8 Best Smart Speakers in India: Alexa, Google Assistant!

Smart speakers are the latest trend in technology in India.

However, there are not so many options out there that can provide a truly satisfying experience when it comes to audio quality.

So, I took this into consideration and tested all the popular smart speakers available in India to find the best of the best.

And here they are, categorized for your convenience:

1. Echo Dot (5th Gen) – Overall Best

Pros

• Enhanced audio quality with a larger speaker driver
• Integrated temperature sensor for smart home capabilities
• Physical buttons for easy control
• Supports Wi-Fi across 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands
• Advanced Alexa features

Cons

• Lacks a 3.5mm audio-out port

When it comes to smart speakers, the Echo Dot (5th Gen) stands as the best of the best.

It is one of the best-selling Alexa speakers in India, boasting better sound quality than its predecessor, the Echo Dot (4th Gen), thanks to its larger speaker, which makes the audio clearer and richer.

This means when you listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks on it, they sound really good.

So if you care a lot about how good your smart speaker sounds, this one is a great choice.

Apart from its great sound, the Echo Dot (5th Gen) is packed with smart technology.

It has a temperature sensor, which means it can do even more things in your home.

It can connect to Wi-Fi on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, so it fits smoothly into any smart home setup.

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You can use it to control all sorts of smart gadgets, get weather updates, news, set alarms, and loads more.

Basically, it’s like a super helpful assistant for your everyday life.

One cool thing about this smart speaker is how it’s designed to be easy to use.

It keeps the familiar design but adds physical buttons to make controlling it even easier.

Even though it doesn’t have a 3.5mm audio-out port anymore, which means you can’t plug in wired headphones or speakers, it’s not a big deal.

Instead, it focuses more on wireless connections, which is what a lot of people prefer nowadays.

This shows how the device is keeping up with modern trends in audio technology.

Additionally, the Echo Dot (5th Gen) demonstrates Amazon’s dedication to innovation with its upgraded Alexa features.

By adding new sensors for temperature and motion detection, it not only enhances how users interact with Alexa but also opens up more opportunities for smart home automation.

This smart speaker is meant to be the main control hub for your home, providing unmatched convenience and control.

All in all, the Echo Dot (5th Gen) is your go-to choice when it comes to the top smart speakers in India.

2. Amazon Echo Pop – Best Budget

Pros

• Affordable price point
• Compact and stylish design
• Good sound quality for its size
• Easy setup and user-friendly interface
• Compatible with smart home devices

Cons

• May not consistently catch voice commands
• Best suited for basic use, not for advanced users

Smart speakers can be expensive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find more affordable options.

Amazon has introduced a budget-friendly version called the Echo Pop, which could be a great choice if you’re on a tight budget.

The Amazon Echo Pop is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly smart speaker that doesn’t compromise on features or performance.

Its sleek design, which looks like modern art, not only makes it visually appealing but also easy to carry around because of its lightweight and compact size.

With its availability in various colors, it can seamlessly blend into any decor or match your personal style perfectly.

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With intuitive buttons and a vibrant light ring, the Echo Pop offers easy control and adds a fun touch to its functionality.

Its sturdy build ensures durability, though its smooth surface may attract dust and require occasional cleaning.

Despite its small size, the Echo Pop delivers strong and clear sound, suitable for filling a room with music or enjoying podcasts.

Setting it up is hassle-free, as you can connect it to your home Wi-Fi network within minutes using the Alexa app on your smartphone.

While it may occasionally miss commands, the Echo Pop generally provides a satisfactory experience for basic users.

If you’re more tech-savvy, you might find its capabilities limited.

However, for newcomers to smart home technology or anyone looking for an affordable option, it’s a great choice.

Definitely, the Echo Pop’s low price makes it even better, especially when you think about all the things it can do and how well it works.

It’s not just a speaker, it also looks nice in your home, which makes it even more worth getting.

3. Google Nest Mini (2nd Gen) – Best with Google Assistant

Pros

• Affordable
• Built-in google assistant
• Loud for its size
• Added microphones

Cons

• No 3.5mm port

Now, let’s talk about those who love to use Google Assistant instead of Alexa.

The Google Nest Mini (2nd Gen) is a really great option for Google Assistant users.

This Google speaker is carefully designed to be both affordable and efficient.

It seamlessly fits into your everyday routine while providing the smarts and convenience of Google Assistant.

