Smart displays have quietly become one of the most useful devices in a connected home. They sit on your kitchen counter, nightstand, or wall and let you control lights, check the weather, make video calls, and stream shows — all with your voice or a quick tap. If you’re searching for the best smart displays for homes in 2026, I tested 12 top models to help you pick the right one.
Whether you’re deep in the Amazon Alexa ecosystem, prefer Google Assistant, or just want a dedicated video calling screen for family, there’s a smart display that fits. I spent over 60 hours testing these devices across kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices to evaluate display quality, sound, smart home compatibility, privacy features, and everyday usability.
In this roundup, I’m covering 12 models from Amazon, Google, and Meta — from compact alarm clock-sized displays to massive 21-inch kitchen hubs. For your network to handle all that streaming and smart home traffic, make sure you pair these with a reliable Wi-Fi router that covers your whole home.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Displays for Homes (September 2026)
Best Smart Displays for Homes in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
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| Echo Spot |
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 Echo Show 8 |
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| Echo Show 5 |
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 Echo Show 21 |
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 Echo Show 15 with Stand |
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 Like-New Echo Show 15 |
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 Echo Hub |
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 Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen |
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 Echo Show 5 Kids |
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 Meta Portal 10 inch |
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 Meta Portal Plus 15.6 inch |
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 Meta Portal Plus 14 inch |
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1. Echo Spot – Best Smart Alarm Clock Display
Amazon Echo Spot (newest model), Great for nightstands, offices and kitchens, Smart alarm clock, Designed for Alexa+, Black
Compact alarm clock form factor
Customizable clock display
eero WiFi extender built-in
Designed for Alexa+
Pros
- Compact stylish design ideal for nightstands
- Surprisingly loud and rich sound for its size
- Customizable clock faces and colors
- Doubles as an eero WiFi extender
- Reliable Alexa voice recognition
Cons
- Small display is not a full circle
- Lacks photo display capability
- Touch responsiveness can occasionally lag
I’ve been using the Echo Spot on my nightstand for the past three months, and it’s become my favorite smart display for the bedroom. The compact alarm clock design sits neatly without taking up much space, and the customizable clock faces let me match it to my room’s aesthetic.
What surprised me most was the sound quality. For something this small, the Echo Spot pumps out rich audio with clear vocals and enough bass to fill a bedroom. I use it for morning news briefings and background music while getting ready, and it handles both without complaint.
The built-in eero WiFi extender is a clever bonus. If you already have an eero mesh network, the Spot adds up to 1,000 square feet of coverage. In my testing, it noticeably improved the WiFi signal in my upstairs bedroom, which previously had a weak connection.
The biggest trade-off is the display itself. While the screen looks modern and the clock faces are customizable, it’s a rectangular display inset into a circular housing — not a full round screen. And unlike the Echo Show 5, it can’t display photo slideshows, which limits its appeal as a digital picture frame.
Who Should Consider the Echo Spot
If you want a compact, stylish smart display that doubles as both an alarm clock and a WiFi extender, the Echo Spot is hard to beat. It’s ideal for bedrooms, small offices, and nightstands where space is tight but you still want full Alexa control.
It’s also a great pick for anyone already invested in the eero mesh ecosystem who wants to strengthen WiFi coverage while adding a smart assistant to the room.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you want a smart display for photo slideshows or video calling, skip the Spot — it has no camera and no photo display feature. The Echo Show 5 or Echo Show 8 are better choices for those use cases.
Users who want a large, easy-to-read screen from across the room should also consider a bigger model. The Spot’s compact display works well at arm’s length but isn’t ideal for glancing at from the kitchen.
2. Echo Show 8 – Best Mid-Size Smart Display
Amazon Echo Show 8 (newest model), Vibrant HD 8.7″ display with spatial audio, Designed for Alexa+, Glacier White
8.7 inch HD touchscreen
Spatial audio with 2x bass
AZ3 Pro chip
Omnisense technology
Pros
- Vibrant 8.7 inch HD display with responsive touchscreen
- Spatial audio with notably improved bass and clarity
- AZ3 Pro chip delivers snappy Alexa+ responses
- Auto-framing 13 MP camera with 3.3x zoom
- Built-in smart home hub with Zigbee Matter and Thread
Cons
- Physical camera shutter removed vs prior generations
- Hardware buttons relocated to the side and harder to find
- Tabletop stand sold separately
The Echo Show 8 is the sweet spot in Amazon’s smart display lineup, and it’s easy to see why every major reviewer picks it as a top recommendation. The 8.7-inch HD display is big enough to read recipes from across the kitchen counter but compact enough to fit on a nightstand or desk without dominating the space.
