The Echo Dot 5 and 4 tell an interesting story. Both smart speakers launched at $50, but the 5th generation packs some solid upgrades. A bigger 1.73-inch driver replaces the 4th gen’s 1.6-inch speaker, which means better sound and clearer vocals.
The choice between these models really matters if you own an Echo Dot or plan to buy your first smart speaker. The 5th gen brings cool new features like a temperature sensor and tap gestures to the mix, but it leaves out the 3.5mm audio output that came with the 4th gen. Both versions work great with Alexa and handle smart home tasks well, so let’s figure out if upgrading makes sense for you.
Sound quality, smart features, and everything else – we’ll break it all down simply. You’ll know which Echo Dot fits your lifestyle and budget perfectly when we’re done.
Hardware and Design Evolution
Amazon kept its spherical design philosophy for both generations. The Echo Dot maintains similar dimensions of 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.5 inches. The 5th generation weighs 340g compared to the 4th gen’s 328g because of new internal components.
Physical Changes
Both models have a fabric-covered upper section and plastic base that creates a distinctive line across the sphere. The 5th generation no longer includes the 3.5mm audio output port from the 4th gen. The LED light ring stays at the base and creates a soft glow underneath. The 5th gen comes in a new Deep Sea Blue color along with Charcoal and Glacier White options.
Internal Component Updates
The 5th generation comes with much better hardware. The speaker driver grows from 1.6 inches to 1.73 inches to boost audio quality. The internal architecture now uses Amazon’s AZ2 Neural Edge processor, labeled as MT8519BAAV, with 0.5GB SK Hynix RAM at 4266Mbps.
The most important new features include:
- Temperature sensor to monitor ambient conditions
- Accelerometer that enables tap gesture controls
- Three-microphone array with TLV320ADC5140 to improve voice recognition
Amazon’s in-house WiFi connectivity module powers the 5th gen, using MediaTek’s MT7653BSN chipset for mesh network features. Both generations support WiFi speeds up to 100Mbps to ensure reliable smart home performance.
Sound Quality Difference
Sound quality is the main difference between these Echo generations. The 5th gen has a brand new audio setup with a larger 1.73-inch front-firing speaker, while the 4th has a 1.6-inch driver.
Bass Response
The new model packs twice the bass punch of the older version. Modern rock and pop tracks show off the improved low-frequency response that creates a fuller, richer sound. Both models struggle with bass-heavy tracks like “Silent Shout” if you crank up the volume.
Vocal Clarity
The 5th generation Echo Dot really shines with voice reproduction and improved midrange clarity. You’ll notice this improvement during podcast playback and Alexa interactions. The speaker delivers clearer pronunciation and separates high and low frequencies better.
Volume Handling
Both devices sound clear at normal volumes but react differently as you turn them up. The 4th gen spreads sound further at max volume, but the 5th gen handles distortion better. So keeping the volume below 90% will give you the best sound. Two 5th gen units paired together create an amazing stereo experience with great channel separation.
The sound quality jump between generations isn’t huge, but you’ll notice it. The 0.13-inch bigger driver makes subtle improvements to the overall audio performance. The full-sized Echo might work better if you need sound to fill larger spaces.
Smart Features Comparison
The Echo Dot 5th generation stands out with its smart features and new ways to interact. Amazon’s latest model now includes an accelerometer that lets you control it with taps.
Tap Gesture Controls
The new 5th gen lets you control your device naturally without speaking. A firm tap on the device’s top surface gives you these options:
- Play or pause your music within 15 minutes
- Snooze alarms with one tap
- End your calls and Drop-in chats
- Stop running timers
You’ll get better results using the middle part of your fingers instead of your fingertips. This feature comes in handy when you need quick control but can’t speak out loud.
Alexa Capabilities
Both Echo generations are great at picking up your voice and can even hear whispered commands while music plays. The 5th gen also works with Matter, a new smart home standard that major tech companies support. This compatibility means your device will work with smart home systems of all types.
The 5th gen’s temperature sensor adds automatic controls – your fans can turn on when a room gets too hot. Both models work with Zigbee devices, so you won’t need extra hubs. Alexa works naturally with Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, and many smart home devices.
