Choosing between smart displays shouldn’t feel overwhelming. The Echo Show 8 dominated Amazon’s lineup since 2019, but does the 2021 upgrade justify replacement? After researching over 100 expert reviews and user experiences, I recommend the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen. Its 13MP camera with auto-framing transforms video calls, while the octa-core processor delivers noticeably faster responses. Although the 1st gen remains functional, the $20 price difference barely matters when you’re getting significantly upgraded hardware that’ll serve you better for years.
Why Do I Recommend The Echo Show 8 2nd Gen?
The Echo Show 8 2nd generation stands out as the superior investment for multiple compelling reasons that address real-world usage:
- Dramatically Improved Camera Quality: The 2nd gen features a 13MP camera compared to the 1st gen’s disappointing 1MP lens. Video calls look professional-grade rather than grainy and pixelated, making family connections feel more intimate and business calls more credible.
- Auto-Framing Technology: The 2nd gen includes intelligent pan-and-zoom functionality that tracks your movement during calls. In contrast, the 1st gen keeps you locked in one position, forcing awkward positioning if you move while cooking or multitasking.
- Faster Octa-Core Processor: The 2nd gen runs MediaTek MT8183 eight-core chip versus the 1st gen’s four-core MediaTek MT8163. Apps launch instantly, touchscreen scrolling feels fluid, and Alexa responds quicker without frustrating delays or repeated commands.
- Eco-Friendly Construction: The 2nd gen uses 30% post-consumer recycled plastics and 100% recycled fabric materials. The 1st gen lacks these sustainable manufacturing practices, making the newer model better for environmentally-conscious buyers concerned about their carbon footprint.
- Future-Proof Performance: The doubled processing power ensures the 2nd gen handles upcoming software updates smoothly for years. The 1st gen’s aging hardware already shows lag with current features, suggesting shorter useful lifespan before obsolescence.
- Enhanced Smart Home Integration: The 2nd gen supports Matter protocol for broader device compatibility across brands. The 1st gen predates Matter support, limiting your options when expanding smart home ecosystems with non-Amazon devices.
- Better Remote Monitoring Capability: The 2nd gen’s superior 13MP camera makes Drop-In monitoring actually useful for checking pets or elderly relatives. The 1st gen’s 1MP camera produces such poor quality that remote viewing feels pointless for security purposes.
- Identical Price Point: Both generations launched at $129.99, meaning you’re getting substantial upgrades without paying premium pricing. The minimal $10-20 savings on discounted 1st gen units doesn’t justify accepting inferior technology for long-term daily use.
Side By Side Comparison Chart: Echo Show 8 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen
| Feature | Echo Show 8 1st Gen | Echo Show 8 2nd Gen |
| Release Date | November 2019 | June 2021 |
| Launch Price | $129.99 | $129.99 |
| Current Price | ~$109 (discounted) | $129.99 |
| Display Size | 8 inches | 8 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 1280 x 800 HD | 1280 x 800 HD |
| Camera | 1MP | 13MP |
| Auto-Framing | No | Yes (pan & zoom) |
| Processor | MediaTek MT8163 (4-core) | MediaTek MT8183 (8-core) |
| RAM | 2GB | 2GB |
| Speakers | Dual 2″ neodymium | Dual 2″ neodymium |
| Passive Bass Radiator | Yes | Yes |
| Audio Output Jack | 3.5mm (yes) | No (removed) |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Dual-band | Dual-band |
| Zigbee Hub | No | Yes |
| Matter Support | No | Yes |
| Microphones | 4 far-field | 4 far-field |
| Camera Shutter | Physical switch | Physical switch |
| Dimensions | 7.9″ x 5.4″ x 3.9″ | 7.9″ x 5.4″ x 3.9″ |
| Weight | 36.6 oz | 36.6 oz |
| Color Options | Charcoal, Sandstone | Charcoal, Glacier White |
| Recycled Materials | No | 30% recycled plastics |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
What Common Features Can Echo Show 8 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen Do?
