Which Echo device is best for you depends on the size of the room, the need for portability, and cost.
Our pick is the Echo (new or certified refurbished) for the best classroom audio, but the 3rd generation Echo Dot may be sufficient because it has 30% more volume than the previous Echo Dot. For specialists that move around or work with smaller groups of students, the Echo Dot works well.
If possible within your budget, we highly recommend the Alexa remote for the ability to keep the device muted but still accessible for teachers.
Echo Dot 3rd generation | Echo (recommended) | Echo Dot 2nd generation | |
Volume | For medium classrooms | For large classrooms | For small classrooms |
Price | $50 (frequent discounts on Amazon.com) | $100 (frequent discounts on Amazon.com) | $40 (frequent discounts on Amazon.com) |
Accessories | Alexa remote (recommended) | Alexa remote (recommended) | Alexa remote (recommended) Portable battery bases |
The Echo Dot 3rd Generation
Pros
30% higher volume than 2nd generation Echo Dot
Can connect to bigger speakers through bluetooth or audio cable
Reasonably priced at $50 (frequently discounted)
Cons
May still need more volume power in bigger classrooms, but much better than previous generation
The Echo (newest version)
Pros
Can go to a high volume
Dolby sound added
Certified refurbished available between $70-85
Cons
$99
The Echo Dot 2nd Generation
Pros
Small
Potentially portable, with third party manufacturers making battery cases that neatly fit around it
Lowest cost ($40 and many discounts available)
Cons
Limited volume power - can connect to bigger speakers through bluetooth or audio cable
The Alexa Remote
Pros
Can work with the Echo device on mute, making the Echo only able to activated by the person holding the remote
Good for controlling who uses the Echo
Good for removing background noise
$30
Cons
Need to carry the remote (lightweight)
Need to press a button on the remote to activate the Echo