Best AirPlay speakers 2022 TechRadar Skip to main content TechRadar is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's why you can trust us. Best AirPlay speakers the top Apple-friendly wireless speakers in 2022 By Matt Bolton Contributions from Andrew Williams, Olivia Tambini last updated 4 October 2022 The best AirPlay 2 speakers for your music Included in this guide:1AppleHomePod miniCheck Price (opens in new tab)2SonosOneCheck Price (opens in new tab)3Naim AudioMu-So QbCheck Price (opens in new tab)4SonosFiveCheck Price (opens in new tab)5Bowers & WilkinsFormation WEDGECheck Price (opens in new tab)6KEFLSX IICheck Price (opens in new tab)7SonosRoamCheck Price (opens in new tab)8AmazonEcho StudioCheck Price (opens in new tab)9BraunLE01Check Price (opens in new tab)10DevialetPhantom ICheck Price (opens in new tab) (Image credit: TechRadar) Jump to: The list Buying advice How to choose the best AirPlay speaker How we test the best AirPlay speaker AirPlay speaker deals Editor's Note: October 2022 For most people, the HomePod mini remains the compact AirPlay speaker to buy, thanks to its impressive sound from a small body, and affordable price. We've recently added the KEF LSX II stereo speakers to this list, which are an ideal choice for those who love classic audiophile gear but what the ultra-convenience of AirPlay speakers. They're the best of both. Matt Bolton, Senior Editor - TV & Audio The best AirPlay speakers have Apple's fantastic AirPlay wireless communication tech baked into them. What that means is with one of the top AirPlay speakers you can stream music, audiobooks and podcasts from your iPhone or iPad straight to your speaker. It's such a simple feature and works so seamlessly that it's easy to overlook just how great it is, allowing you to enjoy loud, immersive sound on a speaker without a complex set-up. If you already own Apple devices (including iPhones, iPads, an Apple TV 4K or even an Apple HomePod mini) you may have even used AirPlay without realizing it. However, to make the most of AirPlay and to get fantastic sound in your home, you also need one of the best AirPlay speakers. Although there are many smart speakers to choose from these days, not all of them offer AirPlay integration. But plenty do. In 2019, Apple launched AirPlay 2, the latest version of the wireless platform, which came with Siri built-in and a bunch of new features. This was a catalyst for more brands to add AirPlay to their devices, including Samsung TVs. Fast-forward to today and other TV brands have followed suit, including LG, Sony and also Vizio. But let's assume you don't have an AirPlay-enabled TV and don't intend to upgrade to one anytime soon. Which are the best AirPlay speakers for you? We've tested hundreds of speakers over the years, so we know what makes a good performance, easy set-up and fantastic sound. We've also reviewed plenty of AirPlay speakers now too, so can speak to how well these devices connect and whether they truly make the most of the music you have on your iPhone. If you want to upgrade your home sound setup but don't necessarily need AirPlay, check out our best soundbars and best Bluetooth speakers guides instead to find the top audio tech across the board. Otherwise, read our guide below where we've selected the best AirPlay speakers for you, including devices to suit your budget and your preferences. Best AirPlay speakers the list (Image credit: Apple) 1 Apple HomePod mini The best AirPlay speaker you can buy SpecificationsWeight: 0.76lbsDimensions: 3.3 x 3.9 x 3.9 inch / 8.43 x 9.79 x 9.79 cmDrivers: Full-range driver and dual passive radiators for deep bass and crisp high frequenciesSupported connectivity : Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5, AirPlayAux-in: NoUSB: NospecificationsColourBlack, Blue, Orange, White, YellowConditionNew, RefurbishedToday's Best DealsView at Walmart (opens in new tab)View at Staples (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Incredible sound+Sleek design Reasons to avoid-Needs Apple Music for full function-Siri and the smart home features need work For anyone looking to enter the Apple smart ecosystem, or who has an Apple Music subscription, the HomePod mini is a great option. It's far cheaper than some might expect, packing mighty sounds and an elegant design for under $100 / £100 / AU$150. For us, the audio performance is the key reason to buy the HomePod mini. It's excellent for a speaker that's so small, and it really feels like the right mix of price and sound quality. The bass isn't too heavy, vocals aren't lost in the mix, and when you pair two minis the stereo experience is really immersive. There may be better-sounding speakers in this list, but the HomePod mini is certainly the best value, and the best speaker to use in a wider Apple ecosystem. Wondering about the original HomePod? It's been discontinued, though you can still buy it while stocks last. Read more: Apple HomePod mini review (Image credit: Sonos) 2 Sonos One The best AirPlay speaker for multiroom audio SpecificationsWeight: 1.85kg (4.08 lbs)Size: 6.36 x 4.69 x 4.69 inDrivers: 1 x tweeters, 1 x