The Amazon Echo, powered by the voice assistant Alexa, has become a ubiquitous smart home device. But with so many iterations and updates, it can be hard to keep track of the newest Alexa features and devices. This guide will break down the latest Echo options, highlighting their key features and helping you decide which one best suits your needs.
The Amazon Echo (4th Gen), a top pick for its audio performance.
Photo: Michael Hession
The Amazon Echo (4th Gen): A Well-Rounded Smart Speaker
The 4th generation Amazon Echo is a versatile smart speaker offering a compelling blend of audio quality and smart home functionality.
Photo: Michael Hession
It boasts improved sound quality compared to its predecessors, thanks to a redesigned internal architecture. Two 0.8-inch tweeters and a 3-inch woofer deliver a surprisingly robust audio experience with a noticeable stereo effect. Dolby processing further enhances the sound, making it richer and more immersive. Moreover, Automatic Room Adaptation dynamically adjusts the audio based on the room’s acoustics, ensuring optimal sound regardless of placement. You can further customize the audio with voice commands or through the Alexa app, adjusting bass, treble, and midrange to your preference.
Beyond audio, the 4th Gen Echo excels as a smart home hub. Its built-in Zigbee hub allows it to connect directly with a wide range of smart home devices, expanding compatibility beyond Wi-Fi-only devices. This simplifies smart home setup and control, enabling seamless integration of lights, locks, thermostats, and more. It also includes a temperature sensor, although its accuracy has been noted to be somewhat inconsistent.
The Amazon Echo Studio: High-Fidelity Audio for Discerning Ears
For those prioritizing audio quality above all else, the Amazon Echo Studio stands out. This premium Echo speaker delivers a high-fidelity audio experience with features typically found in more expensive speakers.
The Amazon Echo Studio, an upgrade pick for its fantastic sound.
Photo: Michael Hession
Five strategically positioned speaker drivers—a 1-inch tweeter, three 2-inch midrange drivers, and a 5.25-inch woofer—produce powerful bass, clear vocals, and detailed highs. Dolby Atmos support adds a spatial dimension to the sound, creating a more immersive listening experience. Furthermore, the Echo Studio supports lossless audio streaming from Amazon Music HD, providing audiophiles with access to high-quality music files.
Like the 4th Gen Echo, the Studio also features Automatic Room Adaptation, continuously optimizing the sound for the room’s acoustics. It can also be paired with a Fire TV for enhanced audio, effectively functioning as a soundbar.
Which is the Newest Alexa for You?
Both the Echo (4th Gen) and the Echo Studio represent the latest in Alexa technology. The best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. The Echo (4th Gen) offers a well-rounded combination of good sound, smart home capabilities, and affordability. The Echo Studio, on the other hand, caters to audio enthusiasts who demand the best possible sound quality from their smart speaker. Consider your budget and how you plan to use the device to determine which “newest Alexa” is the perfect fit for you.
