Smart speakers have exploded in popularity over the last few years. With cool features like voice activation, streaming music services, and smart home control, it’s no wonder these handy gadgets are taking over homes across the world. If you’re thinking about getting a smart speaker, this definitive guide will give you all the info you need to make the right choice.
What Are Smart Speakers and How Do They Work?
A smart speaker is a wireless, voice-controlled device that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing to respond to voice commands. Some of the most popular models include the Amazon Echo with Alexa, Google Home with the Google Assistant, and Apple HomePod with Siri.
Smart speakers are powered by virtual assistants that are accessed through voice interaction. You simply say a wake word or phrase like “Hey Google” or “Alexa” and then ask your question or give a voice command. The speaker records your request, sends it to powerful cloud servers to analyze and process it, and provides a relevant vocal response through the built-in speakers.
Many smart speakers have an array of microphones to detect voice commands from anywhere in a room. They connect to your home WiFi network to access information online. Top models feature Bluetooth connectivity and can sync with other wireless speakers for whole-home audio.
Why Buy a Smart Speaker? Main Benefits and Uses
There are many great reasons to get a smart speaker for your home:
- Hands-free help: Ask questions, get news updates, set timers/alarms, manage to-do lists, and more just by using your voice. No need to pick up your phone.
- Music streaming: Smart speakers grant access to music services like Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. You can request songs, albums, playlists, and radio stations through voice commands.
- Home automation: Control smart home devices like lights, thermostats, locks, appliances, curtains, and more with a simple voice command to your speaker.
- Weather updates: Ask about the weather forecast and get detailed current conditions and predictions. Never be caught off guard by the rain again!
- Traffic reports: Beat the rush hour madness by asking your speaker for real-time traffic and commute info before heading out.
- Calendar management: Add events, set reminders, and check your schedule hands-free. Smart speakers can integrate with your calendar apps.
- Messaging: Send voice messages and texts via supported messaging apps. Alexa can announce incoming calls and messages too.
- Radio and audiobooks: Get access to live radio, podcasts, and audiobooks from services like Audible.
- Games and trivia: Have fun solo or with family playing games, trivia quizzes, and interactive stories on your smart speaker.
- Recipes: Get step-by-step cooking help by requesting recipes for meals, drinks, and desserts. Alexa can even add ingredients to your shopping list for you.
Top Smart Speakers to Consider in 2023
Amazon Echo
The Amazon Echo is one of the most popular smart speakers on the market and helped drive the initial growth of the category. The orb-shaped Echo (4th gen) delivers powerful 360-degree audio and Alexa assistant features in a compact design. Other Echo options like the Echo Dot and Echo Show 5 add a screen for displaying visuals.
Key perks: excellent microphone array, built-in Zigbee smart home hub, Alexa Guard home security features, thousands of Alexa skills
Price range: $50 – $100
Google Nest Audio
Google’s newest Nest Audio speaker impresses with rich, balanced sound and the Google Assistant for voice controls. It understands and responds naturally to queries and commands. The fabric design blends into any decor. Pair for stereo sound.
Key perks: great audio quality, Voice Match for personalized results, built-in Chromecast
Price: $100
Apple HomePod Mini
While on the pricier side, the Apple HomePod Mini delivers awesome 360-degree sound, Siri voice assistance, smart home control, and deep integration with Apple devices and services. Its privacy-focused approach appeals to many users.
Key perks: works seamlessly with Apple devices, ultra-portable size, excellent sound for its size
Price: $99
Sonos One
The Sonos One is the perfect option for people invested in the Sonos wireless speaker system. It adds built-in Alexa or Google Assistant to the signature Sonos sound. Use it alone or pair with other Sonos speakers.
Key perks: outstanding audio performance, Alexa and Google support, AirPlay 2 compatible
Price: $199
Bose Smart Speaker 500
The Bose Smart Speaker 500 stands out for its excellent audio performance powered by Bose’s patented waveguide technology. The Alexa built-in speaker can fill rooms with immersive, crisp stereo sound.
Key perks: fantastic Bose sound quality, sleek minimalist design, built-in voice controls
Price: $399
JBL Link Portable
The battery-powered JBL Link Portable delivers JBL’s signature sound in a durable, waterproof Bluetooth speaker design you can take anywhere. Access Google Assistant on the go.
Key perks: portable with 8 hours of battery life, waterproof, Google Assistant enabled
Price: $200
Sonos Move
Sonos Move is a versatile portable smart speaker with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. Get great Sonos audio at home or on the go with Alexa and Google Assistant support.
Key perks: durable and weather resistant, excellent sound, works on WiFi and Bluetooth
Price: $399
Amazon Echo Studio
Designed for audio enthusiasts, the Echo Studio is Amazon’s best-sounding smart speaker yet. Five speakers deliver powerful 3D audio fueled by Dolby Atmos technology.
Key perks: great room-filling sound, smart home hub, Hi-Res audio streaming
Price: $199
Marshall Uxbridge Voice
This compact smart speaker from iconic audio brand Marshall captures their classic rock and roll vibe. Stream tunes via WiFi, Bluetooth, and Alexa voice commands.
Key perks: cool retro design, Marshall signature sound, Alexa built-in
Price: $200
Key Considerations When Buying a Smart Speaker
Here are some important factors to weigh when choosing the best smart speaker for your lifestyle and needs:
- Voice assistant – Do you want Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri? The assistant determines supported features and ecosystem.
- Audio quality – Assess speaker size, components, and sound projection. Some models emphasize better audio over voice assistance.
- Design – Will it fit your home decor and layout? Consider size, shape, colors, and materials. Also check if it has a screen.
- Smart home compatibility – Ensure the speaker works with your smart home devices like lights, locks, switches, and thermostats.
- Privacy – Review privacy policies to understand what data may be collected and stored. Some brands emphasize privacy more.
- Price – Basic smart speakers start around $50, while more advanced models with better sound and smart home features can cost $200+. Set a budget.
- Brand ecosystem – If you already use Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple, or Sonos devices regularly, choosing a matching speaker makes sense.
Choosing the right smart speaker for your needs and budget takes some research. But the convenience and fun of having an AI assistant ready to help out with just the sound of your voice makes ownership well worth it in 2023!
Best Kitchen Gadgets for 2023 – Smart Appliances, Air Fryers & More
