The fourth-generation Echo Dot speaker doesn't offer particularly impressive sound quality, but for $50, it's still the best basic gateway to Amazon's Alexa voice assistant.

Affordable; Attractive design; 3.5mm output

Only a cosmetic change from previous model; Weak bass

The Amazon Echo Dot is one again the best smart speaker for less than $50, but the $60 Echo Dot with Clock is the better value. With the 4th generation Echo Dot, Amazon has once again delivered an inexpensive smart speaker that doesn’t skimp on features or quality.

Good audio for the size, Lots of Alexa smart home skills, Inexpensive

Large power brick

“It's still compact, but the new Echo Dot (4th Gen) packs a serious punch at $50.”

Charming new design; Great audio quality for its size; Alexa Guard protection; Affordable cost

LED clock should be default

With its new spherical design, the Amazon Echo Dot (4th Generation) is a far more interesting-looking product than the old model, better able to slip into your home without standing out for the wrong reasons.

Looks fantastic; New controls are easier to reach; Forward-firing speaker is clearer

Low power mode has big restrictions; Not ideal for lots of music

Amazon's affordable smart speaker gets a bold new look....

Improved connectivity Marginally improved sound quality Design stands out compared to the competition

New design isn't as versatile as the original puck-like style Hard to reach buttons

Alexa is getting a fresh wardrobe for 2020, and the new Echo Dot (4th Gen) is going spherical just like its bigger Echo sibling. As always, the pitch is fairly straightforward: at $49.99 , the Echo Dot is a more affordable way to add Alexa to a new room, while the $59.99 Echo Dot with Clock clamors...

Alexa functionality keeps getting better; Affordable way to add Alexa to a new room; Slight improvement in audio quality; Clock display is very useful

Less discreet than 3rd Gen Echo Dot; No line-in or smart home hub support; Last-gen Echo Dot makes a strong value alternative

The Amazon Echo Dot (4th gen) and Echo Dot with Clock build on the strengths of their predecessors while modernising the look and improving the audio of the Alexa-powered devices. As far as budget smart speakers go, they're difficult to beat.

Alexa is still excellent; Choice of appealing colours; Simple setup and operation

Design isn't as compact; Limited display customisation it the Clock version; Biased towards Amazon services

If you are looking for your first smart speaker, the Echo Dot has now become much more relevant. Read our review to find out if the lat...

Amazon Echo Dot with Clock (4th Gen) makes a strong step forward from the last generation – in design, audio and ever-improving Alexa functionality. However, you’ll have to spend a bit more on another device for a quality audio experience and, if you aren’t fussed about the clock, you can save...

If you're looking for a low-cost Alexa speaker, it really doesn't get better than the new Dot. While larger, more expensive speakers like the 4th-gen Echo ($99) or the Bose Home 300 ($199) will deliver far superior sound quality, the Dot is certainly sufficient for smart home control, Alexa...