The Amazon Echo Show 21 is Amazon’s largest and most feature-rich smart display to date, designed to serve as a central hub for home organization and entertainment. With its expansive 21.5-inch Full HD touchscreen, built-in Fire TV, and enhanced audio capabilities, it aims to redefine the smart display experience.
The Echo Show 21 represents a significant leap in Amazon’s smart display lineup, offering a sizable screen suitable for various tasks, from streaming content to managing smart home devices. Its integration of Fire TV and Alexa aims to provide a seamless user experience.
Hardware Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 21.5-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) touchscreen |
| Audio | Dual 2-inch woofers, dual 0.6-inch tweeters |
| Camera | 13MP front-facing with auto-framing and privacy shutter |
| Processor | Octa-core with Amazon AZ2 Neural Edge |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth |
| Smart Home | Supports Matter, Zigbee, Thread |
| Orientation | Landscape and portrait modes |
| Dimensions | 21.4 x 13.2 x 1.5 inches |
| Weight | 10.7 pounds (4.86 kg) |
| Included | Alexa Voice Remote, wall mount, optional stand |
Unboxing Experience
Upon opening the Echo Show 21, the first impression is its substantial size and sleek design. The packaging includes the device, an Alexa Voice Remote, power adapter, and mounting hardware. The setup process is straightforward, with on-screen prompts guiding through Wi-Fi connection, Alexa configuration, and Fire TV login.
The build quality feels premium, and the device’s ability to switch between landscape and portrait orientations adds versatility. The inclusion of a wall mount and optional stand provides flexibility in placement.
One-Month Usage Review
Display and Visual Experience
The 21.5-inch Full HD screen delivers crisp visuals, making it ideal for streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube. The touchscreen is responsive, and the interface is intuitive. The large display also enhances the usability of widgets, calendars, and smart home controls.
Audio Performance
The dual woofers and tweeters produce rich, room-filling sound. Whether listening to music, watching movies, or making video calls, the audio quality is impressive for a smart display.
Camera and Video Calls
The 13MP front-facing camera offers clear video quality, and the auto-framing feature keeps users centered during calls. The physical privacy shutter provides peace of mind when the camera is not in use.
Smart Home Integration
With support for Matter, Zigbee, and Thread, the Echo Show 21 seamlessly integrates with a wide range of smart home devices. Controlling lights, thermostats, and security systems is convenient through voice commands or the touchscreen interface.
Fire TV Functionality
The built-in Fire TV experience is smooth, and the included Alexa Voice Remote enhances navigation. Streaming content is accessible and responsive, making the device a viable secondary TV for kitchens or bedrooms.
Connectivity and Performance
The Wi-Fi 6E support ensures fast and stable internet connectivity, reducing buffering during streaming. The octa-core processor with Amazon’s AZ2 Neural Edge delivers snappy performance across applications.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large, vibrant 21.5-inch display
- Excellent audio quality
- Seamless integration with smart home devices
- Built-in Fire TV with included remote
- Responsive performance with Wi-Fi 6E support
Cons:
- Bulky size may not suit all spaces
- Limited customization options for widgets
- Higher price point compared to other smart displays
Conclusion
The Amazon Echo Show 21 stands out as a powerful and versatile smart display, combining entertainment, communication, and smart home control in a single device. Its large screen and robust audio make it suitable for various settings, from kitchens to home offices. While its size and price may not appeal to all users, those seeking an all-in-one solution will find it a valuable addition to their smart home ecosystem.