Amazon Echo Show 5

Echo Show 5 (Newest Gen) Review: A Charcoal-Coated Nod to the Past

Ah, greetings, my friends. Allow me to present the Echo Show 5, specifically focusing on that sleek 'Charcoal' finish which stands in stark contrast to the older beige models of yore. This newest generation aesthetic update certainly gives the device a sharper, more modern look without needing to shout about its capabilities. It sits at the latest price, a price point that feels quite reasonable given the current market conditions. The customer ratings sit at 4.1 out of 4.1 stars and backed by over eleven thousand reviews, though one must remember such figures are merely statistics rather than definitive proof of quality.

Steven The Alley Cat leans against the wall, offering a weary glance that suggests he finds the whole fuss over colour finishes slightly tedious, yet he admits the dark grey does look less dusty than its predecessors. While it is not perfect, the visual upgrade alone justifies the purchase for many households. This gets the Sir Trash Panda score of 4 out of 5 trashcans. Cheerio!

What's it like?

The Echo Show 5 arrives with a distinct personality, largely defined by its ability to blend into a living room rather than dominate it. The Charcoal finish is a significant departure from the beige models of yore, offering a sleeker profile that seems to absorb light rather than reflect it back at you with an accusatory glare. It possesses a certain understated elegance, much like a well-tailored suit worn by someone who prefers silence to conversation.

The device functions primarily as a smart display and alarm clock, utilising clearer sound to ensure your morning wake-up call is heard without requiring a shout from the kitchen. The screen is bright enough to be useful during daylight hours but dims appropriately when the room gets dark, though it never quite matches the luminance of a dedicated television set. It is a tool for information delivery rather than entertainment spectacle.

The interface is responsive, allowing you to check the weather, control smart home devices, or ask Steven The Alley Cat—who is currently observing from a high shelf—to tell you a joke. However, do not expect miracles; the camera quality is adequate for video calls with family members who live nearby but will struggle to render a crisp image if you are attempting to stream a movie. It is a utilitarian appliance that performs its duties with a sense of bureaucratic efficiency.

Things to consider

Before you commit your hard-earned pounds to this device, there are several caveats worth noting. The Echo Show 5 relies heavily on an internet connection; without it, the device becomes little more than a very expensive digital picture frame with a voice that occasionally misunderstands simple commands. Privacy is another consideration, as the microphone array is always listening for the wake word, which can feel intrusive to those who value their solitude.

Furthermore, the "clearer sound" mentioned in the marketing materials is relative. While adequate for news updates or recipe instructions, it lacks the depth required for music enthusiasts. If you are expecting a home theatre experience, you will be disappointed. The device also lacks advanced features found in higher-end models, such as a larger screen or more sophisticated camera capabilities. It is designed for simplicity, which means it may frustrate users who demand a comprehensive suite of functions in a single box.

It is also worth noting that the Charcoal finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can show fingerprints if you are not careful with your touch. Cleaning the screen requires a gentle hand and a soft cloth, lest you scratch the surface. The device does not come with any accessories beyond the power brick, so you must ensure you have a suitable outlet nearby.

Who is it for?

This device is ideally suited for households that require a basic smart display without breaking the bank. It is perfect for those who want to check the time, see who is calling on their video chat app, or get a quick weather update before heading out the door. Families with children might appreciate the ability to set alarms and listen to audiobooks, provided they do not expect the device to function as a gaming console.

Seniors who struggle with complex interfaces may find the Echo Show 5 user-friendly, assuming they can remember to say "Alexa" before asking for assistance. However, tech-savvy individuals looking for advanced automation or high-fidelity audio should look elsewhere. It is a compromise product that sacrifices power for portability and price.

Sir Trash Panda verdict

In summary, the Echo Show 5 (Newest Gen) in Charcoal is a respectable addition to any smart home ecosystem, provided you have tempered expectations. It offers a modern aesthetic that improves upon the beige predecessors, delivering a sharper look without the need for excessive marketing fluff. At the latest price when Sir Trash Panda reviewed it, it represents good value for money, especially considering the robust number of reviews supporting its reliability.

It is not remarkable, nor is it particularly distinctive in terms of innovation, but it ticks the essential boxes for those seeking a simple, functional smart display. The clearer sound and updated design are sufficient to warrant a purchase for many households, even if the device lacks the bells and whistles of its more expensive siblings. It is a pragmatic choice for the discerning consumer who values utility over flashiness.