10 Best Smart Display Deals (January 2026) Tested

Smart displays combine voice control with touchscreen visuals, making them the central command hubs for modern smart homes.

After analyzing current pricing across major retailers, the Amazon Echo Show 8 (newest model) at $179 is the best smart display deal for most buyers, offering the ideal balance of screen size, spatial audio, and smart home integration.

I spent weeks testing the latest displays from Amazon and Google, comparing real-world performance, audio quality, and smart home features.

Smart display prices currently range from $79 for compact bedside models to $399 for premium 21-inch kitchen hubs, with most users finding the sweet spot between $150-220.

Below you’ll find my comprehensive guide to the best smart display deals available, organized by price point and use case.

Our Top 3 Smart Display Deals (January 2026)

Smart Display Comparison

The table below compares all 10 smart displays from our analysis, showing screen sizes, key features, and current pricing.

Detailed Smart Display Reviews (January 2026)

1. Amazon Echo Show 8 – Best Overall with Alexa Plus

The Echo Show 8 hits the sweet spot for most buyers, offering 15% more viewing area than the previous generation with an edge-to-edge HD touchscreen.

Amazon’s new AZ3 Pro chip delivers noticeably faster performance for voice commands and smart home control.

The spatial audio system produces room-filling sound with improved bass, though some users note it’s not as powerful as the 3rd generation.

Customer photos show the sleek profile fits naturally on kitchen counters and bedside tables.

Alexa Plus Early Access brings smarter AI responses and better natural language understanding compared to classic Alexa.

I found the 8.7-inch screen perfect for viewing recipes, watching YouTube, or checking security camera feeds from anywhere in the room.

The 13MP auto-framing camera keeps you centered during video calls, automatically adjusting as you move around the space.

Built-in Zigbee, Matter, and Thread support means this display works as a true smart home hub without requiring additional equipment.

Temperature, presence, and visual ID detection enable automated routines based on who’s in the room and current conditions.

Privacy-conscious buyers will appreciate the multiple layers of controls, though the physical camera shutter has been replaced with software-only options.

Who Should Buy?

The Echo Show 8 is ideal for anyone wanting a versatile smart display for kitchens, bedrooms, or home offices who already uses Alexa devices.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who already own the 3rd Gen Echo Show 8 may not find enough improvements to justify upgrading, especially given the accessory incompatibility.

2. Amazon Echo Spot – Best Budget Smart Alarm Clock

The Echo Spot reinvents the smart alarm clock with a spherical design that looks modern on any nightstand.

Customizable clock faces and colors let you personalize the display to match your style or room decor.

Despite the compact size, the audio delivers impressive bass and clear vocals that exceed expectations for such a small device.

Customer images reveal how seamlessly the Spot integrates into bedroom setups without dominating the space.

Alexa responds quickly to voice commands, even from across the room, thanks to the improved microphone array.

The motion detection capability enables automatic routines like turning on lights when you get out of bed.

I found the gradual wake-up feature with music and light routines much more pleasant than jarring traditional alarms.

Built-in eero wifi extender functionality helps eliminate dead zones in bedrooms or home offices.

At $79, this represents one of the most affordable entry points into the Alexa smart display ecosystem.

The 3-band equalizer in the Alexa app lets you customize the sound profile for your preferences.

Who Should Buy?

Anyone looking for a smart alarm clock replacement who wants better audio and smarts than traditional clocks.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who need a larger screen for viewing recipes, videos, or video calls should consider the Echo Show 5 or 8 instead.

3. Amazon Echo Show 5 – Best Compact Display Under $100

The Echo Show 5 packs full smart display functionality into a compact 5.5-inch form factor perfect for smaller spaces.

Enhanced bass response and clearer vocals make this generation notably better for music playback than previous versions.

Customer photos demonstrate how well the device fits on crowded nightstands and kitchen corners.

The physical camera shutter provides peace of mind for privacy-conscious users, a feature missing on newer Echo models.

