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The Echo 4* and Echo Dot 4* are speakers that can receive voice commands but can also provide entertainment. Nevertheless, the devices have some differences.
Which product you ultimately decide on depends on the desired application. In this post, you will learn what makes the Echo Dot 4 and the Echo 4 stand out. This will enable you to make a well-considered decision.
Here is a comparison table in advance to get a quick overview of the technical properties:
| Echo 4 | Echo Dot 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 5.7” x 5.7” x 5.2” (144 x 144 x 133 mm) | 3.9” x 3.9” x 3.5” (100 x 100 x 89 mm) |
| Weight | 34.2 oz (970 g) | 12 oz (341.3 g) |
| Wifi connectivity | Dual-band wifi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2.4 and 5 GHz) networks. | Dual-band wifi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2.4 and 5 GHz) networks. |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Audio | 3.0” (76.2 mm) neodymium woofer and two 0.8” (20 mm) tweeters. | 1.6” speaker. 3.5 mm line out for use with external speakers (audio cable not included). |
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Table of Contents
Echo 4 or Echo Dot 4?
Whether you prefer the Echo 4 or the Echo Dot 4 depends on the desired application. Both devices convince with their performance.
To give you a good overview of the quality and performance of the Echo models, they are presented in detail in this article. You will get to know the advantages and disadvantages of the devices. Furthermore, you will learn about the functions the products are equipped with. If you need decision support for your purchase, this article is the right place for you.
Echo 4 – The Best Features
The Echo 4 is the new generation of loudspeakers, launched in 2020. It replaces the Echo Plus and scores with a wide range of functions. It inherits the ZigBee Hub from its predecessor, so you can use it to control your smart home appliances. A big innovation is the BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) mesh.
This gives you three ways to integrate and control Smart Home devices. You can do this via WLAN on the one hand and via ZigBee and BLE Mesh on the other. Every device that is connected via the latter function will strengthen and even expand the wireless connection.
But the Echo 4 can also be seen with its sound quality. Users will find 76.2-millimeter neodymium woofers together with a 20-millimeter tweeter. So you can enjoy Dolby Stereo sound. The device is equipped with an “AZ1 Neural Edge” processor.
A distinctive feature of the Echo 4 is its spherical design. The light ring is located at the base, although it is not completely visible to the user. This has a modern look and, in combination with the dark coloring, is noble. The sales price for the device is in the double-digit range. However, it is quite affordable in view of versatile functions.
Echo Dot 4 – The Best Features
Just like the Echo 4, the Echo Dot 4 has a spherical design. At first sight, it is very similar to the Echo 4. It is equipped inside with a 41-millimeter loudspeaker. This makes the device sound more voluminous and lets the bass sound better. However, at a higher volume, it quickly happens that the voices appear dull.
The 3.5-millimeter jack plug can also be used to connect headphones or analog playback devices to the product. The characteristic light ring is also located on the foot of this model.
A new feature of Echo Dot 4 is the energy-saving mode. If the device is not used for a longer period of time, it reduces energy consumption. However, the product only activates this mode under certain conditions. For example, power saving mode is not activated when you use Spotify or when you are connected to a ZigBee, WLAN or Bluetooth device. If you connect the Echo Dot 4 to your smart home system, this is usually the case.
Echo 4 vs. Echo Dot 4: The Differences
One of the biggest differences is the price. The Echo Dot 4 is currently more than half the price. But in this case, the cost doesn’t say anything about the quality of the device – because you don’t have to make any big sacrifices with the Echo Dot 4. Also, both speakers are equipped with similar functions.
When it comes to equipment, the main difference is the lack of a loudspeaker in the Echo Dot 4, which is only equipped with a small, integrated speaker. In contrast, the Echo 4 has a 63-millimeter woofer and a 50-millimeter tweeter. However, you have the option of connecting the Echo Dot 4 to an external loudspeaker. The aforementioned stereo audio output of 3.5 millimeters proves to be practical for this. But the Echo Dot 4 does not have this.
The smaller device is also equipped with a volume up/down button. There is also a button to switch on the microphone. On the large device, you don’t have this option – but there it proves to be unnecessary.
Of course, there are also differences in terms of dimensions and weight. In this respect the two devices have the following values:
- Amazon Echo 4: 144 x 144 x 133 mm, 970 g
- Amazon Echo Dot 4: 100 x 100 x 89 mm, 341.3 g
The Echo Dot 4 is clearly the more convenient device. It is easier to move and proves to be more flexible.
Echo 4 vs. Echo Dot 4: Pros & Cons
In this chapter, you will get an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of Amazon speakers. So you will be able to compare both products.
Echo 4: Pros & Cons
Advantages:
One of the biggest advantages of the model is the sound, which automatically adapts to the room acoustics. The product scores with Dolby stereo sound. Furthermore, the device convinces with its powerful AZ1 Neural Edge Processor.
It ensures a fast response time, especially when controlling smart home systems. The integrated ZigBee Hub makes this possible – the only requirement is that the devices in question are compatible with it. With the Bluetooth Low Energy Mesh, the model has a third option for networking with smart home devices in addition to WLAN and ZigBee. The Echo 4 thus proves to be versatile.
Disadvantages:
A disadvantage of the product is that the light ring is no longer fully visible due to the round design. So you may need to look a little closer to see if Alexa voice control is currently active.
In addition, the integrated energy-saving mode is only active under certain conditions. For example, you are not allowed to use the device actively and there must not be a connection to your smart home system – these conditions are rarely met.
