Greetings, Reader technogigs! Smart displays have become a household name, and Amazon’s Echo Show has been recording remarkable sales throughout the industry. With two iterations in the series, customers might struggle to understand the differences between the Echo Show 8 1st Gen and 2nd Gen.
In this article, we will examine the Echo Show 8 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen breakdown and determine which device is worth your investment. But first, let’s take a look at what smart displays are and what makes the Echo Show series stand out in the industry.
Introducing Smart Displays and Echo Show Series
Smart displays are digital assistant devices with interactive screens that can provide additional information in response to users’ voice commands. Amazon was the first to introduce this category of devices back in June 2017 through its Echo Show series.
The Echo Show devices come with varied screen sizes, including Echo Show 5, 8, and 10. They are fitted with all the features of Amazon’s virtual assistant, Alexa, with the added advantage of being able to display visual content alongside the voice assistance. Users can access various media applications such as YouTube, Amazon Prime, and more.
From fulfilling routine tasks, such as setting alarms, making phone calls, controlling lights, and setting reminders, to providing weather forecasts and news updates, the Echo Show series provides endless possibilities. As we look into the Echo Show 8 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen breakdown, we hope to shed light on which of the two versions goes the extra mile.
Echo Show 8 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen: Breakdown
| Specification |
Echo Show 8 1st Gen |
Echo Show 8 2nd Gen |
| Display |
8″ HD |
8″ HD |
| Camera |
1 MP |
13 MP |
| Processor |
MediaTek MT 8163 |
MediaTek MT 8183 |
| RAM |
1 GB |
2 GB |
| Sound System |
Dual 2.0-inch 10 W speakers |
2-inch premium speakers with Dolby Atmos technology |
| Price |
$129.99 |
$129.99 |
| Release Date |
2019 |
2021 |
Design and Build Quality
The Echo Show 8 2nd Gen’s design is similar to its predecessor, with an 8″ screen size and a thick grey or white bezel. However, the 2nd Gen is sleeker, with a slimmer profile of 13 mm compared to the 1st Gen’s 14.8 mm. Additionally, the 2nd Gen has a prominent speaker grille with Dolby Atmos technology that provides a more immersive sound experience. The overall design of the 2nd Gen puts it a step ahead of the 1st Gen.
Display and Camera
The display for both Echo Show 8 models is 8″ HD with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. The 2nd Gen comes with a 13 MP camera, while the 1st Gen lags with a 1 MP front-facing camera. The difference in camera quality may not matter much for some users, but for video call enthusiasts, the 2nd Gen’s camera’s higher resolution would be a significant advantage.
Sound System
The Echo Show 8 1st Gen has dual 2.0-inch 10W speakers suitable for providing a decent audio experience. The 2nd Gen fairs even better, with 2-inch premium speakers with Dolby Atmos technology, providing more profound bass and a crisp sound. Music enthusiasts might consider the sound difference to be significant and opt for the 2nd Gen version because of it.
Processor and RAM
The Echo Show 8 2nd Gen comes with an upgraded MediaTek MT 8183 processor and 2 GB RAM. In contrast, the 1st Gen version has a MediaTek MT 8163 processor with only 1 GB of RAM. The 2nd Gen has a faster processor and double the RAM, providing a faster app launch, multitasking capabilities, and smoother user experience.
