The Echo Show 15 is Amazon’s largest and most distinctive smart display: it resembles a picture frame and hangs on the wall like one. And, thanks to a recent update, it now has Amazon Fire TV functionality, allowing it to function as a media streamer. However, its audio and camera quality are disappointing, and unless you need a smart display to hang on your wall, Amazon’s other Echo Shows may be a better fit. For example, the Echo Show 8 is half the price of the Echo Show 15 and has better speakers.
The Echo Show 15 is essentially a large screen surrounded by a black border, similar to a supersized version of one of the best photo frames. It’s certainly not showy for something called the Show, like the rotating display on the Echo Show 10.
While not as thick as the Echo Show 10, the Echo Show 15’s footprint is substantial, especially when combined with the tilt stand, which increases its depth to 9 inches. Only the Facebook Portal+ has a comparable-sized display (14 inches), and it measures 12.3 x 9.9 x 3.9 inches. However, only the Echo Show 15 is designed to be hung on a wall, which is most likely the best place for it.
Along the top edge of the Show 15, there are volume control buttons as well as a slider to cover the camera lens and turn off the microphone. The back of the Echo Show 15 has a small recess for the power port and just enough space for the excess wire. However, it isn’t large enough to accommodate the Show 15’s power plug, so if you hang it on the wall, the cord (and plug) will protrude in some way.
A metal mounting bracket, four screws, and four plastic anchors are included with the Echo Show 15 to secure it to your wall. Given the weight of the Echo Show 15, all four screws and massive anchors are probably unnecessary, but it’s nice to have them. A template for where you’ll need to drill holes is also included in the box, but you’ll need to provide your own level to ensure everything is straight.