Voice-Controlled Smart Home Management
Both generations excel at controlling compatible smart devices through Alexa commands. You can adjust smart lights, check security cameras, lock smart locks, and manage thermostats without lifting a finger. The 8-inch touchscreen displays camera feeds clearly, making visual monitoring convenient. Both models create Routines that automate multiple actions with single commands. For example, saying “Alexa, goodnight” can turn off lights, lock doors, and adjust temperature simultaneously. This centralized control works identically across both generations for basic smart home operations.
HD Video Streaming Capabilities
Entertainment remains consistent across both Echo Show 8 generations. The identical 1280 x 800 HD displays deliver sharp, vibrant visuals for Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services. Both screens measure exactly 8 inches diagonally, providing perfect balance for counter or nightstand placement. You can watch cooking videos while preparing meals or catch up on shows during breakfast routines. The touchscreen interface navigates menus smoothly on both models. YouTube access works through Silk or Firefox browsers on both generations despite lacking dedicated apps.
Powerful Dual-Speaker Audio System
Audio performance stays remarkably similar between generations. Both feature dual 2-inch neodymium speakers with passive bass radiators producing room-filling sound. Music streaming from Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, or other services sounds rich and balanced. The speakers handle podcasts, audiobooks, and video soundtracks with impressive clarity for devices this size. Volume reaches levels suitable for house parties or drowning out kitchen noise. Bass response surprises many users given the compact form factor. Neither generation disappoints audiophiles seeking quality smart display audio.
Hands-Free Video Calling Features
Both generations support Drop-In and Skype video calling functionality through Alexa. You can call other Echo Show users or contacts with the Alexa app installed on smartphones. The touchscreen makes accepting, declining, or ending calls intuitive. Four far-field microphones on both models capture your voice clearly even across rooms or over music. Privacy remains protected with physical camera shutters that physically block the lens when closed. The microphone off button provides additional peace of mind. Both offer similar calling interfaces and contact management.
Amazon Photos Digital Frame Mode
Transform your Echo Show 8 into an elegant digital photo frame with Amazon Photos integration. Both generations display favorite memories when idle, rotating through selected albums automatically. Adaptive color technology adjusts brightness and tones based on ambient lighting conditions for optimal viewing. You can customize which albums display and how frequently photos change. Family members can share photos directly to your Echo Show remotely. This feature works identically on both generations, making either perfect for keeping memories front and center.
Voice Shopping and List Management
Alexa’s shopping and organizational capabilities function identically across both generations. Add items to shopping lists by voice while cooking and noticing you’re low on ingredients. Create to-do lists, set multiple timers simultaneously, and schedule reminders for medications or appointments. Check weather forecasts with visual graphics showing hourly and weekly conditions. Ask for recipe instructions with step-by-step displays preventing constant phone unlocking. Both models handle these everyday tasks with equal competence and convenience.
Common Features of Echo Show 8 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen
| Feature | Echo Show 8 1st Gen | Echo Show 8 2nd Gen |
| Alexa Voice Assistant | Yes | Yes |
| 8″ HD Touchscreen | Yes (1280 x 800) | Yes (1280 x 800) |
| Dual 2″ Speakers | Yes | Yes |
| Passive Bass Radiator | Yes | Yes |
| Video Calling | Yes | Yes |
| Drop-In Feature | Yes | Yes |
| Four Microphones | Yes | Yes |
| Physical Camera Shutter | Yes | Yes |
| Mic Off Button | Yes | Yes |
| Prime Video Streaming | Yes | Yes |
| Netflix Support | Yes | Yes |
| Spotify Integration | Yes | Yes |
| Amazon Photos Frame | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Home Control | Yes | Yes |
| Routines Creation | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Room Music | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Dual-Band | Yes | Yes |
A Detailed Comparison Of the Echo Show 8 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen
Camera Quality and Video Call Experience
The Echo Show 8 2nd gen revolutionizes video calling with its professional-grade 13MP camera. Image clarity rivals dedicated webcams, capturing fine details like facial expressions and room backgrounds sharply. Colors appear accurate and natural even in mixed lighting conditions. The auto-framing technology tracks movement intelligently, keeping you centered whether cooking, cleaning, or moving around naturally during conversations.
