The grass isn't always greener on the other side. John Carlsen/CNET
The smart speakers above are our current favorites, but you still have other options if you're looking for something specific in audio performance. Read our breakdown of Alexa versus Google Assistant versus Siri if you'd like to learn the pros and cons of each and decide on a smart home device based on its platform as well. Options that didn't make this list include:
Apple HomePod: I really like the HomePod's sound, which is possibly the best in the business, but it's simply too expensive of a smart speaker at over $250 to $300 for the average budget -- which is why Apple released a mini version. The smaller HomePod doesn't have quite the same incredible sound, but it's a whole lot more affordable, which is why it ended up on the list.
Echo Show 10: The Echo Show 10's 360-degree sound design produces great results, but it's a Show model, which means it has a touchscreen. So I put it on my best picks for smart displays instead.
Sonos Era 100: The Sonor Era 100 has incredible sound for its $200, but if you really want an elite model, why not go all the way and get the better Sonos Era 300? I chose the highest-end Sonos option for this list if your budget isn't a problem, but the 100 is still an option for those who like Sonos features but want a lower cost.
Bose SoundLink Home: Bose's home speaker sounds great but the "Home" moniker is a bit misleading. This is a portable Bluetooth speaker that doesn't have any smart capabilities and can't even link with the Bose app, so it's a thumbs down for this list.
Wiim Pro: The Wiim Pro is an interesting smart speaker receiver if you already have speakers you like and want them to have Alexa/Google/Siri capabilities, but it's not actually a smart speaker itself, so it didn't make this list. I'm also waiting on the Wiim Sound -- due in 2025 -- which is its own standalone smart speaker and could win a spot if it tests well.
Google Nest Audio: The Google Nest Audio is Nest's latest larger smart speaker attempt. There's nothing wrong with it, especially at a $100 price tag, but I liked the design and sound of other larger smart speakers if you want to go big. For Nest fans, it's still a viable option. Ultimately I chose the smaller Nest Mini as a great desk side companion.
Denon Home 150: I chose the more versatile Sonos over the A/V-friendly Denon brand for this list. However, if your home entertainment system uses Denon products and you're very happy with them, it's well worth investigating this $200 smart speaker from the same maker.