Amazon’s Echo Pop and Echo Dot are entry-level smart speakers currently on sale in advance of Amazon’s October Prime Day, starting October 7th. Both devices are offered at their lowest prices since June and are also available at retailers such as Best Buy and Target. Notably, both speakers lack screens and utilize Amazon Alexa for controlling compatible smart home devices, setting timers, and providing information.
The Echo Pop is the more affordable option priced at $24.99, which represents a $15 discount. It performs many of the same functions as more expensive models, albeit without a screen. The Pop allows voice control of smart home accessories, including devices like plugs and light bulbs. However, it does not feature a dedicated button for triggering Alexa. It is compatible with Alexa Plus, Amazon’s AI-powered voice assistant, which is currently in early access.
In addition to its smart speaker functions, the Echo Pop can extend the range of an Eero Wi-Fi system by up to 1,000 square feet at speeds of up to 100 Mbps, making it useful for enhancing network coverage in larger spaces.
The fifth-generation Echo Dot, priced at $34.99, offers improved sound quality and serves as a more capable smart home hub compared to the Echo Pop. It includes built-in motion and temperature sensors that can activate compatible devices, although additional hardware may be required to utilize these features. The Echo Dot is also compatible with Alexa Plus and can also help extend an Eero Wi-Fi network by the same range and speed as the Pop.
In testing, users have noted that the Echo Dot’s sound quality, particularly with respect to bass, is superior to the Echo Pop. While neither speaker is positioned as high-end audio solutions, the Echo Dot is recommended for better music playback.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/tech/787543/amazon-echo-dot-pop-october-prime-day-deal-sale