Best Smart Speaker For Music This Year – Smart Home Reviews
Our winners of the Best Smart Speaker For Music this year are:
BEST OVERALL
Amazon Echo Studio
- Dolby Atmos technology
- Built-in smart home hub
- Voice control with Alexa
- High-fidelity audio
- Multi-room music
Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on finding the best smart speaker for music! Smart speakers have revolutionized the way we listen to music, offering a seamless blend of convenience, quality, and smart home integration. Whether you’re a casual listener or an audiophile, there’s a smart speaker out there that fits your needs perfectly.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision. From key features to consider to detailed reviews of the top 10 smart speakers available on Amazon, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Reviews & Comparisons
1. Amazon Echo Studio
The Amazon Echo Studio is a high-fidelity smart speaker designed to deliver immersive sound and smart home capabilities. It’s equipped with Dolby Atmos technology for an unparalleled audio experience.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We love the Echo Studio for its exceptional sound quality and seamless integration with Amazon Alexa. It’s perfect for audiophiles and smart home enthusiasts alike.
Features
- Dolby Atmos technology
- Built-in smart home hub
- Voice control with Alexa
- High-fidelity audio
- Multi-room music
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Smart home integration
- Voice control
- Multi-room compatibility
- Stylish design
Cons
- Expensive
- Large size
- Requires Wi-Fi
- Limited to Amazon ecosystem
- No battery backup
Our Verdict
The Amazon Echo Studio is a top-notch smart speaker for music lovers looking for high-quality sound and smart home features. It’s a bit pricey, but worth the investment for its performance.
2. Google Nest Audio
The Google Nest Audio is a sleek and powerful smart speaker that delivers rich sound and integrates seamlessly with Google Assistant. It’s perfect for music lovers and smart home users.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Google Nest Audio for its balanced sound profile and intuitive Google Assistant integration. It’s an excellent choice for those in the Google ecosystem.
Features
- Rich, full sound
- Google Assistant built-in
- Sleek design
- Multi-room audio
- Voice match technology
Pros
- Great sound quality
- Affordable
- Compact design
- Google Assistant
- Multi-room support
Cons
- Limited bass
- No aux input
- Requires Google Home app
- Wi-Fi dependent
- Limited to Google services
Our Verdict
The Google Nest Audio offers excellent sound and smart features at an affordable price. It’s a great addition to any Google-centric smart home setup.
3. Apple HomePod
The Apple HomePod is a premium smart speaker designed to deliver high-fidelity audio and seamless integration with Apple devices and services. It’s perfect for Apple enthusiasts.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We love the Apple HomePod for its outstanding sound quality and deep integration with the Apple ecosystem. It’s ideal for those who are already invested in Apple products.
Features
- High-fidelity audio
- Siri voice assistant
- Apple Music integration
- Multi-room audio
- Elegant design
Pros
- Superb sound quality
- Seamless Apple integration
- Siri voice control
- Stylish design
- Multi-room support
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited to Apple services
- Requires iOS device
- No Bluetooth
- Heavier than competitors
Our Verdict
The Apple HomePod is a fantastic smart speaker for Apple users looking for high-quality sound and seamless integration with their devices. It’s pricey but worth it for Apple fans.
4. Sonos One (Gen 2)
The Sonos One (Gen 2) is a versatile smart speaker that offers excellent sound quality and supports both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. It’s perfect for those who want flexibility.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Sonos One for its superior sound quality and dual voice assistant support. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for versatility and performance.
Features
- Supports Alexa and Google Assistant
- Rich, room-filling sound
- Compact design
- Multi-room audio
- Humidity resistant
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Flexible voice assistant support
- Compact and stylish
- Durable design
- Easy to set up
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires Sonos app
- Wi-Fi dependent
- No Bluetooth
- Limited to Sonos ecosystem
Our Verdict
The Sonos One (Gen 2) is a versatile and high-performing smart speaker that’s perfect for those who want flexibility with their voice assistants. It’s a bit pricey but offers great value.
5. Bose Home Speaker 500
The Bose Home Speaker 500 is a premium smart speaker that delivers powerful, room-filling sound and integrates with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We love the Bose Home Speaker 500 for its robust sound quality and elegant design. It’s a top choice for anyone looking for a high-end smart speaker for music.
Features
- Powerful sound
- Built-in Alexa and Google Assistant
- Elegant design
- Color LCD display
- Multi-room audio
Pros
- Superb sound quality
- Elegant design
- Voice assistant support
- Color display
- Durable build
Cons
- Expensive
- Large size
- Wi-Fi dependent
- Limited to Bose app
- No battery backup
Our Verdict
The Bose Home Speaker 500 is a fantastic smart speaker for those who want premium sound and elegant design. It’s a bit pricey but offers excellent performance and features.
6. Harman Kardon Citation One
The Harman Kardon Citation One is a compact smart speaker that offers impressive sound quality and integrates with Google Assistant, making it perfect for music lovers and smart home users.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Harman Kardon Citation One for its rich sound and stylish design. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality smart speaker for music.
Features
- Rich sound
- Google Assistant built-in
- Stylish design
- Multi-room audio
- Voice control
Pros
- Great sound quality
- Compact design
- Voice control
- Stylish look
- Multi-room support
Cons
- No Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi dependent
- Limited to Google services
- Requires Google Home app
- No battery backup
Our Verdict
The Harman Kardon Citation One offers impressive sound and smart features in a compact and stylish package. It’s a great choice for Google-centric smart homes.
