Music has never before been so easily accessed as it is today. Smart speakers make streaming music, podcasts, and audiobooks even easier with voice command, playlist organization, and even two-way audio connection to other devices in your home. Here are the top-rated smart speakers available today!
Amazon Echo Dot 4th Gen
The Amazon Echo Dot offers big sound in a small package. This little sphere connects with Alexa to provide timers, create lists, set your schedule, and connect to all other Alexa-enabled devices. You can ask Alexa to play content from Amazon Music, Apple Music, Audible, Pandora, Spotify, and more. If you’ve got children at home, Amazon Kids allows you to set parental controls and toggle kid-friendly responses so your little ones can grow and learn with Alexa too. The Echo Dot 4th Gen starts out at $29.99.
Google’s Nest Audio and Nest Audio Mini
The Google Nest Audio comes packed with a tweeter, a woofer, and tuning software for powerful bass and balanced vocals. The smart technology in this little powerhouse will adapt the sound to any room it is placed in, optimizing the acoustics and delivering crisp sound every time, all the time. This device connects to Google Home, allowing you to access music, podcasts, audiobooks, weather, news, and search results. You can even update your schedule and add events to your Google calendar! The Google Nest Audio starts out at $59.99. If you want something with a lower profile, check out the Google Nest Audio Mini or Google Home Mini, both starting at $24.99.
Apple’s HomePod Mini
Apple’s compact smart speaker stands at just 3.3 inches but offers 360-degree audio that resonates with deep bass and rich, crisp sound. Set up your HomePod Mini to interface with your phone so you can answer calls or just connect with Siri to stream your favorite playlists, audiobooks, podcasts, and more. HomePod Mini allows Siri to recognize up to six family members, allowing the whole family access to this powerful little speaker and all its features. The HomePod Mini can connect to other HomePod Minis in your home, as well as other Apple HomeKit devices. The Apple HomePod Mini is priced at $99.99.
Bose Smart Speaker 500
Bose has been at the top of the competition when it comes to speaker technology, known for its superior sound quality. The Bose Smart Speaker 500 delivers robust, room-filling stereo sound from one small speaker, allowing you to take that signature sound anywhere in your home. This smart speaker offers built-in voice assistance, preset buttons, WiFi and Bluetooth capability, Apple AirPlay connectivity, and multiple control methods. Connect with your favorite audio streaming platforms like Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio, Pandora, TuneIn, Deezer, and more. The Bose Smart Speaker 500 is priced at $349.00, but it’s well worth the price for any true audiophile.