Amazon Echo vs Google Nest Hub: Which Smart Display Is Best?
We compare the Amazon Echo Show and Google Nest Hub on display quality, voice assistant, smart home integration, and ecosystem fit to help you choose the best smart display for your home.
Unbiased Advice & Insights is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. It never changes our picks.
Amazon Echo Show
Best for Alexa devotees and those who want a screen that can double as a security camera or video calling hub. Rich ecosystem with thousands of skills.
Check priceGoogle Nest Hub
Best if you live in Google's ecosystem and want a cleaner display with excellent ambient EQ and deeper Google integration.
Check priceThe Amazon Echo Show wins for its larger display options, built-in Zigbee hub, and wider smart home compatibility. The Google Nest Hub is better if you prioritize a seamless Google experience and a more ambient display.
Spec by spec
Highlighted cell wins that row.
| Amazon Echo Show | Google Nest Hub | |
|---|---|---|
| Display size options | 5, 8, 10, 15 inches | 7 inches (Nest Hub) or 10 inches (Nest Hub Max) |
| Voice assistant | Alexa | Google Assistant |
| Smart home hub | Built-in Zigbee, compatible with Matter | Matter controller, Thread border router on newer models |
| Video calling | Zoom, Skype, Alexa Calls | Google Duo/Meet |
| Display quality | Good, but can be reflective | Excellent with Ambient EQ auto-brightness |
| Music services | Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora | YouTube Music, Spotify, Pandora (no Apple Music) |
| Camera privacy | Camera shutter on most models | Camera shutter on Nest Hub Max only |
Who should buy which
- + You already use Alexa and have Amazon smart home devices.
- + You want a smart display with a built-in Zigbee hub to control lights, locks, and sensors directly.
- + You need multiple screen sizes to fit different rooms.
- + You are heavily invested in Google services like Gmail, Calendar, and YouTube.
- + You want a display that blends into the room with ambient light adjustment.
- + You prefer a simpler interface with fewer ads.
Quick questions
Can the Echo Show and Nest Hub work together?
They are separate ecosystems. You can use both in the same home, but they don't natively integrate. You would need to use third-party services like IFTTT to bridge them.
Which smart display has better sound quality?
The Echo Show generally has better speakers, especially the Echo Show 10 and 15 with larger drivers. The Nest Hub's sound is adequate for casual listening but lacks bass.
Can I use the Nest Hub without a Google account?
No, a Google account is required to set up and use the Nest Hub. The Echo Show also requires an Amazon account.