Rating of smart speakers in 2022, TOP 18 best models with Alice and Marusya for children, how to choose for home

УMy speaker is an invariable part of the Smart Home system, which is a speaker with remote or touch control. It can connect to the global network via Wi-Fi, synchronize with tablets / smartphones, be controlled by voice and connect to household equipment.

Such devices can have a timer, an alarm clock, smart home elements, complex command recognition, and much more.

Which smart home ecosystems are supported

Smart speakers can operate on the basis of one of the many ecosystems.

The most popular are:

1. Yandex Smart Home is a system popular in the CIS countries that can combine dozens of devices into a single network. With its help, you can turn on the light, turn on the kettle, turn off the heating, etc. It is controlled using Alice’s voice assistant. Works through a mobile application on Android or iOS. Allows you to create individual scenarios, set the appropriate settings and control your voice.
2. Mail.ru smart home is a system with Marusya voice assistant. Able to combine different household appliances and control them by issuing commands. Can be used to control climate control systems, smart humidifier fans, smart sockets/switches and even relays. Devices are connected and configured via an app on a smartphone.
3. Google Home is an application for setting up Google Nest / Home speakers and screens, as well as Chromecast. Allows you to integrate lamps, cameras, music devices and other smart home elements into the system. The program is supported by devices on Android and WiFi, allows you to fine-tune, has convenient control. The action bar has sections for lights, multimedia, alerts, thermostat, call home, etc.
4. Amazon Alexa is a virtual assistant created by Amazon. First appeared in smart speakers, after which it began to be supported on other devices. The ecosystem accepts and executes voice commands, plays tracks and other sounds, and sets alarms. Capable of providing information about news, weather and sports. Can be used to control smart home equipment. Activation starts after the Alexa phrase.
5. Apple HomeKit is software from Apple available for iOS devices and HomeKit on Mac. Used to configure the interaction of household appliances. In fact, this is a platform with the function of synchronizing and combining many devices into a single network. It was first introduced in 2014. It works through a single server, allows you to connect a large number of devices and manage them.
6. Xiaomi Mi Home is a sought-after ecosystem that allows you to combine dozens of different devices into a single network. It consists of several modules that connect using Wi-Fi, ZigBee protocol or via Bluetooth. For the operation of devices in a common system, a power supply unit is used that combines modules and interacts with different elements of the system. The composition may include various smart devices, including smart sockets and various sensors.
7. Sber Smart Home is a platform from Sberbank that allows you to manage smart equipment from different manufacturers. It makes it possible to connect devices from cloud smart homes and equipment that works using the MQTT protocol. Connection to the project gives access to a multi-million audience, voice control of devices, growth in sales of goods and other options.

Support for voice assistants

The purpose of the voice assistant is to receive and execute commands, control voice and perform other actions, for example, turn on a track or lower the volume.

In devices that support smart home, the voice assistant allows you to control various household devices, for example, turn on the climate system or light bulbs.

Which is better Alice or Marusya VK

Given the age and popularity, we can say that “Alice” is smarter, because in the process of communication she learns to maintain a discussion.

For the development of the voice assistant, all the capabilities of Yandex were used.

TOP 6 best smart speakers with Alice (Yandex smart home)

From the first days, the column with Alice becomes a true friend and helper. It allows you to listen to tracks and control music, connect to the smart home ecosystem, help brighten up loneliness and follow commands.

Below are six of the best Alice devices that stand out in terms of price and quality.

6. Yandex Station

A smart speaker with Alice that can recommend a movie and start it, turn on your favorite track and be used as an alarm clock.

It also provides a video output with a resolution of 1080p, it is possible to communicate via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

The case is made of metal and plastic and withstands mechanical damage.

1. Power – 50 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 50 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 5 / 7.
4. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Dimensions – 141x231x141 mm.
7. Weight – 2.9 kg.
8. Warranty – 1 year.
9. Price – 24790 rubles.

1. Stylish appearance.
2. Easy installation.
3. High quality body material.
4. Ability to read news and fairy tales.
5. High sound quality.
6. Voice control.
7. Pleasant assistant voice.

1. Yandex services do not work in all countries.
2. No output to external speakers.
3. HDMI transmission only images.
4. Weak support.

Yandex Station with Alice is one of the best solutions for its price. The product has a stylish design, high volume and the ability to recognize commands. By right it is on the sixth line of the rating.

