The Amazon Echo Dot is a convenient, voice-controlled device that can simplify your life and make life at home so much easier.
But when it comes to deciding which Echo Dot to buy, it can be difficult to know which generation is the better choice.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between the 3rd and 4th generation Echo Dots, including their design, color options, sound quality, compatible devices, features, and pros and cons.
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
The main difference between the Amazon Echo Dot 3rd and 4th generations is the design and audio quality.
The 3rd generation Dot was designed to be a small, puck-shaped device with a fabric-like exterior.
The 4th generation Dot has a spherical shape and is more compact than the 3rd generation.
The 4th generation also has an improved sound quality, with a stronger bass response and more volume.
Finally, the 4th generation Dot has improved voice recognition, allowing it to pick up commands more accurately.
Overview of the Amazon Echo Dot
The Amazon Echo Dot is a voice-activated device that can help you stay connected and in control of your home. It works with Alexa, Amazon’s intelligent assistant, to give you access to a range of features and services. The Echo Dot comes in two generations: the 3rd generation and the 4th generation. Both of these versions of the Echo Dot share some of the same basic functions, but there are also some notable differences between the two.
The 3rd generation Echo Dot has a fabric-covered exterior, an LED light ring, and is available in either charcoal, heather gray, or sandstone colors.
This version of the Echo Dot has a 3.5mm audio output and is powered by a 1.2GHz processor.
It also has 8GB of storage and 802.11ac dual-band Wi-Fi.
The 4th generation Echo Dot has a sleek spherical design and is available in Glacier White or Twilight Blue.
It is powered by a 1.6GHz processor and features improved audio performance with a 1.6-inch driver and dual-band Wi-Fi.
This version of the Echo Dot also has 16GB of storage, making it a great choice for those who need extra storage space for their music and other media.
Both versions of the Echo Dot are compatible with Amazon Alexa, allowing users to control their home automation products, access music streaming services, and more.
Additionally, they both feature a 3.5mm audio output and Bluetooth connectivity for easy streaming from compatible devices.
No matter which generation you choose, the Echo Dot is a great way to stay connected and in control of your home.
With Alexa, you can control your compatible home automation products, access music streaming services, and more.
So whether you get the 3rd or 4th generation Echo Dot, you’ll be able to enjoy the same great features with the convenience of voice control.
Design Differences
When it comes to the Amazon Echo Dot, the 3rd and 4th generations have some key differences in their design.
The 3rd generation Echo Dot has a fabric-covered exterior and an LED light ring, which gives it a more traditional look and feel.
It is available in charcoal, heather gray, or sandstone colors.
The 4th generation Echo Dot, however, has a much more modern and sleek spherical design.
It comes in Glacier White or Twilight Blue and has a matte finish.
It is also slightly larger than the 3rd generation Echo Dot, measuring at 3.9 inches in diameter and 1.7 inches tall.
The 4th generation Echo Dot also has improved sound quality with a 1.6-inch driver and improved audio performance.
This means that it is able to deliver more powerful and clear sound than the 3rd generation Echo Dot.
Both versions of the Echo Dot are compatible with Amazon Alexa, allowing users to control their home automation products, access music streaming services, and more.
So if you’re looking for a device that can take your home automation and entertainment experience to the next level, either the 3rd or 4th generation Echo Dot will do the trick.
Color Options
When it comes to color options, the Amazon Echo Dot 3rd and 4th Generations offer distinct choices.
The 3rd Generation Echo Dot has a fabric-covered exterior and is available in either charcoal, heather gray, or sandstone colors.
The 4th Generation Echo Dot has a sleek spherical design and is available in Glacier White or Twilight Blue.
While the colors may be different, both versions of the Echo Dot are compatible with Amazon Alexa, allowing users to control their home automation products, access music streaming services, and more.
The color options offered by the 3rd and 4th Generation Echo Dots provide users with a range of choices to suit their style and preferences.
The fabric-covered exterior of the 3rd Generation Echo Dot gives the device a classic look, while the sleek spherical design of the 4th Generation Echo Dot allows it to blend in with any modern decor.
Each color option also provides a unique aesthetic appeal, making it easier to find the perfect Echo Dot to match your home.
No matter which Echo Dot generation you choose, both versions provide a wide range of color options to perfectly match your home.