wooferSupported Connectivity: AirPlay, Bluetooth 4.2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, 3.5mm, RCAEthernet: NoAux-in: YesUSB: NospecificationsColourBlack, WhiteConditionNew, RefurbishedToday's Best DealsView at Sonos US & Canada (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab)View at Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Full-bodied, rich sound+Alexa and Google Assistant support+AirPlay 2 support Reasons to avoid-No Hi-Res Audio support Given that this is a Sonos speaker, you won't be surprised to hear that the Sonos One sounds pretty fantastic. Throw Elegie by Mouse on the Keys at the speaker, and sound has real punch and energy to it. The song's kickdrum... well... has kick to it, and drives the energy of the song. It's an impressive amount of power from such a small speaker. This AirPlay speaker even deals admirably with more complicated pieces of music. Silent Earthling by Three Trapped Tigers sounds clear and crisp, despite the multiple layers of instruments circulating throughout the song. With AirPlay 2, you can play any sound from an iPhone or iPad, or Mac computer – including YouTube videos and Netflix movies – on the Sonos One. You can also ask any Siri-enabled device to control Apple Music on Sonos speakers. Read more: Sonos One Review 3 Naim Mu-So Qb 2nd Generation Hands-down the best wireless speaker there is SpecificationsWeight: 5.6kgSize: 210mm x 218mm x 212mmDrivers: 1 x Woofer, 2 x Mid-range, 2 x Tweeter, 2 x Passive RadiatorSupported Connectivity: UPnP, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth aptXEthernet: YesAux-in: YesUSB: YesToday's Best DealsCheck Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Lovely physical interface+Robust, balanced and informative sound+Capable of startling volume Reasons to avoid-Frustrating control app-Not the biggest audio presentation around Naim Audio is a company that produces some of the most stylish connected speakers in the business, and we think the Mu-So Qb 2nd Generation is the best they've put out yet. With Kanye West's 808s & Heartbreak playing via Tidal, the Naim controls the strangely chilly low frequencies well. The frequency range is nicely balanced overall, with no area given undue prominence nor too little power. And, with something like Mogwai's Come On Die Young, the Qb 2nd Gen. showcases its facility with dynamics, both great and small. It comes will a full suite of connectivity options including aptX Bluetooth, Spotify Connect and AirPlay, which means all of your music should be supported at its maximum resolution, no matter what device you're using. But even if you don't have your phone in hand, this wireless speaker is still controllable using its sleek touch-screen which allows you to access internet radio stations, for example. It's got a premium price, but if you opt for the Qb then you won't be disappointed. Read more: Mu-So Qb 2nd Generation review (Image credit: Sonos) 4 Sonos Five Sonos's biggest wireless speaker is a really big deal SpecificationsWeight: 6.36kgSize: 364 x 154 x 203mmDrivers: 3 x Woofer, 3 x TweeterSupported Connectivity: AirPlay 2, streaming services via Sonos AppEthernet: YesAux-in: YesspecificationsColourBlack, WhiteConditionNew, RefurbishedToday's Best DealsView at Crutchfield (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab)View at Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Truly massive sound+AirPlay 2 and Sonos multi-room+Dual placement option and stereo pairing Reasons to avoid-No Bluetooth-No mics-No hi-res audio support yet As the great pop group Five might put it: Everybody get up! Five will make you get down now. This hefty Sonos speaker delivers an equally weighty serving of volume, filling even large rooms without breaking sweat. It's the latest iteration of Sonos's excellent Play:5 and while it isn't dramatically different from its predecessors, there are still some worthwhile improvements including a slightly sleeker design, more memory and a more powerful processor. Previous models already sounded great, but this newer edition sounds even better. The speaker array is the same as the Play:5, with six custom-designed drivers driven by six class D amplifiers for a combined power output of 120W: three high excursion 10cm mid-woofers across the bottom of the unit and three tweeters above them, two of which are angled outwards. We suspect that releasing a newer model with the same spec is largely about the new processor: it means Sonos could add the long-rumoured hi-res audio support in a future firmware update. In our Sonos Five review we said that "it's here to bring the bass and make you feel it", and it's at its best when you use the TruePlay tuning on your iPhone to tune the output to your room. The bass isn't overpowering in more delicate music, and music that can sound harsh on rival speakers – the flute in Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, for example – is beautifully detailed without being abrasively bright. The lack of Bluetooth or Alexa/Siri/Google Assistant may put some potential buyers off but there is AirPlay 2 support and Sonos's own app does a great job of covering all the key streaming options. And it sounds superb solo, in a stereo pair or as part of a Sonos home cinema setup. Read more: Sonos Five review (Image credit: Bowers & Wilkins) 5 Bowers & Wilkins Formation Wedge The best AirPlay speaker with an iconic design SpecificationsWeight: 6.5kgSize: 232 x 440 x 243 (H x W x D)Drivers: 2 x 25mm (1 in) double dome tweeter, 2 x 90 mm (3.5 in) FST midrange, 1 x 150mm (6 in) subwooferSupported Connectivity: Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Ethernet: YesAux-in: NoUSB: YesspecificationsColourBlack, SilverConditionNewToday's Best DealsView at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Crutchfield (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Unique looks+Clever engineering+Big, wide soundstage Reasons to avoid-Limited connectivity It will divide people with its looks, and it will exclude some people with its price, but the Formation Wedge is Bowers & Wilkins doing what it does best, delivering bold looks and bigger sound. Sound from the Wedge is spread far and wide, without becoming vague or ill-focused, and there's enough outright power to fill even large rooms with sound. While it's apparent where the music originates, there's a much less pronounced 'sweet spot' than some less capable wireless speakers generate and the Wedge is an enjoyable listen, no matter where you are in relation to it. Bluetooth (proper aptX HD Bluetooth, what's more) is available, as is Spotify Connect. And, of course, Apple AirPlay 2. Read more: Bowers & Wilkins Formation Wedge review (Image credit: KEF) 6 KEF LSX IIThe best premium AirPlay stereo speakers SpecificationsDimensions: 240 × 155 × 180 mm (9.5 × 6.1 × 7.1 in.)Weight: 7.2kg (15.6lbs)Dolby Atmos / DTS:X enabled: NoActive or Passive: ActiveSubwoofer: N/AFrequency response: 49Hz – 47kHzMaximum Output: 102dBToday's Best DealsView at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab)View at Crutchfield (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Vigorous, up-front and dynamic sound+Properly made in a wide choice of finishes+Ample wired and wireless connections Reasons to avoid-Pricey compared to standalone wireless speakers These small speakers have a pretty big price tag, but these aren't "just" a pair of bookshelf speakers. They're incredibly well-connected, with AirPlay 2, HDMI ARC and USB-C, Ethernet, analogue and digital inputs, a pre-out for a subwoofer and CAT 5 for wiring a pair together. If you do wire them up you get up to 24-bit/384KHz and DSD256; wireless connection downsamples to 24-bit/48KHz. The sound quality is spectacular, with rich mids, detailed highs and very punchy bass for speakers so small – and you can always use that subwoofer out if you need even more low-end thump. Unless your source material is poorly recorded or very low bitrate the sound here is immersive and incredibly enjoyable. These speakers aren't made to fill massive rooms with sound, but if you want to turn your home office or study into a high quality listening station then these speakers will excite and delight no matter what kind of music you're listening to – and with five very distinct finishes they'll look great with any kind of décor too. We're just putting the finishing touches to our in-depth KEF LSX II review, so check back shortly for all the in-depth details. (Image credit: Sonos) 7 Sonos Roam The best Bluetooth speaker with AirPlay SpecificationsWeight: 0.43kgSize: 168mm x 62mm x 60mm (H x W x D)Drivers: Two class-H amplifiers, one tweeter, and one midwooferSupported Connectivity: Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, Wi-FiEthernet: NoAux-in: NoUSB: NospecificationsColourBlack, WhiteConditionNew, RefurbishedToday's Best DealsView at Crutchfield (opens in new tab)View at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Powerful audio performance+Easily portable design Reasons to avoid-Fairly pricey-Bass can be overwhelming The Sonos Roam is our pick for the best Bluetooth speaker on the planet, with a powerful sound, rugged design, excellent connectivity features, and smart home control. A bass-heavy audio performance makes it ideal for use outdoors, while a clever Automatic Switching feature means it's easily used indoors, too – though audiophiles may dislike the overwhelming low frequencies and rhythmic handling. Following in the footsteps of the Sonos Move, the Sonos Roam comes with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity along with AirPlay support, which means it can work as a portable speaker as well as part of your wider multi-room Sonos system – and with Google Assistant and Alexa onboard, it doubles up a smart speaker too. In spite of its (relatively) low price you're getting a lot for your money here. Its slick design means the Sonos Roam won't look out of place in your home, while a rugged, waterproof and dustproof build and a decent battery life make it ideal for listening to music outdoors. Read more: Sonos Roam review (Image credit: Amazon) 8 Amazon Echo Studio The best AirPlay speaker for Alexa fans SpecificationsWeight: 7.7lbsSize: 206 x 175mmDrivers: 1 x upward-firing midrange speaker, 1 x right-firing midrange speaker, 1 x left-firing mid-range speaker, 1 x forward-firing tweeter, 1 x downward-firing wooferSupported Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, AirplayEthernet: NoAux-in: YesUSB: NospecificationsColourBlackConditionNewToday's Best DealsView at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab)View at Walmart (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Gigantic sound+Alexa smarts Reasons to avoid-Larger than your average Echo-3D audio is a mixed bag Love Apple but hate Siri? The Amazon Echo Studio might be the perfect answer, offering AirPlay 2 support alongside Alexa smarts. It's a good option for anyone who's low on space and can't stretch to an upfiring soundbar or multi-speaker setup, as it can upmix stereo sources into a form of spatial audio. If you're upgrading from the simple speakers built into your TV, or a lowly stereo soundbar, it's a fantastic and simple upgrade to make to your home cinema system. You'll get a cracking, resonant bass response, excellent volume and far more depth than a comparably-priced soundbar can offer. Read more: Amazon Echo Studio review (Image credit: Braun) 9 Braun LE01 The best AirPlay speaker in a one-box solution SpecificationsWeight: N/ADimensions: 700 x 271 x 99mm (W x H x D)Drivers: 3 x front-firing drivers, 2 x passive radiators and 3 x class D amplifiersSupported connectivity : Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, AirPlay, ChromecastAux-in: YesUSB: NoToday's Best DealsCheck Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Refined sound and build quality+Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast streaming Reasons to avoid-Needs to be set up using Google Home-Basic app A resurrected Braun Audio's new flagship one-box hi-fi offers impressively bassy yet detailed audio, plus excellent build quality to complement its smart speaker status. The need to use Google Home for setup and Google Assistant-only compatibility might annoy some, but Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast streaming is easily capable of challenging Sonos on sound quality. That's a good thing, because the LE01 smart speaker comes with only Bluetooth 4.2; there's no sign of aptX hi-res audio streaming. Nor does this dual-band Wi-Fi speaker allow streaming directly from Tidal Connect or Spotify Connect, and it doesn't operate as an access-all-areas UPnP speaker either. Read more: Braun LE01 review (Image credit: Devialet) 10 Devialet Phantom I The best AirPlay speaker for bassy sound SpecificationsWeight: 11.4kgDimensions: 255 x 252 x 342mm (H x W x D)Drivers: Grade 1 titanium tweeter driver, aluminum medium driver, aluminum bass driversSupported connectivity : Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, RoonAux-in: NoUSB: NoToday's Best DealsView at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at World Wide Stereo (opens in new tab)View at Crutchfield (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Unique design+Fantastic audio performance Reasons to avoid-Super-expensive-Quite heavy and large The Devialet Phantom I is a continuation of the French audio brand's iconic range of wireless speakers, which come with powerful side-firing bass reflex ports that pulse in time to your music. The sound is nothing short of outstanding, and a good range of connectivity options - including AirPlay 2 - and an easy-to-use app make the Phantom I easy to recommend – if you have a lot of money to spare, that is. Oh, and don't forget the 22-carat rose gold-plated sides – which may go some way to explain the speaker's $3,200 / £2,790 / AU$5,490 price. And that's the price for just one speaker, by the way. If you want to pair two for stereo sound, it will cost you double. Still, the sound is undeniably good. This speaker packs a real punch, presenting a powerful, immersive sound, thumping bass, smooth mids and detailed trebles. Read more: Devialet Phantom I review AirPlay Speakers Buying Advice How to choose the best AirPlay speaker There are a lot of factors to consider when you're looking for the best AirPlay speakers for you. One of the obvious ones is budget. None of the speakers in our list below are cheap. But they are from some of the best audio brands around, which means your money will go further and you'll have access to updates so they keep working for a long time. Some cheaper and older speakers might not be getting updates anymore, so that's worth checking before you buy. If you want AirPlay but you're not sure your budget can stretch to new speakers, consider the Belkin SoundForm Connect instead. It's an audio adapter that can be plugged into any powered speaker or sound system via a 3.5mm or optical port to give it Apple AirPlay 2 connectivity, giving your old speakers a very modern upgrade. Design is also important. Luckily, most AirPlay speakers are simple and streamlined, meaning they'll fit into most homes discretely. However, it is worth considering whether a small portable speaker, like the Sonos Roam, or a soundbar that slots under your TV, like the Sonos Beam (Gen 2), would suit you and your home better. Finally, think