Best Alexa devices Android Central 2021The following list is a selection of the best Alexa devices that we have tested and reviewed. We recommend that you get the Amazon Echo (4th Generation) if you don't have one already. It's great sounding and is affordable. We also have a section for Echo owners who want to check out other options.Source: Joe Maring/Android CentralWe were first introduced to Alexa by the original Amazon Echo in late 2014. The original Amazon Echo was a black, stark device. It has been transformed over the years to become a more gentle, gentle-looking Alexa vessel. This has led to an entire line of Echo devices. This fourth generation "regular Echo" is the best yet. This Echo has a better sound architecture than the previous three generations. It also features the same Zigbee integration as its larger sibling. You can connect two Echo devices to make a stereo pairing. Or, you can connect it to your Fire TV to get enhanced audio to complement your visual content. If you are looking for great sound and low cost, the Echo (4th Generation) is the best Alexa speaker. You can save money and get the Echo Dot if sound is not important to you. Or, if sound is your priority, the Echo Studio. Although the Echo doesn't have a screen or camera, it is still very useful. This is still our choice for an everyday Echo. The new spherical design is a plusZigbee home hub and better sound architecturePairs with an Echo or Fire TV to create stereo soundAmazon has brought back Twilight Blue, our favorite color! Cons: There is no screen or video callingIt is more expensive than its smaller siblingsAmazon Alexa smart speaker Echo (4th Generation) - smart hub The best place for Alexa to start is with Alexa. The Echo (4th Generation) speaker has been redesigned and features better sound, Zigbee integration, and striking new looks! Amazon: $100Best Buy: $100$100 at B&HAmazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Generation): The best Amazon Alexa smartscreenSource: Nick Sutrich / Android CentralWe love the Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Generation) and it is currently our top pick for the best Alexa device. The design elements are similar to the Echo Show 5 (2nd Generation) and it borrows some of our favorite features from the Echo Show 10 (3rd Generation), such as a 13MP front-facing camera with zoom and pan that allows you to stay in the frame. This Show has the same 800p resolution on its 8-inch screen as the Echo Show 10 (3rd Generation). The privacy-focused controls that were introduced on the original Echo Show 5 include a physical shutter and mute switch. Although the Echo Show devices are only available in Charcoal and Sandstone, they do not come in the Twilight Blue and Product Red colors that were featured in the Echo and Dot speakers, we still like the design. You can also change the position and angle of your Echo Show 8 (2nd Generation) by purchasing an optional stand. The Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) is a great device to manage your smart home devices, watch videos and even access Amazon Prime content. However, it's not the best speaker Amazon makes. It sounds great, but the speaker fires backwards. Overall, though, this device is great for controlling our smart home with Alexa. Pros: The screen is large and easy to readEcho Show 10 (3rd Generation) has the same 13MP video cameraSleek designCamera shutter with privacy-focused function and mute button. Cons: Poor speaker without Dolby processingThere are only two color optionsAmazon Alexa's best smart screen The Echo Show 8 (2nd Generation, 2021 Release) The Goldilocks Zone The Echo Show 8 is smaller and easier to place than its larger counterpart (2nd Gen). Amazon: $130Best Buy - $130$130 at B&HBest Amazon Alexa streaming stick device: Amazon Fire TV Stick LiteSource: AmazonAmazon offers many options for Fire TV, including the top Fire TV Edition TVs from Insignia or Toshiba and the Fire TV Cube. None of these options is as affordable or popular as the Fire TV Sticks. The new Fire TV Stick Light might be the most attractive yet. The Fire TV Sticks are all great choices at $50 or less. But the $30 Fire TV Stick Light gives you 90% of the same features at a fraction the cost. The Fire TV Stick Lite still offers full HD video and Dolby Atmos audio (via HDMI pass through), as well as an Alexa Voice Remote that can control your smart home and viewing experience. This remote can't control your TV like the Fire TV Sticks. The pros: Very affordableIncludes Alexa Voice RemoteFull HD screenAlexa Voice Remote can't control TV, but access to Dolby Atmos Audio ConsDolby Atmos Audio via HDMI