Top-Picked AirPlay Speakers 2025: Seamless Wireless Streaming for Apple Devices Thoroughly Assessed
Stream Your Tunes Dreamily: The Top AirPlay 2 Speakers in 2023
Yo, mate! Let's get right into the juicy gossip about the best AirPlay 2 speakers this year!
Streaming made simpleApple's AirPlay 2 is one of the slickest ways to wirelessly share music from an iPhone or iPad and create a multi-room setup. You can find this magical technology in various speakers, from Apple's own HomePods to third-party goodies from brands like Naim and Sonos. But beware, having AirPlay doesn't always guarantee a mouthwatering audio experience or compatibility with all of the best wireless speakers. So, think twice before adding a speaker to your system, as a mismatched setup can spoil the harmony.
The cream of the cropFor the best results in a multi-room setup, stick with pairing speakers from the same family, such as the Sonos Era 100 with the Era 300 or two second-gen Apple HomePods.
We've put together a smorgasbord of scrumptious options to help you find the perfect AirPlay 2 speaker for your needs. Our team, consisting of review enthusiasts who've put dozens of AirPlay speakers, wireless headphones, and speakers to the test, have tested the lot and have shared their thoughts. To make the best speaker choice, your AirPlay speaker should be a total breeze to set up with your iPhone or iPad, play well with any music service, and dish out remarkable sound quality without any annoying stuttering or dropouts.
Digging deeper15 June: No new models to hype, so we've checked the pricing and availability of the options on our list.
The quick listBest overall:Get ready for a gloriously made speaker that will fill your room with natural, spacious audio, but be warned – you'll need an Apple Music subscription to get the full benefits. Only the faithful apple-heads should consider investing in this fine speaker.
Best budget:Apple ain't always known for its budget-friendly options, but this Mini speaks otherwise! Besides its tiny body, it sounds anything but small.
Best spatial audio:This beauty will make your Dolby Atmos tunes sound massive, and its performance doesn't disappoint no matter the format.
Best mid-price:Compact, affordable, and stuffed with features, we strongly recommend this enjoyably-sounding speaker to everyone!
Best versatile:Naim's petite musical wonder hides its illustrious capabilities in its small frame, delivering outstanding sound and a range of streaming options that are worth every penny.
Best stereo system:Though it lags slightly behind the regular KEF LSX II in price and features, the LT version is an exceptional choice for AirPlay and more.
Best premium:A timeless wireless speaker with a boosted performance and price, still scintillating after all these years.
Best portable:The formerly Award-winning Audio Pro C3 is just another supremely talented Audio Pro member, bringing AirPlay, multi-room capability, and stunning sound in a lightweight package.
With so many outstanding AirPlay 2 speakers available, it's crucial to find the one that suits your sweetheart needs. Rest assured, I'm here to make sense of the jumble and help you discover the best AirPlay 2 speaker for your audio aspirations. Let's dive deeper!
Best AirPlay Speaker Overall
1. Apple HomePod 2
Why you'll adore it: Simply put, the HomePod 2 is the best AirPlay speaker made by Apple, and one of the smartest you'll find at this price.
The HomePod 2 is easily the best candidate for committed Apple disciples, offering great-sounding smart speaker technology that's complete with room-filling audio and the considerable plus of AirPlay 2. This second-gen product is the larger option in Apple's current lineup, surpassing the HomePod Mini in size and weight.
It's also one of the finest Apple products around today, boasting the second-gen model's main draw: the ability to scan and optimize its audio settings for the room and position it's in on the fly. The HomePod 2 brings in Apple's S7 chipset for improved spatial audio, better room-sensing algorithms, and overall smoother performance.
The HomePod 2 also features built-in temperature and humidity sensors which can be used to create custom automations in your smart home. And let me tell ya, it's impressive—to say the least. If you're an Apple fanatic looking for a smart speaker that performs at the top of its game, the HomePod 2 is the one for you.
Find out more about our testing process, check out the best speaker deals, or keep scrolling to see the tested and recommended models below.
Best Budget AirPlay Speaker
2. Apple HomePod Mini
Why you'll love it: Budget-friendly, compact, and bursting with charm, the HomePod Mini's price tag matches its diminutive dimensions for a sound that's anything but small.
While the HomePod Mini doesn't work exclusively with Apple Music for voice commands related to music requests like its big bro, it can still go loud and impress, outperforming most direct competitors with its mature and sophisticated sound. Its petite size makes it easy to fit into any living space, and its affordability means you won't have to break the bank for some quality AirPlay sound. If your budget can't stretch to the HomePod 2 but you're keen on an Apple speaker with AirPlay 2, the Mini is a decent candidate.
Best AirPlay Speaker for Spatial Audio
3. Sonos Era 300
Why you'll adore it: One of our favorite wireless speakers from the past few years is now AirPlay ready, although it's best to spoil yourself if its only feature you're interested in.
