Amazon Echo Show (1st generation) Review
The Amazon Echo Show (1st generation) marked a significant step in the evolution of smart home devices. It combined the convenience of Alexa with a visual interface, offering a unique user experience. This review delves into the strengths and weaknesses of this pioneering device, considering its capabilities in the context of its release date and comparing it to modern smart displays. We’ll examine its performance, features, and overall value proposition to determine its lasting legacy.
Design and Build Quality
The first-generation Echo Show boasted a distinct design aesthetic. Its robust build, primarily composed of plastic, felt surprisingly substantial. The 7-inch touchscreen was responsive, though not as vibrant or sharp as later models. The speaker placement and overall design prioritized functionality over sleek minimalism, resulting in a somewhat bulky yet sturdy device. Its size meant it wasn’t easily portable, making it best suited for a permanent location on a countertop or shelf. While not a design masterpiece, its durability made it suitable for various household environments.
Audio Performance
Audio output was a notable aspect of the original Echo Show. While not a dedicated audiophile device, the single downward-firing speaker offered surprisingly clear and robust sound. Voice clarity during calls and Alexa interactions was generally excellent. Music playback was sufficient for casual listening, although bass response was limited. The volume was adequate for a medium-sized room, but it lacked the impressive soundstage of newer Echo Show models. Overall, audio quality was a pleasant surprise considering the device’s size and price point at launch.
Display Quality
The 7-inch touchscreen was the defining feature of the Echo Show (1st gen). While its resolution wasn’t exceptionally high, the display was bright and generally easy to read. Viewing angles were acceptable, and the touchscreen’s responsiveness was consistent. However, compared to modern smart displays with higher resolutions and richer colors, the Echo Show’s display feels somewhat dated. The visual experience was adequate for video calls, displaying photos, and using many of the other features, but it wasn’t a standout characteristic.
Alexa Integration and Functionality
Naturally, Alexa integration was central to the Echo Show’s functionality. The first-generation model offered many of the core features present in other Alexa-enabled devices. Users could use voice commands to control smart home devices, set timers and alarms, play music, make calls, and access various information services. The visual interface made these interactions more intuitive, especially for tasks involving video content or visual information. The ability to view security camera feeds directly on the screen was, and still is, a particularly useful feature.
Smart Home Control
Controlling smart home devices via the Echo Show was seamless. The visual interface allowed for effortless management of lighting, thermostats, and other compatible devices. Viewing the status of connected devices on the screen proved to be more convenient than relying solely on auditory feedback. This feature was a significant selling point for many users at the time and remains a compelling reason to choose a smart display over a purely voice-controlled device.
Video Calling and Communication
The Echo Show’s video calling capabilities were a defining feature, differentiating it from other Echo devices. Making video calls to other Echo Show users or via the Alexa app was straightforward. The display provided a convenient way to stay connected with family and friends. While video quality wasn’t exceptional, it was adequate for most communication purposes. The hands-free calling feature was also a significant advantage, adding to the overall convenience.
Software and Updates
The Echo Show (1st gen) received software updates for several years after its release. These updates introduced new features, improved performance, and addressed security vulnerabilities. While the device eventually reached the end of its support lifecycle, it benefited from a reasonable period of software maintenance. This extended support period ensured that the device remained functional and relevant for a considerable time.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The first-generation Echo Show had its share of strengths and weaknesses. Its innovative design, combining Alexa’s voice assistant with a visual display, was a significant strength. The device offered a compelling combination of functionality and convenience. The audio and video calling capabilities were also noteworthy features. However, the device’s resolution and processing power were limited compared to later models. The overall performance occasionally lagged, particularly when handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
Comparison to Later Models
Compared to subsequent Echo Show models, the first generation lags in several areas. The display resolution, processing speed, and audio quality are all noticeably improved in later iterations. Newer models also boast sleeker designs and more advanced features such as improved camera quality and support for more advanced smart home functionalities. However, the first generation Echo Show retains its value for those seeking a basic yet functional smart display. Its simplicity and ease of use can be a significant advantage for some users.
Who Should Buy the Amazon Echo Show (1st Gen) in 2024?
In 2024, purchasing a first-generation Echo Show is only advisable under specific circumstances. If you are on a very tight budget and need a basic smart display primarily for making calls, controlling a few smart home devices, and using simple Alexa commands, then it might be a viable option, provided you can find one at a significantly reduced price. However, for most users, the significant improvements in newer models, in terms of performance, features, and overall user experience, strongly outweigh the cost savings of buying a used first-generation device.
Overall Value and Conclusion
The Amazon Echo Show (1st gen) was a groundbreaking device upon its release, successfully blending voice control with a visual interface. While its technology has aged considerably, its legacy lies in pioneering the smart display category. Its strengths in providing basic smart home control, video calling, and Alexa functionality remain relevant, especially at a drastically reduced price point. However, the limitations in processing power, display quality, and the lack of ongoing software support must be considered. The overall value proposition is significantly diminished when compared to modern alternatives, but for those with specific, limited needs and a keen eye for a budget-friendly option, it might still hold some appeal.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase this first-generation model hinges on individual needs and budget constraints. Considering the advanced capabilities of newer models, the first-generation Echo Show is a device best suited for those seeking a simple, affordable solution with limited expectations. Its historical significance remains undeniable, but its place in the current smart home landscape is considerably niche.
- Pros: Affordable (used), Simple to use, Basic smart home control, Video calling capabilities.
- Cons: Dated technology, Limited processing power, Lower resolution display, No longer receiving software updates.
- Consider buying a used Echo Show (1st gen) only if budget is extremely tight and you need very basic smart display functions.
- For most users, a newer Echo Show model offers a significantly superior experience.
- Check online marketplaces for competitive pricing before purchasing.