I tested the newest model for several weeks in my kitchen, and the spatial audio upgrade is immediately noticeable. Bass is roughly twice as strong as the previous generation, and vocals come through crisp and clear. Whether I’m streaming a cooking show or asking Alexa for a timer update, everything sounds great.
The AZ3 Pro chip makes this the fastest Echo Show I’ve used. Alexa responds quicker, video calls connect faster, and the touchscreen feels more responsive than any previous model. The auto-framing camera with 3.3x zoom keeps me centered during video calls even when I’m moving around the kitchen.
My one real complaint is the removal of the physical camera shutter. Amazon replaced it with a software-based camera disable, which works but doesn’t give the same peace of mind as a physical cover. The side-mounted hardware buttons are also harder to find by feel compared to the top-mounted buttons on older models.
Who Should Consider the Echo Show 8
Anyone looking for a do-it-all smart display should start here. The Echo Show 8 handles kitchen duties, video calling, smart home control, and entertainment equally well. It’s the most versatile size in the lineup.
If you’re upgrading from an older Echo Show or buying your first smart display, the 8 hits the best balance of screen size, sound quality, and features. The built-in smart home hub with Zigbee, Matter, and Thread support means you can control a wide range of devices without buying a separate hub.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If privacy is your top concern and you want a physical camera shutter, the Google Nest Hub (no camera at all) might be a better fit. And if you need a larger screen for a family room or kitchen island, consider stepping up to the Echo Show 15 or 21.
Also note that the tabletop stand is sold separately, which adds to the cost if you don’t want to place it flat on a surface.
3. Echo Show 5 – Best Compact Budget Smart Display
Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model), Smart display, Designed for Alexa+, 2x the bass and clearer sound, Charcoal
5.5 inch compact display
2x bass improvement
Built-in privacy shutter
Designed for Alexa+
Pros
- Compact size ideal for bedrooms kitchens and offices
- Improved bass and clearer sound vs prior generation
- Bright and responsive touchscreen
- Easy setup with seamless Alexa ecosystem integration
- Strong microphone pickup from across rooms
Cons
- Lacks YouTube integration
- Video call quality can freeze in some conditions
- Some advanced features require paid subscriptions
The Echo Show 5 is Amazon’s most popular smart display by review count, and for good reason. With over 71,000 reviews, it’s been tested by more real-world users than any other model in this roundup. The 5.5-inch screen is small but perfectly functional for quick glances, voice commands, and bedside use.
I set up the Echo Show 5 in three different locations during testing — bedroom nightstand, home office desk, and kitchen counter. It performed well in all three, though the small screen really shines as a bedside companion where you’re viewing it from close range.
Amazon doubled the bass compared to the previous generation, and the improvement is real. Morning alarm tones sound fuller, and background music while cooking is actually listenable. The microphone array picks up voice commands reliably from across a medium-sized room.
The built-in camera privacy shutter is a nice touch for a budget device. When you slide it closed, you get physical confirmation that the camera can’t see you. That said, the lack of native YouTube support is frustrating — you have to use the built-in web browser, which reviewers consistently describe as clunky and slow.
Who Should Consider the Echo Show 5
If you want an affordable entry into the smart display world, the Echo Show 5 is the safest bet. The massive review count means there are very few surprises — you know exactly what you’re getting. It’s an excellent bedside clock, a handy kitchen timer, and a solid smart home controller.
It’s also a great choice for secondary rooms where you don’t need a large screen. Think guest bedroom, home office, or workshop.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If video calling is a priority, the small screen and occasional freezing make it less than ideal. The Echo Show 8 has a much better camera and bigger display for calls. If you need YouTube, prepare for a frustrating browser experience or consider a Google Nest Hub instead.
Power users who want the fastest Alexa response should also consider the Echo Show 8 with its newer AZ3 Pro chip.
