The Best Smart Displays for Video Calling and Staying Connected

24 January 2025

In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected with loved ones, colleagues, or even your favorite content creators has never been more important. Whether you're working from home, keeping in touch with family, or simply staying updated on the latest news, having the right tech can make all the difference. That’s where smart displays come into play.

You might be thinking, "Do I really need a smart display?" Well, if you’re tired of staring at a tiny phone screen or want to make video calls more immersive and hands-free, a smart display could be your next best tech investment. These devices have evolved beyond just being glorified digital photo frames. They now come packed with features like video calling, voice assistants, home automation, and even entertainment options.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into some of the best smart displays for video calling and staying connected in 2023. Spoiler alert: These gadgets are not just about making calls; they can do so much more.

1. Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) – The Ultimate All-Rounder

Why It’s Great for Video Calling

If you’re already embedded in the Amazon ecosystem or have a bunch of Alexa devices scattered around your home, the Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) could be your perfect match. The standout feature here? Its rotating screen. Yes, you read that right! The screen actually swivels and follows you as you move around, ensuring you’re always in the frame during video calls. Whether you’re cooking in the kitchen or pacing around the living room, the camera will track your movement, so the person on the other end never misses a beat.

Key Features:

- 10.1-inch HD display that automatically adjusts brightness.
- 13MP camera with auto-framing to keep you centered.
- Alexa integration for controlling smart home devices, checking the weather, or even streaming your favorite shows.
- Supports Zoom, Skype, and of course, Alexa-to-Alexa video calls.

One Cool Thing:

With the Echo Show 10, you can also use it as a security camera. When you’re away, drop-in on the camera to check on your house, pets, or even if you just want to make sure you didn’t leave the stove on.

Who Should Buy It?

If you’re an Alexa fan and want a smart display that goes beyond just video calls, this one’s for you. The rotating screen is a game-changer, especially for multi-taskers.

2. Google Nest Hub Max – The Google Ecosystem Champ

Why It’s Great for Video Calling

The Google Nest Hub Max is the go-to device if you’re deep into Google’s ecosystem. This smart display features a large 10-inch screen and a 6.5MP camera that supports Google Duo and Google Meet video calls. Whether you’re catching up with friends or attending a virtual meeting, the Nest Hub Max has got you covered.

But hold on – there’s more. This display also supports Face Match, which means it can recognize each family member and tailor information specifically for them. When it comes to video calling, the camera has a feature called auto-framing, ensuring you stay perfectly in view even when you’re moving around.

Key Features:

- 10-inch HD display with ambient EQ that adjusts brightness based on lighting conditions.
- Google Assistant for hands-free control.
- Face Match for personalized experiences.
- Seamless integration with Google Photos, YouTube, and smart home devices.

One Cool Thing:

The gesture control feature allows you to pause or play music, videos, or even silence alarms by simply raising your hand – no need to touch the screen!

Who Should Buy It?

If you’re already using Google services like Gmail, YouTube, or Google Photos, the Nest Hub Max will feel like a natural extension of your digital life. Plus, it’s perfect for those who want a display that doubles as a home entertainment hub.

3. Facebook Portal Plus – Best for Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp Calls

Why It’s Great for Video Calling

If you’re someone who lives on Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp, the Facebook Portal Plus is a no-brainer. This device was literally designed for video calls, with a 12MP smart camera that automatically pans and zooms to keep everyone in the frame, even if you’re moving around. It’s like having your own personal cameraman!

One of the best things about the Portal Plus is that it supports Messenger and WhatsApp, meaning you can call just about anyone in your contact list without needing them to have the same device.

Key Features:

- 15.6-inch HD display – one of the largest screens on a smart display.
- 12MP camera with a 140° field of view and automatic panning and zooming.
- Supports apps like Messenger, WhatsApp, and Zoom.
- Alexa built-in for smart home control and other voice assistant features.

One Cool Thing:

With Story Time, you can engage in interactive video calls where the device adds AR effects to your face and voice. It’s a great way to keep the kids entertained while chatting with grandma or grandpa.

Who Should Buy It?

If your main mode of communication is through Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp, the Portal Plus is a fantastic option. Its large screen and smart camera make it ideal for both personal and professional video calls.

4. Lenovo Smart Display 10 – Best for Lenovo Fans

Why It’s Great for Video Calling

If you’re a Lenovo fan or just someone looking for a reliable, no-fuss smart display, the Lenovo Smart Display 10 is worth considering. It runs on Google Assistant, so you’re getting all the perks of the Google ecosystem, including Google Duo video calls. The 10-inch Full HD screen provides a crisp, clear display, and the 5MP camera is more than capable of delivering high-quality video calls.

Key Features:

- 10-inch FHD screen with 1920x1200 resolution.
- Google Assistant for hands-free control.
- Supports Google Duo for video calls.
- Integrated with YouTube, Google Photos, and other Google services.

One Cool Thing:

The Lenovo Smart Display has a privacy shutter for the camera, so when you're not using it, you can physically cover the lens – a small but reassuring feature for the privacy-conscious.

Who Should Buy It?

If you’re looking for a reliable Google-powered smart display without the bells and whistles of the Nest Hub Max, the Lenovo Smart Display 10 is a solid choice. Great for video calls, and perfect for controlling your smart home.

5. Amazon Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) – Best Budget Option

Why It’s Great for Video Calling

Looking for something a little more affordable but still capable of handling video calls? The Amazon Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) is your guy. It’s the little brother of the Echo Show 10 but still packs a punch. With a 2MP camera, it supports Alexa-to-Alexa video calls and even works with Zoom. The 5.5-inch display might not be as large as the others on this list, but it’s perfect for smaller spaces like a bedroom or home office.

Key Features:

- 5.5-inch screen – compact but functional.
- 2MP camera with a built-in camera shutter for privacy.
- Alexa integration for smart home control and entertainment.
- Supports Zoom and Alexa calls.

One Cool Thing:

The Echo Show 5 is also great for setting alarms, checking calendars, and managing your daily tasks. Think of it like a smart alarm clock that happens to be good at video calls.

Who Should Buy It?

If you’re on a budget or just want a smart display for occasional video calls, the Echo Show 5 is a great choice. It’s compact, affordable, and gets the job done.

6. Facebook Portal Go – Best for Portability

Why It’s Great for Video Calling

The Facebook Portal Go offers something many other smart displays don’t: portability. With a built-in battery, you can carry it around the house and make video calls from anywhere. It supports the same Messenger and WhatsApp calls as the Portal Plus, but in a more compact and portable package. The 12MP camera ensures clear video quality, and the 10-inch screen is large enough to make calls comfortable.

Key Features:

- 10-inch screen with a sharp display.
- 12MP camera with automatic panning and zooming.
- Supports Messenger and WhatsApp calls.
- Built-in battery for portability.

One Cool Thing:

The Portal Go is perfect for those who want to chat with friends and family without being tied to a specific spot in the house. It’s also great for group video calls since you can move from room to room without dropping the connection.

Who Should Buy It?

If you want the flexibility to take your smart display anywhere in your house (or even outside), the Portal Go should be at the top of your list.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the best smart display for video calling? It really depends on your personal preferences, existing tech ecosystem, and budget. If you’re all about Alexa, the Echo Show 10 is a fantastic all-rounder. If you’re more of a Google person, the Nest Hub Max will fit seamlessly into your life. And if you’re always on Messenger or WhatsApp, the Facebook Portal Plus or Portal Go could be your best bet.

Whichever device you choose, one thing is clear: smart displays are no longer just fancy gadgets. They’re essential tools for staying connected, whether it's for work, family, or fun.