Whether you prefer the classic look of the 3rd Generation Echo Dot, or the modern design of the 4th Generation Echo Dot, you can find the perfect color to fit your style.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, the major difference between the 3rd and 4th generation Amazon Echo Dot is in the hardware.
The 3rd generation Echo Dot has a single 0.6-inch driver that produces relatively low-quality sound.
The 4th generation Echo Dot, on the other hand, has a larger 1.6-inch driver that produces much higher quality sound.
The 4th generation also has improved audio performance, which means it can produce louder and clearer sound than the 3rd generation.
Additionally, the 4th generation Echo Dot is equipped with more advanced technologies such as Dolby processing and dual-band Wi-Fi, which makes it better suited for streaming music and podcasts.
These improved features make the 4th generation Echo Dot the superior choice for anyone looking for better sound quality from their voice-activated device.
Compatible Devices
When it comes to the differences between the Amazon Echo Dot 3rd and 4th Generation, one of the most noticeable is the compatibility of devices.
The 3rd Generation Echo Dot is compatible with a variety of home automation products and streaming services, including Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Nest, and more.
It also has Bluetooth connectivity, so it can be used with a variety of wireless audio devices.
The 4th Generation Echo Dot, on the other hand, is only compatible with Amazon Alexa.
It does not have Bluetooth connectivity, so it cannot be used with wireless audio devices.
However, it does offer improved sound quality with its 1.6-inch driver and improved audio performance.
This makes it a great choice for streaming music or audio books.
Features
The Amazon Echo Dot is a voice-activated device that allows users to control compatible home automation products, access music streaming services, and more.
While the basic functions of the Echo Dot are the same between the 3rd and 4th generation, there are several key differences between them.
The 3rd generation Echo Dot has a fabric-covered exterior, an LED light ring, and is available in either charcoal, heather gray, or sandstone colors.
It also has a 3.5 mm audio jack, 7-microphone array, and two 1.6-inch speakers.
The 4th generation Echo Dot has a sleek spherical design and is available in Glacier White or Twilight Blue.
It has improved sound quality with a 1.6-inch driver and improved audio performance.
The 4th generation Echo Dot also comes with a Zigbee hub, so you can connect it to compatible home automation products like light switches, thermostats, security cameras, and more.
It also has a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio, which allows you to connect to compatible Bluetooth devices like speakers, headphones, and gaming controllers.
Both versions of the Echo Dot are compatible with Amazon Alexa, allowing users to control their home automation products, access music streaming services, and more.
With Alexa, you can ask questions, set alarms, play music, get news updates, check the weather, and more.
So, while the 3rd and 4th generation Echo Dot have the same basic features, there are some key differences.
The 4th generation Echo Dot has improved sound quality, a Zigbee hub, a BLE radio, and a sleek, modern design.
If you’re looking for a voice-activated device with more features, the 4th generation Echo Dot might be the right choice for you.
Pros and Cons
When it comes to choosing between the Amazon Echo Dot 3rd and 4th generation, there are both pros and cons to consider.
The 3rd generation Echo Dot has a fabric-covered exterior, an LED light ring, and is available in either charcoal, heather gray, or sandstone colors, while the 4th generation has a sleek spherical design and is available in Glacier White or Twilight Blue.
In terms of sound quality, the 4th generation Echo Dot has a 1.6-inch driver and improved audio performance, making it the better choice if youre looking for superior sound quality.
However, the 3rd generation Echo Dot is still a great choice if youre looking for a more affordable option or want the fabric-covered exterior.
When it comes to compatibility, both versions of the Echo Dot are compatible with Amazon Alexa, allowing users to control their home automation products, access music streaming services, and more.
This means that no matter which version you choose, youll still be able to take advantage of all the features offered by Alexa.
The choice between the 3rd and 4th generation Echo Dot ultimately comes down to your budget and preferences.
If youre looking for a more affordable option and dont mind the fabric-covered exterior, then the 3rd generation Echo Dot is a great choice.
However, if youre looking for superior sound quality and a sleek design, then the 4th generation Echo Dot is the way to go.
Final Thoughts
Whether youre considering an upgrade or just getting started, its important to understand the differences between the 3rd and 4th generation Amazon Echo Dot.
From design and color options to sound quality and compatible devices, the Amazon Echo Dot offers a range of features that make it a great addition to any home.
With the knowledge of the differences between the 3rd and 4th generation, you can make an informed decision and get the most out of your Echo Dot experience.