Any brand that takes on consumer feedback and releases an upgraded model gets an immediate tick in our eyes, and that's exactly what Amazon has done with the all-new Echo Spot. After the first generation was discontinued in 2019, Amazon has released a variety of similar models, including the popular Echo Pop. However, after consumers began yearning for a hybrid smart speaker and smart display, Amazon eventually pulled through.
I've been reviewing the Echo Spot over the past few weeks, and it's found a firm place in a number of different locations across my home. As someone who often forgets to use the best smart speakers to the best of their ability, the Spot has undeniably made my life a whole lot easier.
Keep reading to find out my thoughts, and whether the upgraded model is worth all the fuss.
Amazon Echo Spot review: price and availability
The Echo Spot is available to buy from Amazon for an RRP of £79.99/$79.99. However, it recently reduced to £49.99/$44.99 during Prime Day, so we expect it'll be discounted again during Amazon's second sale event in October.
It comes in three stylish colours, including Black, Glacier White and Ocean Blue. I've been reviewing the Glacier White which fits with any kind of aesthetic.
Amazon Echo Spot review: unboxing and set up
Just like other Amazon Echo products, the Echo Spot was extremely easy to set up. As soon as it's plugged in to a power outlet, a QR code appears which you have to scan to take you to the Alexa app. The app then guides you throughout the set up, prompting you to connect the Spot to your Wi-Fi network and link it to your Amazon account.
After that, the Echo Spot appears in your device list along with any other Amazon smart home products you own. If you haven't already, it's easy to sync the Spot up to other smart products, such as Philips Hue lights or one of the best smart plugs. You can also connect it to other apps, including Spotify.
Amazon Echo Spot review: design and features
One of the biggest difference between the new model and the original Echo Spot is the removal of the camera, meaning it can't be used for video calling. As the new Echo Spot is primarily intended to be used as an alarm clock, this makes a lot of sense.
Another difference is that the screen is no longer rounded. The original Echo Spot featured a round 2.5-inch display with a 480 x 480 resolution, whereas the 2024 model has a rectangular 2.83-inch 320 x 240 resolution display that's located in the top half of the face. The design suggests the screen is a half screen, so this is slightly disappointing when you get up close and personal.
As well as controlling the Spot via voice control or the Alexa app, there are three buttons for adjusting the volume and toggling the microphone on and off. The power port is positioned at the back, and there's a rubber foot underneath to stop it from moving about.
Unlike other Echo devices, Amazon doesn't intend for users to utilise the Spot for visual content. One of the Echo Show's most attractive features is its ability to display a live feed from one of the best video doorbells or best security cameras. This means if you're a fan of being able to check who's at the front door without checking your phone, the Echo Spot isn't for you.
When it comes to its primary use, the Echo Spot is great. Users can schedule alarms via voice control or through the app, and either set a default alarm tone (there are lots to choose from) or request to be woken up with a specific song or playlist. Users can also tap anywhere on the top of the device to temporarily snooze it
The Spot's screen gradually dims during the evening without being prompted, and the lettering eventually turns red. This removes all blue light from the screen, allowing its user to be unbothered by any illumination throughout the night.
Apart from that, the Echo Spot does everything you'd expect an Alexa device to do. One nice touch is that the weather condition is constantly displayed, so if you regularly ask Alexa what to expect in the forecast, just a quick glance will now suffice.
Amazon Echo Spot review: performance
When testing the new Echo Spot, I used it for pretty much everything. It started off on my bedside table as an alarm clock, and was pretty much perfect in every way. I struggled with my previous alarm clock, the Momcozy Sunrise Wake-up Light, as its snooze button was incredibly small. This meant I loved being able to tap the Spot at any angle to silence it. The alarms were always accurate and reliable, and being woken up to my favourite playlists was a nice touch.
When listening to music, podcasts and radio channels, I was impressed with the sound quality. There's a good volume range and the resound was clear and strong, and despite not being one of the best speakers on the market, it's perfectly acceptable.
All of the other features I tried worked really well, including calling someone on my contact list, setting a timer or tuning on my smart lights. I was heard correctly every time and Alexa reacted and followed through each request promptly and accurately.
I did find myself wishing the Spot had a few more control options via the screen, but there are other Echo devices that facilitate this. It's just something to be aware of before purchasing.
Amazon Echo Spot review: verdict
I thoroughly enjoyed testing the new Amazon Echo Spot, and it's clear the new model has had a strong upgrade from its 2017 predecessor. The Spot's alarm clock function is particularly impressive, setting it apart from other smart speakers on the market, and its sound quality is great for its size. I did find myself slightly disappointed at the display dimensions, especially as the semi-circle face is deceivingly smaller than it looks. There's also limited screen control, but there are other Echo devices to go with if this is something you're looking for.
Amazon Echo Spot review: alternatives to consider
If you're looking for a smart speaker but would prefer to have visuals as well as voice activation, I'd recommend the Echo Show 8. It's a display, assistant and smart home hub all in one, and it makes navigating schedules and controlling your smart home a whole lot easier. It's a bit pricer than the Spot, but it can display videos and photos as well as the time and weather.
Like the sound of the Echo Spot but looking for a more effective speaker? You'll be better off with the Echo Hub. There's no clock face, but it does deliver a much more resonant sound.