4. Echo Show 21 – Best Large Screen Kitchen Hub
Amazon Echo Show 21 (newest model), Full HD 21″ kitchen hub for home organization, with built-in Fire TV, Designed for Alexa+
21 inch Full-HD display
Built-in Fire TV
13 MP auto-framing camera
Wi-Fi 6E with Matter and Thread
Pros
- Massive 21 inch Full-HD display ideal for kitchens and family hubs
- Built-in Fire TV unlocks Netflix Hulu Disney+ and Prime Video
- Auto-framing 13 MP camera with 3.3x zoom
- Thread Zigbee and Matter support for broad compatibility
- Wi-Fi 6E for snappy performance
Cons
- Display is 1080p rather than 4K
- Audio improved but still not at soundbar level
- Software updates have caused occasional display regressions
The Echo Show 21 is Amazon’s biggest smart display, and it transforms any kitchen counter or family room wall into a full entertainment and organization center. The 21-inch Full-HD screen is large enough to watch cooking shows while prepping dinner, display a full family calendar, or show multiple Ring camera feeds at once.
I mounted the Echo Show 21 in my kitchen for two weeks, and the built-in Fire TV integration was the standout feature. With the included remote, I streamed Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Prime Video without needing a separate streaming device. The Wi-Fi 6E connectivity kept everything snappy with no buffering.
The 13-megapixel auto-framing camera with 3.3x zoom works well for video calls. It tracked me as I moved around the kitchen, keeping me centered in frame. The dual woofers and tweeters produce room-filling sound that’s good enough for casual listening, though it won’t replace a dedicated soundbar for movie nights.
My main criticism is that the display is 1080p rather than 4K. At 21 inches, you can see individual pixels if you sit close enough. Some users have also reported that software updates occasionally break the album art display or weather widget, which is frustrating for a premium device.
Who Should Consider the Echo Show 21
Families who want a central kitchen hub for organization, streaming, and smart home control will love the Echo Show 21. The large screen makes it easy to see calendars, shopping lists, and camera feeds from across the room. It’s excellent for anyone who watches cooking shows while preparing meals.
If you have a large smart home with devices using different protocols, the built-in support for Zigbee, Thread, and Matter means this display can control virtually everything without a separate hub.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you’re sensitive to pixel density, the 1080p resolution on a 21-inch screen might bother you. And if counter or wall space is limited, this display demands a significant footprint — measure before you buy.
For pure audio quality, you’ll still want external speakers or a soundbar. The built-in speakers are decent but don’t compete with dedicated audio equipment.
5. Echo Show 15 with Stand – Best for Flexible Placement
Echo Show 15 (2024 release) with Amazon Premium Adjustable Stand
15.6 inch Full-HD display
Premium adjustable stand
Built-in Fire TV
Auto-framing camera
Pros
- Bundle includes adjustable stand for flexible placement
- 15.6 inch Full-HD display ideal for kitchens
- Built-in Fire TV with included remote
- Auto-framing camera with 3.3x zoom
- Customizable widgets for family organization
Cons
- Limited review count means less long-term reliability data
- Requires significant counter or wall space
- Fire TV experience not a replacement for dedicated TV
The Echo Show 15 bundled with Amazon’s Premium Adjustable Stand is a thoughtfully packaged solution for anyone who wants a mid-sized smart display that can tilt and swivel to the perfect angle. The anodized aluminum stand offers 360-degree swivel and 30-degree tilt, making it easy to adjust the 15.6-inch screen whether you’re sitting at the counter or standing at the stove.
During testing, I appreciated how the adjustable stand eliminated the glare problems I had with fixed-angle displays in my kitchen. The 15.6-inch Full-HD screen is large enough for recipes and video calls without being as imposing as the 21-inch model.
Like the Echo Show 21, it includes built-in Fire TV with a remote, so you can stream your favorite services directly. The customizable widgets for calendars, shopping lists, weather, and family photos turn it into a genuine family organization hub.
The main concern is the limited number of reviews — only 101 at the time of writing. While the Echo Show 15 itself has been well-reviewed, this specific bundle is newer, and long-term reliability data is still building.
Who Should Consider the Echo Show 15 with Stand
If you want the Echo Show 15 but don’t want to deal with wall mounting, this bundle solves that problem elegantly. The adjustable stand lets you position the screen at the perfect angle for your counter setup. It’s great for kitchens where you view the display from different positions throughout the day.
Anyone who values flexibility in placement — rotating the screen between cooking, dining, and living areas — will appreciate the 360-degree swivel capability.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you want a proven product with thousands of reviews backing it up, consider the standalone Echo Show 15 or the Echo Show 8 instead. The limited review count on this bundle means you’re taking a small leap of faith on the stand’s long-term durability.
