The Amazon Echo (5th Gen) is a good choice for users deeply invested in the Alexa ecosystem and those who value audio quality and privacy features. The Samsung SmartThings Hub (v3) is better suited for users who want broader smart home protocol support and compatibility with multiple voice assistants.
| Attribute | Amazon Echo (5th Gen) | Samsung SmartThings Hub (v3) |
|---|---|---|
| Voice Assistant Compatibility | Amazon Alexa | Alexa and Google Assistant |
| Smart Home Protocol Support | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy Mesh, Matter controller (set up via Alexa Android app, iOS support is coming) | Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Zigbee 3.0, Z-Wave Plus, Cloud-to-Cloud |
| Device Compatibility | Compatible with lights, thermostats, cameras, door locks, other Echo devices for multi-room audio, and Fire TV for home theater sound. Can control thousands of smart home devices across major brands, including smart bulbs, locks, plugs, and thermostats. | Connects to devices from over 40 partner brands (lights, switches, speakers, cameras, sensors). Compatible with previous versions of SmartThings sensors and outlets. Compatible with Ring, Arlo, Philips Hue, Lutron Caseta, Ecobee, TP-Link, August, Yale, Schlage, Kwikset, and Nest products. |
| Ease of Setup and Use | Easy to set up. Setup involves plugging in the device and using the Alexa app. Intuitive to use, with voice control for various functions. | Straightforward setup with guided onboarding. Connects via Wi-Fi. Uses SmartThings app for setup. |
| Security Features | Multiple layers of privacy controls. Microphone off button to electronically disconnect the microphones. Ability to view and delete voice recordings. Alexa Guard can detect sounds like breaking glass or smoke alarms. | App alerts for unexpected activity. Two-step verification for account login. |
| Range/Connectivity Reliability | Dual-band Wi-Fi support (2.4 and 5 GHz). Eero Built-in extends Wi-Fi coverage (requires compatible Eero router). Amazon Sidewalk can help reconnect to Wi-Fi. | Wireless range of 50-130 feet (depending on home construction). Supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi. |
| Customization Options | Routines can be created for automated actions. Customizable alarm tones. IFTTT integration is not mentioned. | Customizable routines and modes based on personal settings and time. Allows users to set devices to work automatically. Enables creation of scenes. |
| Mobile App Functionality and User Interface | The Alexa app is compatible with Fire OS, Android, and iOS. Used for device setup, managing settings, and connecting devices. | Controlled by SmartThings Mobile app (Android and iOS). User-friendly interface with sections for devices in each room. Allows adding devices, creating scenes, automations, and lighting groups. |
| Audio Quality | Improved audio quality with clearer vocals and deeper bass compared to previous generations. 1.73" (44mm) front-firing speaker. | Not available |
| Response Time/Latency | Responsive voice control. | Not available |
| Power Consumption | Uses a 15W power adapter. Plugs directly into the wall. | 3 watts |
| Privacy Settings and Data Management | Microphone off button. Amazon has a "Don't Save Recordings" setting. Voice recordings are encrypted during transmission. | Not available |
| Price | Not available | Not available |
| Ratings | Not available | Not available |