Once a novelty, the smart speaker has evolved into an integral part of our tech-connected lives. No longer a mere music player, the connected speaker has developed smarts and transformed itself into an extension of ourselves and how we interface with the IoT world. Though they still can play music for us, we also use those magical boxes to provide weather forecasts, update our calendars, and even control our connected homes, among many other capabilities. Chances are questions about the answer to “the ultimate question of life, the universe, and everything” will be asked to a smart speaker (Take that, deep thought!).
Yes, today, speakers are Bluetooth connected, and they are often portable. Some of them are waterproof, and some even float in pools. They are more than just something to connect to an entertainment system or groove to while cooking.
To be sure, smart speakers are very powerful when it comes to information and convenience. But, as with any highly personal innovation, they do have their share of security and privacy concerns. All things considered, it can be quite a task to select the best smart speaker, particularly if you don’t already have a smart speaker to ask for. Read on to learn about smart speakers, what to look for in one, and a listing of the best smart speakers available on Amazon. There are all sorts of speakers, but what exactly is a smart speaker? Though not as obvious as it sounds, not every speaker is a smart speaker. As such it is important to not confuse Bluetooth speakers with smart speakers. Bluetooth speakers are wirelessly connected to a source (a smartphone or computer, etc) to play music and even answer calls, but not much else.
On the other hand, a smart speaker has an AI (Artificial Intelligence) virtual assistant built-in such as Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant, and is controlled by voice automation. The virtual assistant is activated by a “wake word” (i.e. “Alexa”) which when used allows the user to interact with the virtual assistant for information (i.e. the weather, calendar, trivia, etc?) and with the connected home for control over devices. While a Bluetooth speaker will work with any device with Bluetooth connectivity, a smart speaker will work with whatever smart ecosystem you prefer to use be that Amazon (Alexa), Google (Google Assistant), or Apple (Siri). Other key differences include power (smart speakers are generally wired to an outlet whereas Bluetooth speakers generally run on rechargeable batteries), connectivity (Bluetooth speakers obviously don’t need a Wi-Fi connection, but smart speakers can utilize both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth), and control (smart speakers have mics for voice recognition and physical controls whereas Bluetooth speakers will generally only have physical controls).
Smart speakers have come a long way since Bell Labs’ “Audrey” in 1952, but that technology could only recognize numbers and wasn’t really a consumer product. The consumer-available smart speaker emerged in 2015 with the Amazon Echo and since then, smart speaker technology has ever-evolved as a vehicle to harness the power of the AI (Artificial Intelligence) of virtual assistants to stream music, control smart devices, and tap into IoT information.
It is no wonder given the evolution of the smart home, smart speakers are becoming more ubiquitous. In fact, according to data from NPR and Edison Research, the use of voice technology has increased to the point where 35 percent of adult Americans own a smart speaker. The increased use has gone hand in hand with the evolution of smart speakers.
Comment on any speaker that does more than just play music can be considered a smart speaker. What was once considered smart (Bluetooth-connected speakers) are now not smart at all.
Aside from which smart ecosystem you use there are other factors to consider when choosing a smart speaker like security/privacy concerns, whether it should be portable, what kind of sound quality you want, etc. Some smart speakers even come with screens, but for the purposes of this guide, the focus is primarily on those without. So, to help you weed through the myriad choices out there, we’ve put together a listing of the best smart speakers available on Amazon.
The Bose Home Speaker 500 proves that smarts can also sound great. It is a smart speaker with an audiophile-like emphasis on its sound performance making it one of the best sounding, if not one of the best overall on the list of best smart speakers on Amazon.
Bose Home Speaker 500
See at Amazon
Belkin SoundForm Elite
See at AmazonAmazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) with Clock
$60 at Amazon
Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen)
See at Amazon
Sonos Roam
See at Amazon
Amazon Echo Studio
$200 at Amazon
Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen)
Best ValueSee at Amazon
Bose Portable Smart Speaker
Premium PickSee at Amazon
Sonos One (Gen 2) – Voice Controlled Smart Speaker
Editor’s ChoiceSee at Amazon
Bose Home Speaker 500
Virtual assistant support in a smart speaker is important, but let’s not forget that the thing is still a speaker. Just because you want smarts in a speaker, doesn’t mean you should necessarily sacrifice sound performance. The Bose Home Speaker 500 is a smart speaker that doesn’t skimp on its sound just because of its smarts.
