The Echo Show 21 is the latest addition to the Echo Show series, boasting an impressive 21-inch display and a robust audio system. But how does it compare to the Echo Show 10? Beyond its larger touchscreen, are there significant differences between these two smart displays? Most importantly, which device is a better fit for your smart home needs?
From pricing, design, and display quality to features, let’s dive into a detailed comparison of the new Echo Show 21 and the Echo Show 10 to help you make an informed purchase.
Pricing and design
As the largest model in the Echo Show lineup, it’s no surprise that the Echo Show 21 comes with the highest price tag at $400, compared to the $250 cost of the Echo Show 10. Both devices are elegantly designed and crafted to Amazon’s high standards, so aesthetically, you can’t go wrong with either option.
The Echo Show 10 is a tabletop device supported by a built-in stand that holds its 10.1-inch display, while the Echo Show 21 can either be wall-mounted or placed on a tabletop (though you’ll need to purchase a separate stand for the latter).
Winner: Tie
Display and quality
The Echo Show 21 features a generous 21-inch touchscreen with a 1080p resolution, while the Echo Show 10 has a 10.1-inch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800. Although the resolution on the smaller screen is impressive, viewing TV shows is more enjoyable on the larger Echo Show 21. The Echo Show 10 has been well-reviewed for its build quality, and it’s anticipated that the Echo Show 21 will meet similar reliability standards over time.
Winner: Echo Show 21
Features and smart home connectivity
Beyond its larger display, the Echo Show 21 offers additional enhancements when compared to the Echo Show 10. Here’s a brief overview of their key differences regarding features:
- The Echo Show 21 is equipped with a 13MP wide-angle webcam that includes auto-framing, while the Echo Show 10 also features a 13MP camera with auto-framing capability.
- For sound, the Echo Show 21 has two 2-inch woofers and two 0.6-inch tweeters, whereas the Echo Show 10 is outfitted with two 1-inch tweeters and a 3-inch woofer.
- Additionally, the Echo Show 21 comes with Fire TV integration.
Many users report that the Echo Show 10 offers slightly better audio quality due to its enhanced low-frequency response. Both display models support auto-focusing to keep you framed during video calls, although the Echo Show 21 does provide a broader viewing angle.
This means the notable advantages of the Echo Show 21 boil down to its larger screen, wide-angle camera, and Fire TV integration.
Winner: Tie
Is the Echo Show 21 better than the Echo Show 10?
While the Echo Show 21 offers size advantages for those looking to enhance their viewing experience, it is not categorically superior to the Echo Show 10. The larger display is ideal for watching shows, but it might not suit every living space. The Echo Show 10 remains a strong contender for those seeking a compact solution that doesn’t take up much counter space. Its more affordable price coupled with excellent sound makes it a more practical choice for many families.
Given that the distinctions between the two devices are limited, justifying the higher price of the Echo Show 21 could be challenging. However, if you envision using your smart display primarily for entertainment, the Echo Show 21 proves to be a compelling option. With its 21-inch screen, it can effectively double as a small television, perfect for watching your favorite shows while engaged in kitchen tasks like washing dishes or cooking.
