A buyer’s guide to purchasing wireless speakers

With the increased popularity of wireless speakers, it is ever more important to make the right choice when looking to invest in your next purchase. There are so many models on the market, and a lot of variations in the type of wireless system. Therefore, you need to make sure you buy the speakers that are right for you.

The first step in this process is to decide how you want to be wireless. Wi-Fi, Airplay and Bluetooth are all types of wireless technology. Depending on what device you are going to be using will help guide you on which type of tech compatibility you may need. For example, AirPlay is Apple’s wireless audio. Lots to take in? No, not really – but here’s a bit of a breakdown:

Airplay

As we briefly touched on earlier, AirPlay is an Apple wireless feature that allows Apple products such as iPod, iPhone, iPad etc. to stream their iTunes libraries. The great thing about this technology if you are an Apple user, is that you can send music to multiple speakers, allowing you to really create some atmosphere when out and about. Obviously there is a downside – for one, they are considerably more expensive than traditional bluetooth speakers. Another thing to take into consideration when looking to consider AirPlay is if your devices battery dies, a friend with an Android can’t stream to your speakers.

Wi-Fi

As an alternative to the iOS-reliant AirPlay, several companies like Sonos offer their own Wi-Fi-based wireless multi-room audio systems that work with varying degrees of success. Sonos’ own system is established and effective, and the company’s speakers don’t sound too shabby, either.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth is the old kid on the block, it is a trusted wireless technology and everyone (as long as you have a smartphone) has the ability to connect. Bluetooth pairing allows a device to connect to the other and stream. The difference between Bluetooth and AirPlay is that you can only stream to one speaker at a time, therefore not necessarily allowing a surround sound situation to occur. With Bluetooth speakers developing over time, they are seemingly lighter-weight and therefore a little more portable.

Durability

Besides the type of wireless, you need to think about what type of speakers you need. For instance, if you decide to go for a smaller speaker, these are great when you can combine a number of speakers together. But a downside is their batteries don’t tend to last quite as long as larger single speakers, and there can be a toss up between length of battery life and sound.

Portability

Being able to transport your speakers anywhere is a big advantage, which is why Bluetooth speakers are very popular as they are lightweight and portable. Plus, transporting more expensive speakers can be be a concern if they were to get damaged.

Sound Quality

Without a doubt, sound quality is the most important thing to consider and surprisingly, it can be overlooked until right at the end. Don’t assume that the sound quality will be the same across all big brands. Make sure you go into a store and test out the sound quality for yourself, as some of the larger single speakers, although more expensive, can definitely deliver a better sound quality.

Price

It is important once you’ve made your decision to shop around for the best deal. Not only online but also in store. Setting up Google alerts for the product can be a great way to keep track of any changes in prices. Plus, seasonal sales are a great place to pick up a bargain.

Hopefully our buyer guide will help you choose the right wireless speaker for you.  Eada Hudes