Smart speakers are leading the way in innovative home entertainment, but they provide far more than music. Smart speakers are wireless speaker devices so they employ Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and other wireless protocol to do more than just play sound at the user. Engineered with integrated voice command device and a mesh network of home automation and virtual assistant capabilities that are activated by what’s known as a “hot word” (i.e., Alexa?!).
Here are the top rated smart home speakers:
1. Sonos One
Dubbed the “best-sounding home smart speaker” by Tech Radar magazine, the Sonos One is touted for its affordable price and rich, clear sound that rivals more expensive smart speakers in its class. However, the features that make the Sonos One truly stand out is the unmatched sound performance of this speaker paired with the Google Assistant ecosystem (plus, you can even play music with Alexa muted). This generation of Sonos is offered in outdoor, in-wall, and in-ceiling speaker mount and design for even greater home versatility.
2. Google Home
If it’s unlimited music options that you’re after, look no further than the Google Home smart speaker option. Based on the Google platform, what else would you expect other than a smart speaker that could search for any song you thought of in existence? That’s because Google Home utilizes any and all online music platforms (i.e. YouTube) making it the most impressive DJ in smart speaker existence. Plus, it has access to the best platforms available (i.e., SmartThings from Samsung, Philips, Nest, ect.), not to mention incorporated Google Cast, capabilities to call landlines, turn on and off home lighting, security alarm systems, and even bilingual options.
3. Apple HomePod
Many Apple fans would automatically buy a HomePod, no question, because this device integrates seamlessly with all the entire Apple ecosystem of products. However, if you’re not a die-hard Apple fan, you may still need some convincing. Well, if you’re also seeking simple set up and high-quality sound, you may yet be convinced of Apple Home Pod’s prowess. For instance, you can call Siri from a nearby room and she’ll hear you and play whatever song you’re looking for from Apple’s impressive library of tunes. However, sill if you’re not ready to enter the Apple ecosystem, you may want to pass on Apple HomePod.
4. Amazon Echo Dot
On looks alone, the improved design of the Amazon Echo Dot ranks first in our books. This smart speaker is small yet chic and covered in neutral material that will match almost any room you put it in. That being said, this smart speaker delivers an impressive wall of sound as well. Plus, it’s middle of the road as far as affordability, sitting firmly between Sonos One and Apple HomePod. With Amazon, you get the voice assistant, Alexa, which still has a lot to learn when put up against the giant that is Google Assistant, but the sound of the Echo Dot is far superior.
