Wireless Speaker buying guide

Put simply, wireless speakers are speakers that can stream audio without a cable connection to the audio source.Instead, they link to smart devices including smartphones, laptops and TVs via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, streaming audiofrom apps like Spotify and Apple Music. They give you the freedom to listen to music, podcasts and even your TVwithout messy connecting cables (with the exception of a power cable), while portable wireless speakers allow youto do all this plus take it out of the house, as they use batteries as the power source.

What to look for when buying Wireless Speakers

Wireless speakers are a brilliant invention as they allow you to listen to your audio content, whether it’s music, podcasts, radio or television, at home or on the go. New technology also means speakers can now scour the internet for information, switch smart lights on and off, search for news and more.With no connecting cables, aside from a singular power cord, you can keep your home clear of clutter. If you want a true wireless experience, opt for a portable speaker as you can take it with you and listen to your content anywhere and at any time, or keep it anywhere in your home.

Types of Wireless Speakers

Portable Speakers

Portable speakers can be taken with you wherever you go so you can listen to music, podcasts and more whether you’re at home, in the backyard, at the beach or on a picnic. Battery powered, portable speakers only need to be plugged in to charge. Most models have protective features, such as being water resistant, so they can be used everywhere.

Shop Portable Bluetooth Speakers >

Shop Portable Audio >

Smart Speakers

Smart speakers have a built-in, cloud-based voice assistant that operates just like the ones on your smartphone. In addition to everything Bluetooth speakers can do, and depending on which smart speaker you choose, when connected to Wi-Fi your speaker can be controlled by your voice to do some of the following:

• Search the internet to provide the information you need such as latest news, weather forecast, your calendar and more

• Play music, podcasts and radio (you can even adjust the volume and skip songs)

• Order Uber Eats

• Control your smart lights, TV and coffee machine

Before choosing which brand of smart speaker you want, remember different speakers have different operating systems and capabilities when it comes to voice assistance and smart home technology. Some smart speakers are compatible with Uber, Dominoes and Virgin, while others can be linked to your Amazon account. Bear this in mind when shopping for your smart speakers to ensure you choose the right one for your needs.“The functions offered in smart speakers are the latest technology when it comes to wireless speakers,” says Christos Boukogiannis, The Good Guys Buyer Audio & Cameras. “They’re designed to make your life a little easier, with voice controls and the ability to search the internet and deliver that information directly to you one of the big advantages and biggest drawcards we see in those looking for a wireless speaker.”

Shop Smart Speakers >

Shop Smart Home >

Hi-Fi systems with wireless speakers

Hi-Fi systems with wireless speakers are just like an old-school CD player. The Hi-Fi unit plugs into the wall but your music plays through wireless speakers. You can stream music from your smartphone, tablet or laptop via Bluetooth, access music via USB, listen to the radio and play CDs.Hi-Fi systems come in two different sizes:Micro Hi-Fi: These are smaller and less powerful, suiting a lounge or office. Mini Hi-Fi: Larger and more powerful, these are best for big houses or spaces. Some come with a subwoofer for a better bass.

Shop Hi-Fi Sound Systems >

Features of Wireless Speakers

Connectivity

Wireless speakers can be connected via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, while some speakers offer both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. But what’s the difference?

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi speakers run off your internet and generally deliver better audio quality as they don’t compress the audio content before playing it, which can impact sound quality and the level of detail you hear, especially in music.Wi-Fi speakers allow multi-room audio, which can be controlled via your smartphone, and some come with a mobile app that allows you to switch between apps such as Spotify and Apple Music, and adjust your speaker settings. Many of the new Wi-Fi speakers are compatible with Amazon (Alexa), Google Assistant and Apple (Siri), so can be voice-controlled to search the internet and deliver the news, information, weather and more that you need.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth speakers connect to your smartphone or laptop via Bluetooth, a short-range wireless technology that allows you to share data. You’ll need to make sure Bluetooth on your device is switched on, then “pair” it to the speaker by following the prompts. One of the differences between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi speakers is that Bluetooth requires your device to be close to your speaker (usually the maximum length is approximately nine metres), whereas Wi-Fi connects via the internet and therefore has a longer connection range to your device. There are many options when it comes to Bluetooth speakers to suit your budget and needs.