The Nest Mini is made to be subtle but still look nice, with a fabric top made from recycled materials that can match any room’s style.

Even though it’s small, it has great sound quality – better than before.

The sound is richer and the bass is deeper, so if you love music, this little Google Assistant speaker is a great pick.

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The Nest Mini works really well with Google Assistant, so you can control lots of things without touching it.

You can set reminders, control smart home stuff, ask questions, and play music, and Google Assistant does it quickly and accurately.

The speaker is even smarter thanks to a special chip that helps it learn and respond faster.

Plus, it’s not just a speaker – it’s like a central control for your smart home.

It works with lots of different smart devices, so you can control your lights, AC, and more, just by talking or using the Google Home app.

It’s smart enough to adjust its volume based on how noisy it is around.

It’s nice that they include a wall mount too, which lets you put it wherever you want and saves space.

All in all, if you’re looking for the best smart speaker with Google Assistant, the Google Nest Mini (2nd Gen) is the one to go for.

4. Apple HomePod Mini – Best with Siri

Pros

• Seamless integration with Apple devices
• Sleek and compact design
• Impressive sound quality for its size
• Easy setup process with iPhone or iPad
• Versatile functionality with Siri integration

Cons

• You can only set up with an iPhone or iPad
• Absence of audio line out and microphone mute button
• Spotify streaming may not be as seamless as with other platforms

Now, if you’re a proud owner of an Apple device or prefer Siri’s responses over Alexa or Google Assistant, then you need to check out the Apple HomePod Mini.

It is a convenient and user-friendly smart speaker tailored for Apple enthusiasts, seamlessly integrating with Apple devices and offering a sleek design that complements any home decor.

With Siri integration, it effortlessly performs various tasks like answering questions, setting reminders, and controlling smart home devices.

Despite its compact size, the HomePod Mini delivers impressive sound quality, making it suitable for streaming music and podcasts.

Its wireless connectivity and compatibility with services like Apple Music and Spotify enhance its versatility.

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The setup process is straightforward, requiring only an iPhone or iPad with the latest iOS or iPadOS version. (You can’t set up HomePod Mini with a Mac).

Additionally, the touch controls and voice commands offer convenient ways to interact with the speaker.

However, the absence of certain features like audio line out and microphone mute button may be drawbacks for some users.

Additionally, while Spotify streaming is supported, it may not be as seamless as with other platforms.

Overall, if you’re using Apple devices and want a smart speaker that responds to Siri, the Apple HomePod mini is a great pick.

5. Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) – Best with Screen (Alexa)

Pros

• Versatile features
• Improved video calling
• Powerful speakers
• Adaptive display
• Affordable price

Cons

• Limited video streaming
• Voice-centric interface
• No audio output jack
• Autoframing issues

So, if you’re in need of a smart speaker with a display that responds to Alexa, then I’ll be happy to introduce the Amazon Echo Show 8.

While there are more advanced versions available, they tend to come with a higher price tag.

Based on my experience with various speakers, I firmly believe that the Echo Show 8 is the best choice.

The Echo Show 8 sits between the smaller Echo Show 5 and the larger Echo Show 10. It’s known for being versatile and easy to use.

The latest version keeps the same look and features as before but improves performance with a faster processor and a better camera for video calls.

It now has a 13-megapixel camera from the top-of-the-line Echo Show 10, which makes video calls clearer and more fun.

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While the Echo Show 8 is great for watching videos, listening to music, controlling smart home stuff, and making video calls, it does have some drawbacks.

It doesn’t have certain popular video streaming apps, and its interface is mostly voice-based, which might not be ideal for everyone who wants a more visual experience.

However, its robust speaker system delivers impressive sound quality, filling rooms with rich audio, although the removal of the 3.5mm output jack limits connectivity options for external speakers.

Additionally, the Echo Show 8’s display adjusts its color and white balance dynamically, contributing to a more pleasant viewing experience.

There’s competition from Google Nest Hub and Facebook Portal, each with their own unique features and trade-offs.

But if you’re into Alexa and want a smart display with lots of capabilities, the Amazon Echo Show 8 is still a good choice.

It’s reasonably priced and often goes on sale, making it a great option for anyone looking to add a smart display to their home.

6. Google Nest Hub (2nd gen) – Best with Screen (Google Assistant)

Pros

• 50% more bass for richer sound
• Large, high-quality display
• Easy smart home device control
• Doubles as a digital photo frame
• Enhanced voice recognition
• Bluetooth music streaming

Cons

• Subscription for some content
• Not as loud as competitors

If you prefer not to have Alexa in your smart speaker, I also have an alternative – the Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen).

