Amazon’s smart display lineup just got smarter with the new Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen). Packed with a fresh design, upgraded internals, and even more intuitive Alexa capabilities, this might just be the most compelling smart display on the market — but is it really the smartest one yet? Let’s dive in.
⭐ What’s New in the 3rd Gen Echo Show 8?
Amazon has given the Echo Show 8 a meaningful update. Here are the headline changes:
- Center-positioned 13MP camera with auto-framing
- Spatial audio for more immersive sound
- Faster Alexa responses via on-device processing
- New edge-to-edge glass design with softer curves
- Upgraded processor for smoother performance
This isn’t just a minor spec bump — the 3rd Gen feels like a complete refresh.
🖥️ Design & Display
The new Echo Show 8 looks sleeker than ever. Amazon has finally moved the camera to the center (hallelujah!), which not only makes video calls more natural but also balances the design aesthetically.
The 8-inch HD display is bright, crisp, and responsive. Whether you’re checking weather updates, watching Prime Video, or following a recipe, it delivers a great viewing experience with wide viewing angles.
Pros:
✅ Sleek, modern look
✅ Edge-to-edge glass improves visual appeal
✅ Camera cover for added privacy
Cons:
⚠️ Still no full-HD resolution (1280 x 800)
🎵 Audio Quality
Here’s where the 3rd Gen Echo Show 8 really shines.
With spatial audio support, the sound is noticeably fuller and more directional. Bass is surprisingly rich for its size, and vocals come through cleanly. Whether you’re listening to Spotify or taking a call, the audio experience is dramatically better than its predecessor.
Best for:
🎧 Music streaming
🎥 Watching shows
📞 Clear voice/video calls
🤖 Alexa Gets Smarter (and Faster)
Thanks to on-device processing, Alexa on the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) is quicker and more responsive than ever. Simple requests like setting timers or checking the weather feel nearly instantaneous.
Voice recognition also seems improved, even in a noisy room. Plus, with Visual ID, Alexa can personalize responses based on who’s in front of the device — a nice touch for multi-user households.
📸 Camera & Smart Home Features
The upgraded 13MP camera supports auto-framing, keeping you centered during video calls. It works flawlessly with Zoom, Skype, and Alexa-to-Alexa calling.
Smart home integration is a breeze — from controlling lights and thermostats to viewing security cams, the Echo Show 8 becomes a true smart hub with Matter support included.
Security Perks:
- Camera/mic disable button
- Built-in shutter for privacy
- End-to-end encryption for calls
🔋 Anything Missing?
Despite the impressive upgrades, the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) isn’t without a few downsides:
- Still tethered to a power cable — no battery model like the Echo Show 10
- No Google services (YouTube runs through the browser, not natively)
- Some third-party apps feel limited
🛍️ Verdict: Should You Buy It?
If you’re in the market for a smart display, the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) is arguably the best all-rounder available today. It balances price, performance, and features better than its smaller or larger siblings.
At $149.99 (often found on sale for less), it offers great value — especially if you use Alexa or have other Amazon smart devices.
✅ Buy it if:
- You want a capable smart display for home control, video calls, and entertainment
- You’re upgrading from an older Echo Show
- You use Alexa as your main assistant
❌ Skip it if:
- You prefer Google Assistant
- You need portability or battery backup
- You already own the 2nd Gen and are happy with it
Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
The Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) isn’t perfect, but it’s the smartest Echo Show yet — and one of the best smart displays of 2025.
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