F.A.Q.

5. Yandex Station 2 – smart speaker with Alice

A 2nd generation smart speaker featuring a modern design, improved sound quality and acting as a control center for a smart home.

The device is made using fabric and plastic, is splash-proof and has the “Multi-room” function. There are four colors to choose from: anthracite, copper, cobalt and sand.

1. Power – 30 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 65 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 2 / 4.
4. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Dimensions – 123x199x99 mm.
7. Weight – 1.5 kg.
8. Warranty – 1 year.
9. Price – 16890 rubles.

1. Modern design.
2. Stylish LED panel.
3. Top management.
4. Embedded Zegbee.
5. Adjusting the sound for the type of room.
6. Small sizes.
7. The ability to call Alice even through loud music.
8. Sensitive microphones.

1. Lack of touch buttons.
2. Support for a small number of devices.
3. Small volume.
4. Limited smart home options.

Yandex Station 2 is a stylish home speaker with high-quality sound, easy setup and advanced design. It has a good build quality and can be controlled even in a whisper. By right it is on the fifth line of the rating.

F.A.Q.

4. Station Max

A relatively new and powerful speaker with an LED display, 3-way sound and voice assistant Alice. Outputs bass, midrange and treble from five speakers, which enhances the sound quality.

Can be controlled using the buttons on the panel or remote control. There is a timer, an alarm clock, informing about the weather and news.

1. Power – 65 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 45 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 6 / 7.
4. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Dimensions – 141x231x141 mm.
7. Weight – 2.7 kg.
8. Warranty – 1 year.
9. Price – 26990 rubles.

1. Good functionality
2. Support for Yandex.
3. Quality sound.
4. Modern appearance.
5. Reliable alarm.
6. Ease of customization.
7. Ease of watching videos.
8. Voice input.
9. Stylish LED display.

1. There is no separate volume control.
2. The quiet voice of Alice.
3. There is no equalizer.
4. Ability to connect only one Yandex profile.
5. Inconvenient remote.

Station Max is a speaker with Alice, a bright screen, high-quality assembly and easy setup. It has a cool design and great sound. Rightfully occupies the fourth line of the rating.

F.A.Q.

3. Yandex Station Lite

A simplified version of the column from Yandex, which is sold in cappuccino, lemon, mint, ultraviolet, flamingo and chili. Bright and small in size.

It has minimal Internet requirements and automatic voltage switching.

1. Power – 5 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 50 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 1 / 4.
4. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Dimensions – 90x55x90 mm.
7. Weight – 0.23 kg.
8. Warranty – 1 year.
9. Price – 4880 rubles.

1. Bright colors.
2. There is a learning opportunity.
3. Can be used as a lullaby speaker.
4. A good gift for a child.
5. There is an alarm function.
6. Includes news and answers questions.
7. Constantly improves in quality after updates.
8. Gift sticker.

1. There is no touch volume control button.
2. One language.
3. Lacks a headphone jack.
4. Intermittently loses internet connection.

Yandex Station Lite is a compact and loud speaker with intuitive and simple controls. Produces high-quality sound and is very popular with children. Deservedly is on the third line of the rating.

F.A.Q.

2. Yandex New Station Mini without clock

An updated version of the column with the voice assistant Alice. Sold in four versions by color – garnet, gray, blue sapphire, black onyx.

Can be used to connect a vacuum cleaner, lamp and other devices.

1. Power – 10 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 1 / 4.
4. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Dimensions – 97x54x97 mm.
7. Weight – 0.26 kg.
8. Warranty – 1 year.
9. Price – 5990 rubles.

1. Quality sound.
2. Modern design.
3. No unnecessary volume control.
4. Added low frequencies.
5. There are versions with and without a display.
6. Fast and convenient setup.
7. Great build.

1. Quiet AUX output.
2. Sometimes you have to scream while driving Alice.
3. Internet drops out intermittently.
4. After a pause, does not reproduce the tale from the same place.

Yandex New Station Mini without a clock is an interesting and stylish device that does its job perfectly, quickly connects and produces high-quality sound. The model received a lot of positive feedback and rightfully occupies the second line in the ranking.

F.A.Q.

1. Yandex New Station Mini with clock

A new version of the smart speaker with Alice, loud 10-watt sound and dual control method: voice and touch buttons. It can act as a base for a smart home, knows how to choose music and has a large database of children’s fairy tales.

