When it comes to wireless speakers, the kinds that based on WI-FI offer many benefits over Bluetooth, and they usually cost about the same.
Firstly, your battery will last longer as the speaker makes a direct connection with the streaming service and not your file You can even turn your phone off and the music will keep playing.
Secondly, you won't get interrupted by phone calls, text messages, or other random alerts coming through the speaker.
Thirdly, WiFi speakers are for both better sound quality and the ability to listen in more than one room at once.
If you're looking to buy Wi-Fi speakers these are four things you'll need to consider first.
What are you using the speaker for?
If you just need it for background music, you don't need to spend very much.
Between #$150 and $200 will get you a speaker that will sit on your kitchen counter, stream internet music and sound quite decent.
But, if you want something that will double as your main stereo, look at adding a streaming dongle.
Such as, Which is the Chromecast audio to your existing system.
One buck speakers are great for dorm rooms, but not as good for a living room.
Secondly, there are many different standards.
And if you want to play in multiple rooms, you'll need to get speakers that will work together.
Sonos is the most recognizable brand, but it does require you to use a new app.
The same goes for Play-Fi speakers.
But if you have an Android phone, a Chromecast built-in system is best.
It lets you use your existing apps, and just tap the Cast button to play music.
Meanwhile, for our iOS users, an Apply Airplay system may also work.
Thirdly, which streaming services do you use?
Most speakers will do Spotify Connect, Pandora, and streaming from your phone.
But it's best to check your favorite service is supported by the system before you buy.
Lastly, if you're doing multi room music how many different listening zones do you want?
Most households will probably want at last three, kitchen, living room and bedroom.
While there's seeming a lot to know about wi-fi speakers, in the end it's pretty easy.
And sticking with one brand usually helps.
And with the release of the [UNKNOWN] studio it doesn't even cost a lot.
Once you've got WiFi you won't go back.
