My first Echos
I started using voice-controlled smart home devices when I first purchased the Amazon Echo first generation device back in July of 2015. I can't believe it's been that long. I received my second voice controlled smart home device when I asked for an Echo Dot for Christmas in 2016. With the price being pretty low, it made a great gift. The Dot replaced my echo in the kitchen and my original Echo was moved to my bedroom. I was impressed with the sound from the speakers in the original Echo. I knew that with a Dot, I would be using an external speaker, although the speaker on the Dot is not horrible and can be used for the things that I usually use these devices for, like the time, the weather, controlling a few smart home bulbs, and timers in the kitchen. But I also used these devices for playing music and would definitely need the external speaker for that on the Dot.Initial setup and where I use it
Setting up these devices doesn't get much easier. It's basically plug-and-play if you already have an Amazon account and Wi-Fi in the house. The Dot doesn't take up much space but the external speaker does (along with a need for a second power outlet) and I have very limited counter space in my kitchen so I may consider moving the original Echo back into the kitchen. Also, the external speaker that I'm using must be turned on at all times in order for this setup to work properly. This means a glowing light that this particular external speaker has on it. That doesn't go so well in my bedroom.Final thoughts
Both the Echo and the Echo Dot operate identically. I like both of them and can use them for the things I already mentioned. I have almost stopped using them for to-do or grocery lists because I don't like the integration all that much with the Alexa Android app. The Alexa Android app is just plain slow to load. There are other to-do list integration solutions using things like IFTTT and other Android to-do apps but I tend to simply go to my phone for using these apps anyway.Buy on Amazon:
Echo Dot (2nd Generation) - Smart speaker with Alexa - Black
Echo Dot (2nd Generation) - Smart speaker with Alexa - White
Echo (2nd Generation) - Smart speaker with Alexa - Heather Gray Fabric
Echo (2nd Generation) - Smart speaker with Alexa - Sandstone Fabric
Echo (2nd Generation) - Smart speaker with Alexa - Limited Edition Walnut Finish
