Amazon Echo Auto has become a popular option for those looking for a voice assistant that they can use in their car. But the Echo Auto certainly isn't the only viable choice out there for you.
Today, you have access to a number of voice assistant alternatives that can make your journeys more convenient. So, let's get into the best Echo Auto alternatives for your car.
1. Anker ROAV Bolt
The Anker ROAV Bolt is a super simple alternative to the Echo Auto. You can grab the ROAV Bolt for as little as $50, which is a total steal given some of its great features, one of which being its charger feature. While using your ROAV Bolt, you can charge your phone via hardwire simultaneously, making it easy to boost your phone's battery while using the Bolt's voice assistant.
Additionally, the ROAV Bolt's microphone is pretty sensitive, meaning you won't have to repeat yourself continuously when trying to carry out a task. If your vehicle doesn't support Bluetooth, you can also connect the Bolt to your car directly using an AUX cord. Furthermore, you can use this device to respond to texts, receive traffic updates, and even run internet searches when there's something you want to know, all with voice commands.
The Anker ROAV Bolt is handy if you use Google Assistant but isn't suited for iOS devices. So, it may not be the top choice for you if you use Siri on your iPhone. Another thing to note is that the Anker ROAV Bolt only connects to your car via your cigarette lighter socket. So, if your vehicle doesn't have one of these, you're better off checking out one of the other voice assistants we've listed here.
2. Anker ROAV Viva
The ROAV Viva is another excellent product from Anker that can make your journeys more enjoyable. Like the ROAV Bolt, the Anker ROAV Viva is affordable compared to most other car voice assistant devices. You can grab the ROAV Viva for around $50 on Amazon, with prices varying elsewhere.
With the Anker ROAV Viva, you can still use Amazon's Alexa without needing the Echo Auto. You can use the ROAV Viva to charge your phone and any other compatible device simultaneously with its two USB ports, play music wirelessly, get directions to wherever you'd like to go, and run internet searches quickly and easily.
However, like the ROAV Bolt, the Anker ROAV Viva only connects to your car via the DC cigarette lighter port, so some newer models may not be able to support it. But this does make the ROAV Viva great for older cars, which many of us still have, and if this applies to you, the Anker ROAV Viva may be a perfect fit.
3. iOttie Easy One Touch Connect Pro
iOttie's Easy One Touch Connect Pro car mount goes beyond just holding your phone in place. In fact, you can use this mount to use Amazon Alexa while you're on the go. You can easily attach the Easy One Touch Connect Pro to your windscreen, meaning you don't need any specific kind of port to use it. You can also adjust the length of the mount arm for your convenience.
If you want to make a call, send a text, find directions, listen to music, or even check the weather, the iOttie Easy One Touch Connect Pro can be of help. Using iOttie's app, you can access all these valuable features without taking your eyes off the road. However, it's worth noting that this device is generally suited to slightly larger cars, where its attachment to the windscreen won't obstruct your view in any way.
4. Car & Driver Intellidash
A key difference that sets the Car & Driver Intellidash apart from the other voice assistant devices listed here is its colorful seven-inch display, which you can use as an alternative to voice control. But don't worry, you can still use voice commands whenever you're on the road to keep your journeys safe.
This voice assistant doesn't favor Amazon Alexa, but it's perfect for iPhone owners who want to use Apple CarPlay when they're on the go. Even if your car doesn't support Apple CarPlay, the Intellidash acts as a conduit through which you can use CarPlay regardless of the car you drive.
What's more, you can attach the Intellidash to your car's dash or windscreen without needing a connection port. You can also connect your phone to the Intellidash using a hardwire USB connection, which means your vehicle doesn't require Bluetooth support.
As you may have already guessed, the Car & Driver Intellidash is significantly pricier than the other voice assistants listed here; you're looking at a roughly $350 price tag for the Intellidash. So, if you're interested in this model specifically, be prepared to fork out a decent chunk of cash.
5. Garmin Speak Plus Smart Dashcam
The Garmin Speak Plus Smart Dashcam is well-suited to those who prefer Amazon Alexa over other voice assistants and has a range of awesome features that make it a great addition to your car. One among them is the ability to record your journeys from your dash so that you can document any issues that you may run into on the road.
With the Garmin Speak Plus, you can use voice commands to access directions via GPS, play music, listen to audiobooks, receive traffic notifications, run internet searches, answer or make calls, and even remotely control your smart home device. You can also view travel directions via the simple yet useful display, as well as traffic warnings and safety alerts.
Like the Car & Driver Intellidash, the Garmin Speak Plus isn't the best option for those on a stricter budget. Prices start at around $170 for the Speak Plus, so keep this in mind if you'd prefer a more affordable option. But if you're willing to sacrifice the dashcam, you can buy the standard Garmin Speak for nearly half the price.
The Echo Auto Isn't Your Only Option for Voice Assistance on the Go
Though the Amazon Echo Auto makes for a helpful voice assistant on your journeys, several other alternatives can offer additional features, easier installation, and even a lower price in some cases. So, if you're on the lookout for an in-car voice assistant, consider some of the suggestions above to make your journeys more convenient while driving safely.