⚡️ Quick Verdict - AMAZON Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen, 2020)
- Best For: Video calls, smart home control, and dynamic content viewing.
- Strengths: Motorized screen, improved audio, integrated Zigbee hub.
- Drawbacks: Large footprint, persistent screen movement, privacy considerations.
- Verdict: A feature-rich smart display for connected homes.
⚖️ Pros & Cons Explained
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Display & Tracking | Users appreciate the motorized screen that follows them during video calls and while watching content, keeping them in frame. It makes recipes and tutorials easier to follow from various angles in a kitchen. | Some users find the continuous screen movement distracting or unsettling. The tracking can sometimes be slow to react or track unintended subjects, leading to minor frustrations. |
| Audio Quality | Many reviewers note the significantly improved audio performance compared to previous generations, offering fuller sound for music and clear dialogue for videos. It is often described as suitable for casual listening. | While improved, some audiophiles report that the sound quality, while good for a smart display, does not match dedicated smart speakers or premium audio systems, lacking deep bass or intricate sound staging. |
| Smart Home Hub | The integrated Zigbee hub is a major plus, allowing direct control of compatible smart home devices without needing additional bridges. This simplifies setup and centralizes control. | Despite the built-in hub, some users report occasional connectivity issues with certain third-party Zigbee devices or find that the range of the hub is not as extensive as dedicated bridges. |
| Video Calls & Camera | The 13 MP camera and auto-framing capabilities provide clear, centered video calls, making it feel more like interacting in person. It’s highly praised for keeping subjects in frame even when moving. | Concerns arise from the camera's constant tracking, with some users feeling a sense of being perpetually watched. While there's a physical shutter, the default always-on nature raises privacy questions for some individuals. |
🔧 What’s Included? & Why It Matters
| Component/Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) Device | The core smart display with a rotating screen, serving as a central hub for smart home control, entertainment, and communication. |
| Power Adapter | Essential for powering the device. Its specific design is optimized for the Echo Show 10's power requirements. |
| Quick Start Guide | Provides basic setup instructions, helping users get the device up and running quickly and connect to their Wi-Fi network and Amazon account. |
| Motorized Base | Enables the 360-degree rotation of the screen, allowing the display to orient itself towards the user during video calls or content viewing. |
| 13 MP Camera with Auto-framing | Delivers sharp video for calls and automatically keeps the user in frame as they move around, enhancing the interactive experience. |
| Integrated Zigbee Smart Home Hub | Allows direct connection and control of compatible smart lights, locks, and sensors without requiring a separate bridge, simplifying smart home setups. |
💰 Is It Worth It? – Value & Cost Efficiency
| Aspect | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Utility | Users find significant value in its versatility, serving as a video call device, smart home command center, kitchen assistant, and entertainment hub all in one. The unique rotating screen adds a layer of convenience. | For users who primarily need basic smart assistant functions or music playback, the advanced features and higher cost of the Echo Show 10 might be considered excessive. Its large footprint also limits placement options. |
| Long-Term Investment | The device receives regular software updates from Amazon, enhancing features and security over time, which contributes to its longevity and continued utility. The robust build quality also suggests durability. | Given the rapid pace of technology, some users express concern about potential obsolescence, especially with newer smart display models emerging with even more advanced processing or display technologies in the future. |
| Ecosystem Integration | Deep integration with Amazon services (Alexa, Prime Video, Amazon Music) provides a seamless experience for existing Amazon users, maximizing its value within that ecosystem. | Users primarily invested in other smart home ecosystems (e.g., Google Home, Apple HomeKit) might find the integration less seamless or might prefer devices that offer broader cross-platform compatibility, potentially reducing its value for them. |
🔁 Amazon Comparison – How This Version Improves Over Previous Models
| Aspect | Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen, 2021) | Echo Show 10 (2nd Gen, 2018) | Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen, 2020) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 8 inches | 10.1 inches | 10.1 inches |
| Screen Movement | Static | Static | Motorized (360-degree rotation) |
| Camera Quality | 13 MP with auto-framing | 5 MP | 13 MP with auto-framing |
| Audio Configuration | Dual 2-inch neodymium speakers | Dual 2-inch full-range drivers | 2.1 speaker system (two 1.0-inch tweeters, one 3.0-inch woofer) |
| Built-in Smart Home Hub | No | No | Yes (Zigbee) |
| Design Language | Wedge-shaped, fabric back | Wedge-shaped, fabric back | Floating screen on motorized base |
⚔️ Alternatives vs AMAZON Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen, 2020)
| Aspect | Google Nest Hub Max | Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen, 2021) | AMAZON Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen, 2020) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size & Movement | 10-inch, Static | 8-inch, Static | 10.1-inch, Motorized (360-degree rotation) |
| Smart Assistant | Google Assistant | Alexa | Alexa |
| Camera Features | 12.7 MP with auto-framing & Face Match (for personalized content) | 13 MP with auto-framing | 13 MP with auto-framing & motion tracking |
| Built-in Smart Hub | No | No | Yes (Zigbee) |
| Privacy Controls | Physical mic mute switch, software camera toggle | Physical camera shutter, mic mute button | Physical camera shutter, mic mute button |
| Audio Output | 2.1 speaker system (2x 18mm tweeters, 1x 75mm woofer) | Dual 2.0-inch neodymium speakers | 2.1 speaker system (two 1.0-inch tweeters, one 3.0-inch woofer) |
| Primary Ecosystem Focus | Google services (YouTube, Photos, Maps) | Amazon services (Prime Video, Amazon Music, Shopping) | Amazon services (Prime Video, Amazon Music, Shopping) |
💡 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Does the Echo Show 10 always track my movement?The Echo Show 10 is designed to rotate its screen to keep you in view during video calls or while watching content. You can disable this motion tracking in the device settings or by closing the physical camera shutter.
