10 Best Alexa Devices 2025 in the United States

The Amazon Echo Dot Max delivers a significant improvement in sound quality compared to previous Echo Dot models, offering rich, room-filling audio with nearly three times the bass of the 2022 Echo Dot. This enhancement makes music and voice responses clearer and more enjoyable in medium to larger rooms. While it does not include a display, the device focuses on excellent sound and smart home control, featuring a built-in smart home hub that supports Zigbee, Matter, and Thread. This allows easy connection and management of many smart devices without the need for an extra hub.

The Echo Dot Max incorporates Omnisense technology, adding features like presence and temperature detection to provide a more personalized and proactive Alexa experience. Voice recognition is powered by a fast AZ3 chip, supporting the newer Alexa+ upgrade for smoother and more natural conversations. The device is moderately portable, weighing just over a pound and fitting comfortably on a shelf or table, but it is mainly designed for home use since it requires Wi-Fi and power. Privacy controls include a microphone on/off button and options to review and delete voice recordings, helping users keep their data secure.

Additionally, the device supports eero Wi-Fi mesh integration to improve home wireless coverage, although this requires compatible eero equipment. For those seeking a smart speaker that combines enhanced sound quality with robust smart home features and advanced Alexa interaction, the Echo Dot Max is an excellent option. However, users who want a screen for recipes, video calls, or visual information, or prefer a highly portable battery-powered speaker, might want to explore other alternatives.

The Amazon Echo Show 21 is a robust smart display tailored for kitchen use, featuring a large 21-inch Full-HD screen. With built-in Fire TV, it delivers strong performance for streaming content, including popular apps like Netflix and Prime Video. The vibrant sound quality, supported by two woofers and tweeters, enhances the entertainment experience. The display can be customized with widgets, offering practical uses such as calendars, shopping lists, and weather updates, making it an excellent organizational hub for families.

The integration with Alexa allows for seamless smart home control, enabling voice commands to manage various connected devices. Privacy is well-considered with features like a mic/camera-off button and a physical shutter for the 13 MP camera. However, the device's substantial size and weight make it less portable. It is designed primarily for fixed placement, either mounted on a wall or using a separate stand. Additional features like video calling with auto-framing and noise reduction add to its appeal for staying connected with loved ones.

The Echo Show 21 excels in sound quality, display size, and smart home integration. Users should be prepared for its limited portability and the need for subscription services to access all content options. The 90-day limited warranty is relatively short, though extended options are available. This device is ideal for those looking for a powerful and multifunctional smart display to enhance their kitchen or living space.

The Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) is a compact smart display that brings Alexa's voice assistant to life with a 5.5-inch touchscreen. Its size makes it a good fit for small spaces like nightstands or kitchen counters, offering visual info such as weather, news, and video calls. Sound quality is improved over previous models, with twice the bass and clearer vocals, enhancing music and podcast playback beyond expectations for such a small speaker.

It integrates well with a wide range of smart home devices using WiFi, Bluetooth Low Energy Mesh, and the new Matter standard, allowing easy control of lights, thermostats, and compatible security cameras through voice commands or the screen. The 2 MP camera supports video calling and home monitoring, featuring a physical shutter for privacy. Multiple privacy features are included, such as a microphone/camera off button and the ability to view and delete voice recordings, providing peace of mind.

Portability is decent due to its small size and lightweight design, though it requires constant power and WiFi to function. The device also offers accessibility options for users with vision or hearing challenges. The relatively small screen limits how much content can be comfortably viewed compared to larger smart displays, and while the speaker has improved, it may not satisfy audiophiles or those wanting louder sound. For those seeking a compact, privacy-conscious Alexa smart display for everyday use, smart home control, and casual media, the Echo Show 5 is a practical choice; however, users needing a bigger screen or more powerful audio might prefer larger Echo Show models.