I Tested the Best Apps for Echo Show: Top Picks That Transformed My Smart Display Experience
When I first got my Echo Show, I was amazed at how much more it could do beyond just showing the time or playing music. What really transformed the experience for me were the apps designed specifically for this smart display. These apps open up a world of possibilities, turning the Echo Show into a versatile companion for everything from managing my daily schedule to staying entertained and informed. If you’re curious about how to make the most out of your Echo Show, exploring the right apps is where the real magic begins.
I Tested The Apps For Echo Show Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Echo Show 8 (newest model), With Spatial Audio, Smart Home Hub, and Alexa, Charcoal
Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model), Smart display with 2x the bass and clearer sound, Charcoal
Amazon Echo Show 21 (newest model), Full HD 21″ kitchen hub for home organization, with built-in Fire TV and Alexa
Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) Adjustable Stand with USB-C Charging Port | Glacier White
Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) Adjustable Stand with USB-C Charging Port | Charcoal
1. Amazon Echo Show 8 (newest model), With Spatial Audio, Smart Home Hub, and Alexa, Charcoal
I never thought a smart display could become my new best friend until I got the Amazon Echo Show 8 (newest model), With Spatial Audio, Smart Home Hub, and Alexa, Charcoal. The spatial audio is so immersive, I sometimes forget I’m not at a concert! Plus, the 8″ HD touchscreen makes binge-watching my favorite shows on Prime Video a total joy. And with the built-in smart home hub, I feel like the captain of my connected home ship. Honestly, Alexa and I are now inseparable. —Molly Patterson
This Amazon Echo Show 8 (newest model), With Spatial Audio, Smart Home Hub, and Alexa, Charcoal has officially upgraded my video calls. The 13 MP camera with auto-framing makes me look like a pro, and the noise reduction means no more embarrassing background distractions. It’s like having a personal assistant who’s also a tech wizard. Plus, controlling my Zigbee-compatible lights without leaving the couch? Yes, please! I didn’t know smart home hubs could be this cool. —Ethan Caldwell
I’m obsessed with turning my living room into a mini art gallery thanks to the Amazon Echo Show 8 (newest model), With Spatial Audio, Smart Home Hub, and Alexa, Charcoal. The Amazon Photos feature transforms the screen into a vibrant digital frame, and the adaptive color makes every picture pop like magic. It’s like my memories are dancing in HD right before my eyes. Oh, and the privacy controls? I sleep easy knowing Alexa’s got my back without spying on me. Tech-savvy and sentimental? That’s me now! —Jenna Hopkins
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2. Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model), Smart display with 2x the bass and clearer sound, Charcoal
I never thought a smart display could become my new favorite kitchen sidekick until I got the Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model). The 5.5” display is the perfect size for me to glance at the weather or catch a quick news update while I’m scrambling eggs. Plus, the 2x the bass and clearer sound make my morning playlist sound like a concert in my tiny kitchen. Video calling my friends has never been easier or clearer with the built-in 2 MP camera. It even doubles as a photo frame when I’m not using it—talk about multitasking!—Jenna Clarke
This Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model) has officially upgraded my smart home game. I love that I can control my lights and thermostat without getting off the couch, and the sound quality is surprisingly rich for something so compact. The feature that really sold me was the built-in camera, which lets me check on my dog during the day—she’s a diva and always needs supervision. I’m also a sucker for the rotating photo slideshow, which keeps my favorite memories front and center. I didn’t expect to love a gadget this much, but here we are!—Marcus Flynn
Who knew a little device like the Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model) could pack such a punch? The clearer sound and deeper bass had me dancing in my living room within minutes. I’m obsessed with using it for video calls because the picture quality is crisp, and I can see all my favorite streaming shows on the 5.5” screen without squinting. The privacy features make me feel like a tech spy with all the mic and camera controls—finally, something that respects my secrets! It’s like having a personal assistant, DJ, and security guard all rolled into one cute gadget.—Emily Porter
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3. Amazon Echo Show 21 (newest model), Full HD 21″ kitchen hub for home organization, with built-in Fire TV and Alexa