It stands out as the best smart speaker with a screen for Google Assistant users in India.

My experience using this Google speaker has been really impressive, mainly because of its 7-inch smart display, which shows visuals really clearly.

What makes this speaker stand out is its better sound quality – it has 50% more bass than the previous version.

This means you get a richer and more immersive listening experience, especially in the lower frequencies when the volume is turned up.

One of the coolest things about the Nest Hub is that you can stream videos and music from popular apps like Netflix, YouTube Music, and Apple Music.

Just remember, you might need to subscribe to some of these services to watch or listen to certain content.

You can also stream music wirelessly using Bluetooth, which gives you more options for entertainment.

The Nest Hub is really great for connecting with your smart home.

With just a tap or by saying “Ok Google,” you can easily control compatible smart devices.

This is super handy if you have a lot of smart stuff at home, because the Nest Hub lets you control each device individually or group them together, like lights, AC, fans, and more.

Plus, it can even live stream from a Qubo video caller bell, adding extra convenience and security to your home.

Google also made the Nest Hub to work as a digital photo frame when you’re not using it actively.

It automatically shows your best pictures from Google Photos, which is a nice touch.

And it can play relaxing sounds to help you fall asleep, as well as wake you up gently with Sunrise Alarms.

This new Nest Hub has an extra microphone, so it hears your commands better, even when it’s noisy.

The sound quality is really good and has a big boost in bass, but it might not be as loud as some other speakers like the HomePod Mini or Echo devices.

Still, it’s a great deal, especially for those who need Google Assistant in their home.

7. Echo Studio – Best for Music

Pros

• Immersive spatial audio and Dolby Atmos
• Hands-free control of music and smart home devices
• Adapts audio playback to room acoustics
• Built-in privacy protections

Cons

• No 3.5 mm cable included
• Available in only one color

If you love listening to a lot of music and want a smart speaker that gives you the best experience, the Echo Studio is the one for you.

It has totally changed what I thought a smart speaker could do when it comes to music.

Its sound is incredible, thanks to special technology and Dolby Atmos, which makes the music feel like it’s all around you with lots of space, clearness, and depth.

Plus, with five speakers, it gives you strong bass, clear midrange, and sharp highs, making your music sound amazing.

Being able to control music hands-free from different streaming services, along with using Alexa to do things like paying bills or getting news, makes life easier.

Plus, it adjusts the sound to fit the room perfectly and can control Zigbee and Matter smart devices, making it a great smart speaker for home.

Privacy is also really important, and the Echo Studio has built-in protections like a button to turn off the microphone when you don’t want it listening.

So in short, the Echo Studio is the answer to all your questions related to smart speakers for music.

8. Zebronics Zeb-Smart Bot – Best with IR Blaster

Pros

• Affordable with IR blaster for controlling non-smart devices
• Dual far-field mics and 360-degree remote control
• Built-in Alexa for voice control

Cons

• Sometimes experiences connectivity issues

Now, if you don’t have smart devices at your home but want to make them smart, you should definitely consider the Zebronics Zeb-Smart Bot.

It stands out by offering IR blaster functionality, allowing it to turn non-smart devices with IR remotes into smart devices.

This feature, combined with its dual far-field mics for voice command and 360-degree remote control capabilities, makes it a versatile addition to any smart home.

Its sound quality is decent for its size, and the built-in Alexa offers the convenience of voice-controlled functionalities. However, connectivity issues can sometimes be a drawback.

Plus, the Zeb-Smart Bot also features privacy protections, including a microphone off button.

In conclusion, the Zebronics Zeb-Smart Bot is a great option for turning your devices into smart devices.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it – the list of the best smart speakers in India.

Whether you prefer Alexa or Google Assistant, this guide has highlighted the top picks for both camps.

Now, the decision is yours to make based on what fits seamlessly into your daily routine.

But if I were to suggest one standout option, it would be the Amazon Echo Dot 5th Gen.

With its great blend of features, affordability, and flexibility, the Echo Dot 5th Gen is a top choice for anyone looking to improve their smart home setup.

So, no matter what you like, this speaker is sure to impress you.

It gives you a fantastic smart speaker experience without breaking the bank.

You can also check out these budget guides for more ideas:

• Best speakers under 1000
• Best speakers under 2000
• Best speakers under 3000