Amazon Echo Plus (2nd Gen) Review

The original Echo Plus felt like a product that wasn't quite ready to go, and it was expensive for what it was. The Amazon Echo Plus (2nd Gen) is a far superior product, starting out with the more attractive finish that makes it look far classier. Internally, the audio has been improved to the point where the Echo Plus may be the only music speaker you need, and you have the option to improve things further with a stereo pair. The integrated Zigbee smart home hub is starting to find its uses thanks to several app updates that make direct control of devices easier. If you're looking for a high-quality smart speaker, this is the one to buy.

Smart new looks; Decent audio; Useful smart home hub and temperature sensor;

Limited number of supported smart home devices;

Amazon Echo Plus (2nd Generation) Review

The Amazon Echo Plus is as a more powerful version of the standard Echo, with a Zigbee home automation hub and temperature sensor built in for good measure—it mostly just looks better than the original. The larger, $149.99 Alexa-powered speaker is a bit louder and offers a bit more functionality than the standard Echo, but unless you plan to start filling your home with Zigbee devices without using a separate hub, it doesn't quite justify its $50 premium. Slightly More Stylish The Echo Plus is a bit stouter than the first, measuring 5.7 by 3.9 inches (HW) to the first generation's 9.3-by-3.3-inch profile. Instead of a smooth-walled, sharp-angled cylinder, however, the redesigned Echo Plus is a friendlier barrel with slightly rounded edges and the same fabric grille on its sides as the Echo Show and the Echo Dot. It comes in black, gray, and white versions. Similar Products Amazon Echo (2nd Generation) $99.99 See It at Amazon Read Amazon Echo...

The Amazon Echo Plus smart speaker adds a temperature sensor in addition to its Zigbee hub, but doesn't bring a dramatic difference in sound quality over its predecessor.

Generally strong sound with clear high-mids and highs; Alexa is powerful and functional; Bluetooth connectivity; Zigbee hub built-in

Not significantly more powerful than the Echo; Relatively weak bass; Bluetooth doesn't work with stereo pairs or Echo Sub