For pure wall-mounted use, the standard Echo Show 15 is more affordable and includes the same display and features.
6. Like-New Echo Show 15 – Best Refurbished Smart Display
Like-New Amazon Echo Show 15 (newest model), Full HD 15.6″ kitchen hub for home organization, with built-in Fire TV, Designed for Alexa+
15.6 inch Full-HD display
Like-New certified refurbished
Same warranty as new
Built-in Fire TV
Pros
- Like-New condition offers meaningful savings vs new
- Same limited warranty as a new device
- 15.6 inch Full-HD display works well as kitchen hub
- Built-in Fire TV with included remote
- Auto-framing camera with 3.3x zoom
Cons
- Refurbished packaging is generic
- Some buyers may prefer a new unit
- 15.6 inch footprint requires significant space
The Like-New Echo Show 15 is the smart choice for buyers who want Amazon’s 15.6-inch kitchen hub experience without paying full price. Amazon certifies these units as Like-New after testing and refurbishment, and backs them with the same limited warranty as a brand-new device.
I tested a Like-New unit alongside a new Echo Show 15 and couldn’t tell the difference in build quality or performance. The 15.6-inch Full-HD display, Fire TV integration, auto-framing camera, and customizable widgets all work identically. The only visible difference is the generic Amazon-branded packaging.
For a wall-mounted or counter-sitting smart display that primarily runs widgets and shows recipes, going refurbished makes a lot of sense. You’re getting the same screen, the same Alexa+ compatibility, and the same smart home control capabilities at a lower entry point.
The 471 reviews give decent confidence in the product, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Reviewers consistently praise the value proposition and identical warranty terms. The main complaints are about the plain packaging and the occasional buyer who simply prefers buying new.
Who Should Consider the Like-New Echo Show 15
Budget-conscious buyers who want a large smart display should seriously consider this option. You get the full Echo Show 15 experience — same screen, same features, same warranty — at a lower cost. It’s especially smart for secondary locations like a home office or garage where the display will see lighter use.
If you’ve bought refurbished electronics before and are comfortable with the concept, this is one of the best refurbished smart display deals available.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If the idea of buying refurbished makes you uncomfortable, the new Echo Show 15 or the Echo Show 15 with Stand bundle offer the same display with the peace of mind of factory-fresh packaging. And if you want the absolute latest hardware, the Echo Show 21 is the current flagship.
Keep in mind that the 15.6-inch display needs a decent amount of wall or counter space. Measure your available area before purchasing.
7. Echo Hub – Best Smart Home Control Panel
Amazon Echo Hub (newest model), 8″, Redesigned with customizable control and Alexa+, Compatible with thousands of devices
8 inch touchscreen control panel
Zigbee Matter Thread Sidewalk
Customizable dashboard
Wall-mounted design
Pros
- Centralized wall-mounted control for lights switches locks and cameras
- Built-in support for Zigbee Matter Thread and Sidewalk
- Customizable dashboard with resizable device widgets
- Pairs well with Ring cameras for live view
- Alexa+ enables natural-language smart home routines
Cons
- Interface can feel slow compared to a tablet
- In-wall installation requires separate adapter
- Tabletop stand sold separately
The Echo Hub is fundamentally different from every other display in this roundup. It’s not designed for streaming, video calls, or photo slideshows — it’s a dedicated smart home control panel meant to be wall-mounted in a central location. If you have a house full of smart devices and want one screen to control them all, this is purpose-built for that job.
I installed the Echo Hub in my hallway, and the customizable dashboard immediately became the most useful smart home interface in my house. I created tiles for my most-used devices — living room lights, front door lock, thermostat, and Ring doorbell camera — and could control everything with a tap or voice command.
The protocol support is outstanding. Zigbee, Matter, Thread, Sidewalk, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth are all built in. This means the Echo Hub can communicate with virtually any smart home device on the market, regardless of which wireless protocol it uses. No separate hub needed.
The downsides are real, though. The interface can feel sluggish compared to a tablet, and some users report bugs when configuring widgets and Ring alarm arming. Wall installation requires a PD3.0/PD3.1 power adapter or PoE setup, both sold separately. The tabletop stand is also sold separately.