- Can I turn off the camera and microphone for privacy?Yes, the device features a physical camera shutter that slides over the camera lens. There is also a dedicated microphone mute button that electronically disconnects the microphones.
- Is a Wi-Fi connection required for the Echo Show 10 to function?Yes, a consistent Wi-Fi connection is necessary for almost all of the Echo Show 10's features, including accessing Alexa, streaming content, and making video calls.
- Can it be used as a security camera?Yes, you can remotely access the Echo Show 10's camera through the Alexa app to view its surroundings, effectively using it for basic home monitoring. This feature is called 'Drop In'.
- What smart home devices can it control directly?Thanks to its built-in Zigbee hub, the Echo Show 10 can directly control many Zigbee-compatible smart lights, switches, and sensors without needing a separate hub. It can also control Wi-Fi and Bluetooth smart devices through Alexa.
👍 Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- The rotating screen truly changes the experience for video calls and following recipes; it's like having a personal camera operator.
- The sound quality is surprisingly good for a smart display, making it enjoyable for background music throughout the day.
- Being able to control all my smart lights and plugs from one central display is incredibly convenient.
- The camera quality for video calls is excellent, and the auto-framing keeps everyone in the conversation.
- It fits perfectly in the kitchen, making it easy to watch shows or make calls while cooking.
👎 Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- The continuous motion of the screen can be distracting, and sometimes the tracking isn't as smooth or precise as expected.
- The device takes up a significant amount of counter space, which can be an issue in smaller rooms or kitchens.
- Despite the privacy controls, the idea of an always-on microphone and a camera that moves on its own makes some users uneasy.
- Sometimes, the smart home integration with certain third-party devices can be inconsistent or require troubleshooting.
- The display's reflections in brightly lit rooms can sometimes make content harder to view clearly.
📋 Key Details & Specifications
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Display Size & Type | 10.1 inches, HD touchscreen with motorized rotation |
| Camera | 13 MP with auto-framing and digital pan/tilt |
| Speakers | 2.1 system: two 1.0-inch tweeters, one 3.0-inch woofer |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) dual-band, Bluetooth, Zigbee smart home hub |
| Processor | MediaTek 8183 + Amazon AZ1 Neural Edge |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 9.9" x 9.7" x 6.7" (251 mm x 249 mm x 172 mm) |
| Weight | 5.6 lbs (2.5 kg) |
| Microphones | Multiple built-in microphones with far-field voice recognition |
| Privacy Features | Physical camera shutter, microphone off button |
| Operating System | Fire OS |
🔚 Summary – Is This the Right Choice for You?
- The Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) stands out primarily due to its innovative motorized screen, which dynamically adjusts to keep you in frame during video calls or positioned correctly for content viewing. This feature, combined with improved audio and a robust 13 MP camera, makes it an excellent choice for those who frequently use video communication or consume visual content in dynamic environments like a kitchen.
- Its integrated Zigbee smart home hub further enhances its utility, simplifying the setup and control of compatible smart devices. If you're looking for a central command center for your smart home, particularly if you're already invested in the Alexa ecosystem, this device offers significant advantages.
- However, potential buyers should consider its substantial footprint and the inherent privacy implications of a continuously tracking camera, despite the available physical controls. While the screen movement is a standout feature, some users may find it more distracting than helpful.
- Ultimately, if you prioritize advanced video calling, comprehensive smart home control, and an immersive viewing experience that moves with you, and are comfortable with its size and privacy features, the Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) offers a premium smart display experience.