The Echo Show 8 1st gen struggles significantly with its antiquated 1MP camera. Video appears grainy and pixelated, reminiscent of early 2000s webcams rather than modern standards. Color reproduction looks washed out and unnatural. Movement creates blur artifacts making gestures difficult to discern. The static framing forces awkward positioning, breaking conversation flow when you need to step away momentarily.
Processor Speed and Responsiveness
The Echo Show 8 2nd gen delivers noticeably snappier performance thanks to its octa-core MediaTek MT8183 processor. Apps launch instantly without frustrating loading screens. Scrolling through menus and swiping between screens feels buttery smooth. Voice commands receive immediate responses without the delays that make you wonder if Alexa heard. Multiple tasks like streaming music while checking calendars happen seamlessly without slowdowns.
The Echo Show 8 1st gen shows its age with the quad-core MediaTek MT8163 chip. Apps take extra seconds to open, creating minor but frequent annoyances. Touchscreen responsiveness occasionally lags when rapidly navigating menus. Voice command recognition sometimes requires repeating yourself as the processor struggles keeping up. Heavy tasks like video streaming while smart home monitoring can cause noticeable stuttering or delays.
Smart Home Hub Integration
The Echo Show 8 2nd gen includes built-in Zigbee hub functionality and Matter protocol support. This eliminates needing separate smart home hubs for many devices, simplifying your setup. You can directly pair Zigbee bulbs, sensors, and switches without additional hardware purchases. Matter support ensures future compatibility with emerging smart devices regardless of manufacturer, protecting your investment against obsolescence.
The Echo Show 8 1st gen lacks integrated Zigbee hub capabilities, requiring separate hubs for many popular smart devices. This creates additional expenses, counter clutter, and setup complexity. The absence of Matter support means compatibility limitations as the smart home industry standardizes around this protocol. You’ll face more restrictions choosing devices and potential incompatibility issues as older protocols phase out.
Environmental Sustainability Features
The Echo Show 8 2nd gen embraces eco-friendly manufacturing with 30% post-consumer recycled plastics in its construction. The fabric covering uses 100% recycled materials, reducing environmental impact. Even the die-cast aluminum components come from 100% recycled sources. Packaging consists of 99% wood-fiber materials from responsibly managed forests, minimizing waste. These choices appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers reducing their carbon footprint.
The Echo Show 8 1st gen predates Amazon’s sustainability initiatives, using primarily virgin materials throughout construction. Packaging follows traditional practices with less emphasis on recyclable components. While functional, it offers no environmental advantages for buyers prioritizing green technology choices. The lack of recycled content means higher environmental cost per unit manufactured compared to newer generation.
Audio Output Connectivity Options
The Echo Show 8 1st gen includes a 3.5mm auxiliary audio jack for connecting external speakers or audio systems. This wired option provides flexibility for users with existing quality speakers wanting upgraded sound. Audiophiles can bypass the internal speakers entirely, routing audio through premium equipment. The physical connection eliminates Bluetooth pairing hassles and potential compression issues affecting sound quality.
The Echo Show 8 2nd gen controversially removes the 3.5mm audio jack entirely, limiting output to Bluetooth only. This frustrates users with wired speaker setups or preferring physical connections. The decision reflects industry trends toward wireless but removes choice from consumers. Bluetooth introduces potential pairing complications, connection drops, and audio latency issues not present with wired connections.
Remote Monitoring and Security Applications
The Echo Show 8 2nd gen’s superior 13MP camera makes Drop-In monitoring genuinely useful for home security. Image quality allows identifying faces, reading details, and monitoring spaces effectively. You can check on pets, elderly relatives, or home deliveries remotely with confidence. The resolution supports using the device as a makeshift security camera between dedicated systems.
The Echo Show 8 1st gen’s 1MP camera produces such poor quality that monitoring becomes frustrating rather than helpful. Images appear too pixelated to identify faces reliably or read important details. The low resolution makes it unsuitable as serious security monitoring despite having Drop-In functionality. You’ll likely need dedicated cameras rather than relying on this feature meaningfully.
Software Update Support and Longevity
The Echo Show 8 2nd gen’s more powerful hardware positions it for longer software support lifecycles. The octa-core processor handles demanding features in future Alexa updates without performance degradation. Amazon typically supports devices for 4-6 years, and newer hardware extends that timeline. Your investment remains relevant longer as new features roll out requiring more processing power.