If you're familiar with everything the Era 300 can do, it's well worth the investment. Although its price tag of £449 / $449 / AU$749 might make your eyes water, the Era 300 has plenty to offer, making it an astounding pick for spatial audio. Thanks to its unusual hourglass shape, the Era 300 excels at spatial audio, and, of course, AirPlay 2. It can also handle 24-bit/48kHz hi-res music from Qobuz and Amazon Music services. But the true magic lies in spatial audio – throw any tunes at the Era 300, and it'll handle them with ease. And that's just the beginning.
Best Mid-Price AirPlay Speaker
4. Sonos Era 100
Why you'll adore it: Versatile, affordable, and overflowing with features, there's no hesitation in recommending this enjoyable-sounding speaker to everyone.
Dropping down a notch from the slightly pricier Era 300 is the Sonos Era 100. This speaker comes with a host of features, including AirPlay 2, Alexa voice control, stereo pairing, and Trueplay tuning. Basically, it's got everything you need for a top-notch AirPlay speaker experience without a steep price tag.
Despite its lower price point, the Era 100 still pumps out an impressive sound, showing its mettle with a strong, open sound, a lovely sense of rhythmic drive, and all the detail and precision you could wish for at this price point. I'm confident that you'll find the Era 100 to be a sensational choice for any music lover.
Best Versatile AirPlay Speaker
5. Naim Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation
Why you'll adore it: While the HomePod Mini comes with all of Apple's signature technologies, if you're after top-notch sound quality from an AirPlay 2 speaker and have deeper pockets, the Naim Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation should definitely be on your radar.
If you're not buying the Mu-so Qb just for AirPlay 2, that's probably a mistake. But if you're familiar with everything this chunky monolith can do, it's well worth the investment. Its boxy dimensions disguise its powerful audio capabilities, with a solid bass and rich, sparkling tones across the frequencies. The Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation has been honored with multiple Awards from our site for the best home wireless speaker over £500/ $500, and it's easy to see why. If you're searching for a versatile AirPlay speaker that offers exceptional sound quality, look no further!
Best AirPlay Stereo Speaker System
6. KEF LSX II LT
Why you'll adore it: If you're looking for a do-it-all speaker system with AirPlay built-in, the KEF LSX II LT needs to be on your shopping list.
The LT version is a less-featured, less-expensive sibling of the standard LSX II speaker system, offering a more budget-friendly yet still impressive AirPlay 2 stereo speaker streaming system. It drops features like Roon Readiness and physical inputs like the humble Aux chord (rip), but keeps all of the essentials intact. It's available at a slightly cheaper price and still offers AirPlay 2, wi-fi, Chromecast, and Bluetooth, as well as a wide spectrum of streaming services like Amazon Music, Deezer, Qobuz, Spotify, and Tidal. Better still, unlike the classic LSX II, you only need a single lead to hook up its primary unit, with the secondary speaker sharing the power via a 3m USB-C interspeaker cable.
Sonically, the LT's robustness of the bass, strength and force of each instrument, organizational skills, and lovely layers of detail and nuance make it a satisfying, balanced listen. This is a great value option for any audio enthusiast on a budget.
Best Premium AirPlay Speaker
7. Naim Mu-so 2
Why you'll adore it: The excellent Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation is a top pick for anyone searching for extensive streaming and high-quality sound but has the cash for it.
If you're spending money on a premium wireless speaker, the Naim Mu-so 2 is hard to beat. Upon its release, the Mu-so 2 impressed with outstanding sound and oodles of streaming and AirPlay 2 features. Its Nordic design will appeal to even the pickiest of connoisseurs, and its durable build makes it a lasting investment.
The Mu-so 2's sonic delivery is impressive, combining a room-shaking bass with a crisp, detailed high end that guarantees an immersive listening experience. Bass is plentiful and of high quality, with the speaker's sleek, minimalist design appealing to many. To learn more about the Naim Mu-so 2, you can read our comprehensive review.
Best Portable AirPlay Speaker
8. Audio Pro Addon C3
Why you'll adore it: To put it simply, the Audio Pro Addon C3 is essentially the wi-fi-enabled, multi-room version of the T3 speaker, boasting versatile looks and exceptional sound.
Decent wireless tech elevates this wireless speaker, allowing you to appreciate the major music streaming platforms, including Amazon Music, Deezer, Qobuz, Spotify, and Tidal. With streaming services like these, the Audio Pro C3 is an excellent choice for audio lovers who want AirPlay 2 compatibility alongside extensive streaming features and versatility.
Design-wise, the Audio Pro C3 impresses with its minimalist look, textured surfaces, and embossed leather handle. It's compact and portable enough to be easily moved from room to room, and its wireless and wired connection options ensure you can enjoy your music no matter where you are.
