Amazon Echo Show 5 Review – Smart Display, Emergency Assist & More
Read our comprehensive review of the Amazon Echo Show 5 (Charcoal), exploring its features, performance, and value for money. Includes Alexa Emergency Assist subscription details.
Introduction
The Amazon Echo Show 5 isn’t just a smart speaker with a screen; it’s a versatile hub for your smart home, a convenient entertainment device, and now, with the included Alexa Emergency Assist subscription, a potential lifeline for your family. Juggling multiple tasks, managing a busy household, or simply wanting a quick, voice-controlled way to access information – the Echo Show 5 is a potent solution. Whether you’re streaming music, video calling loved ones, or automating routines, this compact device simplifies daily life.
Overview
The latest Echo Show 5 boasts a refined design, featuring a 5.5-inch display encased in a sustainable fabric cover made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester yarn and aluminum made from 100% recycled aluminum. Its compact footprint allows it to fit seamlessly on a nightstand, kitchen counter, or desk. The built-in camera provides video calling capabilities, while the enhanced audio system delivers surprisingly rich sound for its size. The inclusion of Alexa Emergency Assist elevates its functionality, offering a vital layer of safety and peace of mind.
Features
Hands-Free Alexa Control: Effortlessly manage your day with voice commands. Set alarms, play music, control smart home devices, get news updates, and more—all hands-free. The far-field microphones ensure Alexa responds accurately even from across the room.
Crisp HD Display & Enhanced Audio: Enjoy your favorite shows and videos on the vibrant 5.5-inch HD display. The improved audio drivers deliver clearer vocals and deeper bass, making it ideal for streaming music and podcasts. The display is also perfect for checking the weather, viewing photos, or following recipes.
Alexa Emergency Assist Subscription: This unique feature offers a fast, 24/7 connection to trained professionals in case of emergencies. Simply say, ‘Alexa, call for help’ to reach a live agent who can dispatch emergency services. This subscription also includes notifications to your contacts and pre-saved information sharing with first responders, offering critical support when it matters most.
Built-in Camera for Video Calls & Home Monitoring: Stay connected with loved ones through video calls or use the camera to check in on your home. Drop in on your family, pets, or even integrate it with compatible video doorbells for enhanced home security.
Sustainable Design & Privacy Controls: Amazon’s commitment to sustainability shines through with the Echo Show 5’s recycled fabric cover and aluminum. Privacy is paramount with a physical camera shutter and microphone off button, ensuring complete control over your data.
Benefits
Effortless Convenience: Streamline your daily routines with voice-activated control for everything from music and alarms to smart home automation.
Enhanced Safety & Peace of Mind: The Alexa Emergency Assist subscription provides a vital safety net, connecting you to trained professionals in emergencies, offering a sense of security for you and your loved ones.
Immersive Entertainment: Enjoy your favorite music, movies, and shows on a vibrant HD display with surprisingly rich audio, creating a truly immersive experience.
Improved Connectivity: Stay connected with family and friends through easy-to-use video calling features, regardless of location.
Sustainable Choice: Reduce your environmental impact with a device made from recycled materials, aligning your tech choices with eco-conscious values.
Usages
Perfect for Video Calls: Easily connect with family and friends through the built-in camera and microphone, providing a convenient and personal way to stay in touch.
Ideal for Smart Home Automation: Control your smart lights, thermostats, and other compatible devices with simple voice commands, simplifying your daily routines.
Great for Streaming or Office Setups: Enjoy your favorite music, podcasts, or streaming services on the HD display. It’s also perfect for displaying schedules, to-do lists, or video conferencing for remote work.
Nightstand Companion: Use it as an alarm clock, weather forecaster, and entertainment hub right on your nightstand, streamlining your morning and evening routines.
Kitchen Assistant: Display recipes, set timers, and play music while cooking, making your time in the kitchen more efficient and enjoyable.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compact and stylish design
- Excellent audio quality for its size
- Convenient Alexa Emergency Assist subscription
- Easy to use and set up
- Privacy features like a camera shutter and microphone off button
- Sustainable materials
Cons
- 5.5-inch display is small for video playback
- Limited processing power for demanding tasks
- Reliance on Amazon’s Alexa ecosystem
- Emergency Assist subscription is an ongoing cost
FAQs
What is the Alexa Emergency Assist subscription?: It’s a monthly subscription that connects you to trained professionals in emergencies. Simply say, ‘Alexa, call for help’ to reach an agent who can dispatch emergency services.
How do I set up the Echo Show 5?: Plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and follow the on-screen instructions or use the Alexa app on your smartphone for a guided setup process.
Is the camera secure?: Yes. The Echo Show 5 has a physical camera shutter for added privacy. You can also mute the microphones completely.
What devices are compatible?: It’s compatible with a wide range of smart home devices that work with Alexa, including lights, thermostats, locks, and more.
Does the Echo Show 5 require a monthly fee?: The device itself doesn’t have a monthly fee, but the Alexa Emergency Assist subscription is a separate monthly charge.
Product Specifications
| Dimensions | 5.7″ H x 3.8″ W x 2.8″ D |
| Weight | 12.7 ounces |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Display Size | 5.5 inches |
| Battery Life | N/A (requires power adapter) |
| Voice Assistant | Alexa |
| Smart Features | Alexa voice control, smart home integration, video calling, alarm clock, timers |
| Warranty | 1-Year Limited Warranty |
| Included Accessories | Power Adapter |
Ratings
| Display Quality & Brightness | 4.4 |
| Audio Performance | 4.3 |
| Smart Features & Voice Responsiveness | 4.5 |
| Camera & Video Call Experience | 4.1 |
| Connectivity & Compatibility | 4.2 |
| Value for Money | 4.0 |
Recommendation
The Amazon Echo Show 5 (Charcoal) with Alexa Emergency Assist is ideal for families seeking a convenient and secure smart home hub. It’s a particularly good choice for individuals who value ease of use, voice control, and enhanced safety features.
Conclusion
The Echo Show 5 proves that you don’t need a large screen or powerful specs to have a truly useful and enjoyable smart home device. The combination of Alexa’s versatility, the vibrant display, and the newfound peace of mind offered by the Emergency Assist subscription make it a standout choice. It’s a simple, affordable, and increasingly essential addition to any modern home.
