So, the Echo Dot 5th Gen (2022 release) is pretty handy for smart home setups, but let's be clear about what it can do. It's mainly a smart speaker that uses Alexa, Amazon's voice assistant, to help you out. If you're wondering if it serves as a smart home hub, it kind of plays more of a supportive role rather than being the brains of the operation.

From what the manufacturer says, it connects to your home Wi-Fi, using standard networks (802.11a/b/g/n/ac at both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). But it's not really designed for those ad-hoc networks where devices connect directly without a router. So keep that in mind.

When it comes to controlling smart gadgets, the Echo Dot is pretty decent. You can use it with Alexa to manage things like lights, thermostats, and even security cameras that are Alexa-compatible. It's a great intermediary using voice commands.

But, is it a smart home hub in the traditional sense—like, can it independently manage connections among multiple devices? Not really. It doesn't have built-in hub technologies like Zigbee or Z-Wave that you'd find in more dedicated smart home hubs or certain other Echo models (think Echo Plus). Those technologies allow devices to talk directly without the need for Wi-Fi.

Overall, if you want something to tie together all your smart gadgets across different brands or protocols, you might need a dedicated smart hub. The Echo Dot is great for using Alexa to control things via your Wi-Fi, but for that complete integration, a dedicated hub is probably the way to go.

The 5th Gen Echo Dot, released in 2022, steps up its game in sound quality compared to the older models. Based on our research, Amazon has put some effort into boosting the audio on this one, and it really shows.

The sound is clearer and fuller, with richer bass that gives the audio a better balance than what you might've heard in the 4th Gen or earlier. So, if you're familiar with the older versions, you'll probably notice a real improvement in clarity and depth.

It's especially impressive if you use your Echo Dot for streaming music, catching up on podcasts, or interacting with Alexa—the voice feedback is spot on.

Some new features like the temperature sensor and Eero support are included, though they don't directly affect sound. And setup is still the same; it needs to be plugged into a 15W power adapter, which ensures it can run its new audio hardware smoothly.

No built-in battery, but if you're keen on moving it around, you could look into a battery base from third-party vendors.

Overall, if sound quality is high on your list, this 5th Gen Echo Dot does a great job, especially when it's tucked away at home, always plugged in and ready to go.

The Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 release) comes with some cool new features that make it even more useful around the house. Here’s what’s new:

Built-in Temperature Sensor

This version has a built-in temperature sensor that lets you set up smart home routines. For example, you can have it automatically adjust your thermostat or turn on a fan if the room gets too hot.

Improved Audio Experience

The sound quality has gotten a boost, with clearer vocals and deeper bass. This makes it even better for listening to music, podcasts, or making calls.

Enhanced LED Display

If you get the Echo Dot with Clock, you'll notice the LED display is improved. It now shows the time, alarm status, weather updates, and even song titles. Super handy for quick glances!

Eero Built-in

This one's pretty neat—the Echo Dot 5th Gen can act as a Wi-Fi extender if you have an Eero mesh network, helping to improve your home's Wi-Fi coverage.

AZ2 Neural Edge Processor

With the new AZ2 Neural Edge processor, Alexa should respond faster and more efficiently to your commands. This means quicker, more accurate responses.

Sustainability

Amazon’s made this model more eco-friendly. It’s made from 95% recycled fabric and 55% recycled plastic, which is great if you’re trying to be more environmentally conscious.

Better Tap Controls

They’ve also made it easier to interact with. You can tap the top to snooze alarms, stop timers, or control music playbacks.

All of these upgrades make the Echo Dot (5th Gen) a more integrated and useful device for your home.

Whether it’s the better sound, new automation features, or added functionality, it’s designed to make things just a bit easier and more fun around the house.