A smart speaker like Amazon Echo can help you play songs, control your smart devices, read stories, set alarms, and many more in your preferred language.
But Alexa Echo is not the only one in the market. It has some competitors too, trying to evolve daily in terms of skill enhancement.
If you’ll stay completely Echo-biased, probably you’ll never be able to explore additional benefits that other similar devices have to offer.
Let’s see what other products like amazon echo deserves your attention, at least.
Our Top 3 Picks (Alexa Alternatives)
- Bose Home Speaker – Editor’s Choice
- Google Nest Audio – Best Overall
- Sonos One – Best For Audiophiles
Top 10 Alexa Alternatives That You Can Buy & Try
1. Bose Home Speaker
Bose Home Speaker comes with built-in Alexa and the widest stereo sound profile to give you a good listening experience. There are six presets to get you going and can store multiple user profiles with their personal experience and content.
Apart from controlling music playback, you can control your smart home devices, set alarms, and much more with constantly evolving Alexa and Google Assistant upgrades. It supports your Spotify account too and plays tracks when you say, “Alexa, Play X song on Spotify.”
With an eight-microphone array, you get superior voice pickup and can hear you with loud music on. You can control the device from the Bose Connect App that is available on Android and iOS as well, or you can simply tap on the top controls.
When it comes to connectivity, Bose offers you multiple options such as Bluetooth and Wifi. It is also compatible with Apple Airplay 2 which allows you to stream anything and anywhere you want.
With a seamless ionized aluminum body, it looks as good as it sounds. Place it near to any wall and it will set a wide soundstage with two custom drivers facing opposite to each other.
Technical Specification
Dimensions: 4.31 x 6.68 x 8.01 inches | Weight: 4.65 pounds | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Speaker Type: Built-in | Voice Assistant: Amazon Alexa | Power Source: Battery
Pros
- Widest Stereo sound
- Tune-in Radio
- Airplay 2 compatible
Cons
- Can’t play audible books
2. Google Nest Audio
Google Nest Audio is the newest addition to the Google Home family and it does not disappoint. With its sleek and minimalist design, it seamlessly blends in with any home decor.
One of the standout features of Nest Audio is its powerful sound output, powered by Google Voice Assistant. It strikes a perfect balance between lows, mids, and highs, with a bit more emphasis on lower frequencies for a spectacular bass depth.
Setting up the device is a breeze, all you have to do is plug it in and open the Google Home app. The app will walk you through a systematic process to get you up and running in no time.
What’s more, Nest Audio is incredibly versatile. It can do more than just act as a Voice Assistant, it can also be used to control other devices such as Chromecast without ever having to touch the remote.
The Nest Audio also boasts a sophisticated algorithm that self-adjusts to deliver consistent sound output, regardless of where you place the speaker. Plus, it comes with a rubber pad at the base to keep excessive rumbling in check.
In conclusion, the Google Nest Audio is the perfect choice for those looking for a powerful and versatile voice assistant. It may be a bit pricey, but its sound, build, and features make it well worth the investment. And with Google’s upcoming updates, it’s clear that they’re trying to outsmart Sonos this time.
Dimensions: 4.89 in x 3.07 in x 6.89 in | Processor: Quad Core A53 1.8 GHz | Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth | Speaker Type: 75 mm woofer and 19 mm tweeter | Voice Assistant: Google Assistant | Supported OS: Android, iOS
Pros
- Heavy-duty and elegant design
- Perfectly balanced sound quality
- Sound self-adjusts to the ambiance
- More comprehensive search results
Cons
- Doesn’t have many buttons for manual operation
2. Sonos One (Gen 2)
The Sonos One (Gen 2) is a music-focused Amazon Echo alternative offering superior-grade sound quality. It gives you the option to choose between Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa as your default voice assistant. The Second-Gen Sonos One comes with a faster processor and more memory.
Plus, it also offers multiple connectivity options like Bluetooth low energy, WiFi, and Ethernet.
It features touch-sensitive buttons that allow you to control the speakers physically through tapping and finger swiping. It also has a decided microphone button, that you can turn off while listening to music back-to-back.
The whole device can be controlled through the Sonos App, which is its real takeaway. Apart from delivering superb connectivity, it also features the same interface for both Android and iOS.
You will find five icons on the bottom of the labeled MY Sonos, Rooms, Search, Browse, and Settings. In the ‘Rooms’ option, you can control the music played in speakers ( if you have multiple speakers) in different rooms.
Besides, through the ‘setting’ tab, you can customize your speaker experience, set alarms, network, music library, etc.
Technical Specification
Dimensions: 4.72 x 4.72 x 6.34 inches | Weight: 4.07 pounds | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Speaker Type: Countertop | Voice Assistant: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Power Source: Battery
Pros
- Tough & elegant built
- High-end sound output
- Allow you to switch between Alexa & Google Assistant
Cons
- No Line-in/Aux port (Need to purchase SONOS Connect).
