Google Nest Audio

The Google Nest Audio is a solid choice if you’re after a smart speaker that delivers on sound quality and smart home integration. Priced at £99.99, it’s not the cheapest option out there, but it does offer good value considering what you get.

First off, the audio quality is impressive. With room-filling bass and overall balanced sound, it’s definitely a step up from the original Google Home. Whether you're playing music or listening to podcasts, it handles various genres well. The three microphones do a decent job of picking up your voice, even in slightly noisy environments, which is handy when you’re trying to control your smart home devices or ask questions.

Speaking of smart home control, the Nest Audio integrates seamlessly with Google Assistant. If you’re already in the Google ecosystem, this speaker fits right in. You can use it to control lights, thermostats, and more, all with your voice. It also supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi bands, which is nice for ensuring a stable connection, and Bluetooth 5.0 is included for easy pairing with other devices.

However, it’s not without its downsides. While the design is sleek and modern, it might not suit everyone's aesthetic preferences. Plus, if you’re after a speaker that can double as a home theatre system, you might want to look elsewhere. The sound is great for casual listening, but it won’t replace a proper sound system for movies.

Overall, I’d give the Google Nest Audio an 85 out of 100. It’s a strong contender in the smart speaker market, especially if you want something that sounds good and plays nicely with your other smart devices. Just be aware of its limitations if you’re looking for something with a bit more oomph for serious audio needs.