Read Also : How to Use Snipping Tool on Chromebook – Complete GuideGreetings, Reader technogigs!Chromebook is a lightweight, budget-friendly laptop that has gained immense popularity in recent years. However, one of the primary issues that users face is the lack of a snipping tool, a tool that enables you to take screenshots. This feature is essential for capturing a particular section of the screen without resorting to the traditional print screen method.If you're one of those users struggling to find a snipping tool on your Chromebook, you're in luck. In this article, we'll give you a comprehensive guide on how to use the snipping tool on your Chromebook, and we'll also discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the tool.IntroductionChromebook has become a popular choice among users due to its unique specifications and attractive prices. Despite its numerous advantages, Chromebook lacks features that a snipping tool provides which has become an essential tool for most users.Snipping Tool, a utility tool that allows users to capture a part of their screen, is not built-in Chromebook. But, do not despair because with a few simple steps, you can download and use a third-party app from the Chrome Web Store to enjoy the same benefits that come with having a snipping tool.This article will provide easy to understand steps that will guide you on how to install a snipping tool on Chromebook and cover everything in between. With these steps, you can easily capture a screenshot without the stress of taking a photo of your whole computer screen. Snapping a screenshot has never been more instant and comfortable as with the snipping tool.Read on to see how easy it is to use a snipping tool on your Chromebook.The Step-by-Step Guide on How to Use Snipping Tool on Chromebook Steps Description Step 1 Open the Chrome Web Browser on your Chromebook. Step 2 Go to the Chrome Web Store and search for the "Nimbus Screenshot & Screen Video Recorder" extension or any other snipping tool of your choice. Step 3 Click on the "Add to chrome" button to add the extension to your Chromebook. Step 4 Once installation is complete, click on the extension icon present on the right side of the Chrome browser toolbar. Step 5 Click on the type of snip you want to take, then select the area of the screen you want to capture and click on the 'Save' icon. Step 6 After the snip is saved, it will appear as a thumbnail at the bottom of your screen. Clicking on the thumbnail will open the snip, and you can edit or share it as you wish. The above table gives you an easy-to-follow step-by-step guide on how to install and use the snipping tool on your Chromebook. The process is relatively straightforward and can be done in a matter of a few minutes. If you need any help, refer to the above table to guide you.Pros and Cons of Using Snipping Tool on ChromebookProsConvenienceThe snipping tool offers convenience by allowing you to capture only a specific area of the screen. This saves time as you don't have to crop or edit an image to fit the section you want to use.Increase ProductivityThe snipping tool increases productivity as users can easily capture key information from different websites and documents and use the various parts to create an all-in-one capture. This saves the user time by not having to switch between different screens to locate the information.Easy to ShareWith the snipping tool, you can easily share your screenshots with your team or your audience. Screenshots can be used to illustrate steps, offer a guide, or provide visuals of a product. Sharing images makes it easy to provide the necessary information without worrying about sending large files via email or different messenger platforms.ConsRequires a Reliable Third-Party AppThe Chromebook does not have a built-in snipping tool, which requires users to find and install a separate third-party app. This can be daunting and cause a lot of frustration, especially if the app is not reliable or compatible with the Chromebook. Limited In ToolsThe snipping tool only provides basic and limited tools needed for editing screenshots. Advanced photo editing tools cannot be used, as the snipping tool is just for capturing a portion of the screen.Not built into the OSSome people might find it inconvenient to download an app or an extension to perform a task. Some might argue that Google should have added the feature to the OS.FAQWhat are the best apps for snipping tools for Chromebook?The best apps for snipping tools on Chromebook include:Nimbus CaptureLightshotScreenshot by GoogleWhat is a Snipping Tool?Snipping Tool is a Windows utility tool that allows you to capture an area of your screen and save it as an image. It is not built into the Chromebook's Operating System.Can I install the Snipping Tool on my Chromebook?The Snipping Tool is a Windows utility tool that is not compatible with the Chromebook Operating System. However, a third-party snipping tool can be downloaded from the Chrome Web Store to enjoy the benefits of a snipping tool on Chromebooks. How do I capture my entire screen on Chromebook?Using Full screen on Chromebook is easy; you can simply press the Ctrl and the Overview key at the same time, or you can use the Ctrl and F5 key. This will take a screenshot of the entire screen.Can I take a