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Smart displays are always a nice addition to any smart home setup, as they offer both visual interaction and voice control with connectivity. They could project the weather, stream videos, and control devices within your smart home, but you don't have to break the bank for them. Here's a guide to some of the best smart displays you can buy on a budget and still get great features in return.
The Amazon Echo Show 5 – 2nd Generation is a compact smart display that fits lots into a small and affordable package; it's perfect for smaller spaces like bedrooms or offices.
Display: 5.5-inch touchscreen
Camera: 2 MP camera with built-in shutter for privacy
Audio: Full-range speaker for clear audio
Voice Assistant: Alexa for hands-free control.
Smart Home Integration: This supports many smart devices in your home.
Entertainment: Stream music and watch video content among other stuff.
The Echo Show 5 is a jack-of-all-trades device, able to act as a digital alarm clock, a tool for video calls, and even a smart home controller. It's small enough to fit on most bedside tables or desks, yet won't strain too much on most wallets.
The Google Nest Hub is integrated seamlessly into Google services, thus making for a fine platform for those invested in the Google ecosystem.
Display: 7-inch touchscreen display.
Camera: No camera for better privacy.
Audio: Improved audio with 50% more bass than the first generation.
Assistant: Google Assistant enables hands-free control.
Smart Home Integration: Works with a wide array of smart home devices.
Entertainment: Stream in videos from YouTube, Netflix, and more.
The Nest Hub is brilliant at working in tandem with Google services like Google Photos, YouTube, and Google Calendar. Its lack of a camera also makes it a great choice for those who might be worried about privacy issues.
Lenovo's Smart Clock Essential is an entry-level smart display that really serves as a smart alarm clock but does a little more.
Display: 4-inch LED display.
Camera: No camera.
Audio: 3W speaker for alarm and music.
Voice Assistant: Google Assistant for hands-free control.
Smart Home Integration: Controls compatible smart home devices.
Extras: It has a built-in nightlight and is equipped with a USB charging port.
The product is perfect for any person seeking a smart display primarily for use in the bedroom. The compact design, along with essential smart features and aggressive pricing, makes it highly valued.
The Amazon Echo Show 8 has a larger screen and more powerful speakers than the Echo Show 5, yet is still somewhat reasonably priced.
Display: 8-inch HD touchscreen.
Camera: 1 MP camera; built-in shutter.
Audio: Dual speakers for richer sound.
Voice Assistant: Alexa for hands-free control.
Smart Home Integration: Works with a variety of smart home devices.
Entertainment: Stream videos, music, and more.
With a larger screen and higher audio quality, the Echo Show 8 provides more immersive experiences. It is designed for kitchens, living rooms, or places you would love to have a more engaging experience with smart displays.
The Facebook Portal Mini is a smart display designed with video calling as the first activity that comes to mind when using Facebook's suite of services in keeping one connected with friends and family.
Display: Touchscreen - 8 inches.
Camera: 13 MP smart camera with wide-angle view and privacy shutter.
Audio: Full-range speakers.
Voice Assistant: Alexa is built in for hands-free control.
Smart Home: Works with select smart home devices.
Extras: Video calls via Messenger and WhatsApp.
The Mini excels in video calling, specifically in features like Smart Camera, which will pan and zoom to keep you in frame. If staying in touch with long-distance relatives or friends is your top priority, then this smart display is a fantastic choice.
Elevate style and versatility in any room with the Lenovo Smart Display 7.
Display: 7-inch touchscreen.
Camera: 2 MP with privacy shutter.
Audio: Dual passive radiator speakers for improved sound.
Voice Assistant: Reaches its potential with hands-free control by Google Assistant.
Smart Home Integration: Compatible with a wide range of smart home devices.
Entertainment: Stream videos, music, and more.
The Lenovo Smart Display 7 strikes that middle ground between size, features, and pricing. Stylishly designed, and if you're already plunged deep into the Google ecosystem, this device will fit very nicely.
