If you are looking for good speakers that won't disappoint, our 2020 Buyer's Guide has something that will fit you and your needs. Our selections include speakers ranging from wired speakers to Wi-Fi speakers to the best Bluetooth speakers. Some are high-end and others are budget-friendly, and include everything from portable Bluetooth speakers to plug in speakers. So whether you're a casual listener or a serious audiophile, this guide is for you.
Related: Buyer's Guide 2020: Best Apple Watch Accessories
AirPlay vs. Bluetooth
In 2017, Apple unveiled AirPlay 2, an improved version of its proprietary music streaming system. AirPlay, which lets you stream audio from your iPhone to a speaker via Wi-Fi, has several advantages over Bluetooth. It makes it easier to connect to the speaker, and it lets you stream music to multiple speakers around your house simultaneously. AirPlay uses lossless compression, which allows you to stream wirelessly without compromising your sound quality. AirPlay is ideal for speakers you intend to use exclusively around your house and control solely with Apple products. Bluetooth speakers, on the other hand, pairs directly with the speaker and doesn’t require Wi-Fi. The sound quality isn’t quite as good and pairing is a little trickier, but it’s ideal for portable speakers. Other wireless streaming options use Wi-Fi, including Sonos’ proprietary system and Spotify Connect, which is ideal for home speakers that you want to control using both Apple and Android devices.
Ultimate Ears Boom 3 (Starting at $130)
Ultimate Ears has long produced some of my favorite portable speakers, and Boom 3 is no exception. The can-shaped design fits easily into a backpack or carrier bag while still producing impressive sound. This small portable Bluetooth speaker has a surprisingly rich bass and loud volume without distortion for its size. The UE Boom is also water-resistant and comes with 15-hour battery life. I never go on a trip without it!
Naim Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation ($990)
Believe it or not, the Mu-so Qb is the budget option from Naim. The original Mu-so sold for $1,500 and was a favorite in Apple Stores. Naim has a storied history of manufacturing high-end speakers for brands including Bentley Motors. The Mu-so Qb is smaller than its predecessor but still packs a punch and is impeccably designed. The speaker has an easy-to-use touchscreen that allows you to control the many ways to connect to it, including AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, and Spotify Connect.
Bowers & Wilkins Formation Wedge ($900)
Bowers & Wilkins was one of the first companies to produce high-end speakers for the iPod and early iPhone models. The Formation Wedge continues the company’s legacy of unique design and excellent sound quality. Unfortunately, this iPhone speaker also continues its history of premium prices. This iPhone/iPod speaker isn’t for everyone, but if the price doesn’t scare you away and the design appeals to you, the Formation Wedge is powerful enough to fill your home with impressive sound. You can stream audio using Airplay 2, Bluetooth, and Spotify Connect.
Apple HomePod mini ($99)
The HomePod is one of Apple’s most underrated products, especially now with the release of the budget-conscious mini. While Amazon’s smart speaker line has a more extensive library of third-party apps (called skills), the HomePod is more convenient to use if you’re invested in the Apple ecosystem. This is especially true if you subscribe to Apple Music. The HomePod allows you to use Siri from across the room and comes with voice recognition for up to six family members. Amazon also falls behind Apple when it comes to sound quality and user privacy.
Sonos (Starting at $199)
Sonos creates jack of all trade speakers that come with AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth support. They are powerful enough to fill a room, but also have a built-in battery, making it portable in a way most of the other speakers on this list are not. They are also water-resistant, which is a great feature for the current times. The Sonos Move (pictured above) is also a smart speaker with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant built-in.
I'd also recommend that you check our list of some of the best Bluetooth headphones we've come across.
