10 Best Smart Speakers 2026 in the United States

The Sonos Move 2 is a versatile smart speaker that offers impressive audio quality and various features suited for both indoor and outdoor use. Its main strengths lie in its sound quality, with a new acoustic architecture that includes two tweeters for higher-fidelity stereo sound and dynamic bass, making music feel as vibrant as a live performance. The automatic Trueplay tuning feature ensures that the sound is optimized for its surroundings, enhancing the listening experience regardless of where you are.

With up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, the Move 2 also boasts excellent portability, aided by its built-in handle and durable, shock-absorbent materials that protect it from drops, spills, and dust. The speaker's IP56 rating means it can handle rain and dirt, although it is not waterproof, so full submersion should be avoided. Connectivity options are robust, featuring Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Airplay, and NFC, ensuring seamless integration with various devices and smart home systems.

The design is sleek and modern, with a white polycarbonate build that fits well in any setting. However, at 6.61 pounds, it is relatively heavy for a portable speaker, which might limit its convenience for some users. Additionally, while the speaker includes a charging dock with a detachable power cable, charging on the go requires a USB-PD power supply, which may not be as convenient for all users. The Sonos Move 2 is well-suited for those looking for a high-quality, durable smart speaker with excellent sound and ample connectivity options for versatile use in different environments.

The Amazon Echo Spot is a compact smart speaker designed especially for nightstands, offices, or kitchens, with a built-in Alexa voice assistant that understands English and Spanish. Its standout feature is the customizable 2.83-inch touchscreen, which shows time, weather, song info, and offers easy control of smart home devices. You can personalize clock faces and colors, making it a handy bedside smart alarm clock with routines like waking you gently with music and light. Sound quality is surprisingly rich for its small size, providing clear vocals and decent bass from its 1.73-inch speaker. While it doesn’t have a camera, it includes a microphone with privacy controls like a mute button, so you can feel secure.

Connectivity supports dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth for streaming audio and connecting to other speakers, and compatibility with smart home protocols including Matter, making it versatile for controlling lights, thermostats, and more. The Echo Spot’s design is compact and lightweight, fitting well on small surfaces without being intrusive. Additional features include adaptive accessibility options, regular software security updates, and sustainability efforts using recycled materials.

The small speaker size means sound won’t be as powerful or full-bodied as larger smart speakers, so it’s better suited for personal use rather than filling a large room with music. Its screen resolution is modest, so visuals aren’t very sharp compared to bigger displays. Also, while Alexa offers many skills, some require subscriptions or extra fees. The Echo Spot is a strong choice if you want a smart speaker with a screen that fits neatly by your bed or desk, offers solid voice assistant functions, smart home control, and privacy features, but don’t expect booming sound or high-res video.

The Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker is a robust option in the smart speakers category, particularly for those seeking a high-quality portable audio solution. The speaker excels in sound quality, boasting deep bass and rich sound that is sure to enhance any gathering. Its IP67 rating for waterproof and dustproof capabilities makes it a reliable choice for outdoor activities like beach outings, camping trips, and picnics.

Additionally, the 20-hour battery life ensures prolonged playtime, and its USB-C port allows for convenient charging of other devices on the go. Connectivity is solid with Bluetooth technology, and the built-in 3.5mm AUX input provides versatility for wired connections. The speaker can be easily managed through the Bose app, which offers customizable EQ settings to personalize the listening experience. However, it lacks a built-in voice assistant, which is a notable omission for a smart speaker. This means users will need to use their smartphones or tablets for voice control.

In terms of design, the speaker is modern and minimalist with a handy removable climbing rope handle for portability. Weighing nearly 5 pounds, it may be a bit cumbersome for some users to carry around frequently. Despite its weight, the Bose SoundLink Max stands out with its rugged build quality and functionality, making it a great choice for those who prioritize sound performance and durability over integrated smart features.