pass-throughNo 4K UHD videoAmazon Fire TV Stick Light Lite streaming stick device Amazon Alexa Best Streaming Stick The Fire TV Stick LITE is the best Amazon streaming stick. It is also one of the most affordable ways you can access Alexa. Amazon: $30Best Buy: $18$30 at B&HBest Amazon Alexa tablet: Amazon Fire HD 8Source: Jeramy Johnson / Android CentralThe latest Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet is a great choice. This media consumption device, now in its 10th year, continues to be affordable, durable, and family-friendly. You get an Alexa digital voice assistant, an HD screen, rear-facing and front-facing cameras, expandable storage and a quick access to all the amazing content in Amazon's ecosystem. The best features of this tablet are its battery life, flexible storage options, and price. The tablet can last 12 hours on one charge. This is great for long drives and flights. The base model comes with 32GB storage. You can buy additional microSD cards for cheap to increase storage upto 1TB. Although this device does not run Google Apps right out of the box it can be used by anyone with a basic knowledge. The Fire HD 8 is still our favorite choice, but those who want to stay on the cutting edge of technology can opt for the Fire HD 8 Plus with wireless charging dock and more RAM. Pros: The perfect balance of screen size and portabilityFull HD ScreenFamily controls that are best-in-classBattery life is amazingMulti-user supportExtendable storage up to one terabyteHD 8 Plus doesn't offer all of the features.Amazon Alexa tablet Fire HD 8 tablet Best Amazon Alexa tablet Fire HD 8 tablet A great media consumption device. The Fire HD 8 tablet is rugged, affordable, multi-user supported, and a great choice for families. Amazon: Starting at $90Best Buy: Starting at $45Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Generation): Best Amazon Alexa wireless headphonesSource: Jeramy Johnson / Android CentralEvery technology company seems to have its own wireless earbuds. The Amazon Echo Buds are the only option if you're looking for a pair that gives you hands-free access and control over Alexa. The Echo Buds sound great and provide easy Alexa access. The Echo Buds have active noise cancellation (ANC), and a customizable Passthrough mode, which allows you to allow outside noises in instead of taking them out of your ears. These features are fantastic and you can change the state by double-tapping your buds. The app also allows you to change the sound effect. Amazon has also made it easy to invoke Siri or Google Assistant with just one tap. This allows you to have both the best and the worst of smart assistants while on the move. In late 2020, an update brought the Echo Buds run-training tracking. The second-generation Echo Buds (2nd Generation) reviewed showed that the buds have improved upon the few flaws in the first-generation. They come with a wireless charging case that can charge via USB-C cable. The buds are lighter and more comfortable and they sound better than ever. The pros: These truly wireless earbuds are affordableAmazing hands-free Alexa supportANC and Passthrough modesWireless charging caseCan you map Siri or Google Assistant to touch controls? Cons: The battery life on buds could be improvedThe EQ settings are not very flexible.Amazon Alexa wireless headphones Best Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Generation) These wireless earbuds sound and feel great. Amazon: Starting at $120Best Buy - Starting at $120Best Amazon Alexa car device: iOttie Aivo ConnectSource: Jeramy Johnson / Android CentralWhile Apple and Google have Android Auto, Amazon has not yet developed a strategy to integrate Alexa into your vehicle. Although it does have Alexa Auto partnerships with car manufacturers such as Ford and Audi, that strategy has not seen the same adoption as its competitors. How can you get Alexa installed in your car? Amazon's solution was slow to arrive. The Echo Auto was the result. It received a slow response when it finally launched a year after its announcement. Fortunately, Garmin, Anker/Roav and iOttie stepped in to fill that gap. The iOttie ivo Connect accessory for smartphones was released in 2020. The phone mount attaches to your windshield or dash with a sticky pad. It also features an Auto Sense Mounting system which uses an IR sensor that opens and closes around your device. The Aivo Connect can charge your phone with wireless charging if it is compatible. The best part is that you can connect the iOttie App to your Amazon account and ask Alexa for directions, set reminders and play music and other games while driving. Although it may not be as robust