4. KitSound Voice One
If you are looking for a product like an amazon echo with more flexible options, then KitSound Voice One will surely fulfill your expectations.
The Alexa-enabled devices comprise a solid 20 watts dual drivers and a bass reflex tube providing excellent sound output. The front part of the speaker includes a single control knob surrounded by a light ring.
You can use the controls to mute microphones, play/pause music, and switch the input source.
Although it has two microphones as compared to 7 in Echo proper, you will hardly notice any difference in user experience. It easily picks up your voice even while playing music in high volume.
Unlike Echo, it features a line-in and a USB port. You can use the line-in port to connect to other sound devices via a 3.5mm audio cable. Meanwhile, the USB port serves as a decent charging port.
Using Alexa functionality is a breeze. Simply install the KS Player APP in your smartphone and link Alexa at the touch of a button.
Voice One Gen-2 supports a wide range of music apps like Spotify, Amazon Music, Tidal, Napster, Pandora, etc. Above all, you can also play local music files from your iOS or Android devices.
Technical Specification
Dimensions: 15.8 x 7.9 x 7.9 inches | Weight: 4.41 lbs | Connectivity: USB | Speaker Type: Multi-Room | Voice Assistant: Amazon Alexa | Power Source: Battery
Pros
- Excellent house audio integration
- Feature in-line and USB port
- Integrate 8 Voice One Speakers into one network
Cons
- No software-based equalizer
5. Harman Kardon Allure Portable
Harman Kardon Allure Portable is a powerful amazon echo alternative that offers you constant companionship. The credit goes to its powerful charging base facilitating up to 10 hours of playback time.
For charging the Allure Portable, you need to place the device on the charging cradle, and within 4 ½ hrs, you are all set to turn your trip into a full-blown party.
Despite its compact size, the device delivers surprising ranges of sound clarity with its inbuilt digital processing (DSP) feature. Even at its peak volume, the speaker does not show any distortion in bass or kick drum hits.
The DSP keeps the sub-bass output low, allowing you to play loud music flawlessly. The speaker exhibits better sound output in lows and low-mids, especially while playing bass drums and bassline.
Powered by Alexa, the device allows you to play music, control playback, and adjust volume through voice commands. You can play music from Amazon Music, and IHeartRadio, etc. However, it doesn’t support voice commands for Spotify.
Overall, the Harman Kardon Allure Portable is one of the best Alexa alternatives for bass lovers and frequent travelers.
Technical Specification
Dimensions: 5.6 x 5.6 x 10.3 inches | Weight: 2.25 Pounds | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Speaker Type: Subwoofer | Voice Assistant: Amazon Alexa | Power Source: Battery
Pros
- Thumping bass with a powerful sonic signature
- Upton 10 hrs. Power backup
- Monochromatic lush design
Cons
- Can’t control Spotify through Alexa
6. Apple HomePod
Apple Homepod is an enhanced yet a bit pricey Alexa alternative bringing sound in the Smart form. When combined with the funny and witty ‘Siri’ voice assistant, you will have your all-in-one entertainment package.
The device comes with a classy cylindrical-shaped body with an elegant mesh fabric cover. The front part includes buttons for volume adjustments, play/pause, song skipping, and activating Siri.
The device comes integrated with seven tweeters evenly spaced at the bottom with the woofer at the top. Although the arrangement seems completely different from traditional speakers, it gives better control over treble, mid, and bass frequencies.
The top panel of the Homepod is embedded with a powerful Apple’s A8 chip. The processor power of the chip produces better music quality by analyzing the speaker’s surroundings. So you don’t have to move around your device to find the right spot.
The sound output almost feels like magic. The device disperses a balanced sound in free space. If you put the device close to the wall, it will split some ambient elements and bounce them off from the real while keeping the vocal intact. Quite cool, right?
Technical Specification
Dimensions: 6.8 in × 5.6 inches | Weight: 5.5 lb | Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi | Speaker Type: high-excursion woofer | Voice Assistant: Siri | Power Source: AC
Pros
- Excellent voice recognition through blasting music
- Suggests music based on preferences
- Smart & extravagant sound quality
Cons
- Supports Apple device only
7. Nest Mini
The Google Nest Mini is a well-matched competitor for Amazon Echo offering a wide array of feature upgrades, hardware, and device integrations. Cheaper to pocket and compact in design, the Nest Mini serves as an independent voice assistant with the same Google Assistant controls found in high-end Nest devices.
Thanks to its three far-field microphones and a powerful 1.57-inch driver, the device offers excellent voice detection. Google Nest Mini provides sharp audio with punchy bass. You can control the treble and bass by using the equalizer.
Plus, the recent manufactured Mini 2 devices deliver double the bass from its predecessors.
The speaker self-adjusts its volume by analyzing the background noise in your room. The device also supports microphone muting, available at the back of the device.