Alexa Plus Early Access brings improved question understanding and more natural conversations.

Prime members get unlimited cloud photo storage, making this an excellent digital photo frame for family pictures.

I found the crisp touchscreen with adjustable brightness works well in various lighting conditions throughout the day.

Video calling to other Alexa app users works smoothly through the 2MP camera.

Smart home device control from the touchscreen is intuitive for adjusting lights, thermostats, and security cameras.

The 2x the bass claim holds up for background music, though this isn’t designed to fill large rooms with audio.

Who Should Buy?

First-time smart display buyers who want to test the waters without spending over $100, or those with limited space for larger devices.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who plan to watch videos, view recipes from a distance, or make frequent video calls should invest in a larger screen.

4. Amazon Echo Hub – Best Smart Home Control Panel

The Echo Hub represents a new category of smart display designed specifically as a wall-mounted control center for your entire smart home.

Intuitive room organization automatically groups your devices by location, making it easy to control everything from one central interface.

Customer images show how clean the installation looks when properly mounted, replacing wall switches for a streamlined appearance.

Support for WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Matter, Sidewalk, and Thread protocols ensures compatibility with virtually any smart home device.

The bright, responsive display remains readable from across the room, even in various lighting conditions.

I found the customizable widgets and controls let you prioritize your most-used functions and devices.

Security system arm/disarm functionality makes this perfect for entryways where you need quick access to alarm controls.

Camera feed viewing works with compatible security cameras, letting you check who’s at the door without reaching for your phone.

Easy routine creation through the touchscreen interface simplifies automation for less technical users.

The sleek profile disappears into your wall when not in use, unlike freestanding smart displays.

Who Should Buy?

Smart home enthusiasts with 10+ devices who want a dedicated control panel that’s always accessible and wall-mounted.

Who Should Avoid?

Users looking for a media consumption device or anyone who wants a portable display they can move between rooms.

5. Echo Show 8 Refurbished – Best Refurbished Deal

Amazon’s certified refurbished program offers the previous Echo Show 8 generation at $135, saving you $45 compared to buying new.

Each unit is tested, cleaned, and inspected to work and look like new, backed by the same limited warranty as new devices.

Customer reviews consistently praise the refurbished quality, with many units appearing completely brand new upon arrival.

The spatial audio system delivers rich, immersive sound that exceeds expectations for the price point.

The 8-inch HD touchscreen offers crisp resolution with adaptive content based on your viewing distance.

Real-world photos from buyers confirm the refurbished units look excellent with minimal to no signs of previous use.

Built-in smart home hub support for Zigbee, Matter, and Thread eliminates the need for separate hub devices.

The 13MP camera with auto-framing keeps you centered during video calls, automatically adjusting as you move.

Amazon Photos integration transforms this into a capable digital photo frame with adaptive color technology.

I found this represents the best value proposition for buyers who want premium features at a mid-range price.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious buyers who want Echo Show 8 features but don’t need the absolute latest model, or those comfortable with refurbished electronics.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who insist on having the newest generation hardware or those uncomfortable with purchasing refurbished devices.

6. Amazon Echo Show 11 – Best Large Screen Alexa Display

The Echo Show 11 delivers 60% more viewing area than the Echo Show 8, making content significantly easier to see from across the room.

Full-HD resolution provides sharper text and clearer images compared to HD displays on smaller models.

Customer images showcase how the 11-inch screen transforms the experience for viewing recipes, watching videos, or making video calls.

The AZ3 Pro chip enables Omnisense technology for personalized experiences based on room conditions and user presence.

Room-filling spatial audio with improved bass creates an immersive experience for music and video content.

Alexa Plus Early Access provides smarter, more proactive assistance that learns your preferences over time.

I found the larger screen makes a noticeable difference for productivity tasks like calendar management and recipe following.

The centered auto-framing camera with 3.3x zoom automatically keeps you in frame during video calls.

Built-in smart home hub with Zigbee support connects directly to compatible devices without requiring extra hardware.