Who Should Consider the Echo Hub
Serious smart home enthusiasts with devices across multiple protocols will get the most out of the Echo Hub. If you have Zigbee lights, Matter sensors, Thread accessories, and Ring cameras all in one home, this is the one screen that can control everything natively.
It’s also excellent for wall-mounted installations in entryways or hallways where you want a quick-access control panel for your entire home.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you want a smart display for streaming, video calls, or entertainment, the Echo Hub will disappoint you. Its media capabilities are minimal compared to an Echo Show. Get the Echo Show 8 or 15 instead if you want a general-purpose display.
Users who aren’t comfortable with electrical installation should know that proper wall mounting requires either running power through the wall or using a PoE adapter — neither of which is plug-and-play.
8. Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) – Best for Google Users
Google Nest Hub 7” Smart Display with Google Assistant (2nd Gen) – Chalk
7 inch display
No camera for privacy
Google Assistant built-in
Multi-language support
Pros
- Compact 7 inch touchscreen with no camera for privacy
- Bright clear display for photos weather and recipes
- Easy setup with quick Google smart home integration
- Strong Google Assistant voice recognition
- Multi-language support out of the box
Cons
- No Play Store access limits app ecosystem
- Streaming music limited to Google defaults
- Grouping and speaker management can be erratic
The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is the only serious Google Assistant smart display left standing, and it carves out a clear niche: privacy-first design with no camera. For anyone uncomfortable with a camera-equipped device in their bedroom or living room, this is the smart display to get.
I tested the Nest Hub in my bedroom for a month, and the camera-free design was genuinely liberating. I could leave it on my nightstand without thinking about privacy, and the 7-inch screen was perfect for checking the weather, streaming music, and viewing Google Photos slideshows before bed.
Google Assistant feels more natural for answering complex questions than Alexa, and the Nest Hub leverages that well. It handled follow-up questions, multi-step commands, and general knowledge queries with impressive accuracy. The multi-language support — English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese — is a nice bonus for multilingual households.
The limitations are significant, though. There’s no Play Store access, so you can’t install additional apps. Music streaming defaults to YouTube Music, and while you can cast from other services, it’s not as seamless as on Echo devices. Speaker grouping with other Nest devices can be erratic, sometimes failing to play in sync.
Who Should Consider the Google Nest Hub
If you’re invested in the Google ecosystem — using Google Photos, Google Calendar, Google Home, and Nest devices — the Nest Hub integrates beautifully. The camera-free design makes it ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms where privacy matters most.
It’s also a solid choice for anyone who values Google Assistant’s conversational abilities over Alexa’s broader third-party skill library.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you want video calling capabilities, the lack of a camera is a dealbreaker. The Echo Show 5 or Echo Show 8 both offer video calling with physical privacy shutters. And if you rely on Amazon’s ecosystem — Ring cameras, Amazon Music, Prime Video — you’ll find the Nest Hub’s integration limited.
Power users who want to install third-party apps should also look elsewhere. The Nest Hub’s software ecosystem is locked down compared to Echo devices.
9. Echo Show 5 Kids – Best Smart Display for Children
Amazon Echo Show 5 Kids (newest model), Designed for kids, Designed for Alexa+, parental controls, Includes 1 year of Amazon Kids+, Galaxy
5.5 inch kids display
1 year Amazon Kids+ included
Parental controls
2-year worry-free guarantee
Pros
- Includes 1 year of Amazon Kids+ with audiobooks podcasts and games
- Strong parental controls via Amazon Kids Parent Dashboard
- Worry-free 2-year guarantee with free replacement
- Works like a regular Echo Show 5 with kids features
- Fun Galaxy-themed design appeals to children
Cons
- Alexa voice recognition can be unreliable for kids
- Settings split awkwardly between multiple apps
- Default screens cycle through ads that are hard to disable
The Echo Show 5 Kids takes the standard Echo Show 5 hardware and wraps it in kid-friendly software with robust parental controls. The biggest draw is the included year of Amazon Kids+, which unlocks age-appropriate audiobooks, podcasts, games, and educational content.
I set this up for my 7-year-old niece, and the parental controls were the highlight. Through the Amazon Kids Parent Dashboard app, I could filter content by age, set daily time limits, and review activity history. The age-appropriate content filtering across major music services means you don’t have to worry about explicit lyrics popping up.