Sold in four colors – red garnet, gray opal, blue sapphire and black onyx.

1. Power – 10 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 1 / 4.
4. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Dimensions – 97x54x97 mm.
7. Weight – 0.26 kg.
8. Warranty – 1 year.
9. Price – 7990 rubles.

1. Quality sound.
2. Modern design.
3. Convenient use of familiar devices.
4. Display clock on the screen.
5. Small sizes.
6. Ease of installation in any room.
7. A good start to understanding the smart home system.

1. Lacks functionality.
2. Quiet AUX output.
3. The sound is less than in the old version.
4. Can work on its own.

Yandex New Station Mini with a clock is a high-quality speaker with good functionality, a bright display and good sound quality. Can be used as an interlocutor, has high-quality microphones. Judging by the reviews, it is rightfully on the first line of the rating.

F.A.Q.

Summary tables of technical characteristics of smart speakers.

Table 1.

Table 2.

The best smart speaker with Marusya VK

Alice’s main competitor is Marusya VK, a voice assistant that accepts commands and is able to combine many elements of the ecosystem.

With its help, navigation improves, it becomes possible to work with a social network and other services.

Below we give the best columns in which Marusya VK is provided, highlight their features, advantages and disadvantages.

VK Capsule mini

Compact smart speaker from Mile ru with built-in LED clock.

Sold in navy blue, light grey, terracotta, dark gray and pine green.

Of the additional options, it is worth highlighting a digital clock, a light ring, and a light sensor.

1. Power – 5 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 50 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 1 / 4.
4. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Dimensions – 100x45x100 mm.
7. Weight – 0.305 kg.
8. Warranty – 1 year.
9. Price – 5990 rubles.

1. High build quality.
2. Ease of connection.
3. Great potential for further optimization.
4. Great sound.
5. Modern design.
6. Timer.
7. Low price

1. Does not always communicate with the server.
2. Periodically does not respond to commands.
3. The voice could be nicer.

VK Capsule mini is one of the best speakers in its category. It stands out for its pleasant sound, support for multiple servers and high quality materials.

F.A.Q.

Best Smart Speakers Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are foreign analogues of the voice assistants discussed above, ready to tell you about the weather, turn on music, turn on some household appliance or, conversely, turn it off.

Both devices easily recognize the voice, have a built-in display and wide functionality.

2. Sonos One Gen2

Modern wireless speaker with Amazon Alexa voice assistant, the ability to search for songs, radio stations and podcasts.

With the help of voice control, you can change the volume, pause the track, enable or disable smart home elements.

Inside there are two speakers, there is synchronization via Wi-Fi.

1. Power – 26 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 50 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 2 / 1.
4. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Ecosystem – Amazon Alexa, Google Home.
7. Dimensions – 119,7×161,45×119,7 mm.
8. Weight – 1.85 kg.
9. Warranty – 1 year.
10. Price – 22699 rubles.

1. High sound quality.
2. Great build.
3. Yandex Music support.
4. Possibility of application in multichannel system.
5. Convenient application.

1. Voice control does not work in the Russian Federation.
2. Due to sanctions, Yandex.

Sonos One Gen2 is a top-of-the-range speaker with high sound quality, compact size and user-friendly app. Despite the difficulties with voice control, it is easy to set up to get all the features of the device.

F.A.Q.

1.Google Home

A speaker with a voice assistant capable of informing about the weather forecast, playing music and controlling a smart home. It has the shape of a nesting doll with a cut top, a gray bottom and a white top.

There is support for several types of light bulbs, image transmission. The device understands Russian and can even be used to call a taxi.

1. Power – 65 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 50 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 2 / 2.
4. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.
5. The smart home ecosystem is Google Home.
6. Power supply – from the network.
7. Dimensions – 96x143x96 mm.
8. Weight – 0.48 kg.
9. Warranty – 1 year.
10. Price – 16980 rubles.

1. Ease of installation.
2. Excellent sound quality.
3. Ability to interact with other Google devices.
4. High build quality.
5. Built-in radio.
6. Ability to display on the screen.
7. Availability of listening to Spotify and YouTube Music.
8. Convenient music and alarm control.
9. High quality speakers.

1. Difficulties with recognition and connection of the Russian language.
2. Some commands are not accepted.
3. Problems setting up news sources.