7. Marshall Stanmore II Voice
The Marshall Stanmore II Voice is a powerful smart speaker that combines iconic Marshall design with high-quality sound and voice assistant support, perfect for music enthusiasts.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We love the Marshall Stanmore II Voice for its robust sound and classic design. It’s ideal for those who want a stylish and powerful smart speaker for music.
Features
- Powerful sound
- Built-in Alexa
- Iconic Marshall design
- Multi-room audio
- Customizable EQ
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Stylish design
- Voice assistant support
- Customizable EQ
- Durable build
Cons
- Expensive
- Large size
- Wi-Fi dependent
- Limited to Alexa
- No battery backup
Our Verdict
The Marshall Stanmore II Voice is a fantastic smart speaker for those who want powerful sound and iconic design. It’s pricey but offers excellent performance and features.
8. Sony SRS-RA3000
The Sony SRS-RA3000 is a versatile smart speaker that offers 360 Reality Audio and voice assistant support, making it perfect for immersive music experiences.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Sony SRS-RA3000 for its immersive sound and smart features. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a high-quality smart speaker for music.
Features
- 360 Reality Audio
- Voice assistant support
- Immersive sound
- Multi-room audio
- Compact design
Pros
- Great sound quality
- Immersive audio
- Voice assistant support
- Compact design
- Multi-room support
Cons
- Expensive
- Wi-Fi dependent
- Limited to Sony app
- No battery backup
- Requires setup
Our Verdict
The Sony SRS-RA3000 offers immersive sound and smart features in a compact package. It’s a great choice for music lovers who want a high-quality smart speaker.
9. JBL Link Portable
The JBL Link Portable is a versatile smart speaker that offers great sound quality and portability, making it perfect for music lovers on the go.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the JBL Link Portable for its excellent sound and portability. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a high-quality smart speaker for music on the move.
Features
- Portable design
- Voice assistant support
- Great sound quality
- Waterproof
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Pros
- Portable
- Great sound quality
- Voice assistant support
- Waterproof
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Cons
- Limited battery life
- Wi-Fi dependent
- Requires JBL app
- No multi-room support
- Limited to Google services
Our Verdict
The JBL Link Portable offers excellent sound and portability, making it a great choice for music lovers who want a smart speaker they can take anywhere.
10. Ultimate Ears MEGABLAST
The Ultimate Ears MEGABLAST is a powerful and portable smart speaker that offers excellent sound quality and voice assistant support, perfect for on-the-go music lovers.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We love the Ultimate Ears MEGABLAST for its powerful sound and portability. It’s ideal for those who want a high-quality smart speaker they can take anywhere.
Features
- Powerful sound
- Portable design
- Voice assistant support
- Waterproof
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Pros
- Powerful sound
- Portable
- Voice assistant support
- Waterproof
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited battery life
- Wi-Fi dependent
- Requires Ultimate Ears app
- No multi-room support
Our Verdict
The Ultimate Ears MEGABLAST offers powerful sound and portability, making it a great choice for music lovers who want a smart speaker they can take anywhere.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best smart speaker for music, it’s essential to consider several key features to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here are five crucial points to keep in mind:
- Sound Quality: The primary reason for buying a smart speaker for music is, of course, the sound quality. Look for speakers with high-fidelity audio, good bass, and clear vocals. Check out reviews on What Hi-Fi and CNET for expert opinions.
- Compatibility: Ensure the smart speaker is compatible with your existing devices and streaming services. Most smart speakers support popular services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
- Voice Assistants: Consider which voice assistant you prefer, whether it’s Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, so choose one that best fits your lifestyle.
- Connectivity: Check for various connectivity options like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and auxiliary inputs. This will make it easier to connect different devices and enjoy a seamless listening experience.
- Design and Size: Smart speakers come in various shapes and sizes. Depending on where you plan to place it, you might want a compact design or a more substantial, stylish speaker that complements your home decor.
FAQs
What is the best smart speaker for music?
The best smart speaker for music depends on your specific needs and preferences. Popular choices include the Amazon Echo Studio, Google Nest Audio, and Apple HomePod. All offer excellent sound quality and smart features.
Can I use multiple smart speakers together?
Yes, many smart speakers support multi-room audio, allowing you to connect multiple speakers and play synchronized music throughout your home. Brands like Sonos, Amazon, and Google offer this feature.
Do smart speakers work without Wi-Fi?
Most smart speakers require Wi-Fi for full functionality, including streaming music and using voice assistants. However, some models offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to use them without Wi-Fi for basic playback.
Are smart speakers secure?
Smart speakers come with various security features, but they can still pose privacy risks. Always review the privacy settings and be aware of how your data is being used. Regularly update your device to ensure it has the latest security patches.
Can I use smart speakers to control my smart home devices?
Yes, most smart speakers can control compatible smart home devices such as lights, thermostats, and locks. Ensure your smart home devices are compatible with the voice assistant in your smart speaker.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best smart speaker for music involves considering sound quality, compatibility, voice assistants, connectivity, and design. By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a speaker that enhances your listening experience and fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. Happy listening!