Smart home speakers have become a popular household item, with the Amazon Echo and its voice assistant Alexa leading the way. Alexa can do everything from playing music and answering questions to controlling smart home devices. However, to get the most out of Alexa, you need a high-quality speaker that can deliver clear and powerful sound.
When it comes to choosing the best Alexa speaker, there are a few critical things to consider. First, you need to decide what type of speaker you want. Do you want a portable speaker that you can take with you on the go, or do you want a larger speaker that can fill a room with sound? You also need to consider the speaker’s sound quality, connectivity options, and compatibility with other smart home devices.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best Alexa speakers on the market and help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you. Whether you’re looking for a compact speaker for your bedroom or a powerful speaker for your living room, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and find the perfect Alexa speaker for your home.
Best Alexa Speakers
If you’re looking for a smart speaker that can do more than just play music, Alexa speakers are a great option. Alexa speakers are equipped with Amazon’s virtual assistant, Alexa, which can help you with everything from setting reminders to ordering groceries. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best Alexa speakers on the market, based on factors like sound quality, design, and value for money. Whether you’re looking for a compact speaker for your bedroom or a high-end speaker for your living room, we’ve got you covered.
Echo Studio | Our best-sounding smart speaker ever – With Dolby Atmos, spatial audio processing technology, and Alexa | Charcoal Charcoal Device only
If you’re looking for a smart speaker with the best audio quality, the Echo Studio is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Enjoy an immersive audio experience with spatial audio processing technology and Dolby Atmos.
- Voice control your music from various streaming services.
- Adapts to any room for optimal sound and has a built-in smart home hub.
Cons
- Glitches with the speaker can be frustrating.
- Some users have reported issues with connectivity.
- The speaker is quite large and heavy.
The Echo Studio is an excellent choice for anyone who values high-quality audio. With spatial audio processing technology and Dolby Atmos, it creates a more immersive listening experience. You can also control your music with voice commands from various streaming services. The speaker adapts to the acoustics of any room and acts as a smart home hub, making it a versatile addition to your home.
However, some users have reported glitches with the speaker, which can be frustrating. Connectivity issues have also been reported by some users. Additionally, the speaker is quite large and heavy, which may be a concern for some people.
Overall, the Echo Studio is a great choice for anyone who wants a smart speaker with exceptional audio quality and a built-in smart home hub.
Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 release) with clock | Smart speaker with clock and Alexa | Cloud Blue Cloud Blue Device only
If you’re looking for a smart speaker with improved audio quality and a built-in LED display, the Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 release) with clock is a great option.
Pros
- Enjoy improved audio quality for clearer vocals, deeper bass, and vibrant sound in any room.
- The LED display shows the time, alarms, weather, song titles, and more at a glance.
- Control compatible smart home devices with your voice and routines triggered by built-in motion or indoor temperature sensors.
Cons
- Some users may find the LED display too bright, even on the lowest setting.
- The clock display cannot be turned off completely, which may be a downside for some users.
- The device is not portable and must be plugged in at all times.
This smart speaker is designed to make your life easier and more convenient. You can play music, audiobooks, and podcasts from Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, and others, or via Bluetooth throughout your home. Alexa is always ready to help you with hands-free timers, weather updates, and answering your questions. You can even control compatible smart home devices with your voice and create routines to automate your daily tasks.
The Echo Dot (5th Gen) with clock is also designed with privacy in mind. It has multiple layers of privacy controls, including a mic off button, and Amazon is not in the business of selling your personal information to others. The device is also Climate Pledge Friendly, with 100% recyclable packaging, 100% post-consumer recycled polyester yarn, and 55% post-consumer recycled plastics.
Overall, if you’re looking for a smart speaker with improved audio quality and a built-in LED display, the Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 release) with clock is a great choice. It’s easy to use, packed with features, and designed to protect your privacy.
Cambridge Soundworks OontZ Angle 3 Shower Plus Edition with Alexa Bluetooth Speaker
If you’re looking for a waterproof speaker with Alexa capabilities, the Cambridge Soundworks OontZ Angle 3 Shower Plus Edition is a solid choice.
Pros
- Crystal clear sound and richer bass
- Surprisingly loud volume
- Can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes
Cons
- Sound quality is not as great as some other speakers on the market
- Bluetooth range is not as far as advertised
- Alexa app must be installed on your phone to use with the speaker
The OontZ Angle 3 Shower Plus Edition boasts advanced digital audio processing, dual precision stereo drivers, and a proprietary bass radiator that deliver crystal clear mids and highs with rich bass. The 10 Watt AMP plays surprisingly loud with the volume to fill a room with high-quality sound. It’s also totally waterproof, making it perfect for use in the shower, by the pool, or at the beach.
One downside is that the sound quality is not as great as some other speakers on the market. Additionally, the Bluetooth range is not as far as advertised, so you may need to keep your phone closer to the speaker than you’d like. Finally, the Alexa app must be installed on your phone to use with the speaker, which could be a dealbreaker for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a waterproof speaker with Alexa capabilities, the Cambridge Soundworks OontZ Angle 3 Shower Plus Edition is a solid choice. Just be aware of its limitations when it comes to sound quality and Bluetooth range.