Google Home is a high-quality speaker with good functionality and a competent assistant. Despite the lack of normal support for the Russian language, it is in great demand in Russia and is considered one of the best in its class.

F.A.Q.

The best Xiaomi Mi Home smart speakers

Portable home speakers with the necessary quality certificates. They are distinguished by reliable assembly and strict control at the production stage.

Brand devices have a stylish design and compact size, which allows them to fit into any interior.

Chinese devices quickly connect to the phone, easily respond to voice, but require an Internet connection.

Below we consider the features of two popular models, their pros and cons.

2. Xiaomi Mi AI Speaker Pro

A compact speaker with high-quality sound and the ability to control household appliances via infrared. The body is made of thick black plastic, which does not show fingerprints.

It has the shape of a 4-angled prism. Edges are illuminated with LED lights. AUX ports and connectors are on the back of the case.

1. Power – 5 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 60 Hz to 18 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 3 / 6.
4. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Ecosystem – Xiaomi Mi Home.
7. Dimensions – 88x210x88 mm.
8. Weight – 0.64 kg.
9. Warranty – 1 year.
10. Price – 4990 rubles.

1. Quality sound.
2. Ease of control of household devices.
3. Доступная цена.
4. Modern appearance.
5. Lots of work scenarios.
6. Communication with devices by infrared sensor.

1. Chinese firmware.
2. Lack of Russian language.
3. Periodic fall off from Wai Fai.

Xiaomi Mi AI Speaker Pro is the best option for users who value sound without distortion. Suitable for smart home and has a small price. Deservedly ranked second in the ranking.

F.A.Q.

1. Xiaomi Mi Smart Speaker

Smart Chinese speaker with a voice assistant “Marusya”. It stands out for its interesting design, relatively large speaker and optimal power.

At the bottom is a connector for the power supply, type USB Type C.

Along the perimeter there is a backlit strip that changes color depending on the operating mode. Controlled by an application with many functions. Supported operating systems: Android 5.0 and iOS 12 and above.

1. Power – 12 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 60 Hz to 15 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 1 / 2.
4. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Ecosystem – Xiaomi Mi Home, Mail.ru smart home.
7. Dimensions – 104x151x131 mm.
8. Weight – 0.853 kg.
9. Warranty – 1 year.
10. Price – 3790 rubles.

1. Small sizes.
2. High volume.
3. Quality basses.
4. Sensitive microphone.
5. Quick search for radio stations.
6. The metal case.
7. Low price

1. Small selection of radio stations.
2. Noises are heard when listening to the radio.
3. Fewer features compared to Alice.

Xiaomi Mi Smart Speaker is a high-quality speaker with a built-in Marusya assistant, clear and loud sound. It has great functionality and easy setup. It is in first place in the ranking.

F.A.Q.

The best Apple smart speaker

A device from the well-known Apple company with Siri voice assistant, support for Russian and English, as well as three communication methods: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and AirPlay.

Below we consider the popular model of a smart column, analyze its characteristics, pros and cons.

Apple HomePod mini

Original in appearance and high-quality smart speaker. Sold in white, yellow, orange, blue and grey.

Used to listen to music and control smart home elements. Managed using the voice assistant Siri.

The built-in voice assistant is able to answer calls, tell the latest news, provide information on the weather forecast or the situation on the road. The speaker works great with all Apple devices.

1. Power – 20 W.
2. The number of speakers / microphones – 3 / 4.
3. Wireless – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay.
4. Power supply – from the network.
5. Ecosystem – Apple HomeKit.
6. Dimensions – 97.9×84.3×98 mm.
7. Weight – 0.34 kg.
8. Warranty – 1 year.
9. Price – 9680 rubles.

1. Perfect sound.
2. Simple and modern design.
3. High-quality assembly.
4. No false positives.
5. Integration into the Apple ecosystem.
6. Kit with power supply.
7. High speed of work.
8. Quick and easy setup.
9. Compactness.

1. Lack of support for the Russian language.
2. Removable wire.
3. Surface contamination over time.
4. English Siri.

The Apple HomePod mini is a strong device, made from quality materials and easy and quick to set up. It features clear sound and the ability to bind different elements of a smart home.

F.A.Q.

Best Sonos Smart Speakers

Sonos speakers are built for high-quality sound. They are easy to set up and are capable of playing music over a Wi-Fi network. Provides voice control and change modes of operation through the Sonos of the same name.