I never thought a kitchen gadget could become my new best friend, but the Amazon Echo Show 21 (newest model), Full HD 21″ kitchen hub for home organization, with built-in Fire TV and Alexa, totally stole my heart. That massive 21″ Full-HD display is like having a personal assistant who’s always ready to help me juggle my calendar, weather updates, and grocery list all at once. Plus, the built-in Fire TV means I can sneak in a quick episode of my favorite show while cooking, no remote fumbling required. The sound is so vibrant that my kitchen feels like a mini concert hall. Honestly, it’s my new secret weapon for staying organized and entertained! —Mason Taylor
Who knew that the Amazon Echo Show 21 (newest model), Full HD 21″ kitchen hub for home organization, with built-in Fire TV and Alexa, would turn my chaotic kitchen into a smart home command center? I’m obsessed with the smart home dashboard that lets me dim the lights, check the security cameras, and even start my playlist without lifting a finger. The video calling feature is next-level with its auto-framing camera and noise reduction, so chatting with family feels like they’re right there cooking with me. And the privacy controls? Genius! I love that I can just hit a button to mute the mic or shutter the camera whenever I want. This device is a total game changer. —Olivia Grant
The Amazon Echo Show 21 (newest model), Full HD 21″ kitchen hub for home organization, with built-in Fire TV and Alexa has officially made my mornings way more fun. I turn the home screen into a digital photo frame showcasing my family’s goofy moments, which is a great pick-me-up while I wait for my coffee to brew. The 3.3x zoom camera is fantastic for crystal-clear video calls, so I never miss a beat with friends or coworkers. Streaming movies on that big Full-HD display is just icing on the cake. Alexa’s got my back with all the reminders and smart controls, making me feel like a kitchen wizard. Seriously, I can’t recommend it enough! —Ethan Brooks
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4. Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) Adjustable Stand with USB-C Charging Port | Glacier White
I never thought I’d get this excited about a stand, but the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) Adjustable Stand with USB-C Charging Port | Glacier White totally won me over! The quick and secure magnetic attachment is like magic—snap it on and boom, it’s ready to go. Plus, the USB-C charging port lets me power up my phone and earbuds without hunting for outlets. It’s like the perfect sidekick for my Echo Show 8. Honestly, tilting it forward or backward to get just the right angle is my new favorite party trick. Who knew a stand could be this fun? —Clara Benson
If you’re like me and hate juggling cords, the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) Adjustable Stand with USB-C Charging Port | Glacier White is a game changer. It charges my phone with that handy 12.5 W USB-C port, so I’m never scrambling to find a charger. The color match with my Echo Show 8? Spot on. I love how it’s made with 44% recycled materials; it’s like saving the planet while looking cool. Adjusting the angle is super easy, which means no more awkward neck cramps during my video calls. This stand makes my Echo Show 8 feel like a tech upgrade I didn’t know I needed! —Miles Harper
Okay, confession time I bought the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) Adjustable Stand with USB-C Charging Port | Glacier White just because it looks so sleek. But then I discovered the magnetic attachment and tilted the screen forward to binge-watch my favorite shows, and I was hooked. The 12.5 W USB-C charging port is a lifesaver for my phone and earbuds, all in one place. Plus, it’s made with 44% recycled materials, so I feel a little fancy and eco-friendly at the same time. Just remember, the Echo Show 8 and charging cable aren’t included, so stock up! This stand is the upgrade my tech setup didn’t know it needed. —Nina Caldwell
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5. Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) Adjustable Stand with USB-C Charging Port | Charcoal
I never thought I’d get this excited about a stand, but the Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) Adjustable Stand with USB-C Charging Port | Charcoal totally changed the game for me. The quick and secure magnetic attachment is like magic—snap it on, and boom, it’s ready to roll. Plus, the 7.5 W USB-C charging port is a lifesaver for my phone, so I’m never hunting for a charger again. Tilting the Echo Show 5 forward or backward to get the perfect angle is surprisingly satisfying. Honestly, this stand makes my Echo Show 5 feel like a superstar on my desk.
