Echo Show 8 (3rd Generation, 2023) Review – Smart Display with Alexa | UK Guide
The Echo Show 8 (3rd Generation, 2023 release) is one of Amazon’s most balanced smart displays, offering an upgraded HD touchscreen, improved spatial audio, a built-in smart home hub, and full Alexa integration. Designed to sit perfectly in kitchens, bedrooms, and living rooms, this latest version refines both sound and performance while keeping a practical 8-inch display size.
But is it worth buying in the UK? In this detailed review, we break down its design, display quality, sound performance, smart features, home hub capabilities, and overall value.
Design & Build Quality
The Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) maintains Amazon’s clean, fabric-backed design with a modern Charcoal finish. It blends easily into most UK homes without looking overly “techy.”
- 8-inch HD touchscreen
- Compact yet stable angled design
- Built-in camera with privacy shutter
- Microphone and camera off button
The physical privacy shutter is an important addition for users concerned about security. With one simple slide, the camera is completely covered.
HD Touchscreen Display
The 8-inch HD display is sharp, bright, and responsive. It’s large enough to comfortably:
- Watch Prime Video, Netflix, or YouTube
- Follow recipes step-by-step in the kitchen
- View smart home camera feeds
- Make video calls
- Display photos as a digital frame
The screen size hits a sweet spot — bigger than the Echo Show 5, but not as bulky as the Show 10 or 15. For many UK households, this makes it the most practical option.
Spatial Audio Performance
One of the biggest improvements in the 3rd generation model is enhanced spatial audio. The upgraded speaker system delivers clearer vocals, stronger bass, and better stereo separation compared to previous versions.
For music streaming via Amazon Music, Spotify, Apple Music, or BBC Sounds, the sound feels fuller and more immersive. While it won’t replace a dedicated hi-fi system, it is more than powerful enough for everyday listening in medium-sized rooms.
For a device this size, audio performance is impressive and noticeably better than earlier models.
Alexa Voice Assistant
Alexa remains the heart of the Echo Show 8. With hands-free voice control, you can:
- Check weather and traffic updates in the UK
- Set reminders and timers
- Control smart home devices
- Make video or voice calls
- Ask general knowledge questions
The improved processor makes Alexa responses feel faster and smoother compared to older Echo Show devices.
Built-In Smart Home Hub
The Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) includes a built-in smart home hub, allowing you to connect compatible smart devices without needing separate bridge hardware.
You can manage:
- Smart lights
- Smart plugs
- Thermostats
- Security cameras
- Doorbells
The touchscreen makes controlling devices more intuitive, letting you tap and manage everything visually instead of relying only on voice commands.
Video Calling & Camera Features
The built-in camera supports video calling through Alexa, making it easy to stay connected with family and friends. The auto-framing feature keeps you centred during calls, which is helpful when moving around slightly.
For privacy-conscious users, both a physical shutter and microphone/camera off button provide extra peace of mind.
Everyday Use in UK Homes
In daily use, the Echo Show 8 works particularly well in kitchens and living rooms. Many UK users enjoy using it for:
- Cooking tutorials and recipes
- Streaming music while cleaning or relaxing
- Checking Ring doorbell feeds
- Managing smart heating systems
Its balance of size, sound, and smart features makes it one of the most versatile smart displays available.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Sharp 8-inch HD touchscreen
- Improved spatial audio performance
- Built-in smart home hub
- Fast Alexa responses
- Privacy shutter and mute button
- Great size for kitchens and bedrooms
Cons
- Requires constant power (not portable)
- Premium price compared to smaller Echo devices
- Full features depend on Wi-Fi stability
Is It Worth Buying in the UK?
For UK buyers who want more than just a smart speaker, the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) is an excellent middle-ground device. It combines strong audio performance, a practical screen size, and smart home control in one compact unit.
If you already use Alexa devices, this model integrates seamlessly into your ecosystem. And if you’re starting your smart home journey, it serves as a powerful central hub.
Final Verdict
The Echo Show 8 (3rd Generation, 2023 release) is one of the most well-rounded smart displays currently available. With improved spatial audio, a sharp HD screen, built-in smart home hub, and reliable Alexa functionality, it offers excellent value for modern UK households.
If you’re looking for a smart display that balances entertainment, productivity, and home control, the Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) is a strong choice.