Which One To Buy? Amazon Echo vs Tap vs Echo Dot

Back on September 14, 2016, Amazon released the 2nd generation of the Echo Dot.

Many of our readers are wondering how this Echo Dot compares to the Amazon Echo and Amazon Tap, and which one they should buy?

The Amazon Echo and Alexa have come on strongly over the past few years with sales of Alexa devices into the millions of units.

Alexa, Amazon’s digital assistant, is becoming smarter and smarter every day. The number of Alexa Skills is rising along with constant tweaks to performance and versatility.

Prices for Alexa-enabled devices are coming down too so take a look below to see the latest offers:

echo

Click here to see the best price for the Amazon Echo Dot.  Note you can buy 5 units and get 1 free!

Click here to see the best price on Amazon Tap

Click here to see the best price on Amazon Echo

What Is The Amazon Echo Dot?

Echo Dot is a hands-free, voice-controlled device that uses Alexa to play music, control smart home devices, provide information, read the news, set alarms, and much more.

It can do a number of things controlled by your voice.

For example, it can connect to speakers or headphones via Bluetooth and play music via Prime Music, Spotify or Pandora.

With Echo Dot, you can also control smart home devices such as lights, fans, switches, thermostats, sprinklers, and garage doors using just your voice!

And the best part is, Alexa can hear your voice even if there are loud noises in the background because of the unique proprietary system packing 7 microphones that will recognize your voice.

Some of the core functionality is shown in the picture right below:

echo-dot

Source: Amazon.com

Alexa is very intuitive and a quick learner. Whether it’s checking traffic, the weather or calendars, so many tasks are streamlined with this awesome digital butler. You can even order from Amazon directly and have it set up to deliver things so you don’t actually have to click and buy things!

Find more information on everything Echo Dot can do by clicking here.

Technical Details
Amazon Echo | Volume Ring | Reflex port (Enhances the woofer's output for deeper sounds without distortion) | 2.5 inch woofer (Delivers deep bass response) | 2.0 inch tweeter (Crisply hits the high notes) | Microphone off button | 7-microphone array | Action button | Light ring
Size 1.3″ x 3.3″ x 3.3″ (32 mm x 84 mm x 84 mm)
Weight 5.7 oz. (163 grams)
Actual size and weight may vary by manufacturing process
Wi-Fi Connectivity Dual-band Wi-Fi supports 802.11 a/b/g/n (2.4 and 5 GHz) networks. Does not support connecting to ad-hoc (or peer-to-peer) Wi-Fi networks.
Bluetooth Connectivity Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) support for audio streaming from your mobile device to Echo Dot or from Echo Dot to your Bluetooth speaker. Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) for voice control of connected mobile devices. Hands-free voice control is not supported for Mac OS X devices. Bluetooth speakers requiring PIN codes are not supported.
Audio Built-in speaker for voice feedback when not connected to external speakers. 3.5 mm stereo audio output for use with external speakers (audio cable not included).
System Requirements Echo Dot comes ready to connect to your Wi-Fi. The Alexa App is compatible with Fire OS, Android, and iOS devices and also accessible via your web browser. Certain skills and services may require a subscription or other fees.
Warranty and Service 90-day limited warranty and service included. Optional 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year extended warranty available for U.S. customers sold separately. Use of Echo Dot is subject to the terms found here.
Included in the Box Echo Dot, power adapter (9W), USB charging cable, and Quick Start Guide

Echo Dot 1st Generation vs. Echo Dot 2nd Generation

So…

What has changed between the 1st generation Echo Dot and the 2nd generation Echo Dot?

Here are some subtle differences we noticed…

  1. The new Echo Dot is smaller and more compact. It’s 1.3 inches tall instead of 1.5 inches tall
  2. The microphones are slashes instead of tiny circles which makes it look a little nicer. The mics have been upgraded as well
  3. Volume buttons have been replaced with a volume slider button
  4.  5.7-oz weight vs 8.8-oz making it even more portable
  5. Improved, glossy finish
  6. 90-day warranty, no power indicator, and no audio cable included

Echo Dot vs Amazon Echo vs Amazon Tap

The main difference between the Amazon Echo and the Echo Dot is that the speaker quality is vastly different.

We found the Echo Dot to be suitable for those who want light background music or simple music for the kids.

However, if you are looking for a rock solid music experience with quality speakers, you will need to upgrade to the Echo or get a pair of Bluetoothtooth speakers (you can find one by searching highest ranked bluetooth speakers on Amazon).

The Amazon Tap is basically a smaller version of the Echo, but the speakers are top-notch and provide Dolby powered sound.  It’s great for use on the go or when you get together with friends at the beach. It uses the Tap feature to take in commands as well.

The Tap is also available in a range of bright colors so there’s something for everyone.

What’s The Conclusion?  Which One Is Right For Me?

If you want the complete package — good speaker, total home control with Smart devices, and a personal digital assistant controlled by your voice — then go with the Amazon Echo.

If you want all this but prefer a more compact unit which you are able to connect to a Bluetooth speaker, roll with Echo Dot. It’s definitely the best value and you can get a Bluetooth speaker for the price of a few drinks. If you travel frequently, it’s not the best device since you’ll have to lug your speakers too.

If you want a portable Bluetooth speaker combined with Alexa and smart capabilities, but do not need to control other home devices, then choose the Amazon Tap.  The best part about Tap is its portability without compromising audio quality.

Click here to see the best price for the Amazon Echo Dot.  Note you can buy 5 units and get 1 free!

Click here to see the best price on Amazon Tap

Click here to see the best price on Amazon Echo

Come back soon!

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