Bose Home Speaker 500
If you’re looking for a smart speaker with impressive sound quality, the Bose Home Speaker 500 is a great choice.
Pros
- Fill any room with impressive wall-to-wall stereo sound from a single speaker
- Built-in Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free voice control
- Multiple ways to connect and control your music, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and the Bose Music app
Cons
- Expensive compared to other smart speakers on the market
- Some users have reported issues with the Wi-Fi connectivity
- Limited compatibility with other smart home devices
The Bose Home Speaker 500 is a powerful smart speaker that delivers impressive sound quality and a wide range of features. With built-in Alexa and Google Assistant, you can control your music and other smart home devices with your voice, and the eight-microphone array ensures that the speaker can hear you even when the music is playing at high volume.
In addition to voice control, the Bose Home Speaker 500 also offers multiple ways to connect and control your music. You can stream music via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Apple AirPlay 2, and the Bose Music app allows you to easily manage your playlists, Internet radio stations, and more.
While the Bose Home Speaker 500 is more expensive than many other smart speakers on the market, its impressive sound quality and range of features make it a worthwhile investment for audiophiles and music lovers. However, some users have reported issues with the Wi-Fi connectivity, and the speaker’s compatibility with other smart home devices is limited.
Introducing Echo Pop
If you’re looking for a compact smart speaker with Alexa that features full sound, the Introducing Echo Pop might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- Compact size makes it perfect for small spaces and blending in with your decor.
- Full sound is great for listening to music, audiobooks, and podcasts from your favorite providers.
- Easily control compatible smart home devices with your voice or the Alexa App.
Cons
- Some users may find the sound quality lacking compared to larger speakers.
- Bluetooth connectivity may be spotty at times.
- Some users may find the design too plain or uninteresting.
The Introducing Echo Pop is a great option for those who want a smart speaker that doesn’t take up too much space. With its compact size and full sound, you can easily control your music and other smart devices with your voice or the Alexa App. However, some users may find the sound quality lacking compared to larger speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity may be spotty at times. Additionally, some users may find the design too plain or uninteresting. Overall, the Introducing Echo Pop is a solid choice for those who want a smart speaker that’s both compact and powerful.
Certified Refurbished Echo Studio
If you’re looking for a high-fidelity smart speaker that offers 3D audio and Alexa, the Certified Refurbished Echo Studio might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- Powerful bass, dynamic midrange, and crisp highs
- Alexa voice control for music streaming
- Automatically adapts to the acoustics of your space
Cons
- Alexa’s voice doesn’t scale as well as it should
- The device can be difficult to set up
- The microphone off button is not easy to find
The Certified Refurbished Echo Studio is a great choice for anyone looking for a smart speaker that offers high-quality sound and voice control. With 5 speakers that produce powerful bass, dynamic midrange, and crisp highs, you can enjoy your favorite music in stunning detail. Plus, with Dolby Atmos technology, you’ll get space, clarity, and depth that will enhance your listening experience.
One of the best things about the Certified Refurbished Echo Studio is that it adapts to any room. The device automatically senses the acoustics of your space and fine-tunes playback for optimal sound. This means that you can enjoy your music in any room of your house without having to worry about adjusting the settings.
However, one downside to the device is that Alexa’s voice doesn’t scale as well as it should. This means that if you’re playing music at a high volume, it can be difficult to hear Alexa’s responses. Additionally, the device can be difficult to set up, which can be frustrating for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality smart speaker that offers 3D audio and Alexa voice control, the Certified Refurbished Echo Studio is a great choice. With its powerful sound and adaptive technology, it’s sure to enhance your listening experience.
Marshall Uxbridge Home Voice Speaker
The Marshall Uxbridge Home Voice Speaker is a great choice for those who want a compact speaker with excellent sound quality and Alexa built-in.
Pros
- Thunderous sound from a compact frame
- Access to the world’s music through popular streaming services
- Can build a multi-room system with other supported Alexa built-in speakers or Airplay 2 enabled speakers
Cons
- Setup may not be super simple
- Not portable, designed for fixed use
- Some users report occasional interference and disconnection issues
The Marshall Uxbridge Home Voice Speaker is engineered to deliver screaming highs and hard hitting lows for a brilliantly balanced sound only Marshall can deliver. With Alexa built-in, you can use your voice to play music, manage everyday tasks, and control smart devices around your home. The rocker buttons on the top panel allow you to fine-tune your music according to the room you’re in.
If you’re looking for a compact speaker that delivers powerful sound and has Alexa built-in, the Marshall Uxbridge Home Voice Speaker is a great choice.
iHome iBT158 Smart Bluetooth Speaker
If you’re looking for a portable speaker with Alexa built-in, the iHome iBT158 Smart Bluetooth Speaker is a great option.
Pros
- The iHome iBT158 is waterproof and dustproof, making it perfect for outdoor use.