The Home Speaker 500 measures an elegantly-styled 8.0 x 6.7 x 4.3 inches and is encased in an anodized aluminum body that is stylish enough to fit in any decor. Customary touch-sensitive physical controls are located on the top of the unit as well as six preset buttons for favorite playlists, radio stations, or albums. On the front is a full-color LED that displays album art and the time. Alexa support is built-in and thanks to an eight-microphone array, voice recognition is accurate and responsive even when the music is playing loud. Where the Home Speaker 500 shines is in its sound performance. Two custom drivers deliver an impressive 360-degree soundstage with dynamic and stereo-immersive sound. The Bose app not only simplifies setup but also has sound adjustment functionality. An added bonus is that music playback can come from AUX input, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi.
- Dimensions
- 8.0 x 6.7 x 4.3 inches
- Brand
- Bose
- Power
- Wired
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Eight microphone array
- LCD screen
- Support for Apple AirPlay 2
- Phone call support only with Alexa
See at Amazon
Combining a smart speaker and a wireless charger is an obvious innovation that the Belkin SoundForm Elite does quite well. It’s a wonder that other manufacturers haven’t clued in on the convenience aspect of such a convergence, but maybe that’s why the SoundForm Elite is one of the best smart speakers on Amazon.
Belkin SoundForm Elite
Smart technology has redefined the concept of convenience so much so that we have come to expect it in our everyday lives, especially when it comes to the tech that makes our homes smart. To really be convenient, a tech product must serve multiple functions, or its smarts may feel wasted. The Belkin SoundForm Elite is one of the best smart speakers that multi-tasks to our convenience and delight.
Measuring a sizeable 9.06 x 8.84 x 8.07 inches, the fabric-covered SoundForm Elite resembles an egg that’s had its top lopped off. That “lopped off” area houses the touch-sensitive controls and a slanted area for fast 10W peak wireless charging of Qi-enabled devices. Audio quality from the SoundForm Elite is outstanding thanks to a 2x70mm subwoofer and single 35mm full-range driver setup enhanced by Push-Push vibration-canceling technology for deep, rich bass. As a smart speaker, the SoundForm Elite has Alexa built-in with added support for Apple AirPlay 2. Two far-field microphones allow for accurate voice recognition. Connectivity comes via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, though there is no 3.5mm audio input.
- Dimensions
- 9.06 x 8.84 x 8.07 inches
- Brand
- Belkin
- Power
- Wired
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Speaker Active Matching for sound fidelity
- Dual subwoofers
- Wireless charging
- Mids could be better
See at Amazon
The Echo Dot (5th Gen) may not be the flagship model Echo, but you won’t miss not having the more expensive Echo. Its lower price point and outstanding combination of features and performance make it one of the best smart speaker options available on Amazon.
Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) with Clock
Flagship models for tech have the most features to go along with a higher price. But, what if you don’t want to shell out your hard-earned cash for the latest and greatest, but want to jump into the experience anyway? The Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) is a capable and powerful non-flagship option that is one of the best for taking the plunge into the world of smart speakers.
At 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.5 inches, the Echo Dot (5th Gen) is somewhat smaller than the flagship Echo, but it comes with features and performance that leave nothing to be desired. The Dot is powered via an outlet with physical controls for mute/unmute, volume, and an action button on the top of its mesh-encased, spherical body. A light ring along the bottom illuminates when interacting with the unit. Sound is well-rounded from the 1.73″ front-firing speaker. The Echo Dot (5th Gen) is designed to work with Alexa and its smart functionality. An outstanding feature of the Echo Dot (5th Gen) is an array of LEDs that scrolls information like the time, weather, and track information. Other great features include Ultrasound Motion Detection, eero mesh Wi-Fi support built in, and dual Wi-Fi support.
- Affordable
- Displays time, weather, track information
- Temperature sensors
- eero Wi-Fi support built-in
- Alexa only
- No 3.5mm input jack
$60 at Amazon
The Echo 4th Gen is all about updated hardware and technology. It is one of the best smart speakers on Amazon because of its performance, smart features, and ever-increasing innovation.
Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen)
A new generation (Gen) of a product should mean that the latest version of the product should have some sort of new hardware or technology. Unfortunately, sometimes when a tech product comes out with the latest Gen of its product, the update can at times only mean the addition of the word “Gen” to its name. Thankfully, the 4th Generation of the Echo is true to its own name with features and performance that makes it one of the best smart speakers.
