Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen, Charcoal)
A small screen is handy when you want a quick glance without giving up much room. The Echo Show 5 brings weather, timers, music, and compatible smart-home controls to a 5.5-inch touch display. Its built-in camera supports video calls and compatible camera views, while a physical shutter lets you cover the lens.
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Key Features
- The 5.5-inch touch screen can show weather, photos, and information alongside Alexa voice controls.
- A 2 MP camera supports video calls with people using the Alexa app or an Echo device with a screen. Compatible cameras and video doorbells can also be viewed on the display.
- Amazon describes the built-in speaker as delivering deeper bass and clearer vocals than before.
- The camera shutter and microphone/camera off button provide physical controls over those functions.
Product Specifications
- Model: Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen), 2023 release; Charcoal; device-only configuration.
- Display: 5.5-inch touch screen.
- Camera: 2 MP with built-in shutter.
- Dimensions: 5.8 in W × 3.6 in D × 3.2 in H (147 × 91 × 82 mm).
- Weight: 16.1 oz (456 g); actual size and weight may vary by manufacturing process.
- Connectivity: dual-band 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth audio support. It does not connect to ad-hoc Wi-Fi networks.
- In the box: Echo Show 5, 22W power adapter with 4.9-ft cable, and Quick Start Guide.
How It Fits Into Daily Use
On a nightstand or desk, the smaller display makes the most sense for brief checks: a timer, the weather, a photo, or a compatible camera feed. Alexa can also run routines and control compatible smart-home devices. Check your own devices and services before buying rather than assuming everything in your home will connect.
Privacy, Camera & Microphone Notes
Amazon lists a physical camera shutter, a microphone/camera off button, streaming indicators, and controls for viewing or deleting voice recordings. These are controls to understand and use, not a promise that the device or its services are completely private. Amazon also says Sidewalk is on unless you previously turned it off; review that setting during setup if it matters to you.
Things to Know Before Buying
- The 5.5-inch screen is compact. For extended video viewing, consider whether that size fits your plans.
- Amazon says Netflix is not currently compatible with Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen). Service support can change.
- Some skills and services may carry fees. According to the current listing, Alexa+ access requires Prime or an Alexa+ Standard subscription, a US-based Amazon account, and a compatible device set to US English.
- The device uses the included power adapter; do not assume portable battery operation.
Best For
Someone who wants Alexa, quick visual information, and compatible smart-home or camera controls in a compact spot.
Not Ideal For
Someone shopping primarily for a larger video screen, built-in Fire TV, or an all-purpose smart-home hub. Check specific services and devices before choosing it.
FAQ
Can I cover the camera?
Yes. Amazon lists a built-in camera shutter and a separate microphone/camera off button.
Will it work with every smart-home device?
No universal-compatibility claim is supported. Amazon describes controls for compatible devices, so check your device or service before buying.
Does Alexa+ require a subscription?
The current listing says full Alexa+ access requires a Prime membership or the Alexa+ Standard plan, along with a US-based Amazon account and a compatible device set to US English. Terms and availability may change.
