We’ve had speakers in our homes for many years now, but the advent of the “smart” speaker is a relatively recent phenomenon. If you’re wondering what the difference is, it’s fundamentally to do with the inclusion of a microphone, an internet connection and a voice-activated assistant that can hook into streaming music services, as well as run smart home gadgets and answer a wide array of queries you might have.

What Do I Need to Consider When Buying a Smart Speaker?

When buying a smart speaker, consider if it's compatible with your existing tech.

Right now, three of the biggest tech companies on the planet have well-priced smart speakers on the market, some for under $100. These are entry-level smart speakers, like the Google-owned Nest Mini or Amazon-owned Echo Dot. They are easy on the wallet, but not as good for anyone who wants high-end audio – the Amazon Echo Dot even has an external 3.5mm jack that’s explicitly there for folks to send audio to better speakers.

You don’t have to break the bank though; there are some surprisingly good speakers for under $200. Bear in mind that while a fair amount of smart home gear will “talk” to any given assistant, you can’t mix and match Amazon, Google or Apple smart speakers and expect them to talk to each other.

SEE ALSO: Connect 101: How to Set up and Connect a Smart Home

Which Smart Speakers Should I Buy?

Here’s a quick primer on what to think about when making your choice.

Amazon Echo 4th Generation

Amazon Alexa is a smart speaker with excellent microphone pick-up.

Onboard Assistant: Amazon Alexa

Pros: Of the three models tested, Amazon’s Echo 4th Gen has the best microphone pick-up if spoken accuracy is key for you. Amazon’s near-dominance in the smart speaker space in the US also means that there’s a huge variety of devices that work with Amazon’s Alexa assistant, making it pretty easy to integrate with most smart home appliances. It’s also the only one of the three with audio input and output for maximum flexibility.

Cons: The sphere shape of the Echo 4th Gen might make you think that it delivers 360-degree sound, but that isn’t the case. The speakers are still directional, so careful placement is a must.

SEE ALSO: What Are the Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones?

Google Nest Audio

The Google Nest Audio is a neat smart speaker that will fit in with your existing decor.

Onboard Assistant: Google Assistant

Pros: Google’s Nest Audio speaker is the largest of the three, and is only just pipped by the HomePod Mini in the audio stakes. However, it’s more flexible in terms of the music and content services it will work with, which could be important if you’re already subscribed to a third-party music streaming service. The flattering design of the Nest Audio makes it less obtrusive, especially if you’d prefer your smart speaker to be heard but not seen.

Cons: Google makes the Nest Audio in a range of 5 colours for the US market, but here in Australia we only get two of them. There’s no audio input, so if you want to send music from a phone, it has to be via Bluetooth. Also, if you’ve got multiple Google Home/Nest speakers or phones in the same area, it can sometimes be a touch confusing working out which speaker is actually replying to a request.

SEE ALSO: Real Review: Google Nest Audio

The Big Question: Is Someone Listening In?

In short, yes. Using a smart speaker means having a live speaker in your home, and it’s well worth reading the privacy policies around that. If you’re uncomfortable, a smart speaker isn’t for you. But, despite what some say, they’re not part of a mass surveillance activity – although some providers will use search queries and the like to target you with advertising in other channels. Regardless, a smart speaker can help you shift to a smarter, more connected home. It makes it easier to get your news, messages, updates and more. And, like an OG speaker, of course it can play your music, too.

What to Try

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