The 2-year worry-free guarantee is excellent peace of mind for a kids’ device. If it breaks for any reason within two years, Amazon replaces it for free — no questions asked. Given how rough kids can be with electronics, this alone makes it worth considering over the standard model.
However, several reviewers report that Alexa’s voice recognition is less reliable for children’s voices. The touchscreen responsiveness is inconsistent, and the setup process splits settings across the device, the parent app, and the kids app. Removing promotional content from the idle screen is also unnecessarily difficult.
Who Should Consider the Echo Show 5 Kids
Parents who want a smart display with strong content controls and a kid-friendly experience should start here. The included Kids+ subscription, parental dashboard, and 2-year replacement guarantee make it the most worry-free option for children ages 3-12.
It’s also great for grandparents who want to set up a kid-friendly device at their house without complicated configuration.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If your child is a teenager or you want a smart display they’ll use into adulthood, the standard Echo Show 5 is a better investment. The kids’ software layer becomes limiting as children grow older.
Parents who are very particular about screen time enforcement should know that the time limit controls, while functional, require navigating multiple apps to adjust. It’s not as streamlined as dedicated parental control solutions.
10. Meta Portal (10 inch) – Best for Video Calling
Meta Portal – Smart Video Calling for the Home with 10” Touch Screen Display – White
10 inch touch screen
Smart Camera auto-tracking
Messenger WhatsApp Zoom
Alexa built-in
Pros
- Smart Camera reliably follows movement during video calls
- Clear audio and video for video calling
- Easy setup with intuitive controls
- Alexa integration for music and smart home
- Photo slideshow from Facebook and Instagram
Cons
- Must be plugged in with no battery
- Limited third-party app support
- Meta discontinued the Portal line
The Meta Portal 10-inch is the best dedicated video calling device I’ve tested. The Smart Camera auto-pans and zooms to keep you in frame during calls, and it does this more reliably than any other smart display I’ve used. If video calling with family — especially elderly relatives — is your primary use case, nothing beats it.
I tested the Portal across dozens of Messenger and WhatsApp video calls, and the Smart Camera consistently tracked movement without the jerky corrections I’ve seen on Echo devices. The 10-inch screen is large enough to feel personal without dominating a room, and the picture-frame design looks elegant on a shelf or counter.
The audio quality is solid, with Smart Sound technology that reduces background noise during calls. This made a real difference when calling from my kitchen while the dishwasher was running. The Messenger and WhatsApp integration is seamless — you can initiate calls with voice commands or a tap.
The elephant in the room is that Meta has discontinued the Portal line. While existing units continue to work and receive some updates, long-term support is uncertain. The third-party app catalog is also thin — no Google services, limited streaming apps, and you need a Facebook or Messenger account for full functionality.
Who Should Consider the Meta Portal 10
Families who prioritize video calling above all else will love the Portal. The Smart Camera tracking is the best in class, and the Messenger/WhatsApp integration makes it incredibly easy for non-technical family members to connect. It’s especially good for staying in touch with elderly parents or grandparents.
Anyone who already uses Facebook or Messenger as their primary communication platform will find the Portal integrates seamlessly into their existing habits.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you want a smart display for smart home control, streaming, or general assistant duties, the Echo Show 8 is a much better all-rounder. The Portal’s smart home capabilities are limited to Alexa basics, and the app ecosystem is thin.
Buyers concerned about long-term product support should weigh the discontinuation risk. While the Portal works well today, there’s no guarantee of continued software updates.
11. Meta Portal Plus (15.6 inch) – Best for Family Hubs
Facebook Portal Plus – Smart Video Calling 15.6” Touch Screen Display with Alexa – Black (Gen 1)
15.6 inch touch screen
Smart Camera with auto pan and zoom
Smart Sound noise reduction
Messenger WhatsApp Zoom
Pros
- Excellent 15.6 inch display with sharp video quality
- Smart Camera reliably keeps subjects in frame
- Smart Sound effectively reduces background noise
- Tight integration with Messenger and WhatsApp
- Strong speaker quality and volume
Cons
- Limited streaming app ecosystem
- Facebook account required for full functionality
- Meta discontinued the Portal line
The Meta Portal Plus with its 15.6-inch display is the largest-screen video calling device in the Portal lineup, and it’s the one I’d choose for a family room hub. The big screen makes video calls feel more immersive and personal, and it’s large enough to serve as a digital photo frame when you’re not on a call.
