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Wired Updates 2026 Alexa Speaker Guide Following Amazon Price Increases

Confirmed1 source · Sep 5, 2026

Amazon raised prices on several Echo models, prompting a refreshed evaluation of the smart speaker lineup with recommendations across price points and use cases.

Wired Updates 2026 Alexa Speaker Guide Following Amazon Price Increases
Image via Wired

What happened

Wired updated its guide to the best Alexa speakers in September 2026 to reflect price increases Amazon implemented on multiple Echo models. According to the guide, the Echo Dot Max ($120) is Wired's overall favorite Alexa speaker, the Echo Show 11 ($250) is the best of Amazon's newest smart displays, and the Echo Studio (2nd Gen) is noted for its sound quality. The guide also covers the Echo Spot (2nd Gen) for bedside use and the Echo Dot Kids (5th Gen) for children. Some older models like the Echo Dot (5th Gen) with Clock ($60) and Echo Hub ($180) are mentioned as speakers that did not raise in price.

Context

Amazon's expanding Echo portfolio has made selection more complex, with recent launches including the Echo Dot Max, Echo Studio (2nd Gen), Echo Show 11, and Echo Show 8 (4th Gen). Price increases affect purchase decisions, particularly for consumers seeking to deploy multiple speakers throughout their homes. The diversity of options—ranging from budget-friendly units for basic voice control to premium displays and high-fidelity audio speakers—serves different household needs, from bedroom bedside tables to whole-room audio and smart home control hubs.