These are the best next - gen smart speakers to buy in 2018

The fight for the soundtrack is on and Amazon’s Alexa and and Google Home have strong competition: Apple has released its new HomePod, which is likely to tempt scores of loyal Apple fans despite the price tag, and Sonos One is deemed by many the favourite for sound quality.

Others have the advantage of portability: Ultimate Ears’ Megablast is waterproof so you can take it to the bathroom, and Mobvoi’s TicHome Mini is so small you can take it in your handbag to use on the go.

Google Home Mini

For voice commands.

£49, Currys PC World, Buy it now

Bose Soundlink Color Bluetooth Speaker II

For bold sound.

£129.95, Amazon, Buy it now

Apple HomePod

For iPhone addicts.

£319, John Lewis, Buy it now

Amazon Echo

For the kitchen.

£84.99, Amazon, Buy it now

​TicHome Mini

For splash-proof sound.

£75, Mobvoi, Buy it now

JBL Link 20

For the garden.

£179, Currys PC World, Buy it now

Eufy Genie

For portability.

£41.99, eufy, Buy it now

Libratone Zipp

For surround sound.

£249.99, Selfridges, Buy it now

Ninety7 Vaux Speaker

For battery life.

£49, Amazon, Buy it now

Ultimate Ears Megablast

For big beats.

£269.99, Ultimate Ears, Buy it now