as Android Auto in certain respects, it is simpler to use. Pros: A secure mounting solution for your smartphone10W Qi wireless chargingCan pivot phone to landscape modeAuto Sense Mounting allows you to insert and remove your smartphone with just one handAlexa Assistance on the Go: Hands-FreeAmazon Alexa Car Device iOttie Aivo connect Alexa on the Road The iOttie AivoConnect is the best way to take Alexa along in your car while simultaneously charging your phone! Amazon: $100Best Amazon Alexa wearable: Amazon Echo Frames (2nd Gen)Source: Jeramy Johnson / Android CentralThe Echo Frames (2nd Generation) evolved from a niche product into a device that would bring Alexa to all people. These glasses could be the perfect device for you if you have been looking for Alexa to go beyond your home and reach the wider world. The new Echo Frames have a longer battery life and software enhancements such as Auto Volume, VIP Filter and Auto-Off. They are the same design as the original generation frames but come in three different colors: Classic Black (horizon blue), and Modern Tortoise (modern tortoise). Amazon offered the Echo Frames (2nd Generation) with either blue-light filtering or UV sunglass lenses. Open-air audio is more comfortable than in-ear headphones for long listening hours. They also provide better vision of the outside world. The only problem with these smart glasses is their proprietary charger and inability to charge wirelessly. Pros: Easy hands-free Alexa accessBattery life has been improved over Day 1 EditionsAvailable in 3 stylish colorsSoftware enhancementsOptions for sunglass and blue-light filter lensesSupports Siri Cons and Google Assistant: This is the most expensive Echo device.Style might not suit everyone's tastes.No wireless chargingAmazon Echo Frames (2nd Generation) Best Amazon Alexa Wearable Amazon Echo Frames Alexa looks great The Echo Frames (2nd Generation) let you take Alexa wherever you go. Amazon Echo Frames (2nd Gen) Starting at $190Best Amazon Alexa gaming device: Amazon Luna ControllerSource: Joe Maring/Android CentralLuna, Amazon's cloud gaming service is starting to take off. Although it has been quiet at first, the service is now gaining popularity with gamers. You can play it on a variety of devices including PCs and Macs, the best Android phones, Amazon Fire TV, and Macs. Amazon wanted to introduce its Luna controller. It looks similar to many other popular gaming console controllers. This controller works seamlessly with the Luna service, with a particularly low latency. What makes it special is the ability to invoke Alexa with the touch of a button while playing on Fire TV. You can use Alexa to launch your favorite games, control smart home devices such as lighting, answer questions, or even trivia. The pros: They are affordablePushbutton Alexa accessLow latency: Cannot be used as a remote control for a TV.Xbox and other console controllers have better ergonomicsAmazon Luna Controller is the best Amazon Alexa gaming device. The Luna Controller lets you control Amazon's cloud gaming services with Alexa access. Amazon: $70Amazon Alexa's best smart light: Philips Hue, 1,600 Lumen BulbSource: Philips HueA smart light is the most important product that people buy when they set up a smart house. These lights are affordable and easy to assemble (simply insert a bulb), and they have a noticeable and immediate impact. There are many options when it comes to smart lighting solutions, but the Philips Hue A21 1,600 Lumen bulb is our favorite. These smart light bulbs can be controlled via Alexa and are compatible with all Philips Hue products. A good selection of smart lights is key to the best Alexa routines. We recommend buying several smart light bulbs for different rooms, and then creating lighting groups or smart lighting routines using the Alexa app. To have lights automatically turn on and off when Alexa is leaving your home, you can set up Alexa Guard procedures. These bulbs can bring Hue lighting to your Alexa home at a very affordable price. However, they only work in white shades. You can add more color to your setup by checking out the best Philips Hue light. The pros: Easy entry to the Philips Hue ecosystemYou can connect up to 80 other Hue devicesBluetooth connectivityPros: Ultra-bright light requires a separate hub in order to work with AlexaThere are no color optionsSome spaces might be a bit too brightAmazon Alexa Philips Hue white A21 High LumenSmart Bulb Best smart light The Hue-manity Philips Hue has the largest smart lighting ecosystem and works great with Alexa. Amazon: $20Best Buy $20Walmart: $22Amazon Alexa's best home security camera: Ring Stick up