A stark departure from previous generations, the Echo 4th Gen eschews the previous cylindrical style in favor of a 5.7 x 5.7 x 5.2-inch orb design resembling something right out of Spaceballs. The Echo is covered in fabric and physical controls for volume and mic control as well as an action button are situated on the top. Setup is easy using the Alexa app. Sound quality is surprisingly excellent from its two 20mm tweeters and single 76mm neodymium woofer. Though the Echo 4th Gen is limited to Alexa as a smart speaker, it does can serve as a smart hub for Zigbee-enabled devices. A new feature for the Echo line is Ultrasound Motion Detection which activates smart routines/features based on motion in the room.
- Dimensions
- 5.7 x 5.7 x 5.2 inches
- Brand
- Amazon
- Power
- Wired
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi
- Built-in support for Zigbee-enabled devices
- Great audio performance
- Limited to Alexa
See at Amazon
The Sonos Roam is the best of both worlds, a Bluetooth speaker that is also smart. Given the on the go nature of tech today, the Sonos Roam just makes sense. It is a versatile member on the list of the best smart speakers on Amazon.
Sonos Roam
Being smart is one thing, but should that be the only thing? When it comes to tech, add versatility to smarts and now you have something. The Sonos Roam is a smart speaker that not only has the functionality of a smart speaker but also has the versatility to make it more than a one-trick pony.
At 6.61 x 2.44 x 2.36 inches in size, the Sonos Roam definitely resembles a typical small and portable Bluetooth speaker. Physical controls for volume, play/pause, and mute/unmute are located on one side. Though easy to carry around, there is no sort of carrying strap with the unit. Ruggedly built, the Sonos Roam has an IP67 dust and water resistance rating. The rechargeable battery is rated to last 10 hours on a full charge. Sound for a speaker this size is clear and well-balanced. A nice sound feature is Trueplay which automatically uses the microphone to adjust playback depending on the environment. Those are great specs for a Bluetooth speaker, but the Sonos Roam is also a smart speaker with support for Alexa or Google Assistant. The versatility of the Sonos Roam is highlighted by smart features like automatically switching to Bluetooth when out of range of your home network, and back when in range.
- Dimensions
- 6.61 x 2.44 x 2.36 inches
- Brand
- Sonos
- Power
- Rechargeable battery
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Good battery life
- IP67 rating
- Easily integrated into Sonos ecosystem
- No carrying strap
See at Amazon
The Echo Studio checks all of the “flagship” boxes: best, largest, and most important. If ever an audiophile developed a smart speaker, the Echo Studio just might be what s/he comes up with. But, thanks to a non-premium price point for premium sound, the Echo Studio isn’t just for audiophiles. With flagship features and performance, the Echo Studio is one of the best smart speakers available on Amazon.
Amazon Echo Studio
Flagship is defined as “the best, largest, and the most important model in the fleet that’s designed to showcase the very best that a manufacturer can do.” The Amazon Echo Studio is the very epitome of flagship in not only the Echo ecosystem but also one of the best smart speakers available.
Not your ordinary, everyday smart speaker, the Echo Studio is rather sizeable measuring 6.9 x 6.9 x 8.1 inches. The usual physical controls (mute/unmute, volume, action button) are along the top. The Alexa built-in smart speaker has all the smart innovations endemic to the Echo line of smart speakers. What adds to the larger size is the room-filling speaker setup. The Echo Studio packs in five speakers that produce incredible sound thanks to stereo up-mixing, Dolby Atmos support, etc. In addition, thanks to an array of seven mics that not only serve for accurate and responsive voice control, the Echo Studio also features sound calibration to adapt its sound to the room where the unit is placed. Making the Echo Studio even more of a music hub for a room is the inclusion of 3.5mm and optical audio inputs.
- Dimensions
- 6.9 x 6.9 x 8.1 inches
- Brand
- Amazon
- Power
- Wired
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Room adaptation
- Dolby Atmos support
- 3.5mm and optical audio inputs
- Somewhat large size
$200 at Amazon
The Echo Dot 5th Gen demonstrates that there truly is an Echo smart speaker for everyone. It has the same innovations as the main line offerings from Amazon but includes price and space accessibility as key features. The Echo Dot 5th Gen is one of the best smart speakers in the Echo ecosystem from Amazon.
Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen)
You know when a manufacturer just might be onto something when they pump out different models of an impactful product, and the subsequent models are just as good, if not better than the original. There is no question that Amazon has a strong presence in the smart speaker market and the Echo Dot (5th Gen) proves it continues to innovate and put out some of the best options available.
Designed as a smaller and more affordable option to the Echo, the Echo Dot 5th Gen measures 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.5 inches with a mesh-covered orb design. The smaller design will also make the placement of this smart speaker so much easier. Physical controls for volume, mute/unmute, and an action button are located on the top. A light ring along the bottom illuminates when interacting with the unit. The Echo Dot 5th Gen has Alexa built-in and comes with a whole host of smart features including built-in motion sensors, eero mesh wi-fi support, and Smart Home Protocols, among many others. Despite its size, the sound from the Echo Dot 5th Gen is quite vibrant with good highs, mids, and bass.
- Dimensions
- 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.5 inches
- Brand
- Amazon
- Power
- Wired
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Affordable
- Built-in motion sensors
- eer Wi-Fi support
- No 3.5mm jack
See at Amazon
Who says ‘you can’t take it with you?’ With the Bose Portable Smart Speaker, you can take quality sound and your assistant with you wherever you go. Portability, virtual assistant support, and excellent sound make the Bose Portable Smart Speaker one of the best smart speakers on Amazon.
Bose Portable Smart Speaker
What good is a virtual assistant if you can only use it in one room? Shouldn’t any sort of assistant be there to “assist” you whenever and wherever you are? The Bose Portable Smart Speaker answers that question with a resounding “yes!” on its way to being one of the best smart speakers available on Amazon.
The Bose Portable Smart Speaker features a sleek and compact cylindrical design measuring 7.54 x 4.69 x 4.09 inches. The durability of the speaker is reflected in the anodized aluminum body that is IPX4-rated. Physical controls for volume, Bluetooth pairing, play/pause, and mute/unmute are located along the top which also houses the microphone array. The sturdy, woven carry handle attests to the portability of this smart speaker. The speaker does have a bit of heft to it at 2.34 pounds, but the handle makes carrying it around a breeze. When it comes to smarts, the Bose Portable Smart Speaker features support for Alexa and Google Assistant while connected to a Wi-Fi network. Battery life is rated up to 12 hours on a full charge. Sound performance out of the Bose Portable Smart Speaker is top-notch, 360-degree reproduction with clear mids and powerful, responsive bass.
- Dimensions
- 7.54 x 4.69 x 4.09 inches
- Brand
- Bose
- Power
- Rechargeable battery
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- IPX4 water resistance rating
- Excellent 360-degree sound performance
- Elegant design
- Can make calls only with Alexa
See at Amazon
If you don’t want to sacrifice sound quality just for the sake of having a smart speaker, the Sonos One (Gen 2) is a great option. The Sonos One (Gen 2) is the melding of the smart speaker and quality audio done right. It is one of the strongest entrants on the list of best smart speakers available on Amazon.
Sonos One (Gen 2) – Voice Controlled Smart Speaker
Once virtual assistants and smart speakers emerged, it was only a matter of time before the noted names in wireless audio jumped in. But, do sound quality and smart speaker technology really go together, or even matter? The Sonos One (Gen 2) smart speaker is a great example of the effective merger of sound and smarts and one of the best smart speakers on Amazon.
With a non-descript squared sort of cylindrical design measuring in at a compact 6.36 x 4.69 x 4.69 inches, the Sonos One (Gen 2) will find a non-intrusive space in just about any room. The top features touch-sensitive controls for play/pause, volume, and skipping tracks. The Sonos One (Gen 2) supports both Alexa and Google Assistant and can be additionally controlled by the Sonos app and Apple AirPlay 2. A far-field microphone array with beamforming and multi-channel echo cancellation allow for accurate and fast voice interaction. An added bonus is that the Sonos One (Gen 2) can easily be integrated into the overall Sonos wireless audio universe of products. Audio performance is rich and impressive from its two Class-D digital amplifiers, tweeter, and mid-woofer.
- Dimensions
- 6.36 x 4.69 x 4.69 inches
- Brand
- Sonos
- Power
- Wired
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi
- AirPlay 2 support
- Sonos app
- Compact design
- Setup can be cumbersome
See at Amazon
