Google Assistant is the popular alternative to Amazon Alexa. However, you don’t have to buy a Google Home speaker to use Assistant. In fact, some of the Google Home speaker alternatives are just as good and may sound even better. With voice assistants growing in popularity worldwide, more brands are creating their own smart speakers and adding Google Assistant functionality.
1. Sonos One
The Sonos One has Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa built-in. Even though the Amazon description doesn’t mention Google Assistant, the manufacturer does. It’s one of the top Google Home speaker alternatives for both sound and versatility. Should you ever decide to switch assistants, Sonos One has you covered.
The humidity-resistant design makes it great for bathrooms and kitchens. You can also pair two together for even better sound. It comes in both white and black for just $199 or $379 for two.
If you’d rather have a portable option, the Sonos Move offers most of the same features as the Sonos One. However, you can take it with you as a Bluetooth speaker when you leave the house. It’s weather-resistant, so it’s ideal for outdoor use. It is more expensive, though, at $399.99.
Also read: How to Change Google Assistant Voice & Language on Android
2. Bose Home Speaker 500
Bose is well-known for incredible sound. The Bose Home Speaker 500 is on par with the Sonos One. In fact, if it weren’t for the price, this would be the number one choice just for the sound quality. It lists for $399, but Amazon often offers a lower price of $299. The speaker has both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, making it more versatile.
Connect to multiple speakers for a fuller sound. However, even with a single speaker, the two drivers inside point in opposite directions to create a more surround-sound experience. The Bose music app is ideal for any music lover and makes listening to and controlling your music even easier.
A lower-priced option is the Bose Home Speaker 300 at just $259. It offers 360-degree sound and noise-rejecting mics for easier use. However, the sound quality isn’t quite as good as the 500.
3. Harman Kardon Citation 100
One of the simpler and least expensive Google Home speaker alternatives is the Harman Kardon Citation 100. While it’s a slightly older model, it still delivers powerful sound. The biggest con is there isn’t an equalization option, so the bass may be too much for some users.
It’s a steal through Amazon at just $119.95, since it retails from the manufacturer for $349.95. Google Assistant and Chromecast are built-in. It’s great for smaller spaces, though you can pair two together for a larger sound.
If you’re looking for a much more powerful speaker, the Harman Kardon Citation 500 is a larger speaker that actually weighs almost three times as much as the Citation 100. It’s designed for whole-home sound and may not be suitable for smaller apartments and rooms. However, it’s more expensive at $499.95.
4. Bose Portable Home Speaker
The Bose Portable Home Speaker is a great portable alternative to other Bose smart speakers. A handle makes it easy to take with you wherever you go. While you only get Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa compatibility when connected to your home network, you still get a great Bluetooth speaker even outdoors. With 360-degree sound, one speaker is enough to fill a room, but you can pair them together or link with other Bose speakers.
It’s a good all-in-one speaker for just $349.
5. JBL Link Portable
The small, yet powerful JBL Link Portable is one of the most affordable Google Home speaker alternatives. It offers clear 360-degree sound along with enough bass to keep the party going. It’s waterproof and provides Google Assistant integration.
The compact size makes it easy to take with you anywhere. It’s also easy to simply move from room to room, leaving the charging cradle in a central location. Chromecast is also built in. It comes in three colors at a price of $179.95. JBL offers a full line of smart speakers, but many are currently sold out due to popularity, making JBL a great alternative to Google Home’s line.
Once you have your Google Assistant-compatible speaker, you can create customized Google Assistant commands, use it as a family bell, or learn to become a better cook.
Image credit: The Unwinder
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