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But, when it comes to Alexa vs. Echo, what’s the difference between the two? Are these two products and services interchangeable, or do they have distinct purposes to go along with their distinct names? Let’s break it all down below.

Alexa vs. Echo: Full Comparison

Another key difference between Alexa and Echo? There are all sorts of different Echos available in different sizes, shapes, functions, and colors, while Alexa is just… well, Alexa.

To put it differently, there’s only one Alexa, but there are many different Echos. There are Echo speakers, Echo accessories, Echo touchscreen hubs… the list goes on. Conversely, Alexa is always just Alexa, no matter what device the smart assistant is installed on. From smart speakers to smartphones to smart TVs, it’s always the same Alexa.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Alexa vs. Echo

5 Must-Know Facts about Alexa and Echo

The History of Alexa

Some historians credit the software’s inspiration to 2001: A Space Odyssey, while others say it’s closer to the software from Star Trek‘s Enterprise.

Regardless of where the idea for Alexa truly came from, though, one thing remains true: the virtual assistant software combines several proprietary forms of weak AI, such as automated speech recognition and natural language processing in order to perform basic tasks and interact with users. Alexa can deliver news headlines, play requested music, create to-do lists, set and maintain alarms, give real-time information such as sports scores or weather reports, and more.

Introduction of the Echo

The Echo comes in many different shapes and forms—from the Dot, the Look, and the Show to the Spot and the Flex, and several others in between—but the Alexa at the core of the Echo remains the same software.

Alexa vs. Echo: Pros and Cons

Alexa vs. Echo: What’s the Difference Between the Two?

To review: Alexa is a smart assistant, while the Echo is a smart speaker. The former is a virtual service, while the latter is a physical product.

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