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Explore top smart speakers that offer superior sound, features, and value compared to Google Nest Audio.
People often seek alternatives to Google Nest Audio due to varying needs such as better sound quality, different smart home ecosystems, or more budget-friendly options. When choosing an alternative, consider factors like audio performance, integration with existing smart home devices, and additional features such as voice control and music streaming services. In this guide, we highlight several top recommendations that excel in different aspects, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium models, ensuring there's something for every user's preference and budget.
The Amazon Echo Studio stands out with its superior sound quality, thanks to its five-speaker array and Dolby Atmos support. It integrates seamlessly with Alexa, offering a rich set of skills and smart home control. The Echo Studio provides a more immersive audio experience than the Google Nest Audio and includes a built-in Zigbee hub for smart home devices. It's ideal for audiophiles and those deeply invested in the Alexa ecosystem. Price range: $199-$229.
Key Difference: Offers superior sound quality and Dolby Atmos support.
Price: Slightly more expensive than the Google Nest Audio, which typically retails at $99-$129.
The Sonos One (Gen 2) is renowned for its exceptional audio performance and versatile smart home integration. It supports both Alexa and Google Assistant, making it a perfect fit for mixed ecosystems. The sound quality is notably better than the Google Nest Audio, with a rich, detailed output. It's ideal for users looking for a high-end smart speaker that can be part of a larger Sonos system. Price range: $219-$249.
Key Difference: Supports both Alexa and Google Assistant, with superior audio quality.
Price: More expensive than the Google Nest Audio, which typically retails at $99-$129.
The Apple HomePod (2nd Generation) is designed for Apple users, offering deep integration with the Apple ecosystem and Siri. It delivers exceptional sound quality and computational audio, creating a room-filling experience. The HomePod also features smart home control and multi-room audio capabilities. It's best for those fully invested in Apple's ecosystem and looking for a premium audio experience. Price range: $299-$329.
Key Difference: Designed for Apple users with deep integration into the Apple ecosystem.
Price: Significantly more expensive than the Google Nest Audio, which typically retails at $99-$129.
The Bose Home Speaker 500 is renowned for its outstanding audio performance, featuring a sleek design and a large LCD display for easy control. It supports both Alexa and Google Assistant, offering flexibility for users with mixed ecosystems. The sound quality is notably richer and more detailed than the Google Nest Audio. It's ideal for audiophiles who prioritize sound quality over smart home features. Price range: $279-$329.
Key Difference: Delivers exceptional sound quality with a large LCD display.
Price: More expensive than the Google Nest Audio, which typically retails at $99-$129.
The Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) offers an affordable entry into smart home audio with Alexa integration. While its sound quality is not on par with the Google Nest Audio, it's perfect for basic voice commands and smart home control. The Echo Dot is compact and versatile, making it ideal for secondary rooms or budget-conscious consumers. Price range: $49-$59.
Key Difference: Affordable and compact with basic smart home control.
Price: Significantly cheaper than the Google Nest Audio, which typically retails at $99-$129.
The JBL Link Portable is a versatile smart speaker with Google Assistant that offers portability and water resistance. It provides decent sound quality for its size and is ideal for outdoor use or moving between rooms. The battery life is impressive, and it's a great option for users who need a portable speaker with smart features. Price range: $129-$159.
Key Difference: Portable and water-resistant with Google Assistant.
Price: Comparable in price to the Google Nest Audio, which typically retails at $99-$129.
Compare key specs and features of all our recommendations side-by-side
| Product | Recommendation | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Amazon Echo Studio (newest model), compact design, immersive spatial audio and Dolby Atmos, with Alexa+ Early Access, Graphite Graphite Pack of 1 Rank #1 | 3.2 3.2 | ||
Sonos One (Gen 2) Smart Speaker with Alexa - Black (Renewed) Black 1 Speaker Rank #2 | 4.3 4.3 | ||
 Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds with USB-C Charging, Up to 2X More Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones, Transparency Mode, Adaptive Audio, Personalized Spatial Audio Pro Gen 2 Rank #3 | 4.7 4.7 | ||
Bose Home Speaker 500: Smart Bluetooth Speaker with Alexa Voice Control Built-in, Silver Rank #4 | 4.3 4.3 | ||
Like-New Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 release) | With bigger vibrant sound, helpful routines and Alexa | Glacier White Rank #5 | 4.6 4.6 | ||
JBL Charge 6 - Portable Waterproof & Drop-Proof Bluetooth Speaker, Bold Pro Sound with AI Sound Boost, 28Hrs of Playtime, Built-in powerbank & Comes with a Sturdy/Removable Carrying Strap (Black) Rank #6 | 4.7 4.7 |
