Amazon Echo Dot 5th Gen Review: 8.0/10 - The best smart speaker for most homes
Overview
The Amazon Echo Dot 5th Gen builds on the popular spherical design introduced with the 4th generation while adding meaningful upgrades under the hood. Launched in September 2022, this smart speaker features a larger front-firing driver for improved audio, a built-in temperature sensor for triggering smart home routines, and ultrasonic motion detection that can sense when you enter a room. It also doubles as an Eero mesh Wi-Fi extender.
Design & Build
The Echo Dot 5th Gen retains the signature spherical shape of its predecessor but with a slightly taller profile to accommodate the new driver and sensors. The fabric-wrapped exterior comes in Glacier White, Charcoal, or Deep Sea Blue, and the LED light ring sits at the base. Physical buttons on top handle volume, mute, and action commands. The build quality is excellent for the price, with a weighted base that keeps it stable. The compact footprint fits easily on a nightstand, desk, or kitchen counter.
Performance
Audio quality is noticeably improved over the 4th Gen, with clearer vocals and better low-end response from the larger driver. The AZ2 Neural Edge processor enables faster Alexa responses and on-device voice processing for improved privacy. Ultrasonic motion detection works reliably for triggering automations like turning on lights when you enter a room. The temperature sensor enables routines triggered by ambient conditions. As an Eero extender, the Dot can boost Wi-Fi coverage for compatible Eero mesh networks, making it a versatile addition to any smart home.
Features
Alexa integration remains the core feature, with support for thousands of skills, music streaming services, smart home control, and multi-room audio. The Dot works as a Zigbee smart home hub, allowing direct connection to compatible devices without a separate bridge. Lossless HD audio support is new for those with Amazon Music HD subscriptions. Privacy features include a microphone off button and the ability to view and delete voice recordings. The device also supports Amazon Sidewalk, a shared network for compatible devices.
Pros
- Improved audio quality with a larger driver
- Zigbee hub and Eero extender built in
- Temperature sensor and ultrasonic motion detection
- Strong privacy controls with mic-off button
- Excellent value at $49.99
Cons
- Audio still not competitive with dedicated speakers
- Eero extender requires compatible Eero router
- No Thread radio for Matter connectivity
- Requires Amazon account for full functionality
Verdict
The Amazon Echo Dot 5th Gen is the best entry-level smart speaker you can buy. It combines excellent Alexa voice control with smart home hub functionality and improved audio at a price that is hard to beat.
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Technical Specifications
How We Rate Products
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- Build & Design (20% weight): Material quality, ergonomics, and aesthetic appeal.
- Features (20% weight): Breadth and usefulness of included functionality.
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- Battery Life or Reliability (10% weight): Endurance testing for portable devices, or long-term dependability for stationary gear.
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