To turn it on, just activate the column, connect to Wi-Fi and download the application to your mobile device.

2. Sonos One Gen2

This model of smart speakers has already been described above, so we will not repeat it. The average rating score is 4.6.

1. Sonos One, HAY Limited Edition Pink

Stylish model, available in pink, red and white. Created by the well-known company HAY (Denmark), it supports over 80 services worldwide.

Able to play tracks, albums and podcasts. It has six high-quality microphones, a convenient touch panel, protection against moisture and high humidity.

1. The number of speakers / microphones – 1 / 6.
2. Wireless – Wi-Fi, AirPlay.
3. Power supply – from the network.
4. Voice assistant – Amazon Alexa.
5. Dimensions – 120x161x120 mm.
6. Weight – 1.85 kg.
7. Warranty – 1 year.
8. Price – 24499 rubles.

1. Live and transparent sound.
2. Correct and deep bass.
3. Compatibility with other company devices.
4. Large list of music sources.
5. Possibility of software updates.
6. Good volume reserve.

1. Not a very user friendly app.
2. Lack of a power failure protection system.
3. English language program.

Sonos One, HAY Limited Edition Pink is a compact speaker with clear sound and huge headroom. It has a clear sound, good bass and treble, a large list of sources for playing music. The device rightfully occupies 1 line.

F.A.Q.

Smart speaker JBL

JBL is a world famous manufacturer of portable speakers. Has more than 50 years of experience in the production of audio devices.

The brand’s products, including smart speakers, stand out for their unique sound, deep bass and mids, reliability and endurance in operation.

Below is the best model, which is most in demand this year.

JBL Link Music with Alice

A compact speaker of small size with a stylish design and barrel shape. The side part is completely covered with a fabric that does not get dirty and withstands negative impacts.

Inside is a 64mm driver that provides 360-degree sound propagation.

1. Power – 20 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 60 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 1 / 2.
4. Wireless – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Voice assistant – Alice.
7. Ecosystem — Yandex Smart Home.
8. Dimensions – 112x134x112 mm.
9. Weight – 0.73 kg.
10. Warranty – 1 year.
11. Price – 12999 rubles.

1. Great sound.
2. Stylish design.
3. Compact dimensions.
4. Good functionality.
5. Alice’s presence.
6. 360 degree sound.
7. Perfect build quality.

1. Updates don’t always come.
2. Weak microphone.
3. The alarm does not work intermittently.

JBL Link Music with Alice is a smart speaker with a pleasant sound, stylish design, high-quality assembly and the best voice assistant.

F.A.Q.

Best Bose smart speaker

Bose is an American manufacturer of audio products. The company was founded in 1964 and has a staff of more than 8000 people.

Known for its speakers, including smart speakers, noise-canceling headphones, and professional audio systems.

A separate category includes smart speakers with wide functionality and high-quality sound. One of the most popular models will be considered below.

Bose Portable home speaker

A smart speaker from a well-known American brand, similar in shape to a small bucket with a handle. Produced in black and white colors. It has a grooved surface, a carrying handle and a thoughtful design in terms of stability.

The control panel is located at the top of the device and has a 3-color indication of the operating mode. There are openings for microphones around the panel part.

1. Power – 8 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 1 / 7.
4. Wireless – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.
5. Power supply – from the network, from the battery.
6. Ecosystem – Amazon Alexa.
7. Dimensions – 19,5×10,4×11,9 cm.
8. Weight – 1.06 kg.
9. Warranty – 1 year.
10. Price – 40490 rubles.

1. Great sound.
2. Mobile sizes.
3. Ergonomics.
4. Stylish appearance.
5. network adapter.
6. Excellent sound range.

1. Weak bass at high power.
2. The plug does not fit standard sockets.
3. No speakerphone.
4. Voice assistants do not work in Russia.
5. High prices for the Russian Federation.

The Bose Portable home speaker is a smart speaker with incredible sound in a modern design that is lightweight and easy to handle. It can be seen that the product is made by a company with a worldwide reputation.

F.A.Q.

The best smart speakers SBER

SBER offers a wide range of smart devices and speakers are one of them.

Below we consider the most popular model, we present its features, pros and cons.

Sber SberBox Time/TV set-top box

A smart speaker that is controlled using the Salyut app on Android. iOS devices are not supported yet.