screenshot of a video on Chromebook?Yes, you can take a screenshot of a video on Chromebook using any snipping tool downloaded from the Chrome Web store. How can I edit a screenshot on my Chromebook?Snipping tools come with their editing capabilities, which include the ability to crop, annotate, highlight, or blur, among others. Some chrome extensions provide more advanced editing capabilities.Can I use the snipping tool on any browser?Yes, snipping tools can be used on any browser that supports browser extensions and plugins.Can I change the keyboard shortcut for the Snipping Tool on Chromebook?Yes, some snipping tools allow you to choose a keyboard shortcut that suits you.How do I know if my Snipping Tool app is compatible with my Chromebook?You can check the compatibility of the snipping tool on the Chrome Web Store by reading reviews and observing the number of downloads in the extension's listing.Can I use Snipping Tool on a touchscreen Chromebook?Yes, you can use Snipping Tool on touchscreen Chromebooks by activating the snipping tool button using your finger. Do snips get saved on Chromebook?Yes, snips get saved automatically as an image file in the Downloads folder on Chromebooks. You can edit, rename or delete it afterward as you wishHow can I share the screenshot?You can share a saved snip by using any social media platform or attaching it to an email and sending it wherever it is needed.ConclusionSnipping Tool has been an essential tool in more ways than one. With the absence of a built-in tool in Chromebook, it may seem difficult to use a snipping tool. But with the easy-to-follow steps provided in this article, you can easily download and use a snipping tool. The benefits are endless. Whether you want to increase productivity, capture key information, or share screenshots, the snipping tool is an ideal tool for you. What are you waiting for? Download a snipping tool today and experience the ease of taking screenshots quickly and efficiently.DisclaimerThe content of this article is intended as a guide only. It should not be relied upon as legal or technical advice and should be used as general information only. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this article.
Release Date and Price
The Echo Show 8 1st Gen was released in 2019 while the 2nd Gen was released in 2021. Both devices cost $129.99, with no significant change in price.
Compatibility with Smart Home Devices
The Echo Show series ensures that users can control their smart home devices through voice commands with Alexa. Both the 1st Gen and 2nd Gen versions are compatible with smart home devices. However, the Echo Show 8 2nd Gen can control up to 1400 smart home devices compared to the 1st Gen version’s control of 1000 smart home devices.
Privacy
Amazon assures its customers that privacy issues are ironed out through its ‘off’ button for cameras and mics. However, users should be aware that smart devices collect data, and security breaches are not uncommon.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use the Echo Show 8 as a regular tablet?
No, the Echo 8 Show is made only to work with Alexa and can not function as a traditional tablet.
Q2. Can I connect an external speaker to the Echo Show 8?
You can connect the Echo Show 8 to an external speaker through Bluetooth or a 3.5mm audio cable.
Q3. Can I watch Netflix on the Echo Show 8?
No. Amazon and Netflix are competing companies, and Amazon doesn’t allow Netflix to stream on its devices; there is no way to install Netflix on your Echo Show 8.
Q4. Does the Echo Show 8 support video playback and streaming?
Yes. The Echo Show 8 supports video playback on Amazon Prime, YouTube, Hulu, and more.
Q5. Can the Echo Show 8 be used as a security camera?
No, the Echo Show 8 does not have a built-in security camera, but it can connect to an Alexa-compatible security camera.
Q6. Can I make calls from my Echo Show 8?
Yes. You can make voice or video calls using the Alexa app or Alexa device to anyone with a compatible device.
Q7. Can the Echo Show 8 be used as a digital photo frame?
Yes. The Echo Show 8 has a digital photo frame feature that allows you to view specific photo albums, slide shows, or featured photos.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between the Echo Show 8 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen, users have to consider their needs and preferences. The 2nd Gen version has significant upgrades with a better camera quality, faster processor, double the RAM, and improved sound quality. On the other hand, the 1st Gen version also offers value for money, with access to all Alexa features and smart home compatibility.
We hope this Echo Show 8 1st Gen vs 2nd Gen breakdown has informed you well on each device and helped you make an educated decision. With all things considered, both versions offer excellent value and top-notch smart assisting capabilities that will benefit your home and life.
Thank you for reading, and we encourage you to share your thoughts and experience with us and Amazon’s Echo Show devices in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This article reflects individual opinions based on research conducted by our writers. It is not sponsored or paid for by Amazon or any other related entity.
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