- You can enjoy up to 12 hours of non-stop music playing time with this speaker.
- With five color-changing modes, you can add a visual component to your auditory journey for a full sensory experience.
Cons
- The iHome iBT158 is not as loud as some other portable speakers.
- The Alexa integration is not as seamless as it could be.
- The speaker’s design is not as sleek and modern as some other portable speakers.
The iHome iBT158 is a great portable speaker for those who want Alexa built-in and a waterproof and dustproof design. The speaker is perfect for outdoor use and you can enjoy up to 12 hours of non-stop music playing time. The five color-changing modes add a visual component to your auditory journey for a full sensory experience. However, the speaker is not as loud as some other portable speakers and the Alexa integration is not as seamless as it could be. Additionally, the speaker’s design is not as sleek and modern as some other portable speakers.
Sonos One Two Room Set
If you’re looking for a smart speaker with Alexa voice control built-in, the Sonos One Two Room Set is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Great sound quality for a compact size
- Alexa voice control makes it easy to play music and access other Alexa skills
- Connects with Amazon Alexa easily over Wi-Fi
Cons
- Expensive compared to other smart speakers on the market
- Limited compatibility with streaming services
- Some users have reported issues with software and connectivity
The Sonos One Two Room Set is a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy high-quality sound and Alexa voice control in up to two rooms. With its compact size and crystal-clear sound, it’s the perfect way to begin your Sonos system. You can even pair two speakers together in one room for richer, deeper stereo sound.
One of the best things about the Sonos One Two Room Set is how easy it is to use. You can start and control music with your voice, thanks to Amazon Alexa built right in. You can also get the latest weather updates, flash briefings, and sports scores, set timers, and enjoy all those other helpful Amazon Alexa skills.
However, the Sonos One Two Room Set is definitely on the expensive side compared to other smart speakers on the market. It also has limited compatibility with streaming services, which may be a dealbreaker for some users. Additionally, some users have reported issues with software and connectivity.
Overall, if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality smart speaker with Alexa voice control, the Sonos One Two Room Set is definitely worth considering.
Certified Refurbished Echo Dot (4th Gen, 2020 release) | Smart speaker with Alexa | Charcoal Charcoal Echo Dot
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable smart speaker with Alexa, the Certified Refurbished Echo Dot (4th Gen, 2020 release) is a great choice.
Pros
- Comes with a limited warranty and certified to look and work like new
- Sleek and compact design delivers crisp vocals and balanced bass for full sound
- Voice control your entertainment and play music, audiobooks, and podcasts throughout your home with multi-room music
Cons
- Some users reported that the speaker’s sound quality is not as good as other high-end speakers
- You need a stable Wi-Fi connection to use Alexa to its full potential
- The speaker’s microphone can pick up background noise and may not always recognize your voice commands
The Certified Refurbished Echo Dot (4th Gen, 2020 release) is perfect for those who want to enjoy the convenience of Alexa without breaking the bank. With its compact design, you can easily place it in any room in your home without taking up too much space.
One of the best things about this smart speaker is that it comes with a limited warranty and is certified to look and work like new. This means you can enjoy all the benefits of a new device without paying full price.
Another great feature of the Certified Refurbished Echo Dot is its ability to voice control your entertainment. You can easily stream songs from Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, SiriusXM, and others. Plus, you can play music, audiobooks, and podcasts throughout your home with multi-room music.
While the speaker’s sound quality is not as good as other high-end speakers, it still delivers crisp vocals and balanced bass for full sound. However, it’s important to note that you need a stable Wi-Fi connection to use Alexa to its full potential. Additionally, the speaker’s microphone can pick up background noise and may not always recognize your voice commands.
Overall, the Certified Refurbished Echo Dot (4th Gen, 2020 release) is a great choice for those who want an affordable smart speaker with Alexa. With its compact design, voice control, and multi-room music capabilities, it’s a great addition to any home.
Buying Guide
When shopping for an Alexa speaker, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you’re getting the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Sound Quality
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing an Alexa speaker is sound quality. Look for speakers that have good frequency response, clear and balanced sound, and a wide soundstage. Consider the size of your room and the type of music you listen to when selecting a speaker.
Connectivity
Another important feature to consider is connectivity. Look for speakers that offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as compatibility with other smart home devices. This will allow you to easily stream music from your phone or other devices, as well as control your speaker using voice commands.
Design and Size
The design and size of the speaker are also important factors to consider. Look for a speaker that fits your personal style and the decor of your home. Consider the size of the speaker and whether it will fit comfortably in the space where you plan to use it.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some Alexa speakers offer built-in voice assistants, touch controls, and the ability to connect to multiple speakers for a surround sound experience. Look for features that will enhance your overall listening experience and make using your speaker more convenient.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Sound Quality | Good frequency response, clear and balanced sound, wide soundstage |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, compatibility with other smart home devices |
Design and Size | Fits personal style and home decor, appropriate size for intended space |
Additional Features | Built-in voice assistants, touch controls, ability to connect to multiple speakers |
Aaron Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.