Audio performance is our top criteria for reviewing speakers, but aesthetics matter too. No one wants a hideous hunk of plastic pumping out tunes in their living room, regardless of how good it sounds. Not all stylish speakers back up looks with hi-fi sound, but there are plenty of good-looking speakers with sound to match their looks.
Sometimes, it can feel like there are only two design styles we see with speakers these days: rugged, rubbery outdoor-proof tanks, and rounded, cloth-lined, minimal boxes. Yet, even within these ranks, there are some standout designs, and our goal here is to guide you to be the best-looking speakers that also sound great.
One note: We live in a wireless world now—not every option here is a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi streaming speaker, but most of them are. Therefore, assume the speaker is wireless unless we point out that it isn’t. We’ve included a couple of wired options for those who can’t commit to the wireless audio realm just yet, and we’ve even thrown in some soundbars to make sure you’re covered on all bases.
