Smart speakers in our range are voice-controlled Wi-Fi speakers for streaming music, setting timers, answering questions and running smart home devices. They suit anyone who wants hands-free audio in a living room, kitchen or bedroom. The selection is small and focused on two names: Amazon and Apple.
How to choose a smart speaker
Voice assistant. Amazon speakers use Alexa, while Apple speakers use Siri. Pick the one that matches the phone and apps you already use, because that decides how well music, reminders and smart home controls work from day one.
Phone and music service compatibility. An Apple speaker is built around iPhone, iPad and Apple Music, and is at its best when the whole household uses Apple devices. Alexa speakers work with both Android and iPhone and support many popular music services, which makes them easier in a mixed household.
Sound quality and room size. A larger speaker with more drivers fills an open-plan lounge with fuller bass, while a smaller one is enough for a desk, kitchen counter or bedside table. If music is your main reason for buying, give sound quality more weight than extra assistant features.
Smart home control. Check which lights, plugs, thermostats and cameras you want to control by voice. Some Alexa speakers also act as a hub for certain smart home protocols, which can reduce the need for a separate bridge. Apple speakers can act as a home hub for HomeKit accessories.
Multi-room and stereo pairing. Buying two identical speakers lets you create a stereo pair or play the same music in several rooms. Mixing brands usually limits these features, so it is sensible to stay within one ecosystem if you plan to expand later.
Smart speaker brands we carry
- Amazon: the maker of the Alexa voice assistant, which supports a very large number of compatible smart home devices and third-party skills. Amazon accounts for most of the smart speakers in our range.
- Apple: known for tight integration with iPhone, Apple Music and the HomeKit smart home platform, with a strong focus on audio quality.
Smart speaker FAQ
What is the difference between a smart speaker and a Bluetooth speaker?
A smart speaker connects to your Wi-Fi network and responds to voice commands through an assistant such as Alexa or Siri. A Bluetooth speaker simply plays audio from a device paired with it. Many smart speakers also support Bluetooth, so they can do both.
Do smart speakers need an internet connection?
Yes, a smart speaker needs a Wi-Fi connection for voice commands, streaming and most smart home features. Without internet, most models can only do very little, and some can still play audio over Bluetooth. A stable home network gives the best results.
Can I use an Alexa speaker with an iPhone?
Yes, Alexa speakers work with iPhone through the Alexa app, which is used for setup and settings. Some Apple-specific features, such as controlling Apple Music by voice in the same way as on an Apple speaker, may be limited. Check the music services you use before buying.
Can a smart speaker control other devices in my home?
Yes, a smart speaker can control compatible lights, plugs, thermostats and other connected devices by voice. Compatibility depends on the assistant, so confirm that your devices support Alexa or Apple HomeKit. Setting them up usually takes a few minutes in the companion app.