Although it lacks an audio port, you can use Bluetooth support to connect your favorite devices. Apart from its iconic pincushion form, the device features a notch on its underside, allowing you to hang it on the wall.
It also includes a circular power cable that fits right in your hand and doesn’t attract much attention like those bulkier ones.
Technical Specification
Dimensions: 3.85 x 1.65 inches | Weight: 0.38 lbs | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Speaker Type: Mics | Voice Assistant: Google Assistant | Power Source: 15 W power adaptor
Pros
- Affordable
- Supports Spotify, Pandora, YT Music, etc.
- Excellent voice recognition with 360-degree surround sound
Cons
- Lacks audio output (3.5mm jack)
8. FABRIQ Chorus
The FABRIC Chorus is a powerful smart speaker delivering a rich sound signature with stellar bass depth. Costing quite low to the pocket, the device offers a wide range of features like Alexa integration, multiple connectivity options, a dedicated app, and many more.
The device measures 6.3 inches tall weighing 1.2 pounds. It comes with a sleek body covered by patterned fabric and a rubberized panel at the bottom. The body comes with a wider set of controls from mic and music play. It also features a micro USB port for direct charging.
Coming to the sound, the Chorus comprises of two 2-inch drivers offering 8-watt audio output. Plus, the integrated 2-inch passive radiators further enhances the overall bass depth.
The Chorus comes with a dedicated app, which guides you through the wi-fi setup process. The app goes through regular updates, coming up with better features with each update.
The battery life roughly touched six hours, which is fairly lower than Harman Kardon Allure Portable. However, if we compare the price, then the Chorus seems a great deal.
Technical Specification
Dimensions: 8 x 5.3 x 5.2 inches | Weight: 1.32 pounds | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Speaker Type: Multi-Room | Voice Assistant: Amazon Alexa | Power Source: Battery
Pros
- Supports Alexa Voice commands
- Allows streaming through Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Spectacular audio output & bass depth
Cons
- The battery lasts for up to 6 hours only
9. Lenovo Smart Display
If you need to give your IoT a face, then Lenovo Smart Display has everything to grab your attention. It features two passive tweeters, offering decent sound output. However, the clear winner is its dashing and sleek 10-inch flat-screen display.
The device comes with an elegant touchscreen display fitted right next to a white speaker grille. Meaning, you can make video calls through Google Duo. The brightness of the device is self-adjustable and smartly manufactured.
It doesn’t overwhelm the ambiance with excessive lighting. You can easily operate the display in direct sunlight as well.
It also contains two microphones that does a good job in voice recognition. Since it comes equipped with Google-based speakers, it seamlessly recognizes your voice and delivers customized results.
Setup is relatively easy. Just install the Google Home app on your home and follow the step-by-step instructions.
As it has a screen, you get better options to adjust your linked devices. For example- when you ask it to Turn On the lights, the display gives you options like brightness adjustments/color temperature, etc.
If you ask a query, the device prioritizes on showing videos instead of a voice snippet. For example- When asked for news, it displays news clips, rather than reading it out.
Technical Specification
Display: 7 inches | Weight: 1.48 pounds | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Speaker Type: 5W Stereo Speaker | Voice Assistant: Google Assistant | Power Source: Battery
Pros
- Easy setup process
- Great display
- Supports Google Assistance
Cons
- Only supports Google Duo for voice chat
10. Mycroft Mark II
This hands-free smart speaker can answer your questions, play you music and handle all the little details in your life through your voice command. It is an upgraded version to Mycroft I and is more consumer-ready than its predecessor.
As it is an open source platform, your data remains safe and you get unlimited customization experience. Driven by community development, it doesn’t mine your data for offering you smart AI experience.
Mycroft Mark II features an array of microphones powered with active noise cancellation and a clean sound profile. It can fill your room with vivid high and deep low sounds to give you an immersive entertainment.
The design is simple with a high-quality screen coupled with powerful stereo speakers. It comes with a multi-country power adapter for making it travel-friendly. The sleek friendly design comes in two colors – Near Black and ICE Fabric color.
Place it anywhere in your home and it will blend beautifully with the environment. With a simple user interface, its screen enhances your voice interactions by displaying weekend forecast, timers, calendars, and many more.
Technical Specification
Display: 4 inch IPS LCD | Weight: 1.08 lbs | Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth | Speaker Type: 10-watt stereo speakers | Voice Assistant: Mycroft intelligent assistant| Power Source: Battery
Pros
- Highly scalable Open source Platform
- New skills updated every day
- USB and SD card inputs available
Cons
- No video streaming or calling feature
Conclusion
The options are endless but we have listed only a handful of ones having a good reputation in the market. Make a list of your needs and see which one can fulfill them to the best. In case you have a totally different Alexa alternative in mind, comment below to let our readers know as well. Cheers.