Echo Dot 4: Pros & Cons
Advantages:
One of the biggest plus points of the device is its easy handling. So you should be able to find your way around even as a newbie in only a short time. Furthermore, you can use numerous additional functions of Alexa.
This makes the Echo Dot 4 versatile and flexible. The compact, straightforward design is also experienced by many users as an advantage. This means that the model can be placed almost anywhere. This proves to be particularly practical in smaller households.
You can also put the device into snooze mode if necessary – this saves energy. Many users find the sound pleasant, although it is less room-filling than the Echo 4.
Disadvantages:
If you purchase the Echo Dot 4, you will only receive a one-year warranty from the manufacturer. If the product is damaged after this period, you will have to pay for the repair yourself. Again, this item only allows you to activate the energy-saving mode when not connected to a smart home device or when not actively in use. In addition, the sound performance of the Echo Dot 4 is not as good as that of the Echo 4. This means that the former model is not very suitable as an entertainment device.
Which Speaker is the Right One for You?
Which device you choose depends of course on the desired field of application of the same. If you want to use it primarily for listening to music, for example, you should choose the larger Echo 4. In this case, however, it should be noted that the device cannot compete with a standard stereo system. It is, however, capable of providing entertainment in the room.
If you want to use the product for voice commands, the Echo Dot 4 is perfectly adequate. Because in this case, you don’t need a powerful loudspeaker. But you always have the possibility to expand that product. The Echo 4 and Echo Dot 4 can also be combined. For example, you can use one loudspeaker for conversation and use the other for voice commands in another room.
If you are not sure about your choice, you should seek advice from an expert. This will enable you to make a well-considered decision.
Further Information
Where can you buy the Echo 4 or the Echo Dot 4?
You can easily buy both devices online these days. The best is here the manufacturer personally – Amazon:
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However, if you want to buy your device elsewhere on the net, you should make sure that the dealer of your choice is a reputable seller. Take a look at their imprint and make sure that they grant you the right to exchange or return the product. This way you can exchange your product if it has a defect.
If detailed advice is important to you, you should take a close look at the provider’s customer service. You can contact the majority of online stores by phone or email. It is essential that the employees themselves contact you promptly, even with written inquiries.
Of course, you also have the possibility to make your purchase at a retailer near you. If you have any questions about Echo 4 or Echo Dot 4, you can get personal advice there.
When is the purchase of such a loudspeaker recommended?
The decision to buy an Echo 4 or Echo Dot 4 is primarily made by people whose household is equipped with a smart home system. With these devices, they have the possibility to control the individual functions by voice command. And in this respect, both models prove to be practical.
The speakers can also be used for entertainment purposes. So if you’re looking for an alternative to the classic stereo system that gives you flexibility, the Echo 4 is the right choice. The Echo Dot 4 is less suitable for this purpose. Especially at a higher volume, this model has major weaknesses.
Related Questions
What about the handling of the devices?
In general, the handling of the Echo 4 and the Echo Dot 4 is easy. So you should be able to find your way around even if you have no experience with devices of this kind. Also, each article comes with a manual in several languages.
Are there any privacy concerns?
People who use Alexa via Echo 4 or Echo Dot 4 naturally often ask themselves the question about privacy. To get information on this, simply visit the Alexa privacy portal.
In addition, features such as activation word technology, deleting and saving streaming recordings and the microphone off button are available. This allows you to control what information Alexa receives from you at all times.
In which languages can Echo 4 and Echo Dot 4 be used?
Both models can be used in German, English, Italian, Spanish and French. This aspect proves to be a particular advantage in multilingual households.
How can Alexa be used?
Both the Echo 4 and the Echo Dot 4 are controlled by Alexa. This is a software that reacts to voice commands from you. You can also ask the software knowledge questions and get information about the weather, for example.
Can the Echo devices be used without a Prime account?
To use the Alexa voice service via Echo 4 or Echo Dot 4, you do not need an Amazon Prime account. However, it is worth linking the feature to your Amazon account. That way you can guarantee an optimal application.
Which streaming services can be played via Amazon Alexa?
In general, it is possible to play a variety of Internet radio stations and streaming services via Amazon Alexa. This also applies to paid subscriptions. However, you must first open an account with the respective provider. There, you will also pay any fees that may be incurred by using the services. If you want to be on the safe side, check Amazon for streaming services that are compatible with Alexa. That way, you can save yourself unnecessary expenses.
Is it necessary to connect the echo loudspeakers to the Internet?
To use the Echo 4 or Echo Dot 4, an Internet connection is required. So make sure that the WLAN in your own home is working before you buy any of the products. Alexa needs a cloud connection to process your voice commands. This also applies to controlling the smart home devices.
Conclusion
Both the Echo 4* and the Echo Dot 4* are powerful devices. Which product you choose will ultimately depend on your requirements and the desired application. For example, if you’re looking for a simple product that allows you to control your smart home system, the Echo Dot 4 is a good choice – it’s also a little cheaper. But if you’re looking for a device that can also be used for room-filling entertainment, you should go for the Echo 4.
You can buy both models from Amazon online and in specialized shops. Which one you choose is up to you. Online you have a larger selection of dealers and prices, but you cannot get personal advice on the Internet.
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Attention: When installing electronic equipment, please be sure to observe the manufacturer’s safety instructions. You have to take care of your own safety. The information on this site only helps you to learn.
Disclosure: This website is the property of Martin Lütkemeyer and is operated by Martin Lütkemeyer. Martin Lütkemeyer is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Affiliate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to enable Web sites to earn advertising revenue through advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Links marked with * are affiliate links.