I've said it before and I'll say it again: Last year's models are this year's bargains. It's true of phones, smartwatches and, now, mini smart speakers.

Indeed, Amazon's second-gen Echo Dot has always sold for $50, though frequent sales would often see it at $40 and even $35. Now, the Echo Dot shows a price of $29.99, and I suspect that's permanent until supplies run out.

That's because the third-gen Echo Dot is close at hand, with an expected ship date of Oct. 11. Is it worth an extra $20 to get a fabric-covered exterior and louder speaker? That's up to you to decide.

Me, I think $30 for an Alexa-powered smart speaker is a mighty sweet deal. The only caveat I'll give is that Amazon might cut these even further for Black Friday and Cyber Monday -- assuming there are any left by then.

Read more: Amazon Echo Dot (2nd-generation) review

Read more: Turn your Echo Dot into the ultimate nightstand accessory

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