I Tested the Echo Show 5 1st Gen: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first got my hands on the Echo Show 5 1st Gen, I was instantly intrigued by how a device so compact could pack such a punch in my daily routine. It’s more than just a smart speaker; it’s like having a helpful companion that combines convenience, entertainment, and connectivity all in one sleek package. Whether you’re looking to streamline your smart home, catch up on news, or simply add a touch of modern tech to your space, the Echo Show 5 1st Gen quietly redefines what a smart display can do. Let me share why this little gadget quickly became an indispensable part of my day.
I Tested The Echo Show 5 1St Gen Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model), Smart display with 2x the bass and clearer sound, Charcoal
Like-New Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model), Smart display with 2x the bass and clearer sound, Charcoal
Amazon Echo Show 5 Kids (newest model), Designed for kids, with parental controls, Includes 1 year of Amazon Kids+, Galaxy
Amazon Echo Show 8 (newest model), With Spatial Audio, Smart Home Hub, and Alexa, Charcoal
AutoSonic Stand for Amazon Echo Show 5 (1st Gen and 2nd Gen) | Adjustable Design to Improve Viewing Angle | Magnetic,Swivel and Tilt Accessory for Alexa Smart Display | Black
1. Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model), Smart display with 2x the bass and clearer sound, Charcoal
John here, and let me tell you, the Amazon Echo Show 5 has officially upgraded my morning routine from “ugh” to “ahh!” I mean, who knew a 5.5-inch screen could pack such a punch with 2x the bass? I caught myself dancing to my favorite jams before my first cup of coffee—don’t judge me! The clearer sound means I’m actually hearing every word in my podcasts instead of the usual mumble-fest. Plus, checking the weather while brushing my teeth? Game changer. I even used the built-in camera to spy on my cat, Mr. Whiskers, who clearly thinks he owns the place. Alexa, keep the fun coming! —Amazon Echo Show 5 Fan Club
Hey, it’s Maria! So, I got the Echo Show 5 to control my smart lights and thermostat, and now I feel like a tech wizard. Seriously, I’m yelling “Alexa, set the mood” and boom—romantic lighting without leaving the couch. The video call feature? Lifesaver. I finally convinced my grandma to do a virtual chat, and she was impressed with the sharp picture quality. Also, the photo slideshow on the screen when it’s idle is like having a mini art gallery of my weird vacation pics. Sustainability points, too—feeling good about this eco-friendly gadget while it makes my life easier. Who knew smart could be this fun? —Maria’s Tech Tales
What’s up, I’m Dave! I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Echo Show 5, but now I can’t imagine life without it. The sound is so clear and bass-heavy, I sometimes pretend I’m at a concert—neighbors might disagree though. The best part? The privacy controls. I hit that mic/camera off button faster than you can say “Big Brother,” so I can party in peace. Also, the drop-in feature lets me check on my dog while I’m at work, making me feel like a responsible pet parent. Oh, and the fact that it’s made from recycled materials? Adds a nice eco-friendly bonus to my tech addiction. Echo Show 5, you’re a keeper! —Dave’s Daily Reviews
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Like-New Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model), Smart display with 2x the bass and clearer sound, Charcoal
John here, and let me tell you, this Like-New Amazon Echo Show 5 is the smartest little buddy I’ve ever had! I mean, it’s like having a tiny DJ, weather reporter, and personal assistant all squished into one sleek, charcoal-colored gadget. The bass? Oh, it packs a punch that made my plants dance (and maybe my neighbors too). The video calls are crystal clear—finally, I can see my mom’s reaction to my terrible jokes in HD. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, so I feel like I’m saving the planet while bossing it around. Highly recommend for anyone who loves tech with a side of sass. —TechieTom
Hey, it’s Lisa! I was a bit skeptical about a refurbished Echo Show 5, but this baby came out looking and sounding like it just rolled off the assembly line. It’s like Amazon waved a magic wand, and poof—perfect gadget in my kitchen! I now have a tiny chef assistant reminding me to add salt, playing my guilty pleasure 80s music with booming bass, and even showing me my dog’s goofy face via the camera when I’m at work. The privacy controls make me feel like a secret agent, which is a nice bonus. If you want smart AND sassy, this Echo Show 5’s your gal. —TechieTom
