Wondering whether to get the original 2019 Echo Show 8 or the upgraded 2021 model? As an Alexa smart display enthusiast, let me help you decode the differences!
I’ve owned both iterations of the mid-size Echo Show 8. Here’s my comprehensive look at how they compare in terms of design, displays, audio, features, performance, pricing, and overall value. Just what does that 2nd “Gen” bring to the table? Let’s explore the product line and changes so you can determine which model suits your needs.
Overview: The Echo Show Family
Amazon’s Echo Show smart speakers with touchscreens first hit the scene in 2017. The devices combine:
- Alexa voice assistant features like other Echo devices
- Visual display for extra content and controls
- Video calling and camera functionality
Since launching the initial 7” Echo Show, Amazon has expanded the Echo Show line to encompass options like:
- Echo Show 5 – Compact 5.5” model
- Echo Show 8 – Our main focus – 8” screen ideal for countertops
- Echo Show 10 – Large 10” rotating display
- Echo Show 15 – Massive 15” wall-mountable touchscreen
The Echo Show 8 fits right within the middle – not small as a clocklike Show 5, yet not hogging counter space like the attention-grabbing Show 10. Compared to other smart speakers, its 8” HD screen adds handy visualization without demanding too much room.
Released in November 2019, the original Echo Show 8 quickly became one of Amazon’s most popular smart displays. Two years later in June 2021, they updated the model with some expected yet meaningful enhancements.
But with both generations widely available, confusion around which is better comes up regularly in Amazon device communities like r/EchoShow.
Let’s clear up that confusion here! In this guide, I’ll compare the 1st and 2nd Gen Echo Show 8 models across all specs and features influencing real-world usage. Follow along to determine if you should buy the OG, upgrade to the 2021 edition, or snag up any tempting discounts on Renewed deals.
Comparing Key Specs and Features
While superficially identical, under the surface lie some notable changes making the 2nd generation model clearly superior for most buyers. But first, let‘s visually introduce the hardware itself.
Fig 1. Externally identical. But internally? Keep reading!
Display Size & Quality
As the number “8” suggests, both Show 8 versions contain 8" HD touchscreens. The resolution stands at 1280 x 800 pixels on both generations too.
You’ll enjoy vivid colors and crisp details streaming shows or glancing at Smart Home camera feeds. Text and icons remain perfectly legible as well thanks to the ample yet not overwhelming 8” real estate.
In terms of raw display specs and quality, neither wins out. But picture how you’ll use the Show 8:
- Quickly viewing and controlling a smart home system? 🏡
- Binging playlists and cooking tutorials? 🎧🧑🍳
- Chatting with grandparents across the country? 👵📲
For those tasks, the 8” form strikes a nearly perfect balance. But is even sharper imagery worth paying more? Let‘s investigate other changes…
Result: Equal 8-inch, 1280×800 touchscreens
Processor & Memory
A device lives and dies by its processor. This brain controls responsiveness when running sophisticated apps and features.
The 1st generation Echo Show 8 runs off a quad-core MediaTek MT8163 chip with 2 GB RAM. Respectable entry-level hardware, but starting to show its age.
Amazon wisely upgraded the 2nd gen model to a quicker octa-core MediaTek MT8183 with slightly faster clock speeds. By doubling the cores, it multitasks easier. Apps open snappier, videos stream smoother, and demanding programs don’t overwhelm it.
Is that a night-and-day difference for everyone? Not quite. But future-proofing with zippier internals should extend its viability over years of updates.
We can delve deeper into specific benchmark performance, but simply put – more modern hardware advantages the Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen).
Result: 2nd Gen Echo Show 8 with its octa-core CPU
Sound Quality
Audio tightly links to the usage experience. With podcasts, spotify playlists, video calls, TV shows and movies all streaming through smart displays, sound matters!
In this domain, little differentiation exists. Both Echo Show 8 generations contain:
- Dual 2” speakers
- Passive bass radiator
- 2 microphones (far-field)
- 3.5mm aux out (1st Gen only)
Now, those dual drivers and bass radiator produce reasonably robust audio for a smart screen. Of course, true audiophiles may still want a separate speaker connected via Bluetooth or Aux (1st Gen).
But overall loudness and clarity keeps pace with the screen. Just expect some distortion at higher volumes. Since the hardware matches up, audio quality ties between generations.
Result: Another tie
Camera specs
If you regularly video chat with these devices, their front-facing cameras carry significance.
Here we discover a glaring difference revealing why the 2nd gen Echo Show 8 pulls ahead for most shoppers…
The original Show 8 contained a simple 1MP shooter. It works, able to capture your smiling face or show off your cooking to call participants.
But 1 megapixel restricts detail, especially in lower lighting or when moving around. Pixelation and noise creep in quickly.
The 2021 upgrade steps this up to a 13MP sensor. That’s greater than many smartphones! Suddenly selfies and video calls gain sharpness rivaling your phone’s capabilities.
Adding to the improvements, the Gen 2 model’s camera also supports Auto Framing. This means its field of view digitally pans and zooms to keep you centered in the frame as you move.
No more disappearing from view or showing extreme closeups of your forehead to chat partners. Auto Framing makes the Echo Show 8’s high-resolution camera smarter and far more useful.
Result: Major Gen 2 victory with its 13MP shooter and Auto Framing tech
Color options
Fixated on a specific finish for your décor? The Echo Show 8 generations differ slightly in available colors:
- 1st Gen: Charcoal and Sandstone fabric
- 2nd Gen: Charcoal fabric and Glacier White plastic
Besides phasing out Sandstone fabric for a lighter Glacier White, options stay unchanged. So neutral tones fitting most aesthetics still dominate.
