Choosing the Best Smart Speaker for Your Needs
Smart speakers have become increasingly popular, but with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. The first step is deciding which voice assistant you prefer, whether it’s Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple’s Siri. Each assistant has its pros and cons, but currently, we recommend Google and Amazon-powered models for their user-friendliness.
Next, consider the features you want in a speaker. Are you primarily concerned with music quality? Do you need a touchscreen or is voice assistance enough? Do you want your speaker to connect with other smart home devices? Finding the best option can be tricky, but don’t worry, we’re here to help. We’ve tested numerous smart speakers to determine the best ones available.
For a comprehensive guide to the best Google speakers, best smart displays, and best Alexa speakers, check out our recommended lists. We’ve also updated our guide to include the upcoming third-gen Echo Show 8, so keep an eye out for that.
Best Overall Smart Speaker
- Best Alexa Speaker
- Best Google Assistant Speaker
- Best Smart Soundbar
- Best Google Assistant Smart Display
- Best Alexa Smart Display
- Best Mini Speaker
- Best Portable Speaker
- Best Dolby Atmos Speaker
- Honorable Mentions
- What About Siri?
- Why We Prefer Google Assistant Speakers (for Now)
We’ve long been fans of Sonos’ smart speakers, and the new Era 100 model expands on the quality we’ve come to expect. With improved bass and room-filling sound, it’s a top choice for music lovers. The Era 100 also features built-in room tuning for enhanced audio performance. It supports Alexa and Apple AirPlay 2 for easy integration with your smart home ecosystem.
The Echo speaker from Amazon is another excellent option, offering bold bass and room-filling sound. Its 360-degree sound projection makes it suitable for any room in your home. Alexa voice assistant is convenient for news, weather updates, and setting timers.
Google’s Nest Audio is a strong competitor to the Echo, with a compact design and great sound quality. It pairs well with other Google-friendly smart devices and can perform a variety of tasks using Google Assistant.
If you’re looking for a smart soundbar, the Yamaha YAS-209 is the best choice. With its wireless subwoofer and virtual surround sound, it offers an immersive audio experience. It also connects to Alexa for added convenience.
When it comes to smart displays, the Google
Source: 9 Best Smart Speakers (2023): Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri
