After a long wait of nearly six years, Google has finally released a new smart speaker, the Google Home Speaker. As a fan of Google Assistant, I was eager for this refresh in their smart speaker lineup. However, the question remains: was it worth the wait?
Design and Build Quality
The Google Home Speaker is slightly larger than the compact Nest Mini but is noticeably smaller than the Nest Audio. Its design is practical, fitting comfortably on various surfaces like desks or nightstands. It features a rubber base that prevents it from sliding around, which is a thoughtful addition.
Touch Controls and Color Options
On the top of the Home Speaker, you will find three touch-sensitive areas. Tapping the left lowers the volume, tapping the right raises it, and tapping the center pauses or resumes playback. This familiar control scheme is effective and user-friendly. Color options include standard black and white (dubbed Hazel and Porcelain), along with vibrant choices like Berry and a soothing Jade. The Jade variant, which I own, blends well with my bedroom decor.
Audio Performance
In terms of sound quality, the Google Home Speaker performs admirably for its size. With a single 58mm driver, it delivers satisfactory bass and clear mids, making it suitable for various listening experiences—from rain sounds to music and podcasts. The speaker can reach impressive volumes, filling a room even at 50% capacity. However, distortion occurs at higher volume levels, which may be a drawback for audiophiles.
Smart Features and AI Integration
One of the standout features of the Home Speaker is its integration with Gemini, Google’s AI assistant. During my testing, Gemini responded swiftly and accurately, offering a broader range of answers compared to previous versions. However, some features require a Google Home Premium subscription, a situation encountered across the Google speaker lineup.
Mixed Impressions
Despite its appealing design and decent sound, the Google Home Speaker has several shortcomings. The integrated power cable is a notable inconvenience, especially when compared to the removable cable of its predecessor, the Nest Audio. Furthermore, while the sound quality is generally good, it falls short of the Nest Audio’s performance, which featured dual drivers for enhanced audio quality.
Moreover, while Gemini functions well, it does not differentiate the Home Speaker from older models, leaving it lacking in standout features.
Final Thoughts
The Google Home Speaker isn't a bad product; it serves my needs well as a compact smart speaker integrated with Google Home devices. However, for those considering an upgrade from the Nest Audio, the Home Speaker may not be the right choice due to its inferior sound quality and lack of new features. Additionally, for users not tied to the Google ecosystem, alternatives like Amazon’s Echo line or Apple’s HomePod Mini might offer better value and performance.
Ultimately, while the Google Home Speaker is a decent addition to the Google Home lineup, it doesn't fully meet the expectations set by the long wait. It’s a functional device, but it leaves much to be desired in comparison to its predecessors.
Source: https://www.androidauthority.com/google-home-speaker-review-3681647/
