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haertig · 11-27-2018, 07:52 PM

My 3rd generation Echo Dots arrived today. My impressions (vs. the 2nd generation models of which I have several):

For voice interaction with Alexa only, stick with the 2nd generation - it's a clearer and more distinct voice, and you will save yourself a few dollars. For music playback, definitely buy the 3rd generation - it's nowhere near a good sound system, but a big step up from the 2nd generation model (for music playback, that is).

The third generation is significantly larger and heavier. Supposedly it is more stylish, but I actually prefer the hockey puck look of the 2nd generation. That's probably because my wife and my son both play hockey and we already have 50 bazillion hockey pucks sitting around the house, so the older model Echo Dots fit right in.

The 2nd generation used a standard micro USB connector. Since you probably have 25 million of those cords/adapters sitting around, you'd never have an issue powering the 2nd generation. The 3rd generation Dots use a tubular connector that is permanently attached to the wall adapter. I imagine that Amazon's intent with this change is to force/guide you towards buying a replacement cord from Amazon if you break the original, instead of grabbing one of those 25 million spare micro usb cords you already have laying around.

Bottom line: If you are unlucky enough, or non-audiophile enough, to have to listen to your music through a Dot's little speaker, 100% for sure get the 3rd generation. However, if you don't listen to music, or listen by connecting your Dot to a real sound system via bluetooth or cable, then I would recommend sticking with the 2nd generation.

I'm glad I tried the 3rd generation model while it was on sale for only $4 more than the 2nd generation ... but I don't think I would buy the 3rd generation over the 2nd again. We'll see as time goes on. I haven't tested the intercom yet, and possibly the 3rd generation will excel at that and I'll change my mind. My biggest gripe about the 3rd generation is that, compared to the 2nd generation, Alexa sounds like shes talking to you through a megaphone (not because of volume, but because of the echo/boomy and bass heavy sound you get through a megaphone).

11-27-2018, 07:52 PM	#315
haertig Wizard Posts: 1,899 Karma: 31522252 Join Date: Sep 2017 Device: PW3, Fire HD8 Gen7, Moto G7, Sansa Clip v2, Ruizu X26	My 3rd generation Echo Dots arrived today. My impressions (vs. the 2nd generation models of which I have several): For voice interaction with Alexa only, stick with the 2nd generation - it's a clearer and more distinct voice, and you will save yourself a few dollars. For music playback, definitely buy the 3rd generation - it's nowhere near a good sound system, but a big step up from the 2nd generation model (for music playback, that is). The third generation is significantly larger and heavier. Supposedly it is more stylish, but I actually prefer the hockey puck look of the 2nd generation. That's probably because my wife and my son both play hockey and we already have 50 bazillion hockey pucks sitting around the house, so the older model Echo Dots fit right in. The 2nd generation used a standard micro USB connector. Since you probably have 25 million of those cords/adapters sitting around, you'd never have an issue powering the 2nd generation. The 3rd generation Dots use a tubular connector that is permanently attached to the wall adapter. I imagine that Amazon's intent with this change is to force/guide you towards buying a replacement cord from Amazon if you break the original, instead of grabbing one of those 25 million spare micro usb cords you already have laying around. Bottom line: If you are unlucky enough, or non-audiophile enough, to have to listen to your music through a Dot's little speaker, 100% for sure get the 3rd generation. However, if you don't listen to music, or listen by connecting your Dot to a real sound system via bluetooth or cable, then I would recommend sticking with the 2nd generation. I'm glad I tried the 3rd generation model while it was on sale for only $4 more than the 2nd generation ... but I don't think I would buy the 3rd generation over the 2nd again. We'll see as time goes on. I haven't tested the intercom yet, and possibly the 3rd generation will excel at that and I'll change my mind. My biggest gripe about the 3rd generation is that, compared to the 2nd generation, Alexa sounds like shes talking to you through a megaphone (not because of volume, but because of the echo/boomy and bass heavy sound you get through a megaphone).