Amazon Echo Spot (2024) Review: A Smart Clock with Alexa Built-In

The Amazon Echo Spot (2024) is a compact, smart alarm clock designed for bedside tables or desks. With a small touchscreen and Alexa built-in, it offers a mix of functionality and convenience. However, it lacks the full capabilities of larger Echo Show devices, such as video support or live camera feeds. If you’re looking for a simple, stylish smart clock, the Echo Spot is a solid choice—but it’s worth considering the alternatives depending on your needs.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Good value
• Useful touchscreen
• Loud speaker

Cons:

• Small screen
• No video support

Key Features

1. Smart Alarm Clock

The primary function of the Echo Spot (2024) is as a smart alarm clock. Its small display is designed to show the time and ancillary information like weather updates.

2. Amazon Alexa Integration

Alexa is built-in, allowing you to use voice commands for everything from setting alarms to controlling smart home devices.

Design: Compact and Stylish

The Echo Spot (2024) has a rounded design with a flat front that houses a 2.83-inch rectangular screen. Unlike its predecessor from 2017, which featured a circular display, the 2024 model focuses on simplicity and practicality. It comes in three colors: Ocean Blue, Black, and White, making it easy to match with your decor.

On top of the device, you’ll find volume controls and a microphone mute button. However, there’s no camera or dedicated Alexa activation button, which aligns with its focus as a bedside clock.

For those who prefer a similar design without a screen, the Amazon Echo Dot is a more affordable option. If you’re looking for a more versatile device, the Echo Show 5 (3rd Generation) offers a larger screen and additional features.

Features and Display: Tailored for Simplicity

The 2.83-inch display is small but functional. It’s primarily designed to display the time, weather, and other basic information. While it supports touch controls, it lacks the full interface of an Echo Show and does not support video streaming or live feeds from devices like the Ring Video Doorbell.

Key Limitations:

• No video support: The Echo Spot cannot stream video from cameras or services like YouTube.
• No camera: Unlike the Echo Show range, there’s no camera for video calls or security monitoring.

What It Does Well:

• Clock display: Choose from various clock faces, including analog and digital designs.
• Smart animations: For example, asking about the weather shows an animated forecast.
• Touch controls for smart devices: Adjust smart lights or skip music tracks directly on the screen.

Sound Quality: Impressive for Its Size

The Echo Spot (2024) features a 1.73-inch front-firing speaker, the same as in the current Echo Dot models. It delivers clear and loud sound, making it suitable for podcasts, alarms, and occasional music. However, it lacks the depth and detail of larger smart speakers like the Amazon Echo.

Alternatives to Consider

1. Amazon Echo Dot

If you don’t need a screen, the Echo Dot offers similar audio quality at a lower price point.

2. Echo Show 5 (3rd Generation)

For just a bit more, the Echo Show 5 provides a larger screen, video streaming, and live camera support.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Amazon Echo Spot (2024)?

The Amazon Echo Spot (2024) is a well-designed smart clock with a small, functional display and Alexa integration. It’s perfect for those who want a simple, stylish device for their bedside table. However, its lack of video support and limited screen capabilities may be a dealbreaker for some.

If you’re looking for a more feature-rich experience, the Echo Show 5 is a better choice. On the other hand, if you’re on a budget and don’t need a screen, the Echo Dot is a more affordable alternative.

FAQs

Can the Echo Spot (2024) stream video?

No, the Echo Spot does not support video streaming or live camera feeds.

Does it have a camera?

No, the Echo Spot (2024) does not include a camera, making it ideal for privacy-conscious users.

Is it good for music?

While the Echo Spot’s speaker is loud and clear, it lacks the depth of larger Echo devices like the Amazon Echo.

Whether you’re upgrading your smart home or simply need a reliable alarm clock with Alexa, the Echo Spot (2024) is worth considering—especially if it’s on sale.