From budget to premium, wireless to waterproof, finding the best home speakers to suit your home can be a bit of a task.Sometimes the default sound option just isn’t enough and you need a little more than basic earbuds: you want a speaker. All speakers range from good to excellent sound quality and depend mainly on a budget and what extra features you can get.
Whatever your needs, whether that's enjoying your favourite music, or audiobooks, watching your QLED TV or listening to a podcast from the comfort of your home or garden - we have narrowed down the best home speakers to suit your requirements and budget.
What speaker is best for me?
Different types of speakers will fit different needs. Are you off working from home and need something reliable for your work calls? Or need something cheap and simple like a portable speaker that uses Bluetooth. Or if you want your speaker to be controlled via voice recognition, then think about picking up a smart speaker like Amazon Echo.
What is a smart assistant?
A smart assistant is essentially a piece of software (controlled by voice) that can perform various tasks for you. This includes answering questions via a web search, scheduling appointments and dates in a calendar, and controlling music. This is only the tip of the iceberg; they are incredibly versatile and can do so much more depending on the assistant and other devices owned.
If you’re carrying a recent Android or Apple smartphone, then chances are you already have some variation of a smart assistant although they are not as convenient as using smart speakers because the speakers are designed around the assistant.
Do I have to wire home speakers?
Maybe – it depends on the kind of speaker you buy. The wiring of speakers is typically required for Hi-Fi and home cinema systems. While this sounds bad on paper, it actually allows you a great deal of freedom with where you put your speakers and how they sound.
A lot of products come bundled with the required cables, so you don’t have to buy them separately unless you want them really long.
If you are buying passive speakers, you will need an amplifier (or a system with a built-in amplifier) to get any sound from them. Powered speakers already come with an amp, so there’s no need to worry. The easiest way to tell if you need an amp is by looking for a power plug. If your speaker has a three-pin main plug, it's powered. If it only has connections to mount audio cables, they are passive.
Best home speakers
The best budget home smart speaker
.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
AmazonThis smart speaker with Alexa controls is sleek, compact, and can fit in small spaces. If you are looking for a speaker with voice controls, this speaker is ready to help. You can interact with Alexa by telling her to play music, answer a question, set an alarm, and other useful functions. This device can control your smart home and can turn on lights, adjust the heating and lock doors. We love that you can make announcements to anybody in a room with another Echo Dot device - you can let everyone know dinner is ready or call family and friends with hands-free calls.
Specifications
Size: 14.4 x 14.4 x 13.3 cm
Dedicated app: Yes
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Pros: High-quality sound, Alexa voice-activated assistant
Cons: Needs plugging in unless a battery base is bought
Review: "I already had a bigger echo version for the sitting room, love it so got this one for the kids’ room as they loved the previous dot model. Same as on the bigger model Amazon did the biggest total renovation on the shape of it. Very nice, elegant and modern-looking style. Best update on responding to voice, due to its round shape and multi-mic build it detects voice perfectly even while playing high-volume music. Absolutely fine detecting voices from long distance. No need to lug ethernet connections as, on old models, it connects directly to home Wi-Fi."
If you are looking to upgrade to a newer model of the Echo Dot, then this is the 5th generation version of the speaker which comes with improved audio, clearer vocals and richer bass for an immersive Echo Dot experience.
Pros
- Enjoy music, audiobooks, and podcasts from Amazon Music, Audible, Apple Music, Spotify
- Can sync multiple compatible Echo devices or pair with Fire TV
- You can turn your Echo device into a Wi-Fi extender
- Sustainable packed with 99% of packaging responsibly managed forests or recycled sources
Cons
- Some reviewers feel that the mircophone and temperature detectors could have been better
The best home speaker under £100
John Lewisa1techdeals.com
This Google device is designed to fit effortlessly in your home. It has excellent sound quality and can stream music, news, radio, podcasts or audiobooks, or anything you tend to listen to. We love that it has a voice match setting, so you can hear personalised information such as your daily schedule, recent calls, timers, alarms, and more. This device can link up to your smart home or other smart devices and control the lights, thermostats, home security or TVs. You can broadcast messages on other connected Nest speakers around your home and house, use them as intercoms to make announcements or chat between rooms. It is good to note that the Google Nest audio requires Wi-Fi, a nearby electrical socket, and a Google Account with a compatible mobile device to work.
Specifications
Size: 175 x 124 x 78 cm
Dedicated App: Yes
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Pros: Google Assistant is responsive, Sleek design
Cons: Audio distortion at high volumes
Review: "We already own several Mini's throughout the house, for the Conservatory we wanted something a little special. Wasn't interested in the speakers with screens, as most of the cost will go on the screen and not the speaker, the Nest Audio Speaker seemed a perfect choice. Easy to set up as you'd expect, integrates into your Google Home seamlessly as you'd expect. The quality of the audio was definitely a Wow moment, fantastic bass response, and superb clarity of sound, you know this product is going to have a punch to it because of its weight."