about sound quality. All of the best Airplay speakers below are on our list for a reason, but you might have specific things to consider. For example, do you like listening to hi-res audio? Only a few of the options below will give you the sound quality you're looking for. The best way to choose the right AirPlay speaker for you is to take a look at the options and compare the specs. Be sure to click through to our reviews of the speakers too, which will give you even more information about how they work day-to-day. How we test the best AirPlay speaker We've tested all of the top AirPlay speakers in this guide and, to be included, we wanted to ensure that each device ticked a few key boxes. For starters, as you might expect, we wanted to ensure they have reliable AirPlay integration that works well and provides a reliable connection. We also wanted to ensure they boast great sound quality. Not all of these speakers provide room-filling sound, but they all blast out music and do your favorite tracks and albums justice. We've been sure to include a number of different types of speakers, from those that are more portable to soundbars that are, mostly, designed to hang out in one place. Can I AirPlay to multiple speakers If you have a multiroom audio system, you should have no trouble using AirPlay to cast your music to more than one speaker at a time. You'll just need a compatible system - check out brands like Sonos, Bowers & Wilkins, and Bang & Olufsen for wireless speakers that support the format. Which is better Google Chromecast or Apple AirPlay 2 It depends on your needs. In terms of pure audio fidelity, Chromecast wins; it supports 24-bit / 96Hz streaming, whereas AirPlay 2 is limited to 16-bit / 44.1Hz streaming. So, if you're looking for hi-res audio support, Chromecast is your best bet. If you're not too worried about hi-res audio, AirPlay's CD-quality streams should suffice, though. Chromecast also works with a wider range of source devices, while AirPlay 2 is pretty much limited to Apple products - though both services work with lots of third-party speakers, soundbars, and TVs. If voice control is important to you, Chromecast is probably the better option, too. That's because Google Assistant is built into lots of smart speakers, while Apple's Siri is limited to the HomePod and HomePod mini. If you're an Apple obsessive, that won't matter though. AirPlay still offers the best streaming solution for Apple devices. AirPlay speaker dealsLooking for the best Bluetooth speakers? We have you coveredRound up of today's best deals (opens in new tab)Apple HomePod mini (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$99.99 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all pricesLow StockReduced Price (opens in new tab)Sonos One (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$287 (opens in new tab)$269 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all prices (opens in new tab)Sonos Five (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$591 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all pricesReduced Price (opens in new tab)Bowers & Wilkins Formation WEDGE (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$999 (opens in new tab)$856.75 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all prices (opens in new tab)KEF LSX II (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$1,399.98 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all prices (opens in new tab)Sonos Roam (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$179 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all pricesReduced Price (opens in new tab)Amazon Echo Studio (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$229.99 (opens in new tab)$154.99 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all prices (opens in new tab)Devialet Phantom I (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$2,300 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricespowered by Matt BoltonSenior Editor, TV & AudioMatt is TechRadar's Senior Editor for TV and Audio, meaning he's in charge of persuading our team of reviewers to watch gorgeous TVs and listen to fantastic speakers and headphones. It's a tough task, as you can imagine. Matt has over a decade of experience in tech publishing, and previously ran the TV & audio coverage for our colleagues at T3.com, and before that he edited T3 magazine. During his career, he's also contributed to places as varied as Creative Bloq, PC Gamer, PetsRadar, MacLife, and Edge. TV and movie nerdism is his speciality, and he goes to the cinema three times a week. He's always happy to explain the virtues of Dolby Vision over a drink, but he might need to use props, like he's explaining the offside rule.With contributions fromAndrew WilliamsOlivia Tambini See more Audio news TechRadar Newsletter Sign up to get breaking news, reviews, opinion, analysis and more, plus the hottest tech deals! Thank you for signing up to TechRadar. You will receive a verification email shortly. There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again. 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