(checked 2026-10-10)8,273 ratings pooled with the Echo Show 8 (4th Gen) on the same listing.
CNET's best overall and Wirecutter's kitchen pick: the sharpest Echo screen (1920 x 1200) with strong sound and Alexa+. It's the Show 8 with a bigger screen for more money, CNET says it shows a lot of ads, and PCMag says it lacks a physical camera shutter.
Subscription: Optional: Alexa+ is free with Prime or $19.99/mo without it (PCMag); you can opt out of Alexa+ (Wirecutter)
Top complaints
- Lots of ads on screen
CNET's one listed con is that, left alone, it shows a lot of ads. Wirecutter says Echo Show displays air sponsored posts and ads tied to your purchases and searches, which can be reduced but not removed.
- Same as the cheaper Show 8, with a crowded interface
PCMag lists the cluttered interface and 'same exact features and sound quality as the Echo Show 8' as cons. Amazon's summary says some owners don't think it's worth the cost.
- Glitches and connection problems for some
Amazon's summary says some owners report it being very glitchy and others say it won't connect to their smart devices at all.
What owners love
- Sharpest Echo screen
1920 x 1200, which PCMag says beats even the Show 15 and 21; Wirecutter calls it colorful and sharp, and Amazon owners call the display crystal clear.
- Strong sound
CNET calls it Amazon's best Echo Show sound yet; PCMag found it full, detailed and loud without distortion.
Source: CNET best smart displays, PCMag review - Great kitchen helper
Wirecutter's pick for cooking: Alexa+ handles detailed recipe requests and walks you through steps patiently.
- You'd be happy with the Show 8 (same features, lower price per PCMag)
- You want an ad-free screen
- You want a sliding camera cover
- Following recipes on a kitchen counter
- Larger rooms where you watch from a distance
- Video calls with an auto-framing camera
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- CNET: Best overall smart display, 8.5/10. Bright, crisp screen and the best Echo Show sound yet, but it shows a lot of ads.
- Wirecutter (NYT): Pick for video calls and countertops (updated 2025-11-24) and for cooking. Audio is fine for casual listening; touchscreen smart-home control isn't efficient.
- PCMag: 4/5, best for large spaces. Same features and sound as the Show 8; no physical privacy shutter.