Smart displays bring voice assistants to life: you get visuals for weather, video calls, recipes, camera feeds, and music controls all in one small device. If you want a helpful screen that doesn’t cost a fortune, Amazon’s Echo Show line gives two great, budget-friendly options: the compact Echo Show 5 and the mid-size Echo Show 8. Below I explain what each one does, who it’s best for, and how to choose between them — in simple language and with clear tips.
Quick snapshot: Echo Show 5 vs Echo Show 8
Echo Shows combine Alexa’s voice features with a touchscreen. That means:
- Visual answers (weather, timers, music album art).
- Video calls and Zoom/Skype support (on certain models).
- Smart-home control with easy on-screen controls.
- A compact digital photo frame when not in active use.
They’re especially useful in kitchens, bedrooms, small living rooms, or home offices where you want both voice and visual info without a big TV or tablet.
Echo Show 5 | Best for tight spaces and budget buyers
What it offers
The Echo Show 5 has a small 5.5-inch display and improved sound for its size. It’s designed to be a bedside alarm clock, compact kitchen helper, or desk companion. The device supports music streaming, shows brief video clips, timers, and quick video calls. Amazon+1
Who should buy it
- You want a simple smart display for a bedroom or small kitchen.
- You prefer something compact on a bedside table or desk
- You want the lowest possible price while still getting a screen and Alexa.
Pros and cons (plain)
- Pros: Small footprint, low price, good enough sound for casual listening
- Cons: Screen is small for watching long videos; camera and speakers are modest compared with larger models. Amazon
Echo Show 8 | Best balance of screen, camera, and price
What it offers
The Echo Show 8 brings an 8-inch HD screen, stronger stereo speakers, and a higher-resolution camera that auto-frames you during video calls. It’s big enough to show recipes at a readable size and to make video chats feel more natural. Many reviewers and experts call it the sweet spot for value: a noticeable step up from the small Show 5 but still far cheaper than the largest Echo Show models. Amazon+1
Who should buy it
- You do video calls with family/friends and want a clearer picture.
- You want to watch short videos or follow recipes comfortably.
- You want better sound for music without paying for premium audio gear.
Pros and cons
- Pros: Larger screen, nicer camera, better sound. Great for kitchen counters and shared spaces.
- Cons: Larger footprint and slightly higher price, though still affordable compared to premium smart displays. Amazon
Real-world buying tips (how to pick the right one)
- Where will you put it?
- Small bedside table or cramped counter → Echo Show 5.
- Kitchen counter, home office, or living area where people gather → Echo Show 8.
- Do you video call a lot?
- Yes → choose the Echo Show 8 for the better camera and framing. Amazon
- How much video and music do you want to use?
- Lots of music and occasional video → Echo Show 8.
- Mostly voice + quick info → Echo Show 5. Amazon+1
- Watch for sales.
Amazon devices often get big discounts during seasonal sales. If you can wait for a deal, you can get the Show 8 at a price close to the Show 5’s usual cost.
Short comparison table (easy view)
- Screen: Show 5 = 5.5″, Show 8 = 8″. Amazon+1
- Camera: Show 5 = basic (good for casual calls), Show 8 = higher resolution with auto-framing. Amazon+1
- Show 5 = improved for size; Show 8 = fuller stereo sound. Amazon+1
- Best for: Show 5 = bedside/desk; Show 8 = kitchen/living room/video calls. oneSmartcrib.com+1
Small things experts recommend (so your Echo is useful, not just decorative)
- Set routines. Use Alexa routines to run morning or bedtime sequences (weather + news + music).
- Privacy checks. Both models include camera shutter switches and microphone controls — use them when you want extra privacy. Amazon+1
- Place near plug, not too close to noisy appliances. A clear Wi-Fi connection and a quiet spot help sound and calling quality.
Final recommendation (one-line answer)If you want the most value for an affordable price and need a screen for calls and recipes, pick the Echo Show 8. If you want the cheapest, smallest smart display that still does the job, pick
the Echo Show 5. Both are strong, affordable options—choose based on how much screen, camera, and speaker you need.