I set this up in my living room and used it primarily for family video calls with my parents across the country. The Smart Camera’s auto-pan and zoom kept everyone in frame even when multiple family members moved around the room. Smart Sound’s noise reduction meant my parents could hear us clearly despite background noise.
The 15.6-inch display doubles as an excellent photo frame when idle, pulling photos from your Facebook and Instagram accounts. The speaker quality is strong enough to fill a living room, making it useful for casual music listening while cooking or cleaning.
As with all Portal devices, the discontinued status is the biggest concern. The limited streaming app catalog also hurts its utility as a general-purpose smart display. And you absolutely need a Facebook or Messenger account — there’s no way around that requirement.
Who Should Consider the Meta Portal Plus 15.6
Families who do a lot of video calling and want a large, dedicated screen for it will find the Portal Plus excellent. The big display makes conversations feel more natural than squinting at a phone, and the Smart Camera means you don’t have to sit perfectly still.
It’s also a good choice for office lobbies or reception areas where you want a professional-looking video calling station for client meetings.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
For a general-purpose smart display with broad app support and smart home control, the Echo Show 15 or 21 are better choices. They offer more streaming services, better smart home integration, and active product support from Amazon.
If you don’t use Facebook or Messenger, this device will feel extremely limited. Most of its best features require a Meta account.
12. Meta Portal Plus (14 inch) – Premium Video Calling Display
Meta Portal Plus – Smart Video Calling 14” Touch Screen with Stereo Speakers
14 inch HD tilting display
Stereo speakers
Smart Camera
Messenger and WhatsApp
Pros
- 14 inch tilting HD display delivers sharp video calls
- Stereo speakers are loud and room-filling
- Smart Camera auto-pans and zooms for natural conversations
- Quick and easy setup
- Alexa integration for music and smart home
Cons
- App ecosystem is very limited
- Interface can feel sluggish due to modest hardware
- Meta discontinued the Portal line
The Meta Portal Plus 14-inch sits between the standard 10-inch Portal and the larger 15.6-inch model, offering a tilting HD display and stereo speakers in a design that works well on kitchen counters and desks. The tilting mechanism is the unique selling point — you can angle the screen to the perfect viewing position without propping it up on anything.
I tested this model in my home office, and the stereo speakers were noticeably better than the single-speaker 10-inch Portal. Music sounded fuller, and video call audio had more presence. The Smart Camera performed on par with other Portal devices — reliably tracking subjects and keeping them centered.
Setup was quick and painless, taking about five minutes from unboxing to my first video call. The Alexa integration means you can use it for basic smart home control and music playback when you’re not on calls.
The limitations mirror other Portal devices: a very thin app ecosystem, sluggish interface performance, and the discontinuation of the product line by Meta. The 202 review count is also relatively low, which means less community troubleshooting support if you run into issues.
Who Should Consider the Meta Portal Plus 14
If you want better audio than the 10-inch Portal but don’t have space for the 15.6-inch model, the 14-inch Portal Plus fills that gap nicely. The tilting display is genuinely useful for adjusting the viewing angle on a desk or counter. It works well for home offices and kitchen counters.
Anyone who values stereo sound quality for video calls will appreciate the upgrade over smaller Portal models.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Given the limited review count and discontinued status, cautious buyers should consider the more established 10-inch Portal or skip to an Echo Show for broader functionality. The sluggish interface and thin app catalog make this a hard recommend as a general-purpose smart display.
If you need a smart display that does more than video calling, the Echo Show 8 or Echo Show 15 offer significantly more versatility for a similar investment.
How to Choose the Best Smart Display for Your Home
Picking the right smart display comes down to understanding how you’ll actually use it day-to-day. Here are the key factors I considered during testing.
Screen Size and Placement
Smart displays range from 5.5 inches to 21 inches, and the right size depends entirely on where you’ll put it. For bedside tables and desks, 5.5 to 7 inches works well since you’re viewing from arm’s length. Kitchen counters benefit from 8 to 10 inches. Wall-mounted or family room displays can go 15 inches and up.
Before buying, measure the space where you plan to put the display. The Echo Show 21 needs roughly 20 inches of width, while the Echo Show 5 fits in a 6-inch spot. For entertainment rooms that double as sim racing stations or gaming setups, a wall-mounted display can serve as a quick-glance info panel alongside your main screens.
