Alexa, Google or Siri: which voice assistant to choose for your home?
They all do the same thing, but aren't compatible with everything. How to choose?
Recommended Materials
- Connected speaker
Steps to follow
Step 1
The choice of the ecosystem: Do not choose the speaker for the sound, but for its intelligence and compatibility. It's the brain of your home.
Step 2
Google Assistant (Google Nest): Best for answering general knowledge questions (it's Google!). Very good voice recognition. Compatible with almost everything. Ideal if you have Android phones and use Gmail/Calendar. The Google Home app is very clear.
Step 3
Amazon Alexa (Echo): The queen of home automation. It is the one that is compatible with the greatest number of objects (even obscure brands) thanks to the 'Skills'. Very responsive for commands ('Turn on the light'). Ideal if you want a very connected and complex home.
Step 4
Apple Siri (HomePod): The choice for privacy and sound quality (HomePod). Siri is a little less 'smart' for general questions, but very fast for local home automation. Compatible only with 'HomeKit' certified objects (more expensive but safer). Essential if the whole family is on iPhone/iPad.
Step 5
With or without screen? : Models with a screen (Nest Hub, Echo Show) are great in the kitchen (follow a video recipe, visual timer) or on the nightstand (alarm clock, photo frame). Models without a screen (Nest Audio, Echo Dot) are perfect for the living room or children's bedrooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Confidentiality ?
All these assistants constantly listen for the keyword ('Ok Google', 'Alexa'). What is said BEFORE is not recorded. What is said AFTER is sent to the cloud. You can always mute the mic with a physical button on the device.
Precautions
- Be careful with voice purchases (deactivate if children).
- Do not put near the TV (unexpected triggering).
