Amazon Echo vs. Echo Dot – Which Amazon smart speaker to choose?

Smart speakers are here to stay. We are talking about versatile devices that offer the possibility of linking in turn with other devices (smart light bulbs, robot vacuum cleaners, etc.), which allows them to be controlled through the use of voice, that is, with the use of commands that the speaker smart recognizes and executes accordingly. The future is here!

But talking about smart speakers and not mentioning Amazon models would be making a mistake. Amazon has bet heavily on these devices and has managed to gain the trust of users, which has helped it to highlight its smart speakers as the best sellers on the market.

For this reason, today we want to compare two of its most famous models: the Amazon Echo and the Amazon Echo Dot, both in the newly released 4th generation.

What innovations do both models present? What is the most profitable option?

We analyze its characteristics to give you an answer.

Amazon Echo vs. Echo Dot – Comparison Table

In this comparative table you will find the most significant differences between both Amazon models. It is not bad to keep an eye on them before looking at them more thoroughly.

Size and visual aspect: lights and shadows for each one

We begin this analysis moving from the outside in.

The first obvious difference is the size. The Amazon Echo is noticeably larger than the Echo Dot, so this point is important when thinking about where it will occupy at home. Is there space to spare or perhaps the smaller Echo Dot is a better fit for your home?

This is directly related to weight. The Amazon Echo is heavier than the Echo Dot. Specifically, the first has a weight of 970 grams for the 328 grams of the second. However, it is not a relevant aspect, since they are not devices that are designed to be taken from one place to another.

It is true that the Amazon Echo Dot offers the possibility of attaching batteries (while the Echo does not), which gives it great versatility, but as a general rule they are used more as fixed speakers. Another advantage of the Echo Dot is that it has an LED screen that lights up to highlight the time through the grids. A very interesting option that the Echo model does not have either.

To conclude, say that both models are available in the same colors: anthracite, grayish blue and white.

Controls and Connectors: Technical Draw

It is clear that these devices are controlled by voice, but they also have a series of tethered buttons. In this sense, the design of both speakers and the distribution of the buttons is identical in the Echo and the Echo Dot.

There are buttons to raise and lower the volume; another that activates Alexa without using your voice and finally the option to disconnect the microphone, offering the possibility of experiencing greater privacy.

Finally, we close this section with the connectors present in both speakers. Both in one in another we find a power port and a 3.5 mm audio output. However, on the Amazon Echo this 3.5mm output is also an input, adding to its functionality.

Sound: Amazon Echo is far superior

Here are some obvious differences.

One of the advantages of the larger size of the Amazon Echo is that it incorporates a speaker with a 360º orientation, ideal for distributing sound throughout a room. In addition, the sound quality is increased thanks to Dolby technology. In summary, the sound of the Amazon Echo is far superior to that of the Echo Dot, which is more limited in this regard.

Regarding voice recognition, a key factor in a smart speaker, again the Amazon Echo is shown above, since it has up to 7 microphones that are distributed throughout the structure of the Echo and makes it possible to hear the voice even from another room . Instead, the Amazon Echo Dot has 4 microphones. Its voice recognition capabilities are also good, but it clearly can’t compete with the Echo model.

Connectivity: same characteristics

At this point, it should be noted that both models have a Wi-Fi connection and have Bluetooth to connect with other devices.

We also take the opportunity to mention Amazon’s voice assistant, which has remained in the background throughout the entire review. We mean Alexa. It must be made clear that the features offered by Alexa are identical in both speakers, there are no differences of any kind and there are no functions that are banned on one device and allowed on the other.

This means that both the Amazon Echo and the Echo Dot model can be required to do the same thing via voice.

Which speaker do we stay with?

This analysis has helped us to observe the similarities between both models, however, there are important differences that are decisive.

The higher quality and powerful sound of the Amazon Echo and its larger size is crucial if what you are looking for is a smart speaker with powerful and quality sound, which will also allow you to increase the range of use thanks to its greater number of microphones. It costs almost twice as much as the Echo Dot model, but it’s worth it if you have the chance.

On the other hand, if you don’t mind the sound of the speakers and you just want to enjoy all the comforts offered by the virtual assistant Alexa, the Echo Dot is the most recommended option, since it will allow you to save a few euros.