A smart speaker that also functions as a remote control for ineffective devices is the Xiaomi Smart Speaker with IR and LED clock. It has a segmented LCD display, a 1.5-inch 360-degree speaker module, and Google Assistant. Those who plan to purchase it or who obtained it as a freebie should read this review.
Design
Xiaomi constructs the complete Smart Speaker with IR and LED clock from ABS plastic, with actual holes distributing sound evenly on the bottom two-thirds of the taller sides. The speaker is 14 cm tall and 9.5 cm wide, with 360-degree sound. The device has a weight of 628g and requires a specific 12V/1A cable to function. The lighted segmented LCD panel on the front evokes memories of bedside alarms from the 1990s. Four microphone holes and four controls for volume control, muting, pause, and track playback are located on top. The physical buttons on the speaker appear antiquated, but they function well and let it fit in with a desk or living area.
Sounds and Smart Features
Xiaomi’s latest smart speaker supports 5GHz WiFi bands, has Chromecast functionality, and is Bluetooth 5.0 compliant. You can use it for voice-assisted functions such as music playback and smart device control, or you can use it as a standard Bluetooth speaker. To set it up, you need to install the Google Home app, log in, pair it with a speaker, pair it with another remote, and pair it with an appliance. The speaker can operate appliances with voice commands, but initially, the interface may be complex. The speaker has automated timer settings, temperature control, and AC on/off/temperature adjustment capabilities. While party speakers shouldn’t utilize the infrared capabilities, they can still be useful for practical jokes. Although the speaker can only fill a small space, the sound quality is superior to that of laptops or smartphones. According to the speaker, it has 360-degree audio and evenly distributed sound on all sides, which makes it ideal for usage by the bed.
Performance
The audio quality of the Xiaomi Smart Speaker is passable, with a preference for mid-range and upper-bass frequencies. While the mid-range offers excellent vocal sound coverage and quality, the bass lacks low-end power. But when the music approaches the treble range, it becomes quieter. Users may need to adjust the treble control in the Google Home EQ settings to make up for this. Once set up correctly, the sound is decent enough for a small room, with an acceptable tone, sufficient brightness, and some bass oomph. Google Assistant issues primarily stem from the device’s limitations, but you can use the speaker in stereo.
For the price, the Xiaomi Smart Speaker with IR and LED clock is an excellent speaker. The LCD watch display and infrared capabilities give the package a stylish touch. Although it doesn’t have a particularly powerful sound, the 360-degree throw more than makes up for it.
You can get a somewhat better-looking and slightly better-sounding Google Nest Mini or Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen) with an LED clock for the same price, but none of these include an IR blaster.