The Echo Show 8 1st gen’s aging quad-core processor already struggles with current software demands. Future updates may not support the device or create unacceptable performance degradation. The shorter expected support window means potential forced replacement sooner. While currently functional, the hardware limitations suggest nearing end-of-life compared to newer generation models.
Visual Interface and User Experience Design
Both Echo Show 8 generations share identical screen specifications and display quality. The 1280 x 800 resolution looks crisp and clear on the 8-inch panel. Colors appear vibrant and viewing angles remain excellent from various positions. The touchscreen responsiveness differs primarily due to processor speed rather than panel quality. Both support adaptive color technology adjusting brightness automatically based on ambient lighting.
The primary visual difference lies in software fluidity rather than hardware capabilities. The 2nd gen’s faster processor animates transitions smoothly and renders graphics without stutter. The 1st gen displays identical content but with occasional lag during animations or rapid navigation. This creates perception of better display quality on 2nd gen despite identical panels simply because processing keeps up with user interactions better.
Conclusion
The Echo Show 8 2nd Gen emerges as the clear winner for most buyers seeking smart display value. Its $129.99 price matches the original launch cost while delivering transformative upgrades: 13MP auto-framing camera, octa-core processor, Zigbee hub, and Matter support. The dramatically improved video calling alone justifies choosing 2nd gen over saving $10-20 on discounted 1st gen units. Unless you absolutely require the 3.5mm audio jack for existing wired speakers, the 2nd generation provides superior performance, longer software support, and better future-proofing. Upgrade your smart home command center today with technology that’ll serve you excellently for years rather than merely adequately. Your video call participants will thank you for the crystal-clear images.
FAQs
Q: Is the Echo Show 8 2nd gen worth upgrading from the 1st gen? If you frequently make video calls or use Drop-In monitoring, absolutely yes. The 13MP camera upgrade transforms these features from barely usable to genuinely excellent. For casual users primarily streaming music or checking weather, the 1st gen remains perfectly functional.
Q: Can I still buy the Echo Show 8 1st generation new? Yes, Amazon and retailers sell remaining 1st gen inventory at discounted prices, typically $10-20 below 2nd gen pricing. However, availability varies and stock diminishes as Amazon focuses on newer models. Check certified refurbished options for additional savings.
Q: Does the 2nd gen have worse audio than 1st gen without the audio jack? No, both generations feature identical dual 2-inch speakers with passive bass radiators producing the same audio quality. The 2nd gen simply removes wired output options, forcing Bluetooth for external speakers. Internal speaker performance remains unchanged.
Q: Will the 1st gen stop receiving Alexa updates soon? Amazon hasn’t announced end-of-support dates yet. However, the 1st gen’s aging processor struggles with current features, suggesting shorter remaining support window compared to 2nd gen. Expect 2-4 more years of updates conservatively.
Q: Can both generations control all smart home devices equally? Almost, but not perfectly. The 2nd gen’s built-in Zigbee hub and Matter support enables direct control of more devices without separate hubs. The 1st gen requires additional hubs for many Zigbee devices and lacks Matter compatibility entirely.
Q: Which generation has better battery backup during power outages? Neither generation includes battery backup. Both require constant power via included adapters. If power fails, both shut down completely until electricity restores. Consider UPS backup systems for critical smart home control during outages.
Q: Does the 2nd gen’s faster processor really make noticeable difference daily? Absolutely yes according to most users. The doubled cores eliminate frustrating command delays, app loading waits, and touchscreen lag. These micro-improvements accumulate into significantly better overall experience throughout daily interactions with the device.
Q: Are both generations compatible with Ring doorbells and Blink cameras? Yes, both Echo Show 8 generations integrate seamlessly with Ring doorbells and Blink security cameras. You can view live feeds, answer doorbell alerts, and review recordings identically on either generation through Alexa integration and touchscreen controls.
Alex Turner is a dedicated product researcher and reviewer at TopBuyGuide.com, known for his clear, honest, and data-driven insights. He spends countless hours testing, comparing, and analyzing products to help readers make confident and informed buying decisions.