Most versatile home speaker
Sonoswww.argos.co.uk
If you are a fan of a voice-controlled device, then this Sonos One speaker with Alexa built-in functions will be a good match for you. You can manage your music all in one place, with access to Amazon Music, Spotify, Apple Music, internet radio, and other streaming services. You can wirelessly connect your other Sonos devices to this device, so you can play music in any room. This is not only a home speaker but can do some Alexa commands such as you instantly connect to Alexa to play music, control your smart home, get information, news, weather, and more using just your voice. It is good to note however that features such as voice calling, messaging, setting reminders and getting notifications are not available on this device.
Specifications:
Size: 16.2 x 12 x 12 cm
Dedicated App: Yes
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and AirPlay
Pros: Great sounding speaker, Links with wider system for even better sound
Cons: No Bluetooth connectivity
Review: "The Sonos One is easy to use and fairly easy to set up. I have a Hive heating and lights system, and it’s great to be able to control all those functions with my voice. The sound quality is great, and the speaker works well with Spotify, and can basically play anything you want so long as it understands you. Like any Sonos system, it works seamlessly with other Sonos devices."
5.
Sonos Move
The best portable home smart speaker
Argoswww.argos.co.uk
This Sonos Move home speaker provides brilliant sound anywhere. It is weather-proof and drop-resistant so you can use it in and out of your home. With Trueplay tuning, a deep base, and a wide soundscape, the speaker will suit any genre of music or occasion. It is designed with a durable shell to withstand any bumps, drops, moisture or dust. With a battery life of 8 hours, you can listen to the speaker all day and easily recharge the device with the USB-C travel charger or on the charging base. You can easily play music with this speaker which can stream content through WIFI or connected to Bluetooth.
Specifications:
Size: H24 x W16 x D12.5cm
Dedicated App: Yes
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and AirPlay
Pros: 11-hour battery life, pairs with wider system, great sound quality
Cons: Bluetooth connection limits functions
Review: "Brilliant sound I don’t have home broadband but play this through Bluetooth instead works great with Spotify etc I’m considering buying another."
The best sound quality for a small speaker
AmazonThis small, compact, and versatile smart speaker from Bose, is lightweight (1kg) and ideal for any occasion. Its portable design comes with a handle that allows you to move it easily from room to room. With a durable design, long battery life of 12 hours, water-resistant qualities, and excellent sound quality, this speaker is ideal to use for outdoor gatherings or for home use. It has an outside Wi-Fi range or can be used as a portable Bluetooth speaker which you can control with your mobile phone or tablet.
Specifications:
Size: 10.4 x 11.9 x 19.15 cm
Dedicated App: Yes
Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Pros: Pairs with wider Bose system, lightweight portable
Cons: Not great for outdoors
Review: "The speaker is (relatively) small, but the amount of sound it produces is shocking. Great for parties and almost any occasion."
Best premium home speaker
Sonos
The Sonos Five is the third generation of the Sonos PLAY 5 speaker and has been upgraded with updated design features, a monochromatic design, as well as increased memory and processing power for improved performance. You can experience clear, room-filling sound for music streaming, vinyl, and more with the Sonos Five. The device can be controlled with the Sonos app and Apple AirPlay 2. When positioned horizontally, it automatically separates the left and right channels for impressive stereo sound. When placed vertically, you can pair two speakers and each smartly adjusts to mono for more detailed stereo separation and an even wider soundstage. This home speaker is ideal for real music buffs.
Specifications
Size: 20.3 x 36.4 x 15.4cm
Dedicated App: Yes
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and AirPlay
Pros: Pairs with wider system, touch control, great for vinyl
Cons: Not wireless, expensive
Review: "I bought a Five speaker primarily as a way to join my amp/turntable/tuner to my existing One speakers. 500 quid is an awful lot of money but for 100 quid extra you get more than a black box like Port. Works a treat and the Five speaker is a cracker: terrific sound and loud. Vinyl sounds great. Very pleased."
8.
Echo Studio
Best smart home speaker
AmazonThe Echo studio provides immersive sound and can be controlled by your voice. Ask Alexa to play music, read the news, and answer questions. You can also stream songs from Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, Deezer, and more. This device adapts to any space and can automatically sense the acoustics of the room, fine-tuning playback for optimal sound. You can use your Alexa device like an intercom and talk to any room in the house with Drop In and Announcements.