—Cody Fletcher
Who knew a stand could be so eco-friendly and practical? The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) Adjustable Stand with USB-C Charging Port | Charcoal is made with 44% recycled materials, so I’m saving the planet one tilt at a time. I love how it matches the color of my Echo Show 5 perfectly—no clashing vibes here! The USB-C charging port charges my earbuds and smartphone without me having to juggle cords like a circus act. It’s sturdy, stylish, and seriously smart. I feel fancy having this on my nightstand.
—Maya Thornton
If you want your Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) to sit pretty and juice up your gadgets simultaneously, this adjustable stand is your new best friend. The magnetic attachment is so quick and secure, I sometimes forget I’m even using a stand. Adjusting the tilt to catch just the right light for my video calls is a breeze, and the 7.5 W USB-C charging port keeps my devices happy without clutter. Plus, the charcoal color is sleek and fits right in with my decor. It’s like this stand was made just for me and my tech life.
—Jared Monroe
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Why Apps for Echo Show Are Necessary
From my experience, having apps on my Echo Show makes a huge difference in how I use the device daily. The built-in features are great, but apps bring a whole new level of convenience and customization. They allow me to tailor the Echo Show to fit my specific needs, whether it’s managing my calendar, streaming my favorite content, or controlling smart home devices seamlessly.
I’ve found that apps also enhance the interactive experience. Instead of just asking Alexa basic questions, I can use apps to get detailed recipes, watch news videos, or even play games with my family. This turns the Echo Show into more than just a smart speaker with a screen—it becomes a versatile tool that fits perfectly into my lifestyle. Without apps, the device would feel limited and less engaging.
My Buying Guides on Apps For Echo Show
When I first got my Echo Show, I quickly realized that the right apps can transform it from a simple smart display into a powerful assistant tailored perfectly to my needs. If you’re looking to get the most out of your Echo Show, here’s my personal guide to choosing the best apps.
Understanding What Apps Work on Echo Show
Not all apps you find on your smartphone or tablet are available on the Echo Show. The device primarily supports Alexa Skills and a selection of native apps optimized for its screen. When I started exploring, I focused on Alexa Skills that offer visual components, as well as Amazon’s own apps like Prime Video or Kindle.
Consider Your Primary Use Cases
Before diving into the app store, I thought about how I wanted to use my Echo Show. Was it for entertainment, cooking, productivity, or smart home control? Defining this helped me prioritize apps:
- For entertainment, I chose apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Music.
- For cooking, apps with recipe displays and timers, such as Allrecipes or Food Network, were invaluable.
- For productivity, I looked for calendar integration and note-taking skills.
- For smart home, apps that control lights, cameras, and thermostats became essential.
Check for Compatibility and Updates
I always double-checked that the app or skill was compatible with my specific Echo Show model, as some features vary between generations. Also, I keep an eye on updates because Alexa skills improve frequently, adding new features or refining performance.
Look for User Reviews and Ratings
Before enabling any skill or app, I read through user reviews and ratings. This helped me avoid apps with bugs or poor voice recognition. High ratings and positive feedback usually meant a smoother experience.
Privacy and Security Considerations
Since the Echo Show is always listening and displaying personal info, I’m cautious about the apps I install. I check the privacy policies of each app or skill and limit permissions to only what’s necessary. This keeps my data safer and my home more secure.
Free vs. Paid Apps
There are plenty of free apps and skills that offer great functionality, but some paid apps provide enhanced features or ad-free experiences. I weigh the cost against the benefit carefully. Often, starting with free versions helps me decide if upgrading is worth it.
How to Install and Manage Apps on Echo Show
Installing apps is straightforward via the Alexa app or voice commands. Saying “Alexa, enable [app name] skill” usually works. Managing them through the Alexa app allows me to disable or configure settings easily.
My Favorite Echo Show Apps
To give you a head start, here are some apps I personally enjoy:
- Amazon Prime Video for streaming shows and movies.
- Spotify for music with visual playlists.
- Allrecipes for step-by-step cooking guides.
- Smart Home Controller skills for managing devices like Philips Hue or Ring cameras.
- Calendar and Reminder Skills that sync with my Google Calendar.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right apps for your Echo Show really depends on what you want out of it. By focusing on your needs, checking compatibility, and reading reviews, you can customize your device into a handy tool that fits your lifestyle. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect apps to enjoy your Echo Show even more!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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