The capabilities of the device allow you to run computer games, listen to over 70 million songs in high quality, select radio stations and playlists.

The device is easily controlled by voice, has a built-in timer, alarm clocks and other useful options. If desired, you can even book a table in the restaurant.

1. Power – 15 W.
2. Playback frequency – from 80 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. The number of speakers / microphones – 3 / 5.
4. Wireless – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.
5. Power supply – from the network.
6. Ecosystem — Sber Smart Home.
7. Dimensions – 162x170x162 cm.
8. Weight – 0.42 kg.
9. Warranty – 1 year.
10. Price – 9990 rubles.

1. Possibility of control by means of the panel.
2. Loud noise.
3. Modern design.
4. Compactness.
5. Доступная цена.
6. Great opportunities in terms of optimization.
7. Subscription for 12 months as a gift.
8. Voice control.
9. Analog clock.

1. Periodic freezes.
2. Errors when including the ordered song.
3. The voice assistant is worse than Alice.
4. Long Internet connection.
5. Can’t change channels.

Sber SberBox Time/TV set-top box is a domestic smart speaker featuring loud and high-quality sound, fast operation, convenient remote control and automatic clock setting. Rightfully ranked.

F.A.Q.

The best smart speakers for kids

When choosing a smart speaker for children, more attention should be paid to design, rather than functionality. The most interesting in terms of appearance are devices from the manufacturer Rainbo. They will be of interest to the younger generation and have good functionality.

RAINBO Yandex Station Lite

Bright and interesting in appearance column with a built-in assistant Alice. If desired, you can control the main functions using the buttons on the touch panel.

Made in the background of a small cylinder, has LED-indication and four high-quality microphones. Equipped with a powerful speaker and boasts a loud sound.

1. Power – 5 W.
2. The number of speakers / microphones – 1 / 4.
3. Wireless – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.
4. Power supply – from the network.
5. Ecosystem — Yandex Smart Home.
6. Dimensions – 90x55x90 cm.
7. Weight – 0.23 kg.
8. Warranty – 1 year.
9. Price – 5860 rubles.

1. Original design.
2. Quick response to commands.
3. Opportunities for the child to simply communicate with Alice.
4. The presence of an alarm clock.
5. High volume.
6. Ease of management.
7. Bright color.

1. Works only from the network or power bank.
2. Sometimes requires a reboot due to internal failures.

RAINBO Yandex Station Light is a bright, beautiful and simple smart speaker. It has compact dimensions, is controlled by Alice and has ample opportunities.

F.A.Q.

How to choose a smart speaker

Many people have only recently learned about the existence of smart speakers, so they do not understand anything about the features of their choice.

In order to avoid errors, it is recommended to consider a number of the following factors:

1. Price. The presence on the market of models from different manufacturers leads to a large variation in cost. If desired, you can find a good model for 10 rubles. If you have free funds, it is recommended to choose a more expensive option – for 000-25 thousand.
2. Interface type. For the correct operation of the smart speaker, a good connection to the global network is required. Modern models support Wi-Fi, but a big plus is the availability of additional options for communication: HDMI, Bluetooth, USB.
3. Voice assistant. Most of the smart speakers in Russia work with Alice. She is the most reliable and interesting “interlocutor”, accurately interprets and quickly executes commands. Many assistants, such as Amazon Aleha or Google Assistant, only understand English. As for Siri, it is installed on Apple devices and has limited ecosystem features.
4. Sound. The main criterion for any smart speaker is sound quality. It is important to check the chosen model and make sure of its capabilities. More expensive models have a subwoofer and speakers with different frequencies.
5. Additional functions. The cost of the device largely depends on the availability of other options: timer, alarm clock, connection with various music services, TV output to the screen, etc. It is recommended to choose devices with those features that are really useful.
6. Rated power. Smart speakers can have a power of 5 watts or more. In some models, this parameter reaches 200 watts. When it is calculated, the data for all speakers are summarized. The higher the indicator, the higher the consumption of the column during operation and the greater the volume.
7. Manufacturer. When choosing, you need to look at the brand, because the price directly depends on it. On hearing are devices from Google, Sonos, Redmi, Sony, LG and others.
8. Minimum and maximum frequency. The lower parameter shows the depth of the bass, and the upper one shows the treble. At the same time, the human ear recognizes frequencies from 16 Hz to 20 kHz, so it is impossible to notice differences with slight deviations.
9. Sensitivity. Renders the quality of the device’s response to certain signals. The higher this setting, the louder the volume. In audio systems, this indicator does not matter much.

