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In this blog post, I am happy to share my experience owning both the Amazon Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen speakers for well over a year now.
Alexa Smart Orb Showdown
Apparently, I’m not alone. According to Coolest Gadgets, global shipments of smart speakers are projected to reach 409 million units by 2025, and Amazon Echo Dot models remain among the most recognized smart home devices in the world.
I enjoy both of these speakers, but there are some key differences worth pointing out. If you want the short version, here’s the quick summary:
The 5th Gen Echo Dot adds motion and temperature sensor support, a slightly larger driver, Matter compatibility, and a smaller design. The 4th Gen offers better sound with deeper bass, multi-driver audio, and a 3.5 mm jack.
My fifth generation Dot handles routines at the top of the speaker shelf in my office. The 4th Gen powers music in my living room with better sound.
Let’s start with a comparison table of key specifications between the Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen.
Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen Comparison Table
Here’s a quick look at the Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen, highlighting the key differences in sound, design, and smart home features.
Last update on 07/09/2025 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Echo Dot 5th Gen Mini Review
Best for Smart Automation and Compact Spaces
Key Specs
- 1.73″ speaker driver with clear high notes
- Temperature and motion sensors
- Matter smart home support
- Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5 connectivity
- Compact flat base design
I’ve had the Amazon Echo Dot 5th Gen on my desk for a few months now. It’s my go-to smart home speaker for routines, voice commands, and quick music playback. This newer Echo Dot gen offers a better experience for automation compared to previous versions in the Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen comparison.
My Echo Dot 5th Gen
The new Echo Dot includes a neural edge processor for faster responses to your wake word and voice commands. Its built-in temperature sensor allows more intelligent smart home automation through the Amazon Alexa app and compatible smart devices.
This smaller device provides a better experience for those focused on automation and integration rather than booming audio.
Pros
- Compact size fits small spaces
- Temperature and motion sensors enable smart routines
- Supports Matter and Alexa ecosystem
- Responsive voice control with wake word and tap interactions
- Works well with Alexa-compatible devices
Cons
- Sound quality lacks deeper bass compared to 4th Gen
- No 3.5 mm audio jack for wired connections
- Fewer microphones than the 4th Gen
Video Reviews
Here’s a video I did over at my @TecTimmy YouTube channel unboxing four generations of Echo Dots.
Reed from Smart Home Solver does a nice job comparing Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen in this YouTube video.
Echo Dot 4th Gen Mini Review
Best for Richer Sound and Music Lovers
Key Specs
- Multi-driver speaker system with neodymium magnets
- Deeper bass and fuller audio with passive radiator
- 3.5 mm auxiliary input with detachable cable
- Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5 connectivity
- Classic spherical design with light ring
I still have the 4th Gen Echo Dot in my living room because it delivers richer sound that music lovers appreciate. When comparing Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen, the 4th Gen stands out for its deeper bass and multi-driver setup, providing a fuller audio experience.
Volume control is easy through both the device and the Amazon Alexa app. It supports a stereo sound setup when paired with a second speaker. The 3.5 mm aux input and detachable cable offer flexibility with wired speakers and home appliances.
My Echo Dot 4th Gen
Despite its larger size and heavier weight, the 4th Gen remains a best buy for those who want higher quality audio and compatibility with a wide range of Alexa-compatible devices, including integration with Apple HomeKit-compatible devices and Google Assistant-compatible devices.
Pros
- Rich, full sound with deep bass
- Wired and wireless audio options
- Supports stereo pairing
- Works with many smart devices
- Responsive to Alexa commands
Cons
- Bulkier design not ideal for small spaces
- Heavier than newer models like the 5th Gen
- Lacks motion and temperature sensors and Matter support
Video Review
While it isn’t a direct comparison of Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen, I really like this 4th Gen video review from CNET.
FAQs
1. What are the main differences in the Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen?
The main differences in the Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen include added motion and temperature sensors, Matter support, and a smaller package in the 5th Gen. The 4th Gen offers better bass thanks to surround sound technology, multi-driver speakers, and a 3.5 mm audio output jack for wired connections.
2. Does the Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen support Apple’s Siri voice assistant or Apple HomeKit?
Neither Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen directly supports Apple’s Siri voice assistant, but both integrate with iOS devices and Apple HomeKit-compatible devices via the Amazon Alexa app. This allows a wireless connection of Apple devices to control smart home devices on different systems.
3. How does the sound quality compare in the Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen?
The Echo Dot 4th Gen delivers richer sound with deeper bass and better low-frequency response due to its neodymium magnets and passive radiator. The 5th Gen produces clearer highs with a slightly larger driver but sacrifices some bass depth. Both support Bluetooth audio and are compatible with various Amazon devices.
4. Can I use Bluetooth audio and Chromecast-enabled devices with the Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen?
Yes, both Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen support Bluetooth audio for wireless music streaming. However, only newer versions of Amazon devices integrate Chromecast-enabled device support, enhancing wireless connection options for different devices and offering significant improvements in multi-room audio setups.
5. Are there privacy concerns when using Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen with Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant?
Privacy concerns are common with all Amazon devices, including Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen. Both use Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant, which listens for a wake word and processes commands securely. Users can manage recordings and settings in the Amazon Alexa app to address privacy and data control.
6. What makes the Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen a best buy during Black Friday or affordable prices sales?
During Black Friday or affordable price sales, Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen become top picks among best smart speakers. Their small package, excellent integration with smart home devices, and compatibility with various tech companies make them excellent values, often earning affiliate commissions for sellers and great deals for buyers.
7. How do Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen compare with Echo Pop and Echo Show models?
Compared to Echo Pop and Echo Show models, Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen focus on audio quality and smart home control in small spaces. Echo Show offers larger displays and video features; Echo Pop targets ultra-compact affordability. All support Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant and various smart devices for different user needs.
Final Verdict: Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen
If you’re choosing between the Echo Dot 5th Gen vs 4th Gen, both are excellent Alexa-enabled smart home speakers—but the 4th Gen delivers richer sound with deeper bass, while the 5th Gen excels with advanced sensors and smarter home automation.
Choose the Echo Dot 5th Gen if you want the latest smart home features like motion and temperature sensors, Matter support, and a compact design for small rooms.
Choose the Echo Dot 4th Gen if you prioritize better sound quality, wired audio options, and a fuller music experience in larger spaces.
If your budget allows, the 5th Gen is the best buy for smart automation, but the 4th Gen remains a solid choice for audiophiles.
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Tim Brennan, a tech blogger and host of the @TecTimmy YouTube channel, writes about smart homes at oneSmartcrib, home theaters at UniversalRemoteReviews, and AI in writing at Writeinteractive. He holds a Journalism degree from Northeastern University and has covered technology for three decades. He lives on the ocean in Nahant, Massachusetts.
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