CamSource: RingAmazon bought Ring many years ago. The Ring video doorbells and cameras worked well with Alexa. The integration has improved since the company is now a part of Amazon's ecosystem. Ring Stick Up Cam is the best smart camera for protecting and monitoring your property. The Stick Up Cam was last updated in late 2019, and there were many configurations. There are two options for the Stick Up Cam: a wired and a battery-powered model. Both can be changed after the fact. You can use the Cam indoors and outdoors, and it is very easy to set up. The Cam is also available in two colors, a standard white or a striking black. Ring is the same as most home security cameras. You can access and save video recordings through a subscription. Although it's one of the most affordable plans on the market for home security, it is an additional cost that you will need to consider. Ring also offers an indoor version for as little as half the cost of the Stick Up Cam. You can ask Alexa to show your camera feed on any version of the Echo Show, Fire tablet or Fire TV so you are always connected to your smart home. The pros: It can be used indoors or outdoorsAvailable in both wired and battery versionsAvailable in white or blackNight vision includedYou have a lot of control over its use.Access to recordings requires subscriptionRing's indoor-only model is almost twice as expensiveAmazon's Best Alexa Home Security Camera Ring Stick Up Cam HD security camera Plug-In Two-way Player The new Ring Stick Up Cam offers a major upgrade with 1080p HD video and two-way conversation, as well as real-time notifications. Amazon: $100Best Buy: $75Amazon Alexa Video Doorbell Best: Ring Video Doorbell 4Source: Nick Sutrich / Android CentralThe original Ring Video Doorbell was a landmark in smart home security and convenience. With the Ring Video Doorbell 4, this popular security device has entered its fourth generation. The Ring Video Doorbell 4 retains HD video recording, but has impressive new features such as color pre-roll. This allows it to record up six seconds before the actual event is detected. The latest version offers quick replies and automatic answering. It acts as an answering machine for your front door. This feature is available even without a subscription and can provide a few "canned" answers. Personal assistants aside, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 lets you ask Alexa "show me who's at my door," which is great for when you aren't at home. Alexa allows you to have a conversation with your guests, regardless of where they are. Similar to the Ring Stick Up Cam you will need to subscribe Ring's subscription service to access or keep old video footage. This is something to consider when you are considering purchasing this doorbell. This device gives you added security and peace of mind. You can also use Alexa to monitor your home. Pros: Record color pre-roll videoAdvanced Motion DetectionYou can power it with a battery, or wired connectionNight vision using infraredInterchangeable faceplatesUses 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and 5.0Ghz Wi Fi Cons: Professional installation may be required for the wired versionAccess to recordings requires subscriptionAmazon Alexa Video Doorbell Ring Video Doorbell 4 - See it before It Happens! The Ring Video Doorbell 4 continues the legacy of previous models with color pre-roll recordings and automated quick responses. Amazon: $200Best Buy: $200Amazon Alexa's Best Smart Thermostat: Ecobee SmartThermostat With Voice ControlSource: EcobeeAlthough the list of best smart thermostats isn't as comprehensive as those for other products, there are some big names in this market. The ecobee Smart Thermostat With Voice Control is one of our favorites and best-selling smart thermostats. Smart features such as a touch screen and the ability create routines and schedules easily are available, along with Alexa. Nothing is more exciting than Alexa's blue LEDs lighting up on the black squircle of your wall when you make a request. It's reminiscent of HAL 9000 from 2001. A Space Odyssey, but not as creepy. The built-in Alexa integration makes it easy to control the ecobee and also allows you to control your smart home. Perhaps your thermostat is located in a location where an Echo cannot be placed (a hallway), or you don't want one (an office, dining room, or other space). This device is your solution! The ecobee comes with a smart sensor that can help you manage temperature in rooms that don't have the same exposure to the base unit. You can also purchase additional sensors for your home. This thermostat, which is priced at $299, claims its smart sensors