The finest AirPlay speakers let you broadcast music, podcasts, and audiobooks instantly from your iPhone or iPad to a speaker in your house. The main benefit is that you can get room-filling sound from your phone without having to set up a more complicated entertainment system. Apple’s wireless streaming technology is known as Apple AirPlay. So, if you already own Apple goods like iPhones, iPads, an Apple TV, or even an Apple HomePod, you’re probably using AirPlay without even realizing it.
However, AirPlay speakers are required to get the most of AirPlay and the products you currently possess. This is why we’ve compiled a list of our finest AirPlay-compatible speakers below. Although there are a plethora of smart speakers to pick from these days, not all of them will work with your existing Apple devices.
In 2019, Apple released AirPlay 2, the next version of its cutting-edge proprietary wireless platform. This transformed Apple’s streaming standard into a true multi-room platform, including Siri integration in wireless speakers that would never have had it before. AirPlay was also added to more devices at that time, including Samsung TVs. After a few years, even more TV makers, including LG, Sony, and Vizio, have at least three or four AirPlay TV options.
But, assuming you don’t have an AirPlay-enabled TV, which Apple AirPlay 2 speakers are the best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the greatest soundbars and Bluetooth speakers on the market right now.
Table of Contents
Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage
- Dolby Atmos Surround Sound: Lose yourself in the moment, with a...
- Room-filling sound: Rich, multi-dimensional sound powered by 11 different...
- Ready to fit into your setup: Beosound Stage works with any 3rd party TV...
The BeoSound Stage from Bang & Olufsen is a premium soundbar that delivers room-filling sound in a high-quality compact with a remote control. This beauty features an aluminum frame and cloth speaker front, as well as a basic, flat style that is sure to spark attention. Most controls are available at the time of use on the BeoSound Stage, and volume and content can also be adjusted via iOS or Siri. This is the Best AirPlay 2 Soundbars in 2023.
Bose Smart Soundbar 900 Dolby Atmos
- BOSE SMART SOUNDBAR 900: Premium Bose voice control soundbar. Two...
- DOLBY ATMOS SOUNDBAR: This wireless Bluetooth soundbar lends an extra...
- SLEEK DESIGN: From material quality to construction and finishes to...
Bose’s Soundbar 900 is a tiny soundbar that offers the company’s acclaimed sound to your home theater. The Soundbar 900 is 41 inches wide, which fits nicely with most television sizes, and it has a sleek glass and aluminum frame. With Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant integrated right in, this soundbar is also future-proof, allowing you to take it with you if you decide to switch things up including dolby atmos support. This is the Best AirPlay 2 Soundbar in 2023.
Sonos Beam Gen 2
- Enjoy vibrant bass, crystal clear dialogue, and a panoramic soundstage.
- Experience a 3D surround sound effect with Dolby Atmos.
- Stream music, radio, podcasts, and audiobooks from all your favorite...
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is the best sound system for most people because it combines superb sound quality, ease of use, and a low price. Not only does this small soundbar support Dolby Atmos and AirPlay 2, but it also works with a variety of third-party services via the Sonos app. If you don’t mind the cords, the Beam also contains an HDMI eARC connector, which allows you to listen to your TV directly.
Denon Home Sound Bar 550
- POWERFUL AUDIO FROM A COMPACT SOUND BAR - Upgrade your movie & music...
- IMPACTFUL 3D SURROUND SOUND - With the combined effect of premium .75" soft...
- EXTRAORDINARY VISUALS - Enjoy an extraordinary cinematic experience on your...
The Amazon Alexa built-in to the Denon Home Sound Bar 550 gives your home theater an instant upgrade with voice controls. Two tweeters, four drivers, and three passive radiators are included within the soundbar, which supports most audio formats including DTS:X and Dolby Atmos. The Home Sound Bar 550, unlike most AirPlay 2 soundbars, also enables Bluetooth audio streaming, making it simple to connect visitors.
Roku Streambar
- Built-in 4K streaming device: Enjoy an easy, fast interface with popular...
- Watch what you love: Stream a massive selection of free, live, and premium...
- Surprisingly big sound: Listen in awe as four internal speakers fill your...
The Roku Streambar combines a Roku 4K media player with a small soundbar form factor, making it simple to upgrade your home cinema. Aside from AirPlay 2, the Streambar also supports Apple’s HomeKit, allowing users to include it into scenes and automation that can switch everything on with a tap or a Siri command.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AirPlay 2?
AirPlay 2 is Apple’s wireless protocol suite that allows you to stream audio and video content from one device to another. Originally introduced as AirTunes in 2004, AirPlay 2 builds upon its predecessor by providing enhanced control and expanded features. With AirPlay 2, you can stream music, videos, photos, and even share your screen across multiple devices simultaneously.
How does AirPlay 2 work?
AirPlay 2 utilizes Apple’s HomeKit platform to enable seamless control of compatible devices. It allows you to stream music to multiple AirPlay 2-enabled speakers, creating a true multiroom streaming system. Whether you’re using an iOS device, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV, you have full control over audio playback and can effortlessly enjoy your favorite content across different devices.
What are the benefits of using AirPlay 2 soundbars?
AirPlay 2 soundbars offer several advantages for your home theater setup:
a. Enhanced Audio Experience: AirPlay 2 soundbars provide superior audio quality, allowing you to enjoy immersive sound when watching movies, listening to music, or playing games.
b. Multiroom Audio: With AirPlay 2, you can synchronize audio playback across multiple speakers, creating a seamless listening experience throughout your home.
c. HomeKit Integration: AirPlay 2 soundbars seamlessly integrate with Apple’s HomeKit smart home platform, allowing you to control your speakers and soundbars with ease. Set up automation, control playback, and enjoy your favorite tunes as soon as you enter your home.
Which devices are compatible with AirPlay 2?
AirPlay 2 compatibility depends on the device you’re using. For sender devices, such as iPhones and Mac computers, you’ll need iOS 11 or later and macOS 10.13 or later, respectively. As for receiver devices, the list is rapidly growing, encompassing various brands of wireless speakers, smart TVs, and soundbars. It’s important to check the AirPlay 2 compatibility of your specific device to ensure seamless integration.