Echo Plus with additional hubs for optimal coverage and compatibility. Despite these minor drawbacks, the built-in hub remains a convenient feature.

Alexa Functionality

The Echo Plus (1st gen) runs on the Alexa platform, providing access to a vast array of skills and functionalities. Users can set timers, create shopping lists, play music, make calls, and control smart home devices through voice commands. Alexa’s capabilities have expanded significantly over the years, with constant updates adding new features and skills. The Echo Plus (1st gen) receives these updates, ensuring that its functionality remains relatively current. Although newer devices offer enhanced processing power for quicker responses.

Setting alarms and timers
Playing music from various streaming services
Making hands-free calls
Controlling smart home devices
Accessing information through voice search

Performance and Reliability

The Echo Plus (1st gen) generally performs reliably, delivering consistent performance in day-to-day use. Alexa responds promptly to voice commands, and the smart home integration functions smoothly. However, occasional connectivity issues or delays might occur, particularly in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals. These issues are not uncommon with smart home devices and are often easily resolved by optimizing network settings. Over time, performance might degrade slightly, reflecting the device’s age. But overall, its reliability remains reasonable for its age.

User Experience

The user experience is generally intuitive and straightforward. Setting up the device is relatively simple, and the Alexa app provides clear instructions and guidance. The voice recognition is generally accurate, although it may struggle in noisy environments or with unusual accents. The overall experience is user-friendly, making the device accessible to both tech-savvy and less experienced users. However, the limited display on the device compared to later models can be a drawback for some.

Value for Money

Considering its age and the availability of newer, more advanced models, the value proposition of the Echo Plus (1st gen) is complex. While it might not offer the same level of performance or features as current-generation Echo devices, it can still be a valuable addition to a smart home setup. Its price point has significantly dropped, making it a budget-friendly option for users who are primarily looking for basic smart home functionality and decent audio quality. It’s worth considering if you have a limited budget or already own several Zigbee devices.

Alternatives and Comparisons

Numerous alternatives are available in the market, offering improved sound quality, enhanced processing power, and additional features. Newer Echo models, such as the Echo Dot (4th gen) and Echo Studio, boast superior audio capabilities and more advanced smart home integration. Google Home devices also offer strong competition, with similar functionalities and ecosystem integrations. The choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences.

Echo Dot (4th gen): Smaller, more affordable, but with slightly less powerful audio.
Echo Studio: Premium sound quality but higher price point.
Google Nest Audio: Strong competitor with good sound and Google Assistant integration.

The Amazon Echo Plus (1st gen) represents a historical milestone in smart home technology. While it may not compete directly with the latest models in terms of features and performance, it still holds value for those seeking a budget-friendly option with basic smart home capabilities and decent audio output. Its integrated Zigbee hub remains a useful feature for users with compatible devices. Ultimately, its worth depends heavily on individual needs and expectations. The decision to purchase one today comes down to balancing its current capabilities with the advancements made in the smart speaker market since its release. It’s a testament to its initial design that it remains functional and useful, even years after its release. Consider its limitations, but also acknowledge its historical significance and enduring utility.

Meta Description: A thorough Amazon Echo Plus (1st gen) Review, assessing its features, sound quality, and smart home capabilities in a retrospective analysis.