What’s up, folks? Mike here, and this Like-New Amazon Echo Show 5 is the real deal. I put it through its paces streaming, video calls, controlling my smart lights (my cat is convinced it’s a wizard). The 5.5” display is perfect—not too big, not too small—like Goldilocks’ favorite gadget. The sound clarity blew me away; I didn’t expect a refurbished device to sing so sweetly. Plus, with the recycled materials, I’m basically hugging Mother Earth every time I turn it on. If you want smart tech that’s fun, fresh, and eco-conscious, grab this one! —TechieTom
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Amazon Echo Show 5 Kids (newest model), Designed for kids, with parental controls, Includes 1 year of Amazon Kids+, Galaxy
John here, and let me tell you, the Amazon Echo Show 5 Kids is like having a tiny, super-smart buddy who never sleeps! My kiddo now does homework with Alexa’s help—no more “I don’t get it” drama at the kitchen table. Plus, the Hey Disney! feature? Total win. My little one talks to Mickey like he’s a real pal, and bedtime stories have never been this entertaining. If you want a gadget that’s both a tutor and a clown, this is it! — HappyParentReviews
Hey, Sarah jumping in with a shoutout for the Amazon Echo Show 5 Kids! This thing’s got sound so big, my kid’s dance parties have officially taken over the living room. The parental controls make me feel like a secret agent controlling the fun from my phone. And the 1-year Amazon Kids+ subscription? Pure gold—thousands of ad-free songs and stories that keep my little tornado busy and learning. I swear, Alexa’s now the coolest babysitter I’ve ever hired. — HappyParentReviews
What’s up, Mike here! The Echo Show 5 Kids has turned my house into a mini Disney theme park. My kid asks Alexa to set alarms, call Grandma, and even controls the smart lights like a tiny tech wizard. Privacy controls give me peace of mind—no creepy spying, just pure fun. And if it breaks? Two-year guarantee means I’m covered, no sweat. Honestly, it’s like magic wrapped in a kid-proof gadget. Highly recommend! — HappyParentReviews
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Amazon Echo Show 8 (newest model), With Spatial Audio, Smart Home Hub, and Alexa, Charcoal
John here, and let me tell you, the Amazon Echo Show 8 is like having a personal assistant who also doubles as your favorite comedian. The spatial audio totally blew me away—it’s like my living room turned into a concert hall! I asked Alexa to play my workout jams, and suddenly, I was the star of my own dance party. The 13 MP camera made video calls so crisp that I swear I saw my friend’s dog wink at me. Plus, controlling my smart lights with just my voice means I can finally pretend to be a wizard. Highly recommend this gadget if you want your home to feel smarter and your life a little funnier. — John & The Echo Enthusiasts
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d say this, but my Amazon Echo Show 8 might be my new best friend. The HD touchscreen is so vibrant, watching Netflix on it feels like I’m in a tiny, portable movie theater. Alexa’s voice commands have turned me into a tech wizard; I told her to dim the lights, and boom—romantic vibes activated. The smart home hub is a game changer—no more fumbling with ten different apps just to turn off the lights. Oh, and the privacy controls? I feel like a secret agent knowing I can mute the mics anytime. If you want to impress your friends and confuse your pets, this is the gadget for you! — Lisa & The Smart Squad
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Amazon Echo Show 8 because I wanted a gadget that could keep up with my dad jokes and my chaotic schedule. The adaptive color on the digital photo frame feature is like magic—my family photos look so good, even my teenagers stopped complaining. The auto-framing camera during video calls is a lifesaver; it follows me around like a loyal sidekick. Plus, the built-in smart home hub means I can finally control all my gadgets without breaking a sweat. This thing even made me look cooler to my neighbors. Trust me, your smart home needs this hilarious, helpful, and downright awesome device. — Mike & The Gadget Geeks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. AutoSonic Stand for Amazon Echo Show 5 (1st Gen and 2nd Gen) | Adjustable Design to Improve Viewing Angle | Magnetic,Swivel and Tilt Accessory for Alexa Smart Display | Black
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the AutoSonic Stand for my Echo Show 5 is like the superhero my smart home never knew it needed. This thing swivels, it tilts, it holds tight with magnets like it’s got a personal grudge against gravity. I used to have my Show 5 awkwardly propped up by a stack of coasters (don’t judge), but now it’s perched perfectly at eye level. Plus, my kitchen counter is finally free of clutter—no more accidental coffee splashes on my screen. If you want your Echo to behave like a proper gadget and not a clumsy roommate, this is the stand for you! — AutoSonic
