The Best Smart Speakers of 2025: A Comparison of JBL Authentics 500, Sonos Era 100, and Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen)

Smart speakers have become an essential part of modern homes, providing voice control, music streaming, and smart home automation. With so many options available, choosing the right smart speaker can be challenging. In this post, we compare three top contenders: JBL Authentics 500, Sonos Era 100, and Amazon Echo Dot (5th Generation), examining their benefits, positives, and drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.

3/17/20252 min read

JBL Authentics 500

Benefits:

  • Dual Assistant Support: This speaker uniquely supports both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant simultaneously.

  • Premium Audio Quality: It features high-end sound performance with Dolby Atmos support, offering an immersive audio experience.

  • Stylish Retro Design: Inspired by classic JBL speakers, the Authentics 500 adds a touch of elegance to any room.

  • Room Calibration Feature: Adapts its audio output to the acoustics of your space for optimal sound.

Positives:

✔ High-quality, room-filling sound with deep bass. ✔ Supports both Alexa and Google Assistant simultaneously. ✔ Elegant design suitable for any decor. ✔ Dolby Atmos support for a more immersive experience.

Negatives:

✘ Expensive compared to other smart speakers. ✘ Larger and heavier than most alternatives. ✘ Lacks built-in battery, limiting portability.

Sonos Era 100

Benefits:

  • Superior Sound Performance: Provides a well-balanced, detailed sound profile with excellent bass response.

  • Flexible Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB-C line-in, allowing versatile use.

  • Seamless Multi-Room Audio: Integrates with other Sonos speakers for a whole-home audio experience.

  • Voice Assistant Support: Works with Amazon Alexa and the Sonos voice assistant for hands-free control.

Positives:

✔ Outstanding audio clarity and bass performance. ✔ Easily pairs with other Sonos devices for expanded audio. ✔ Compact size with premium build quality. ✔ Versatile connectivity options.

Negatives:

✘ No Google Assistant support. ✘ More expensive than most basic smart speakers. ✘ Lacks Dolby Atmos, unlike JBL Authentics 500.

Amazon Echo Dot (5th Generation)

Benefits:

  • Affordable Smart Speaker: One of the best budget-friendly options with great features.

  • Alexa Integration: Provides seamless voice control for smart home devices.

  • Improved Sound Quality: Offers richer sound and deeper bass compared to previous models.

  • Compact Design: Small and unobtrusive, perfect for any space.

Positives:

✔ Very affordable and widely available. ✔ Compact size, making it easy to place anywhere. ✔ Great for smart home automation with Alexa. ✔ Improved sound quality for its size.

Negatives:

✘ Sound quality isn’t as powerful as Sonos or JBL. ✘ Lacks support for Google Assistant. ✘ No Dolby Atmos or advanced audio features.

Which Smart Speaker Should You Choose?

  • If sound quality is your top priority and you want a high-end experience, the JBL Authentics 500 is the best option, offering Dolby Atmos and premium sound.

  • If you want a balance between price, sound quality, and versatility, the Sonos Era 100 is a great choice, providing excellent audio and connectivity options.

  • If you need an affordable and compact smart speaker primarily for Alexa-based smart home control, the Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) is the way to go.

Each of these smart speakers serves different needs, so consider your priorities before making a purchase. Whether you’re looking for audiophile-grade sound, smart home control, or budget-friendly convenience, there’s a smart speaker that fits your lifestyle.

Which one do you prefer?