> Bose Portable Smart Speaker

$349 From bose.com Features AirPlay, IPX4

3 With Bluetooth 4.2 and AirPlay, this has an IPX4 water–resistance rating for protection from splashes and a great build and finish. The app is slick and setup over Bluetooth or Wi–Fi is easy. You can AirPlay any Apple device to the speaker while on the same network or use it in regular Bluetooth mode while away from Wi–Fi. The top surface contains core controls for playback and volume, with a circular light system giving feedback for power and volume.

The app lets you configure Alexa or Google Assistant voice services so you can use voice control via the

speaker’s microphone array to set timers, play Spotify, and the like. You can also share the speaker with other users of the app on your network. Playback is great with an excellent sonic balance, and though Bose doesn’t advertise wattage the speaker can go incredibly loud, even if it loses focus a little at higher levels. Battery life is 12 hours and there’s an optional charging stand.