Head-to-head · Best Smart Displays

Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) vs Google Nest Hub Max

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Google Nest Hub Max comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.0 vs 3.9). The gap is mostly about Premium smart home integrators — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #5 in Best Smart Displays

Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen)

3.9

6 sources1 derived$59.99as of Oct 2

The Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) features a redesigned compact form factor with enhanced audio performance and a new faster processor. PCMag's Will Greenwald noted its improved voice clarity and deeper bass, while a YouTube reviewer highlighted the new microphone array and faster processing capabilities. However, the device lacks Netflix compatibility, and the power cable color doesn't match the device finish. This smart display is best suited for users seeking improved audio and processing performance without Netflix support.

Strengths

— Improved audio with greater voice clarity and deeper bass
— New faster processor with Amazon A2 neural Edge
— Compact design with Infinity Edge coverglass and improv screen for nighttime viewing

Watch-outs

— Netflix is not currently compatible with this model
— Power adapter cable is white, not matching the device color

$59.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Smart Displays

Google Nest Hub Max

4.0

8 sources

Android Authority reviewed the Google Nest Hub Max and found it to be a powerful smart display with excellent speaker quality and robust Google Assistant integration. While the device excels in security camera features and photo display, the reviewer noted they rarely used the display itself, preferring voice control and traditional devices like their phone for most tasks. Wired reported that users generally enjoy the device but don't interact with the display regularly, suggesting it's more of an accessory than a primary interface. The Nest Hub Max makes sense as a bundle of multiple products but lacks a compelling killer feature that would drive frequent screen interaction.

Strengths

— Great sound quality for music and podcasts
— Strong Google Assistant integration with wide variety of voice commands
— Effective security camera features with video calling capabilities

Watch-outs

— Limited display usage in daily routine despite strong features
— Recipe interface has a limited catalog compared to laptop alternatives

Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen)

The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) is more compact than the Echo Show 15 and offers improved processing power and audio, but lacks Netflix compatibility, unlike the Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) which has a larger display and better camera features.

Google Nest Hub Max

The Nest Hub Max excels in speaker quality and Google Assistant integration. It's more expensive than the Google Nest Hub (2nd Generation) but lacks the affordable price point of the Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen).

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen)	Google Nest Hub Max
Display Size	5.5 inches	8-inch
Camera	2 megapixel	1080p HD
Color	Charcoal, Glacier White, Cloud Blue	Charcoal, Chalk
Voice Assistant	Alexa	Google Assistant
Screen Size	5 inches	10 inches
Resolution	—	1280 x 800
Connectivity	—	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, 802.15.4 (at 2.4 GHz)
Weight	—	2.91 lb
Display Type	—	10" HD touchscreen
Audio	—	stereo speakers
Price	—	$229

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