As for sound, the C3 delivers a mature, refined, and textured delivery with a spacious, detail-rich soundscape and impressive rhythmic chops. The only thing that brings it down a notch is a somewhat clunky control app, but that's a small price to pay for such a terrific speaker.
Additional Considerations
*Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition:: If you want top-quality sound from an AirPlay 2 speaker but the Audio Pro C3 doesn't quite deliver, the Pro Edition of the Zeppelin might just be what you're searching for.
The Pro Edition of the Zeppelin is an updated version of the iconic Zeppelin speaker, boasting audio improvements and an array of streaming features, including AirPlay 2. Its design is an ode to classic British style, with a sleek, minimalist body and finishing touches that exude sophistication. If you're looking for an impressive AirPlay 2 speaker with audiophile appeal, give the Zeppelin Pro Edition a try.
*Ruark Audio R410:: The R410 offers a tantalizing alternative to the Audio Pro C3, combining atmosphere, grit, and the occasional surprise with its sumptuous sound reproduction.
The R410 is a flexible AirPlay speaker that's tailored for voracious music lovers who appreciate a sophisticated, detailed sound. Its design is jaw-dropping, with elegant, understated looks that are sure to complement any living room or home office. With additional streaming options and support for high-resolution audio, the R410 covers all the bases. If you're an AirPlay speaker devotee who wants something more from their audio experience, the R410 is an excellent purchase.
How to Choose an AirPlay Speaker
Size and Aesthetics: Elements like size and aesthetics are crucial factors when choosing an AirPlay speaker. Consider how much physical space you have available and check out the speaker's design to ensure it suits your taste. Some AirPlay speakers can be placed practically anywhere, while others demand a dedicated space.
Connection and Performance: Remember that AirPlay 2 streaming requires a stable wi-fi connection, so take that into account when selecting your speaker. Make sure it supports multiple control methods across your iOS devices, and prioritize multi-room streaming capabilities if you plan on spreading your audio love throughout your humble abode.
Price: AirPlay speakers come in a wide range of prices, from budget options to top-tier, premium choices. Decide on your budget and focus on the features most important to you to find your perfect speaker match.
Testing AirPlay Speakers
At our website, we take the testing of AirPlay speakers extremely seriously. Our state-of-the-art testing facilities in London and Stockton-on-Tees house top-notch equipment, enabling our crew of dedicated reviewers to carefully evaluate every aspect of an AirPlay speaker's audio performance. By using an array of music genres and streaming sources, our team compares the performance of each speaker against its competitors and assigns a rating based on value for money. Multiple team members collaborate to make a consensus decision, ensuring a fair, impartial review process.
FAQ
Is AirPlay better than Bluetooth?AirPlay 2 provides higher-quality audio and less latency than Bluetooth, especially for streaming multiple devices. However, Bluetooth is still adequate for basic music streaming.
Which devices support AirPlay?Any device running iOS (iPhone, iPad, or Mac), macOS, or tvOS (Apple TV) supports AirPlay 2. Some popular third-party speakers also support AirPlay, such as the Sonos Move 2 and Audio Pro Addon C3.
How many AirPlay speakers can you connect at once?You can connect up to 16 AirPlay speakers within one multi-room setup without any issues, allowing you to fill your home with music.
Upcoming UpdatesJune 2024: Updated pricing and availability for the best AirPlay 2 speakers of the year.
April 2024: Thoroughly checked the availability and pricing on all our best options.
February 2024: Included the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition and Ruark Audio R410 in the "Also Consider" section.
January 2024: Updated pricing and availability for all best AirPlay 2 speakers as we ring in the new year.
October 2023: Marked our 2023 Award winners for easy identification.
June 2023: Updated pricing and availability for the best AirPlay 2 speakers tested in 2023.
April 2023: Added JBL Authentics 300 and JBL Authentics 500 to the "Also Consider" section.
February 2023:our website 2023 Award winners labeled after the 2023 Awards Best Buys and Product of the Year announcements.
April 2022:our website 2022 Award winners labeled for your convenience.
October 2021:our website 2021 Award winners labeled after the 2021 Awards Best Buys and Product of the Year announcements.
June 2021:our website 2021 Award winners labelled for easy identification.
April 2021: No new models were added, but we checked the availability and pricing of all the entries.
February 2021:our website 2021 Award winners labeled after the 2021 Award announcement.
November 2020:our website 2020 Award winners labeled after the Best Buys and Product of the Year announcements.
June 2020: No new models were added, but we've maintained accuracy while referencing the availability and pricing of all the entries.
April 2020: No new models were added, but we've made sure to update all the information to reflect the current state.
February 2020:our website 2020 Award winners labeled after the Awards Best Buys and Product of the Year announcements.
November 2019:our website 2019 Award winners labeled after the Best Buys and Product of the Year announcements.
[1] https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/apple-homepod-2[2] https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/sonos-move-2[3] https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/sonos-roam[4] https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/sonos-move-2[5] https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/sonos-roam
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