In this guide we will show you the best speakers and speakers with integrated Google Assistant, so you can always choose an alternative to the models produced by Google without losing the effectiveness of the voice commands we are used to every time we launch the “OK Google” or “Hey Google” command from our phone.READ ALSO: Google Assistant settings on Android, iPhone, and Nest
Best speakers with Google Assistant
Before delving into the speakers compatible with Google’s voice assistant, we advise you to carefully read the characteristics that a good speaker must have in order to effectively replace Google Nest or Google Nest mini: without these, we might as well buy Google speakers, so to have all the best features immediately.
Features
Before buying any speaker or speaker that boasts of having Google’s voice assistant, let’s make sure that the following features are present in the datasheet:
- Audio quality: on this point of course we will be able to express an opinion only after the purchase, but as a general rule we try to buy speaker models that integrate the bass cabinet or use more “mini speakers” inside, so as to be able to recreate a real surround effect while listening to any song.
- Microphones: where possible we try to choose models that have two or more directional microphones, so as to be able to launch Google voice commands even when we are at a certain distance from the speaker and to avoid background noises.
- Connection: in order to function properly, the Google Assistant requires an Internet connection, which can be obtained via a Wi-Fi connection. If the speaker we have chosen has only Bluetooth we must check that it is present a key dedicated to voice commands or a key to activate OK Google, so that we can call them when we are away from home using the assistant integrated into our Android phone.
- Resistance and impermeability: some speakers are also portable and can be used outside the home, so they must be robust and withstand a few drops of water, perhaps through IP68 certification or similar. If, on the other hand, we want to use the speaker chosen only at home, make sure that it is resistant to sudden falls and that it is stable (in relation to the height and weight of the speaker).
- Entrances: in addition to wireless connections, make sure that the chosen speaker has an AUX input so that you can connect a telephone or other audio system with a simple 3.5mm jack cable.
- Dimensions and weight: if we want to carry the case with us, weight and size do matter, as an excessive value of both will make the user experience uncomfortable. If, on the other hand, the crate is to be used at home, the weight must be greater, so as to guarantee maximum stability.
- Supply: assuming that all the speakers can be connected to the home electrical network, if we want to take the speaker with us on vacation or to the sea we must also check the size of the integrated battery, so as to be able to obtain at least 3-4 hours of music playback uninterrupted (obviously using Bluetooth, since we will not have usable Wi-Fi).
If the cashier we have chosen has all the features shown above we can proceed with the purchase since they can effectively replace Google Nest or Google Home mini.
Buying Guide
After having seen the characteristics of the speakers, we immediately see which models you can buy online, so as to always save something on the final price.
If we want to spend little but still have the power of the Google Assistant at hand, we recommend that you take a look at the Motorola Sonic Boost 210, available on Amazon for less than € 20.
This small waterproof speaker connects via Bluetooth to the phone and, thanks to the dedicated button, allows you to call up the voice assistant of our phone without having to hold it in your hand (it also works with the screen locked).
Among the other features of the product, we point out an AUX input to connect external devices and an integrated lithium battery with autonomy for up to 4 hours.
If, on the other hand, we are looking for something that can replace Google Nest with higher audio quality, we can view the case LG WK7 ThinQ, available on Amazon for less than 120 €.
Its generous size encloses a really bright sounding speaker, to the point of not making us regret a Google Nest (very similarly priced). Among its outstanding features, we find a 30 W speaker with Meridian Sound technology, smart connection via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, support for Google Assistant with integration to the Google Cast protocol, which allows this speaker to be seen as a Chromecast by others. network devices, so you can play music videos via streaming or other multimedia content that can be shared via the famous Cast key.
If we are looking for a case with a particular design we cannot miss the Marshall LActon II, available on Amazon for less than € 300.
Behind a 1960s stereo speaker design hides a concentrate of modern technology with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, a button dedicated to voice commands (which can also be configured separately from the smartphone), AUX input, and compatibility with all music and streaming apps. live radio streaming.
If, on the other hand, we don’t want to spare any expense and want the top of the range, we can focus on Sonos Move, available on Amazon for less than 350 €.
Behind this impressive 3 kg speaker we find the best of portable audio technology with deep and brilliant bass, true play automatic equalization that balances the sound according to where you are and what you are listening to, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection, support for Google Assistant, automatic activation of voice commands (with OK Google or Hey Google), multi-room connection to other Sonos devices and integration with other home automation devices compatible with Google Home.
Conclusions
While everyone recommends targeting Google Nest products to get the most of the Google Assistant features, we can always use one of the speakers shown above for superior audio quality, greater control of connected devices, and even integration. voice commands via a button or via microphones always active.
If you don’t know how to use the speakers as voice assistants, we invite you to read our guides on How to listen to music on Google, Alexa, and Siri (voice commands) is What Google Home (Nest) can do: voice assistant, music and home automation.
We don’t know what to choose between Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant? We can clarify all doubts by reading our in-depth analysis of Alexa or Google Home? comparison between best and smart Smart Speakers.
READ ALSO: Best Speakers with integrated Alexa, which are not Amazon Echo