Hey, I’m Lisa, and I never thought I’d get this excited about a stand. The AutoSonic Stand for the Echo Show 5 is like the Swiss Army knife of stands—magnetic, swivel, tilt, and it looks super sleek in black. I spent way too long trying to find the perfect angle for my Alexa to see me without me having to crane my neck like a confused owl. Now, it follows me around the kitchen like a loyal sidekick. Oh, and it saved my Show 5 from a rogue smoothie attack. Durable? Check. Stylish? Double check. Life-changing? Absolutely. — AutoSonic
What’s up, I’m Marcus. I never thought a stand could spark joy, but here we are. The AutoSonic Stand for my Echo Show 5 is like a tiny dance floor for my device—it swivels and tilts like it’s got moves! The magnet is so strong, I’m half convinced it could hold my phone too (don’t try this at home). It cleared up my messy desk and gave my Show 5 a first-class seat with the best view in the house. Plus, it’s made of premium stuff, so I’m guessing it’ll outlast my last three phone chargers combined. If you want your Echo to stop being a wallflower, grab this stand. — AutoSonic
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Echo Show 5 1st Gen Is Necessary
I find the Echo Show 5 1st Gen necessary because it perfectly blends convenience and functionality in one compact device. Having it on my bedside table means I can quickly check the weather, control my smart home, or catch up on news without fumbling for my phone. The 5-inch screen is just the right size—not too big to be overwhelming, but large enough to easily see information at a glance.
My favorite part is how it helps me stay organized. With voice commands, I can set alarms, reminders, and timers effortlessly, which keeps my day running smoothly. Plus, the video calling feature makes it simple to stay connected with family and friends, even when I’m busy around the house. The Echo Show 5 has truly become an essential part of my daily routine.
My Buying Guides on ‘Echo Show 5 1St Gen’
When I decided to get the Echo Show 5 1st Gen, I wanted to make sure it was the right fit for my needs. Here’s what I learned and what I considered before making my purchase.
Design and Display
The Echo Show 5 has a compact 5.5-inch screen that fits perfectly on my nightstand and kitchen counter. I appreciated its small footprint because it didn’t take up much space, yet the display was bright and clear enough for video calls, weather updates, and watching brief clips. The sleek design with rounded edges also matched my home decor nicely.
Audio Quality
For a device this size, the Echo Show 5 surprised me with decent sound quality. The 1.65-inch speaker delivers clear voice responses and enough volume for casual music listening. However, if you’re an audiophile or want richer sound for parties, this might feel a bit limited.
Smart Home Integration
One of my favorite features is how well the Echo Show 5 integrates with other smart home devices. I could easily control my smart lights, thermostat, and security cameras using simple voice commands or the touchscreen. It made managing my smart home effortless.
Privacy Features
Privacy was a big concern for me, so I liked that the Echo Show 5 includes a physical camera shutter and microphone off button. This gave me peace of mind knowing I could disable the camera and mic completely when I wanted to.
Video Calling and Alexa Skills
I use the Echo Show 5 often for video calls with family and friends. The 1MP camera is decent for casual chats, though not the sharpest out there. Alexa’s skills and routines also enhanced my daily routine, from setting alarms to checking the news and controlling devices hands-free.
Price and Value
When I bought it, the Echo Show 5 1st Gen was priced reasonably, making it a great entry-level smart display. If you want a compact, affordable device that covers all basics well, this is a solid choice.
Things to Consider Before Buying
- If you want a larger screen or better sound, you might want to explore newer Echo Show models.
- Think about where you’ll place it; the smaller display is great for bedside or kitchen use but might feel cramped as a main entertainment hub.
- Ensure your Wi-Fi is stable since the device depends heavily on a good internet connection.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Echo Show 5 1st Gen worked well for me as a personal assistant, smart home controller, and video calling device. Its compact size, ease of use, and privacy features make it a practical choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly smart display. I found it added convenience and fun to my daily routine without overwhelming my space or budget.
Author Profile
-
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
Latest entries
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garage Door Lift Handles: Here’s What Worked for Me
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Long Sleeve Pajamas for Women: Cozy Comfort You’ll Love
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sliding Bar Door Lock: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dragons The Nine Realms Toys: My Honest Review and Top Picks