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By Jon Bitner Published November 27, 2024 3:00 PM
AmazonAmazon has officially discontinued the Echo Show 15 (1st Gen), replacing it with the new and improved Echo Show 15 (2nd Gen). The new device makes a lot of improvements over its predecessor, but it also carries over much of the same functionality. That begs the question — if you already own an Echo Show 15 (1st Gen), should you upgrade to the Echo Show (2nd Gen)? And what exactly is different about this expensive smart display?
Here’s a look at all the new features on the Echo Show 15 (2nd Gen) to help you decide.
Pricing and design
AmazonThe Echo Show 15 (1st Gen) is no longer available for purchase, but it was originally sold for $250. You’ll now find the Echo Show 15 (2nd Gen) sold for $300. Both products look remarkably similar, with a black frame and white inlay surrounding a 15.6-inch display. One notable difference is the webcam location, as it’s moved from the top corner to the top middle of the device. Aside from that, it’s difficult to tell them apart at a glance.
Winner: Tie
Display and quality
AmazonNo changes here — both products are built to Amazon’s high standards and feature a robust 1080p touchscreen display. If you’re looking to upgrade because you want higher-quality images, you won’t find that on the Echo Show 15 (2nd Gen).
Winner: Tie
Features and smart home connectivity
AmazonThis is where things begin to change. It all starts with newfound support for Wi-Fi 6E on the Echo Show 15 (2nd Gen), allowing for faster streaming. You’ll also get support for Matter and an improved 13MP webcam (up from 5MP) with double the field of view of the original. And while the old smart display used two 1.6-inch speakers, the new Echo Show 15 gets you two 2-inch speakers with 0.6-inch tweeters for enhanced audio.
In other words, you’re getting better internet connectivity, Matter support, better speakers, and a better webcam.
Winner: Echo Show 15 (2nd Gen)
Should you upgrade to the Echo Show 15 (2nd Gen)?
If you already own an Echo Show 15 (1st Gen), there are only a few reasons you’d want to upgrade to the new model. Folks who regularly stream music to their smart display or watch TV will likely find the new speakers to be a good investment, as they’re larger and more powerful than the existing model. Wi-Fi 6E is also a great way to speed up its performance — so long as you have a network that supports it.
Unfortunately, the new smart display isn’t getting a display that’s any more vivid than what’s currently available, and all the same apps are supported across both the 1st Gen and 2nd Gen. Video chats should look a bit more vibrant thanks to an upgraded webcam, making it a great central hub for keeping up with friends and family.
However, most people probably don’t need to rush out and upgrade to an Echo Show 15 (2nd Gen). The existing model offers pretty much all the same features, minus some new connectivity options and improved audio. But if you’re largely using your smart display as a smart speaker, the new sound system could make it a wise $300 investment. The old Echo Show 15 often went on sale — so if you can wait a bit, we’re highly likely to see generous discounts on the Echo Show 15 (2nd Gen) during big shopping holidays.
Jon Bitner is a writer covering consumer electronics, technology, and gaming. His work has been published on various websites…
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