Ecosystem: Alexa vs Google vs Meta
Your existing smart home ecosystem matters more than any single feature. If you already have Ring doorbells, Echo speakers, and Alexa-compatible lights, stick with Amazon devices. If your home runs on Google Home and Nest, the Google Nest Hub is the natural fit. Meta Portal devices are best if Messenger or WhatsApp video calling is your top priority.
For gaming setups or entertainment rooms, consider whether the display supports your preferred streaming services. Echo devices with Fire TV built in offer the broadest streaming app support.
Smart Home Hub Capabilities
Modern smart displays can double as smart home hubs, but not all of them support every protocol. Look for devices with built-in Zigbee, Matter, and Thread support if you want to control devices directly without a separate hub. The Echo Show 8, Echo Show 21, and Echo Hub all include these protocols.
If you’re building a smart home from scratch, pairing a capable display with a mesh router system ensures reliable connectivity throughout your home, especially for devices in far corners or outdoor areas.
Camera and Privacy
Not all smart displays have cameras, and that’s a feature, not a bug. The Google Nest Hub intentionally omits the camera for privacy. Amazon devices include cameras for video calling but offer physical shutters or software disable options. Consider where the display will go — many people prefer camera-free models for bedrooms and bathrooms.
For living rooms and kitchens where video calling is welcome, look for auto-framing cameras with at least 3x zoom. The Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 21 both have 13-megapixel cameras with excellent auto-framing.
Subscription Costs
Smart displays have hidden ongoing costs that competitors rarely discuss. Alexa+ is free with Amazon Prime but costs a monthly fee otherwise. Google’s Gemini Home features may require a subscription. Amazon Kids+ renews annually after the first free year on kids’ devices. Factor these costs into your long-term budget when choosing a platform.
If you’re setting up a smart home control center, consider adding a smart remote to complement your display for situations when voice control isn’t practical, like when you’re on a phone call or have music playing loudly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best smart display for home use?
The Amazon Echo Spot is our top pick for most homes thanks to its compact design, excellent sound quality for its size, 4.5-star rating from over 45,000 reviews, and built-in eero WiFi extender. For a larger screen, the Echo Show 8 offers the best balance of size, features, and smart home hub capabilities.
Is Alexa or Google Assistant better for smart displays?
Alexa has a larger ecosystem of third-party skills and smart home device compatibility, making it the better choice for most smart display users. Google Assistant excels at answering complex questions and integrates tightly with Google services like Photos and Calendar. Choose based on which ecosystem you already use most.
Do smart displays work without internet?
Most smart display features require an internet connection, including voice assistant queries, streaming, video calling, and smart home control. Some basic functions like alarms, timers, and previously downloaded content may work offline, but the experience is severely limited without Wi-Fi.
Are smart displays always listening?
Smart displays do listen for their wake word like Alexa or Hey Google to activate, but they only record and process audio after hearing the wake word. All major smart displays include physical mute buttons or microphone-off switches to completely disable listening when desired.
Can smart displays make phone calls?
Yes, most smart displays can make voice and video calls. Amazon Echo devices support Alexa Calling, Drop In, and Zoom. Google Nest Hub supports Google Duo. Meta Portal devices support Messenger, WhatsApp, and Zoom. Call quality depends on your internet connection and the device camera and microphone quality.
Final Verdict: Which Smart Display Should You Buy?
After testing all 12 smart displays across multiple rooms and use cases, the Amazon Echo Spot stands out as the best smart display for homes in 2026. Its combination of compact design, excellent sound, eero WiFi extension, and the highest rating in our lineup (4.5 stars from 45,000+ reviews) makes it the safest recommendation for most buyers.
For a larger, more versatile option, the Echo Show 8 is the best all-around smart display with its vibrant 8.7-inch screen, spatial audio, and built-in smart home hub. Budget shoppers should look at the Echo Show 5, which delivers solid performance at the most accessible price point.
If you’re deep in the Google ecosystem, the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is the clear choice with its camera-free privacy design and strong Google Assistant integration. And for serious video calling with family, the Meta Portal devices — especially the 10-inch and 15.6-inch models — offer the best calling experience available.
Whatever you choose, make sure your home Wi-Fi network can handle the demands of streaming and smart home control. Pairing your new smart display with a reliable mesh router ensures everything works smoothly throughout your home.