“The best-sounding speaker under $100”
The Google Nest Audio ($99.99) is recommended with a 8/10 consensus score across 15 expert reviews. Experts highlight great sound for the price and excellent google assistant. The Verge says: "The best-sounding speaker under $100" Best for: Google ecosystem users, Music lovers on budget, Minimalist aesthetics.

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Google Nest Audio
Smart Speakers
SmartHomeExplorer proprietary rating
15 expert sources
The Google Nest Audio earns a SHE Score of 6.7/10, driven by strong future-proofing (9.5/10) with room to improve in compatibility breadth (2.9/10). Based on 15 expert sources and SmartHomeExplorer compatibility analysis.
How we calculate the SHE Score →Expert Consensus: 8/10 across 15 sources
Last verified:“The best-sounding speaker under $100”
Key Features
- ✓ Room-filling sound
- ✓ Adaptive audio
- ✓ Stereo pairing
- ✓ Sustainable materials
Best For
What Experts Agree On
What Experts Love
- ✓ Great sound for the price
- ✓ Excellent Google Assistant
- ✓ Clean, minimal design
- ✓ Good for stereo pairing
- ✓ Strong bass response
Common Criticisms
- ✗ No aux input
- ✗ Limited without Google services
- ✗ No built-in hub features
- ✗ Touch controls can be finicky
What The Experts Say
“Google Assistant shines, and the audio quality punches above its weight”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Nest Audio worth it?
Google Nest Audio earns a 8/10 consensus score across our 12 expert sources. It is rated "Recommended" — Google ecosystem users. At $99.99, The best-sounding speaker under $100
Who is the Google Nest Audio best for?
Google Nest Audio is best for: Google ecosystem users, Music lovers on budget, Minimalist aesthetics. Experts rate it "Recommended" overall.
How does the Google Nest Audio compare to other Smart Speakers options?
Among the Smart Speakers products we have reviewed, Google Nest Audio ranks above average with a 8/10 score. Google Assistant shines, and the audio quality punches above its weight
What smart home systems does the Google Nest Audio work with?
Google Nest Audio works with major smart home platforms. Check our compatibility notes on the product page for any setup requirements or hub dependencies.
What are the pros and cons of the Google Nest Audio?
The main pros of the Google Nest Audio are great sound for the price and excellent google assistant. The main downside is no aux input. Overall, experts rate it "Recommended" with a 8/10 consensus score.
Affiliate disclosure: SmartHomeExplorer.com participates in the Amazon Associates program. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. This consensus review is based on 15 independent expert reviews — we did not test this product ourselves. Always verify current prices and availability before purchasing.