Specifications
Size: H20.6 x Dia17.6cm
Dedicated App: Yes
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and AirPlay
Pros: Adapts to any room acoustics, in-built smart home hub connection
Cons: Only for Amazon Alexa and Echo devices
Review: "Very, very good sound, particularly from such a compact device - being honest, I cannot really tell it apart from the system it replaced - an older high-end hi-fi separates system. Plenty of volume available in most normal sized rooms - works perfectly OK in ours, a large walk-through lounge/ dining room. Plenty of bass too, which was a big surprise - I'd mentally ticked off treating myself for Christmas with the Bass booster unit, available, but doubt I would bother now. Its been tried in several locations, including on the floor in the corner of the room, stood on furniture unit, and also on a large, solid bookshelf - location makes no discernable difference to volume, bass, or quality, as the on-board electronics are adaptive and very clever (and due to get a free online software upgrade, too!) Set-up was simple enough if you just follow the instructions."
_.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Amazon
Stanmore II from Marshall is a versatile speaker with a retro design and is perfect for any room, big or small. It is. Bluetooth compatible and the aptX technology provides wireless sound at a range of up to 30 feet. Fine-tune your music to meet your requirements with the Marshall Bluetooth app or the analogue controls on the speaker's panel.
Specifications
Size: 18.5 x 35 x 19.5 cm
Dedicated App: Yes
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and AirPlay
Pros: Portable Bluetooth, great volume control and deep bass
Cons: Sometimes disconnects
Review: "The Marshall not only had classic looks but has an impressive sound. It will easily fill most lounge's unless you live in a mansion, and has very good equalizer settings within the phone app. What's nice is there's volume and tone controls on the unit itself which plays into the retro looks somewhat and also feeds into the look of the guitar amp background of Marshall. You can control the sound quickly from these controls (just bass and treble) or with more detail using the app which has a more usual equalizer setting."
Best portable outdoor home speaker
AmazonWith 360 sound this wireless speaker from Ultimate Ears has 14-hour battery life optimised for outdoor listening; is waterproof, dust-proof, and can float. Use this speaker in the pool, the beach, or even in the shower. Pair it with smartphones, tablets, and other devices that support Bluetooth for easy, high-quality playback.
Specifications
Size: 10.4 x 9.53 x 9.53 cm
Dedicated App: No
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and AirPlay
Pros: 360 degrees sound and no distortion, can work without wifi, waterproof, can be hung up using bungee
Cons: Doesn't support USB-C charging, it's micro-USB
Review: "The speaker is nicely compact yet offers an impressive 360-degree sound experience - with good bass and rich mid tones. Connection distance is excellent: up to 40 metres, though obstacles such as walls and trees do reduce this. The speaker has an ‘outdoor boost’ function, which amplifies loudness and clarity for outdoor listening."
John Lewiswww.johnlewis.com
The Apple HomePod mini produces a large sound for a speaker of its size. At only 10cm tall, the HomePod mini is able to fill the entire room with 360-degree audio. If you are after a stereo sound then pair two HomePod mini speakers in the same room to create left and right channels for an immersive soundstage. The speaker also works as a home assistant and you can request help from Siri from news, sports to traffic.
Specifications
Size: H8.4cm x W9.7cm
Dedicated App: Yes
Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Pros: Easy set-up, crisp sound, great for Apple users
Cons: Wired, better with two minis, not waterproof
Review: "These are excellent. Great sound for the size (a very large orange), and works really well both as a straight Bluetooth speaker with good Apple integration and also as a proper smart speaker. Siri does all the things you would want pretty successfully - seems much smarter than on a phone as well. "
FAQs
Difference between true and virtual surround sound?
To put it simply, virtual surround sound speakers are designed to emulate surround sound by altering the sound to make it seem like it’s coming from different directions despite only using two speakers. True surround sound uses multiple speakers to achieve this effect.
The key difference here is quality, true surround sound is going to be much more immersive than virtual but having virtual is still better than having none.
What is a subwoofer?
A subwoofer is the part of a speaker that produces low-frequency sounds, more commonly known as the bass. A subwoofer helps a system deliver lower, louder and more impactful bass.
What is a tweeter?
A tweeter is the opposite of a subwoofer, in that it produces middle and high-frequency sounds.
What are bass, midrange, and treble?
Bass, low or lo
Bass is the lowest frequency that people can most often 'feel' - bass drums are an example of low frequencies. Without bass, the audio sounds very empty and 'tinny'. Too much bass and music can sound rumbly, overpowering, and woolly.
Midrange, middle or mid
This is all the stuff that happens in the middle - guitars, vocals, and speech. If you struggle to hear vocals in music or conversation in podcasts, boosting the midrange can bring these out for you without having to play with the volume.
Treble, highs, or hi,
These are the higher frequencies. These are important for picking out details in audio. But, if they are too high, they can be annoying, give a tinny sound and sometimes be painful to listeners.
What is Bluetooth?
You most likely have Bluetooth on your phone, but what is it? Bluetooth is a wireless method of carrying information and exchanging data over short distances and wavelengths. It's been developed into the ubiquitous method for transferring music information between devices, challenged only by Wi-Fi in its quality and usability.
Bluetooth requires low bandwidth and consumes less power in comparison to Wi-Fi and doesn't require access to the internet in order to work.