The New Echo is More Versatile Than Ever

Amazon Echo 5th Generation Review: More Than Just a Speaker

The Amazon Echo 5th generation is much more than a simple smart speaker. While many people know it for playing music or delivering weather updates, the Echo 5 offers an impressive range of features that make it an indispensable part of a modern smart home. Here’s a look at the many ways you can use the Amazon Echo 5th generation to enhance your daily life.

1. Running Routines

One of the standout features of the Echo 5th generation is its ability to run routines. These are customized sets of actions that Alexa can perform automatically based on your commands or scheduled times. Imagine waking up in the morning to your favorite playlist, with the lights gradually brightening, your coffee maker starting, and the morning news being read aloud—all triggered by a simple “Good Morning” command. You can create routines for different times of the day, or specific events, making your life more organized and hands-free.

2. Setting Alarms and Timers

Gone are the days of fumbling with alarm clocks or setting timers on your phone. With the Echo 5, setting alarms and timers is as easy as asking. Whether it’s waking you up for work, reminding you to check the oven, or timing your workout sessions, the Echo handles it all with voice commands. Plus, you can customize alarm tones, set recurring alarms, and even ask Alexa to wake you up with specific music or radio stations.

3. Reading News Headlines and Updates

Staying informed has never been easier. With the Echo 5th generation, you can set up a personalized news briefing that delivers the latest headlines from your preferred sources. Just ask Alexa, “What’s in the news?” and you’ll get a quick rundown of the top stories. You can also ask for more in-depth reports on specific topics, listen to podcasts, or catch up on your favorite radio shows—all without lifting a finger.

4. Controlling Smart Home Devices

The Echo 5th generation truly shines as a smart home hub. It integrates seamlessly with a wide range of smart devices, from lights and thermostats to cameras and door locks. With voice commands, you can dim the lights for movie night, adjust the thermostat without leaving the couch, or even check who’s at the door. If you’ve invested in smart home technology, the Echo 5 makes controlling it all effortless.

5. Temperature Control

Pairing the Echo 5th generation with smart thermostats like the Ecobee or Nest allows you to manage your home’s temperature with ease. Whether you want to cool down your home before you arrive or heat it up on a chilly morning, just ask Alexa. The Echo can also learn your preferences over time, helping you create an energy-efficient schedule that keeps your home comfortable while saving on energy costs.

6. Interacting with Other Connected Devices

Beyond lights and thermostats, the Echo 5th generation interacts with a multitude of other smart devices. You can use it to control smart plugs, garage door openers, security cameras, and more. The Echo acts as a central command for your smart home ecosystem, allowing you to manage everything with simple voice commands or through the Alexa app.

7. Synchronized Music Playback

While the Echo 5 is a fantastic standalone speaker, it also offers synchronized music playback across multiple Echo devices. This means you can play the same song throughout your entire home or choose different music for each room. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a quiet evening, this feature provides a seamless audio experience that moves with you.

8. Drop In and Intercom Functionality

The Drop In feature allows you to connect instantly with other Echo devices in your home or even with friends and family who have Echo devices. It’s like an instant intercom system, perfect for calling everyone to dinner or checking in on a loved one. You can also use the Echo as an intercom to make announcements in specific rooms or throughout the house.

9. Hands-Free Calling and Messaging

With the Echo 5th generation, you can make hands-free calls and send messages to anyone with an Alexa device or the Alexa app. It’s a convenient way to stay connected, whether you’re cooking dinner, working at your desk, or on the go. Alexa can even help you screen calls, letting you know who’s calling before you pick up.

10. Skills and Integrations

Finally, the Echo 5th generation supports thousands of skills—voice-activated apps that extend its functionality even further. From ordering pizza to booking an Uber, there’s a skill for almost anything you can imagine. Plus, with regular updates and new skills being added, the Echo 5 keeps getting smarter and more capable over time.

Last thoughts

The Amazon Echo 5th generation is a powerful, versatile device that can do much more than play music or provide weather updates. With its ability to control smart home devices, run routines, manage your schedule, and keep you connected, it’s an essential tool for anyone looking to make their home smarter and their life easier. We also recommend setting the battery base for the Echo, which makes the speaker portable. Take it into the back yard or the garage while working and keep enjoying your Echo. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just looking for a little more convenience in your day-to-day routine, the Echo 5th generation is an excellent investment.

Philippe Heller CEO

Philippe Heller started The Real Estate Inspection Company in 2004 after a really poor home inspection on his own house. He applied his background in technology to build an innovative, industry-leading company. Working for SDG&E, GE Power Systems, Cox Communications and Time Warner Communications taught him a lot about technology, quality, and customer service. These traits are passed on to all of the employees in the company.

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