Those turned off by bright gadgets can safely ignore this category. But the new white skin opening additional home placement opportunities could sway decisions for some buyers.
Result: Purely preferential, but bonus points to the 2nd gen for its Glacier White finish
Experience & Features
Spec sheets only reveal part of reality. We still need to explore how genuine owners use these devices and what extra perks Gen 2 brings to the table. Let’s compare experiences…
Smart Home Control
Controlling other appliances remains one chief reason folks adopt Alexa smart displays like the Echo Show 8. Both generations feature full integration with the Alexa app for managing:
- Lighting
- Thermostats
- Appliances
- Security cams
- Gating systems
- And thousands more devices
You can voice control accessories directly through the Show 8 itself. Even easier? Tapping compatible products appearing on screen to toggle power, modes, colors, temperatures and anything else their apps allow.
So no differences exist here. Users universally praise the versatility enabled by Alexa and touch displays. Whether monitoring the nursery cam or turning off lights from the couch, Amazon grants all Echo Shows capabilities putting smart homes at your fingertips.
Result: Empowering smart home integration ties the score
Entertainment & Streaming
Because visual displays show more than audio alone, entertainment potential soars on the Echo Show 8 line. Beyond basic streaming, you can transform the device into a digital photo frame, personal assistant, or full-fledged media viewer.
Both generations allow users to:
- Watch Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video
- See lyrics with Amazon Music
- Display personal/web images
- Get on-screen recipes from Allrecipes
- Follow podcasts and audiobooks with cover art
- Host trivia games like Jeopardy
- Pull up Vevo music video playlists
- Cast content from phones via AirPlay
Plus enjoy hands-free experiences by asking Alexa to pull up media. Customizable clocks, home screens and automatic routines further the versatility.
In practice, reviewers confirm apps and entertainment shine equally across both hardware generations thanks to Amazon’s continued Alexa software support. The output holds up whether enjoying music videos over breakfast, binging favorite shows, or displaying family memories.
Result: Standout entertainment for all
Video and Voice Calling
Here’s where that upgraded 13MP camera comes into play! Yes, both generations of the Echo Show 8 allow you to:
- Video chat with other Echo device owners via Alexa app
- Voice call friends and family with supported apps
- View doorbell cameras for checking who’s there
- Use Skype for business / classroom video conferencing
But again, expect vastly smoother, detailed video call performance thanks to the 2nd gen’s Auto Framing and sharper megapixels. Lag and distortion reduce dramatically for remote tutoring sessions, video dates and family chats.
If you primarily want a smart speaker without the camera, this matters less. Owners focused on visual connections will find the investment in Gen 2 worthwhile long-term.
Result: Gen 2 victory through far superior video quality
Audio Calling
You needn’t spring for the camera model if audio calls suffice. The tetherless Alexa app turns all Echo devices into intercoms, great for announcing dinners or chatting between rooms.
Both generations also enable:
- Standard phone calls via Alexa app or linked services
- Intercom features to address the whole household
- Bluetooth speaker connectivity for room-filling sound
- Multi-room music to synchronize playback
- Streaming radio, podcasts and more
Therefore, the only audio concern falls onto raw speaker performance. And as covered earlier, their output appears sonically equal. Hook them up to a nice external speaker system for best results.
Result: Shared audio capacities without substantial differences
Buying Factors to Consider
We‘ve covered a lot of nitty-gritty details. Let‘s condense those key factors most pivotal when purchasing one generation of the Echo Show 8 over the other:
Echo Show 8 Gen 1
- Found cheaper in refurb/used condition
- Includes 3.5mm port for wired speakers
- Familiar Sandstone fabric color
Echo Show 8 Gen 2
- Faster octa-core processor
- Higher megapixel count camera
- Enhanced Auto Framing feature
- Glacier White color option
- Newer future-proofed model
Review those pros and cons against your needs and home ecosystem.
Casual owners on a budget may lean towards Gen 1; tech enthusiasts and smart home power users reap more benefits upgrading to Gen 2. But more on final recommendations next!
Verdict: Which Generation Echo Show 8 Reigns Supreme?
We‘ve just scrutinized every square inch of these Alexa smart displays. Across most measurement metrics from performance to cameras to pricing, which model claims the advantage?
The Echo Show 8 2nd Gen triumphs for most buyers.
true, Gen 1 saves a bit upfront. But since launch over 2 years ago, availability dwindled as warehouse inventory emptied without active restocking from Amazon. That leaves higher-priced Renewed or used models as the only remaining Echo Show 8 originals in circulation.
Meanwhile, Gen 2 costs merely $10-20 more at full retail. And you snag improved hardware that should continue receiving updates longer as Amazon‘s current mid-size model.
Here‘s a quick cheat sheet to pick your perfect pick:
- Want latest features and premium camera? ➡️ Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen)
- Seeking an auxiliary port for speakers? ➡️ Echo Show 8 (1st Gen)
- Fine with refurbished to save money? ➡️ Renewed Echo Show 8 (1st Gen for cheaper)
At the end of the day, choose whichever adequately fits into your budget and smart home ecosystem! Both generations still promise years of hands-free Alexa convenience ahead.
I hope demystifying the two Echo Show 8 models aids your buying decisions. Let me know if any other questions pop up about Amazon‘s smart displays in the comments!
Fig 2. Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) in Glacier White finish
