Alexa Plus vs Alexa: The Comparison You’ve Been Looking For
You’re setting up your smart home and debating between the Alexa and its beefed-up sibling, the Alexa Plus. Whether you’re looking to blast your favorite tunes or control every gadget in your house with a simple command, choosing the right assistant can make all the difference.
| Feature | Alexa Plus | Alexa |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Premium Dolby Audio | Standard Sound |
| Built-in Smart Hub | ✓ | ✗ |
| Voice Recognition | Far-field, 7 mics | Far-field, 4 mics |
| Device Compatibility | Extensive | Standard |
| Price | $149.99 | $99.99 |
✅ alexa plus Pros
- Superior sound quality with Dolby Audio.
- Integrated smart home hub for seamless device connection.
- More microphones for better voice recognition.
❌ alexa plus Cons
- Higher price point.
- Larger size, not as discreet as the standard model.
✅ alexa Pros
- More affordable.
- Compact and fits easily into any room.
- Great for basic smart home functions.
❌ alexa Cons
- Limited sound quality.
- Less effective at understanding commands from a distance.
Performance and Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, the Alexa Plus outshines the standard Alexa with its Dolby Audio system, delivering crisp and rich audio that can fill a room. If you’re a music lover who wants to enjoy every beat and bass drop, the Plus is your best bet. The standard Alexa, while competent, lacks the depth and clarity, making it more suited for casual listening or voice commands rather than hosting a dance party.
Smart Home Integration
The Alexa Plus has a built-in smart home hub, allowing you to connect devices without additional equipment. This is a game-changer if you’re serious about a smart home setup. It effortlessly integrates with Zigbee-compatible devices, saving you from the hassle of buying separate hubs. The standard Alexa can control smart devices too, but it requires additional hubs for more complex systems, making it less streamlined for tech-savvy users.
Value for Money
The price difference between the Alexa and Alexa Plus is significant, and while you get more features with the Plus, you should consider whether you need them. If your primary use is setting timers, checking the weather, or controlling a few lights, the standard Alexa does the job at a lower cost. However, if you want a central smart home controller, or you’re an audio enthusiast, the investment in the Plus is justified.
What most reviews don’t tell you is that the Alexa Plus’s extra microphones can sometimes pick up background noise, which might lead to unintended activations. Also, while the built-in hub is great, it only supports Zigbee devices, so if your gadgets use other standards, you’ll need additional bridges or hubs.
Our Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re looking for a robust smart home controller with excellent sound quality and have a bit more to spend, the Alexa Plus is the way to go. It’s perfect for tech enthusiasts and audiophiles. On the other hand, if you’re budget-conscious or just need a reliable assistant for basic functions, the standard Alexa is a smart choice. It’s ideal for those who want the convenience of voice commands without the extra bells and whistles.
Does Alexa Plus require additional equipment for smart home integration?
No, the Alexa Plus has a built-in Zigbee hub, so it doesn’t require additional equipment for compatible devices.
Can Alexa and Alexa Plus play the same music simultaneously in different rooms?
Yes, both devices support multi-room audio, allowing you to sync music across different rooms.
How does the warranty compare between Alexa and Alexa Plus?
Both Alexa and Alexa Plus come with a standard 1-year limited warranty, but you can purchase an extended warranty for additional coverage.