More tips for choosing a Wireless Speaker

Sound quality

The quality of wireless speakers can vary dramatically depending on how the speakers are designed to direct the sound. Some speakers only project sound in one direction, whereas other models project sound in multiple directions. Choosing a speaker that directs sound in multiple directions, or 360-degree sound, will provide you with a rich, deeper sound. Be sure to check how the models you’re considering project sound before making your decision.Some smart home wireless speakers can be linked to other speakers around your home or space for multi-room sound.“Most wireless speakers are compact but they deliver incredible sound for their size and you wouldn’t actually know how small the unit is if you just went off the sound they produce,” Christos Boukogiannis says. “Speakers that produce 360-degree sound deliver the highest quality sound that allows you to immerse yourself in your music.”

“You can enjoy hours and hours of continuous play without the worry of having to plug in your wireless speaker to charge.” says Christos Boukogiannis. “If you do need to charge your speaker, you can still play your audio at the same time.”

Features

There are many features to consider when looking for the perfect wireless speaker for you. These include:

• Water resistant:

  So you can have your speaker by the pool or at the beach.

• Weather proof:

  Speakers that feature protection from extreme heat and cold, humidity, dust, salt and more.

• Multi-speaker connectivity:

  The ability to connect multiple speakers to one another. This can also be referred to as “party mode”.

• Voice control/assistant:

  While Wi-Fi wireless speakers are voice controlled, some Bluetooth-only speakers also feature voice control.

• 360-degree sound:

  Speakers that project sound in every direction for a richer sound quality.

• Durable materials:

  Made from materials that protect speakers from scratches, and reduces risk or damage if knocked or dropped.

• Rechargeable battery:

  Simply plug it in to charge.

Battery life

Wireless speakers are designed with a long battery life in mind as the main function is that they can be taken with you wherever you go. Most wireless speakers can continuously play for 10 to 13 hours, while overall battery life can range from 18 to 24 hours.“You can enjoy hours and hours of continuous play without the worry of having to plug in your wireless speaker to charge,” says Christos Boukogiannis. “If you do need to charge your speaker, you can still play your audio at the same time.”

Installation requirements for Wireless Speakers

Wireless speakers usually come with a step-by-step guide on how to pair your speaker to your smartphone or device. Simply turn on Bluetooth on your smartphone or device and place it next to the speaker to begin the pairing process.“Portable wireless speakers are ready to go right out of the box,” says Christos Boukogiannis. “All you’ll need to do is follow the included instructions to set up your Wi-Fi connection and pair your device with your smartphone or device, such as your laptop, via Bluetooth.“If you’re purchasing a Hi-Fi system with wireless speakers then you’ll need to connect the unit to a power supply.”

How much you’ll pay for a new Wireless Speaker

Portable Speakers

There is a portable speaker to suit every budget and they can be purchased for as little as under $30. For a portable speaker that features a long battery life and has more features and better sound quality, portable speakers range from $129 to $1499 plus. Shop the biggest range of portable wireless speakers from the best brands, including Sonos, Bose, JBL and Sony, at The Good Guys in-store and online.

Shop Portable Speakers >

Smart Speakers

Smart speakers range from value buys under $100 up to a top-of-the-range units in the two thousand dollar range. Shop the biggest range of smart speakers to suit any budget, from the best brands, including Sonos and Bose, at The Good Guys in-store and online.

Shop Smart Speakers >

Hi-Fi system with wireless speakers

Hi-Fi systems with wireless speakers start from under $200 for an entry-level model and range up to the two thousand price bracket for a premium home theatre system that includes subwoofers. Shop the biggest range of Hi-Fi systems from the best brands, including Yamaha, Sony and Panasonic, all at Pay Less Every day prices at The Good Guys in-store and online.

Shop Hi-Fi systems >