The new Amazon Echo Dot (3rd gen) is sleek, keeps all of the same input ports as its predecessor, and is $20 cheaper. However, this is not an ideal solution for potentially messy kids, the warranty is nowhere near as good, and you have to pay extra for parental control features.
$50 at Amazon
Pros
- All-new design
- Improved sound
- Retains input methods from 2nd-generation
- $20 cheaper
Cons
- Not ideal for kids
- Lack of extended warranty
- Have to pay extra for FreeTime Unlimited
This is the obvious choice if you want to put Alexa in your child’s playroom or bedroom. The included warranty and FreeTime Unlimited are almost worth the price of admission. However, that will be a tough pill to swallow at $70.
$70 at Amazon
Pros
- Alexa Blueprint helps kids create Skills
- 2-year worry-free guarantee warranty
- 1-year Amazon FreeTime Unlimited included
Cons
- $20 more expensive than Echo Dot
- Limited color choices
How do they stack up?
At first glance, the decision on which version of the Echo Dot (3rd gen) should be pretty simple and straightforward. If you want an Echo Dot for anywhere in the house, then get that one, however, if you want one for your kids, or like the color options, then it’s the better pick. Let’s look at the specs.
| Echo Dot (3rd gen) | Echo Dot Kids Edition | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 3.9″ x 3.9″ x 1.7″ | 3.9″ x 3.9″ x 1.7″ |
| Weight | 10.6 oz. | 10.6 oz. |
| Microphones | 4 | 7 |
| Speakers | 1.6″ speaker | 1.6″ speaker |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| 3.5mm audio output | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 3-months | 2-years |
As for the Echo Dot Kids Edition, this is essentially the same as the standard Echo Dot with a couple of new paint schemes. The real value comes in the “extras” that are available with the Echo Dot Kids Edition. If parental controls and family-friendly content are vital to your plans, then you’ll enjoy the one year of FreeTime Unlimited and a 2-year warranty. This warranty provides a full product replacement, regardless of what happens to the Echo Dot.
This is extremely tempting if you are clumsy, or…
http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/androidcentral/~3/4CkjK6losZk/amazon-echo-dot-vs-echo-dot-kids-edition