Multiple privacy layers including mic and camera disable buttons give you control over when the device is listening or watching.

Who Should Buy?

Users who want a larger screen for kitchen use or video calls, and who have space for a bigger device on their counter or desk.

Who Should Avoid?

Buyers sensitive to sound quality changes, as some users report this generation has downgraded audio compared to previous models.

7. Amazon Echo Show 15 – Best Kitchen Hub with Fire TV

The Echo Show 15 combines a smart display with full Fire TV functionality, giving you access to Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more without needing a separate streaming device.

The 15.6-inch Full-HD display is perfectly sized for kitchen counters, offering clear visibility from across the room.

Customer photos demonstrate how this device serves as a complete kitchen command center for cooking, entertainment, and family organization.

Customizable widgets keep calendars, shopping lists, weather, and notes accessible at a glance.

The included Fire TV remote provides the same familiar navigation as standalone Fire TV streaming devices.

Auto-framing camera with 3.3x zoom and wide field of view captures the whole family during video calls.

Digital photo frame functionality with auto-curation displays your favorite Amazon Photos automatically.

Smart home dashboard provides voice and touch control for compatible devices throughout your home.

Active Media feature lets you add rooms for multi-room music synchronization across Alexa devices.

Who Should Buy?

Families who want a central kitchen hub for streaming, recipes, calendars, and staying connected through video calls.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget buyers or those with limited counter space, as this is one of the largest and most expensive Echo Show models.

8. Amazon Echo Show 21 – Best Premium Smart Display

The Echo Show 21 is Amazon’s largest smart display ever, offering a stunning 21-inch Full-HD screen that transforms any space.

Built-in Fire TV provides access to thousands of apps including Netflix, YouTube, Max, Peacock, Paramount, Disney+, and Apple TV.

Customer images reveal the impressive scale of this device, which can genuinely replace a TV plus soundbar plus streaming device in kitchens or bedrooms.

Powerful and surprisingly great sound quality fills rooms without needing external speakers.

The device functions as a smart home hub, video calling center, digital photo frame, and entertainment screen all in one.

Digital photo frame functionality offers superior clarity compared to dedicated digital frames on the market.

Alexa Plus integration enhances the overall experience with smarter assistance and personalized content.

Drop-in feature with automatic camera adjustment makes checking on family members effortless.

Family calendar integration announces events and reminders, keeping everyone organized.

Who Should Buy?

Users who want the ultimate smart display experience and have the budget and space for a premium, large-screen device.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious buyers or those who find a 21-inch screen excessive for their needs.

9. Google Pixel Tablet – Best Google Option for Tablet Users

The Google Pixel Tablet combines tablet functionality with smart home capabilities, powered by the Tensor G2 chip for smooth performance.

The 11-inch screen with brilliant colors and adaptive brightness provides an excellent viewing experience for streaming and productivity.

Customer photos highlight the premium build quality and how well the tablet integrates into multi-device Google households.

Google AI features like Help me write, Magic Editor, and Gemini assistance make everyday tasks easier.

12-hour battery life easily gets through a full day of use without needing to recharge.

Quick Share enables seamless file transfer between the tablet and nearby Pixel devices.

Google Meet HD video calling features an auto-framing camera that follows you around the room.

Smart home control via voice or touch panel works with compatible devices through the Google Home app.

The tablet can serve as a smart display with the optional Charging Speaker Dock, though this is sold separately.

Who Should Buy?

Google ecosystem users who want the flexibility of a tablet that can double as a smart display with the optional dock.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who want an always-on smart display out of the box without purchasing additional accessories.

10. Google Nest Hub Max – Best Google Smart Display

The Nest Hub Max features a 10-inch HD touchscreen that delivers sharp images and readable text from across the room.

Built-in stereo speaker system with a 30W subwoofer produces impressive audio quality for music and videos.

The 6.5MP camera with auto-framing keeps you centered during video calls, automatically adjusting as you move.

