**Best Smart Speakers for 2025: Upgrade Your Sound**
Voice assistants, smart device control, and awesome audio are just a few features that make smart speakers an essential addition to any home. They can answer questions, make calls, set timers, play games, and control your smart home devices.
To find the best smart speakers for your needs, CNET has tested top models like the Amazon Echo, Google Nest, Apple HomePod, and Sonos. Here are their top picks:
**Best Smart Speaker Overall: Amazon Echo (4th Gen)**
The Amazon Echo (4th Gen) offers a great balance of smart features, audio quality, and affordability. Its compact size, impressive sound, and wide compatibility with smart devices make it the perfect choice for most households.
**Best Budget Smart Speaker: Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen)**
If you’re looking for an affordable smart speaker, the Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) is an excellent choice. It offers many features found in higher-priced models, including a temperature sensor and an Eero mesh extender.
**Best Google Assistant Speaker: Google Nest Mini (2nd Gen)**
The Google Nest Mini (2nd Gen) is a great alternative to the Echo Dot if you prefer Google Assistant. It offers excellent sound quality, a wall-mount option, and Google’s knowledgeable voice assistant.
**Best Smart Speaker for HomeKit: Apple HomePod mini**
The Apple HomePod mini is an affordable smart speaker that offers great sound quality and HomeKit compatibility. It also features a temperature and humidity sensor for smart home control.
**Best Smart Speaker for Sound Quality: Sonos Era 300**
For audiophiles, the Sonos Era 300 offers exceptional sound quality with its six-driver acoustic system. It also supports Dolby Atmos and Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB-C connection options.
**Best Portable Smart Speaker: Bose Portable Smart Speaker**
If you’re looking for a portable smart speaker, the Bose Portable Smart Speaker is an excellent choice. It offers great sound quality, a built-in microphone for voice assistant linking, and limited water resistance for temporary outdoor use.
When considering a smart speaker, factors like price, voice assistant, room size, entertainment system connections, portability, and linking options are essential to keep in mind. Smart speakers are often placed in the kitchen, bedroom, or beside a computer, depending on their intended use.
CNET’s expert staff has selected the products mentioned, testing them to ensure they meet their high standards. If you buy through their links, they may get a commission.