Smart Speakers

The Google Nest Audio is a great smart speaker with plenty of tricks up its sleeve. Google dropped the old air freshener aesthetic for a cleaner, softer design that houses impressive hardware and is powered by even more impressive software.

The Amazon Echo Studio (2nd Gen) is the most capable Echo speaker in Amazon’s lineup. It delivers stronger bass, more headroom, and Dolby Atmos support, plus a built-in smart home hub. If you want a bigger, more immersive-sounding Alexa speaker for your living room, this is the one to get.

The Sonos Move is a great speaker but it might not be for you. If you already are a part of or plan on joining the Sonos ecosystem then this is a great addition to your setup.

The Amazon Echo Dot Max delivers more output than the standard Dot and adds extra convenience with new smart home hub options and connectivity. It’s still a mono speaker with no wired inputs or battery, but for a compact speaker that balances casual audio with smart home control, it’s a practical middle ground.

While the new Echo Spot looks good, it functions as little more than a glorified alarm clock. If you're wondering if a display this small serves any practical use, the answer is no. If you don't need a graphic clock, you can save a lot of money by getting the Echo Pop instead.

The Apple HomePod mini is a small smart speaker with surprisingly big sound. It is only for those already deeply involved in the Apple universe as it requires an iPhone to use and seamlessly integrates with the iPhone. You can hook up multiple HomePod minis for multiroom audio and use it to control your smart home.

The Sonos One (Gen 1) is compatible with Alexa, Airplay, and Google Assistant. It also can be added to any Alexa group with other Sonos smart speakers or Amazon Echo devices. Though the Sonos One (Gen 2) is now available instead of the original, they can be paired together if you already have one of the originals.

The Amazon Echo Pop is a great affordable smart speaker option. With Alexa integration, a modern design, and decent sound, the Echo Pop is a nice addition to any small room.

The Sonos Five makes for a decent option if you're already immersed in the Sonos Ecosystem and want something large and loud to expand your setup.