Using a WiFi connection, the best airplay speakers with AirPlay support allow Apple users to access and stream their music over their home network. However, not all loudspeakers support the AirPlay technology or are unreservedly recommended. We present the most recommendable AirPlay speakers and general tips on buying AirPlay speakers. Let’s get playing!
What makes WLAN and AirPlay speakers exciting
WLAN speakers make the hearts of music fans beat faster: At the push of a button, the favorite song can be heard in every room – and without having to lay annoying cables beforehand or constantly having to re-establish the Bluetooth connection.
There are different types of WLAN boxes, most of which are also suitable as a multi-room system: Most of them work via the home network, i.e., connect to your WLAN. Manufacturers such as Sonos or Samsung, on the other hand, build an additional mesh network, for which a so-called bridge is required.
The advantage: there is no additional load on your own WLAN. Before buying a WLAN box, however, you have to decide on a manufacturer – and then stay with this manufacturer if you want to set up a multiroom system. Because the speakers are usually not compatible with each other.
AirPlay in particular is an interface specifically designed for the transmission of iOS and macOS devices, but which is supported by most WiFi speakers. If there are supported speakers in your network, they are displayed in the control center of your Apple device and can be controlled at any time with just a few taps or clicks. In contrast to Bluetooth connections, no detour into the settings and the Bluetooth menu of your mobile device is necessary.
The current version of Apple AirPlay is supported by iPhones and iPads from iOS 11.4 and Macs with at least macOS High Sierra 10.13.6. AirPlay 2 also introduced improved audio buffering in 2018 and also offers multi-room control – but speakers must explicitly support this new version.
In the following article, we have tried four AirPlay loudspeakers in different price and equipment classes and summarized their properties. We will then give you a few tips on how to buy AirPlay speakers. That soundbars are also a good alternative and are reviewed, too.
Best AirPlay speakers in 2022
Bose Home Speaker 500
With excellent sound and ease of use, the loudspeaker from Bose is the current test winner of our list. But he also costs a lot for his technology.
Yamaha Musiccast 20
For its comparatively low price, the Musiccast 20 surprises with good sound and user-friendly operability. However, its maximum volume is relatively low, and the foreign-language conditions of use may cause penalties.
Harman Kardon Citation 500
Equipped with a voice assistant, there are deductions in terms of data protection for the second test winner, but the speaker can convince overall with an excellent sound and the practical touchscreen. The maximum volume is high, but the speaker itself is pretty heavy and therefore also quite expensive.
Bose Home Speaker 500
With a handsome LC display and ease of use, the Bose loudspeaker is an inexpensive alternative to the smart test winner. But some users noticed clear deficiencies in data protection and the sound cannot fully convince due to the somewhat booming bass.
Alternative: Soundbars with AirPlay
If you are looking for an AirPlay-enabled loudspeaker for your living room, it may also be worthwhile to combine this new acquisition directly with a new soundbar. The wide television speakers are enjoying increasing popularity and are not stingy with an effective and intense sound – they are also usually well suited for music. Many soundbars allow the smartphone to be connected via Bluetooth or WLAN and some also have Apple’s AirPlay interface.
This also includes, for example, the Harmann Kardon Citation MultiBeam, which is well-off in our soundbar best list. The soundbar impresses with its decent and balanced sound, which can assert itself among the AirPlay models on our best list. For around $500, it doesn’t cost too much either.
Basically, soundbars with AirPlay certification are a valuable combination of TV speakers and jukebox. Especially if you want to operate your device stationary in a fixed room, buying a soundbar makes perfect sense. When buying, however, look out for the AirPlay logo, as not all devices offer the interface by far.
Important considerations when buying AirPlay speakers
There are also some aspects to consider with the “normal” AirPlay speakers.
In this case, AirPlay support, which is not automatically provided for all WLAN speakers, is fundamental when choosing speakers. So check the certification before buying, for example via the manufacturer’s website, the product descriptions in the online shop, or the printing on the packaging.
Without AirPlay, using it with iOS or macOS devices is only half as convenient. As already described at the beginning, the newer version of the interface is the first choice due to the improved streaming but is only used by Apple devices from iOS 11.4 and Macs with at least macOS High Sierra 10.13.6.
You should also be aware of the planned use of your loudspeaker. Even if you might be considering buying a soundbar, there are some stationary models that are usually tied to a room. Smaller devices, on the other hand, can easily change their location or even be used on the go, thanks to an integrated battery.
The motto is often: the more mobile, the more moderate the sound, or the higher the price. You usually get the best sound from stationary devices with an additional subwoofer and/or stereo coupling of additional speakers.
For mobile devices, however, there are additional factors that must be taken into account: In addition to the battery life, this includes, for example, water protection, which can be indispensable on bodies of water or in the rain. Simple splash protection according to IPX4 is the minimum, but ideally, the speaker should be protected against submersion according to IPX7.
But especially in households with non-Apple users, your loudspeaker should also have sensible alternative connection paths. Most speakers with AirPlay support also offer playback via WLAN from incompatible devices such as Android smartphones or the PC and often use classic variants such as Bluetooth or AUX. Before buying, it is always worth checking the loudspeaker’s connection options and covering the broadest possible spectrum – this can also make sense regarding possible future device changes.
Aside from the connection options, WiFi speakers offer a wide variety of functions. These include, for example, voice assistants such as Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant, which, thanks to the Internet connection and a built-in microphone, can respond accurately to the user’s inquiries.
In conjunction with integrated streaming services, for example, via Spotify Connect, the music library can be accessed directly without controlling playback via AirPlay. On the other hand, those who prefer classic operation will be happy with a tailor-made companion app with valuable features or an equalizer.
Providers such as Sonos or Bose offer corresponding programs for download free of charge. In addition to standard elements such as volume or pausing, quick access buttons or an innovative touch interface are also welcome for operation on the device itself.