The Amazon Echo Dot is one of the easiest and least expensive devices you can integrate into your smart home. Here's how to set one up from scratch.

That adds up. To start, consider Alexa Dots, the entry point for Echo devices. These small speakers can be had for under $100, and are often available for as little as $40.

Amazon's Echo smart speakers and Alexa are a solid alternative to Google Nest and Google Assistant. Here's how multiple people can use an Amazon Echo.

Since launching in 2014, Alexa has grown far beyond its original role as a simple voice assistant for music and reminders.