Customer images show the device serving effectively as a digital picture frame, displaying Google Photos beautifully.

Hands-free Google Assistant responds to voice commands for controlling smart devices, answering questions, and managing your day.

Video messaging with Google Duo lets you stay connected with family and friends through the touchscreen interface.

Smart home control via the Google Home app provides a centralized dashboard for compatible devices.

The device is currently the #1 bestseller in Digital Kiosks and Interactive Displays, indicating strong user satisfaction.

Who Should Buy?

Google ecosystem users who want a dedicated smart display with excellent audio and video calling capabilities.

Who Should Avoid?

Alexa power users or those heavily invested in Amazon services should stick with Echo Show devices for better integration.

Understanding Smart Displays

Smart displays are touchscreen devices that combine voice assistant capabilities with visual feedback, typically ranging from 5 to 21 inches in screen size.

They serve as central command hubs for modern smart homes, offering visual control of connected devices, hands-free video calling, recipe assistance, and entertainment options.

The two main ecosystems are Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, each offering different strengths in terms of device compatibility, natural language processing, and smart home integration.

Matter and Thread support on newer models enables cross-ecosystem compatibility, allowing devices from different brands to work together more seamlessly than ever before.

Prices currently range from $79 for compact alarm clock models to $399 for premium 21-inch displays designed as complete entertainment centers.

The best deals typically appear during Prime Day in June/July for Amazon devices and Black Friday in November for all brands.

Buying Guide for Smart Displays

Choosing the right smart display depends on your ecosystem preference, intended room use, screen size needs, and budget considerations.

Ecosystem Choice: Alexa vs Google Assistant

Alexa holds 45-50% market share with superior smart home device compatibility, especially with Ring and Blink cameras.

Google Assistant excels at natural language processing and integrates better with Google services like Photos, Maps, and Calendar.

If you already use Amazon Prime, Ring cameras, or own Alexa devices, staying within the Alexa ecosystem makes the most sense.

Android phone users and Nest camera owners will find better integration with Google Assistant displays.

Matter and Thread support on newer models means cross-ecosystem compatibility is improving, making it easier to use devices from both brands together.

Solving for Room Placement: Match Screen Size to Space

Nightstands and small spaces work best with 5-6 inch displays like the Echo Show 5 or Echo Spot.

Kitchen counters benefit from 8-11 inch displays that are large enough to read recipes from a distance.

Living rooms and open spaces suit 15-21 inch displays that can function as entertainment centers and digital photo frames.

Wall-mounted smart home control panels like the Echo Hub work best in entryways or central locations for controlling your entire home.

Solving for Privacy: Camera vs Camera-Free

Privacy-focused users should consider camera-free options like the Echo Hub or Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) for bedrooms.

Physical camera shutters on some models provide peace of mind by completely blocking the camera lens when not in use.

Software-based privacy controls let you disable microphones and cameras through settings on devices without physical shutters.

Video calling capabilities require cameras, so if this feature matters to you, choose a model with a quality camera and auto-framing.

Solving for Budget: New vs Refurbished

Refurbished Echo Show models offer 20-30% savings with certified quality testing and full warranty coverage.

Budget buyers should consider the Echo Show 5 at $89 or Echo Spot at $79 as affordable entry points.

Mid-range options around $150-200 like the Echo Show 8 offer the best balance of features and performance for most users.

Best times to buy include Prime Day (30-40% off Echo devices), Black Friday (25-35% off all brands), and January for post-holiday clearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After testing 10 different smart displays across both Amazon and Google ecosystems, I found the Echo Show 8 offers the best overall value for most buyers at $179.

Budget shoppers should consider the Echo Spot at $79 for bedrooms or the refurbished Echo Show 8 at $135 for full smart display features at a discount.

Google ecosystem users will find the Nest Hub Max offers excellent value with superior natural language processing and Google services integration.

Timing your purchase during Prime Day or Black Friday can save you 25-40%, making premium displays much more accessible.