Interfaces

When looking for a suitable column, pay attention to the supported interfaces.

The following options are available to choose from:

1. Airplay is a wireless audio transmission option created by Apple. Applies to iOS devices. The algorithm uses a Wi-Fi connection and works in conjunction with a router.
2. Airplay 2 is a second generation technology introduced in 2018. The main feature is the support of the “multi-room” option, which provides for the simultaneous broadcast of two or more audio signals to different devices. For example, you can turn on the news in the hall, light music in the bedroom, etc.
3. Chromecast is a technology for transferring content to external devices, developed by Google. Designed to transmit sound through the Wi-Fi network. The main thing is that the receiver and transmitter are in the coverage area of ​​the same router.
4. Bluetooth is a technology for transmitting audio directly to another device. Can be used for file sharing.
5. Bluetooth V5 is an updated version of the “blue tooth” with lower consumption, longer range and high data transmission speed. Allows you to connect more devices.
6. aptX is a codec that is used in Bluetooth devices. Designed to improve sound quality, allows you to achieve greater purity of sound, used in many modern systems.
7. Wi-Fi is a wireless technology for connecting to the Internet. Can be used to play online radio, connect two devices, stream music, etc.
8. Wi-Fi 5 is a modern and fast standard operating in the 5 GHz band. Capable of delivering speeds up to 1.69 Gb/s or up to 6.77 Gb/s depending on the number of antennas.
9. Network audio streaming – allows you to work with streaming services such as Spotify or Deezer. Music tracks are not stored in the system, but are played directly from the service. This option expands the capabilities of a smart speaker and opens up almost unlimited access to tracks.
10. NFC is a wireless communication module with a range of up to 10 cm. It can be used as an additional device for transmitting audio when other options do not work for some reason.
11. Speakerphone – allows you to use the speaker as an external speaker for a conversation. The same option is provided in conventional smartphones. It is convenient with greater volume and lack of binding to the sound source.
12. DLNA is a standard that allows you to combine different devices into a common network. Allows you to share content and transfer data over a distance. For merging, you can use devices from different manufacturers. An example is broadcasting music to a TV or music center.
13. LAN – connector for wired speaker connection. Allows you to play music from your computer or laptop. Modern models allow you to connect to the Internet and listen to online radio.

The presence of a certain interface in the device expands its functionality.

Additional functions

To expand the capabilities and attractiveness of smart speakers, manufacturers provide additional options in the device.

The main ones should include:

• omnidirectional sound;
• passive radiator;
• built-in subwoofer;
• voice control;
• multiroom support;
• speaker synchronization;
• internet radio;
• autonomous food;
• USB for charging gadgets;
• alarm clock;
• wireless charging of gadgets;
• shutdown timer;
• smartphone control;
• lighting effects;
• touch control;
• dust and moisture protection;
• remote control;
• wall mount.

For connection, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is used. Depending on the capabilities, the speakers can broadcast the same track or each of their own music. Some devices require an external source, such as a tablet, phone, etc.

Разъемы

When buying a smart speaker, it is important to pay attention to the type and features of the available connectors.

The following options are available here:

• RCA input – analog “tulip” connector, responsible for audio transmission, allows you to connect additional equipment in the form of external sound sources;
• optical input – used to connect additional audio sources, has better interference protection, is capable of transmitting multi-channel audio, uses the S / P-DIF interface;
• line-in – represented by a 3.5 mm jack, used to connect to external audio systems;
• HDMI is a digital interface that allows you to transmit video and sound in high quality.

Which smart speaker is better to buy this year

The above ranking contains the best smart speakers that differ in price, functionality, appearance and voice assistant.

Based on the price / quality ratio, it is better to buy “Yandex New Station Mini”.

In terms of functionality and low price, the VK Capsule Mini model with Marusya wins.

For buyers who have sound volume in the first place, Yandex Station Max with a power of 65 watts is suitable.

Fans of the Siri voice assistant can choose Apple HomePod Mini, and Yandex Station 2 should be included among the new models with Alice.

The Sonos One Gen2 or Xiaomi Mi AI Speaker Pro models are also good in quality. If the device is chosen for children, pay attention to “RAINBO Yandex Station Light”.