Making the Upgrade Decision
Your choice between Echo Dot 4th and 5th generation should align with your setup and needs.
Current 4th Gen Owner’s Viewpoint
The 5th generation brings modest improvements that might not warrant an immediate upgrade for existing 4th gen owners. You’ll notice subtle sound quality improvements. The new temperature sensor and accelerometer features add innovation but may not justify the cost of upgrading.
New Buyer’s Guide
New buyers have a clear-cut decision ahead. The Echo Dot 5th generation costs $49.99 and delivers better value through its improved features. This device works with eero mesh networking and covers up to 1,000 square feet at speeds up to 100Mbps. New users will appreciate that the 5th gen produces twice the bass output compared to older models.
Future-Proofing Considerations
Matter protocol support in the 5th generation will give broader smart home compatibility. The new model drops the 3.5mm audio output but adds wireless pairing capabilities for stereo sound. Smart home enthusiasts will benefit from compatibility with over 140,000 products. Regular Alexa updates combined with feature additions make the 5th generation a smart choice for the future.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Echo Dot 4th Gen | Echo Dot 5th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Specifications | ||
| Dimensions | 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.5 inches | 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 328g | 340g |
| Colors | Charcoal, Glacier White | Charcoal, Glacier White, Deep Sea Blue |
| 3.5mm Audio Output | Yes | No |
| Audio Components | ||
| Speaker Driver Size | 1.6-inch | 1.73-inch |
| Bass Performance | Standard | Twice the bass of 4th gen |
| Hardware & Processing | ||
| Processor | Not mentioned | AZ2 Neural Edge (MT8519BAAV) |
| RAM | Not mentioned | 0.5GB SK Hynix (4266Mbps) |
| Microphone Setup | Not mentioned | Three-microphone array with TLV320ADC5140 |
| WiFi Speed | 100Mbps | 100Mbps |
| Smart Features | ||
| Temperature Sensor | No | Yes |
| Tap Gesture Controls | No | Yes |
| Matter Protocol Support | No | Yes |
| Zigbee Support | Yes | Yes |
| Launch Price | $50 | $50 |
Conclusion
The Echo Dot’s latest version shows clear differences from older models while Amazon stays true to its value promise. Better sound quality leads the improvements, thanks to a larger 1.73-inch driver and deeper bass response. The 5th generation adds useful features like tap gestures and temperature sensing, but drops the 3.5mm audio output from the 4th gen.
If you already own an Echo Dot 4, you might find these upgrades nice but not game-changing. The better audio and new features are great to have but may not be worth rushing to upgrade. First-time buyers should definitely go for the 5th generation model. It comes with future-ready features and Matter protocol support at the same $50 price point.
Your specific needs will help you decide. The 4th generation works well as a smart speaker for simple Alexa tasks and playing music. The 5th generation brings real improvements if you want better sound quality and smart home features. Both models give you great value and show Amazon’s steadfast dedication to making smart home tech available and practical.
FAQs
Q1. What are the main differences between the Echo Dot 4th and 5th generations? The 5th generation Echo Dot features a larger 1.73-inch speaker (vs 1.6-inch), improved bass response, a temperature sensor, tap gesture controls, and Matter protocol support. However, it lacks the 3.5mm audio output found in the 4th gen.
Q2. Is the sound quality significantly better on the Echo Dot 5th generation? Yes, the 5th generation offers noticeably improved audio quality with clearer vocals, deeper bass, and better overall sound. The larger speaker driver and redesigned audio architecture contribute to a fuller, richer listening experience.
Q3. Do I need to pay a monthly fee to use an Echo Dot? No, there is no monthly fee required to use an Echo Dot. You only need a free Amazon account to set up and use the device.
Q4. What new features does the Echo Dot 5th generation offer? The 5th gen introduces tap gesture controls for easy device interaction, a built-in temperature sensor for ambient monitoring, and eero Built-in functionality to extend your home’s WiFi coverage by up to 1,000 sq ft.
Q5. Should I upgrade from the 4th generation Echo Dot to the 5th generation? If you already own a 4th gen Echo Dot, the upgrade may not be essential unless you specifically want the new features like improved sound, temperature sensing, or tap controls. For new buyers, the 5th generation offers better value and future-proofing at the same price point.
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