Smart Speakers Review
Amazon Echo (4th Gen) Review (2026)
The spherical mid-size Echo with real room-filling sound and a smart-home hub.
Our verdict: Worth a low-risk try
★★★★★
$80-100 · Amazon return policy applies
Check Today's Price →At a glance
| Category | Smart Speakers |
|---|---|
| Our rating | ★★★★★ 4.4/5 |
| Price | $80-100 |
| Availability | Check current price on Amazon |
| Returns | Standard Amazon return policy applies |
| Best for | People who want one capable Echo for both music and controlling a Zigbee smart home. |
Our take
The 4th Gen Echo steps up from the Dot with a 3-inch woofer and dual tweeters that deliver genuinely good sound for the price, plus a built-in Zigbee hub for smart-home gadgets. It's heavier and pricier than the Dot, and audiophiles will still want something better.
What we like
- Much fuller, louder audio than the Dot
- Built-in Zigbee smart-home hub
- Temperature sensor and auto-EQ to the room
- 3.5mm line in/out for flexible audio
What to keep in mind
- Larger footprint than the Dot
- Sound still trails dedicated audio speakers
- Alexa-only, Amazon ecosystem lock-in
Buy through Amazon and you're covered by their standard return policy. Check the live listing for today's price and real buyer reviews before you commit.
Sold on Amazon · Standard returns apply · Live price & reviews on the listing
Ready to look at Amazon Echo (4th Gen)? Check current pricing, availability, and customer reviews on Amazon.
Check Today's Price →As an Amazon Associate, Smart Home Magazine earns from qualifying purchases. Smart Home Magazine is reader-supported. Some links on this site are affiliate links — we may earn a commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. We only feature gear we'd recommend to a friend, and our opinions are our own.
Frequently asked questions
Is Amazon Echo (4th Gen) worth it?
The 4th Gen Echo steps up from the Dot with a 3-inch woofer and dual tweeters that deliver genuinely good sound for the price, plus a built-in Zigbee hub for smart-home gadgets. It's heavier and pricier than the Dot, and audiophiles will still want something better. We weigh real-world usefulness against price, and we note the downsides honestly. Check the live price and recent customer reviews on Amazon before deciding — both can change.
Where can I buy Amazon Echo (4th Gen)?
Through Amazon, where the standard Amazon return policy applies. We link to the current listing so you always see up-to-date pricing and availability.
Who is Amazon Echo (4th Gen) best for?
People who want one capable Echo for both music and controlling a Zigbee smart home.
Is Amazon Echo (4th Gen) the best in its category?
It's one we think is worth considering, but "best" depends on your needs and budget — compare it against the alternatives in our reviews before you buy.