and intelligent thermostat will help reduce heating and cooling costs up to 23% per annum. This thermostat's biggest problem is its price. It's more expensive than other smart thermostats. It's a wall-mounted Echo, smart appliance and we believe it's worth your consideration. The pros: Alexa comes built-inCan it work as an Alexa Node?The processor is faster than the previous generationFar-field voice recognitionSeparate room sensor included. Cons: ExpensiveComplex interfaceAdditional charges can be incurred for room sensorsAmazon Alexa smart thermostat ecobee SmartThermostat With Voice Control Best-of-the line thermostat. This thermostat has everything you need in a connected thermostat, including music controls, Alexa integration, and smart sensors. Amazon: $249$250 on Best BuyAmazon Alexa's best Wi-Fi mesh router is Eero 6, Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 System, with integrated Zigbee smart-home hubSource: EeroA mesh network such as Eero is a better choice for large homes than a traditional Wi-Fi setup. Mesh routers spread your Wi-Fi signal to those areas of your home that are most in need. This can be a huge advantage if you have a TV on the opposite side of your router, or if you share your bandwidth with family members. Eero's latest products include new enhancements that make them more reliable and secure. They are also among the most popular Wi-Fi 6 mesh routers. You can also connect multiple smart home devices to them with the built-in Zigbee hub. Eero announced a Pro Wi-Fi 6 mesh system, which you may want to consider, but the standard setup should suffice for most. This Eero mesh 3-pack was purchased by me recently because of the numerous low-bandwidth or dead spots I experienced in my 2,300-square foot home. It was easy to connect the Eero base unit and my fiber box, and I had the other units installed around the house in no time. I am now enjoying faster Wi-Fi speeds (over 900 Mb/s) and have had virtually no complaints from my family who are watching Netflix or working. You can already monitor and control your device's usage, test your network and share your Wi Fi password with Eero devices. If you're so inclined, Eero Secure and Eero Secure+ can be subscribed to. These plans include additional network monitoring and security features, as well as add-ons such 1Password, Encrypt.me and Malwarebytes (in a plus version). Eero owners can control many aspects of their home network through Alexa integration, such as opening and closing guest networks, providing threat scans, and ad blocking. Eero units can be purchased individually or in multipacks. The pros: Easy setup and great appCoverage up to 5,000 feet with speeds of up to 500 Mb/sSystem reports and family profilesZigbee smart hub built-inEero Secure Benefits Cons: There is only one Ethernet port available on the base routerSome advanced features require a subscriptionAmazon Alexa Wi Fi Mesh Router Eero 6 Dual Band Mesh Wi FI 6 System with Built-In Zigbee Smart Home Hub Blanket Your Home in Bandwidth The Eero 6 dual-band mesh Wi-Fi 6 system provides great coverage, great security and great monitoring tools. Amazon: $279Best Buy: $181Best Amazon Alexa smartwatch: Wyze BandSource: Jeramy Johnson / Android CentralWith the success of the Apple Watch and Samsung's Galaxy watches and other fitness-focused devices such as Garmins and Fitbits, it seems like Android smartwatches are in fashion. Some people prefer a smaller, more affordable smartwatch. Others are more interested in a lightweight fitness tracker. The Wyze Band is for those people. Wyze, a young company, has been making excellent smart home devices at a very affordable price. The Wyze Cam, Cam Pan and Cam Outdoor are our top three smart devices. And the smart bulb from the company is among the most affordable. Although it was initially quite shocking that Wyze dropped the smart fitness band, we were pleasantly surprised. You get a stylish, comfortable wearable for less than $30 with an AMOLED display that can be customized in full color. The app allows you to control Wyze smart home devices with just a tap of your wrist. You can also summon Alexa to get information or perform tasks just like you would an Echo device, Fitbit Versa, and other expensive wearables, such as the Fitbit Versa 2. The pros: A battery life of up to 2 weeksYour wrist can control smart home devicesModifiable AMOLED displayAlexa has built-in cons: It can be difficult to change bands.This is not the best choice for social competitions and fitness app integrationsRunning is the only sport that has been created: it's the only one.Smart features require that the app is running in background
