Amazon prefers to advance its Echo smart speakers in small steps rather than large ones, but sometimes small steps are sufficient. The fifth-generation Echo Dot sounds similar to the previous version, but new motion sensors allow you to interact with the speaker with a tap. It’s a capable smart speaker, but the Echo Dot With Clock adds an LED display that can show useful information in addition to the standard Echo Dot’s features.
The Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) design is largely the same as the previous model. It’s still a palm-sized orb wrapped in fabric with a flat bottom. The main difference is that the latest Echo Dot no longer has a 3.5mm audio line out, so you can’t connect it to a better-sounding speaker. Otherwise, the Echo Dot appears clean and minimalistic at first glance, it could be mistaken for some modern decor. The fact that the controls are flush on top helps: there are volume controls, an Alexa action button, and a mute button, which you can enable when you don’t want Alexa to listen for its wake word.
[content-egg-block template=offers_logo hide=price]If the light up ring on the base of the speaker illuminates red, the microphone is muted. Alternatively, if the ring turns blue, Alexa is actively listening. If you’re ever confused about what the Echo Dot is trying to tell you, keep our guide on Alexa flashing colours handy. Despite the fact that Amazon didn’t appear to have much room to work with, it did increase the size of the Echo Dot’s speaker from 1.6 to 1.73 inches. The speakers are also said to have twice the bass of the previous version, though there are no additional specs or ways to verify that claim.
Of course, the Amazon Echo Dot (5th Generation) is designed for more than just listening to music. It’s a vehicle for almost all of Alexa’s best skills, with the exception of those that require video. That means you can make voice calls to Alexa, get Amazon delivery updates, set alarms, get weather reports, play interactive games, and more. It supports everything from Alexa easter eggs to Alexa Guard, a security feature that notifies you when suspicious sounds are detected in your home.
Amazon Alexa is constantly learning new skills and integrating smart home devices. The Echo Dot can control the majority of the best Alexa-compatible devices, such as unlocking your front door’s smart lock or changing the colour of your Philips Hue lights.
Control your Amazon Basics smart light bulbs with your voice (“Alexa, turn on the lights”) or via the Alexa app, eliminating the need to turn on/off each individual light switch. Create custom routines to automatically schedule your lights at sunset and sunrise OR change the colours of your lights for a movie night with family or a party with friends. It only works with Alexa. Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and Smart Things are not supported.
Choose from 16 preset colour schemes and brightness levels ranging from 5% to 100% to create your ideal mood. Have the best moments with different colours during holiday festivities, gaming with friends, or movie nights with family. Simply tell Alexa to turn the hall lights purple. It should be noted that bulbs can be dimmed via app/voice control but not via a mechanical switch.