The best portable speaker can transform any gathering or outdoor adventure into a memorable audio experience. When searching for the ideal portable speaker, there are several key factors to consider. First and foremost, sound quality should be a top priority. Look for a speaker that delivers clear, crisp audio with a balanced range of frequencies. The speaker’s size and design can also impact its sound performance, so consider whether you need a compact option for on-the-go use or a larger speaker for bigger gatherings.
Additionally, battery life is crucial for portable speakers. Ensure that the speaker you choose offers a battery life that suits your needs, whether it’s for a quick afternoon picnic or an all-day beach excursion. Bluetooth connectivity is another essential feature, allowing you to effortlessly connect your devices. Some portable speakers also offer additional features like water resistance, rugged durability, and even smart assistants integration. Ultimately, the best portable speaker for you will depend on your specific use case, so carefully evaluate your requirements before making a purchase to ensure you get the perfect speaker to enhance your audio experiences wherever you go.
The best portable bluetooth speakers
- Bose SoundLink Flex
- JBL Xtreme 2
- Marshall Middleton
- JBL PartyBox Encore
- Anker Motion Boom Plus
- EarFun UBOOM L
Bose SoundLink Flex
Pros:
- Impressive sound quality for its size
- Compact and portable design
- Durable and water-resistant (IP67)
- Reliable Bluetooth connectivity
- Long-lasting battery life
Cons:
- Relatively higher price point for a mini speaker
- Limited bass depth compared to larger options
JBL Xtreme 2
The JBL Xtreme 2 is pretty good for using outside. Even though we don’t check it ourselves, it’s said to handle water really well with its IPX7 rating. It’s not heavy and has a handy strap, so carrying it around is a breeze wherever you go. What’s cool is that its battery lasts a really long time – almost fifteen hours before needing to charge again! It can blast music pretty loudly, but when it’s cranked up all the way, the sound might not be perfect due to some squeezing or compression. Overall, it’s a decent pick for outdoor fun!
Pros:
- IPX7 rating for water resistance.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Can get fairly loud.
- Very long battery life.
Cons:
- Some compression at max volume.
- Lacks some low-bass.
Marshall's Middleton speaker
Pros:
- Iconic Marshall design and aesthetics
- High-quality, immersive sound
- Multiple connectivity options
- Customizable sound settings
- Vintage charm and premium build
Cons:
- Relatively higher price tag
- Heavier and less portable compared to smaller options
JBL PartyBox Encore
The JBL PartyBox Encore Essential is a compact yet powerful portable speaker designed for indoor parties and karaoke sessions. Delivering 100W of sound with deep bass—especially when Bass Boost is activated—it features a dynamic LED light ring that syncs with your music, enhancing the party atmosphere. The speaker includes a mic input with basic EQ and echo controls, making it suitable for casual karaoke. Its portability is aided by a built-in handle and an IPX4 splash-resistant rating, though the 6-hour battery life and lack of USB-C charging may limit its use for extended outdoor events. While it lacks modern features like Auracast support, the Encore Essential remains a solid choice for those seeking a fun, easy-to-use speaker for home gatherings.
Pros:
- Loud 100W sound with punchy bass
- Fun LED light ring that syncs with music
- Mic input for karaoke with echo control
- Splash-resistant (IPX4) and portable handle
- Easy to use and party-friendly
Cons:
- Only 6-hour battery life
- No USB-C charging
- Lacks smart features like Auracast
- Not ideal for large outdoor events
Anker Motion Boom Plus
The Anker Soundcore Motion Boom Plus is a powerful and portable Bluetooth speaker designed for outdoor enthusiasts and party-goers. It delivers an impressive 80W of sound through dual 30W woofers and 10W tweeters, enhanced by BassUp technology for deep bass and clear highs. The speaker boasts a robust IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, ensuring durability in various environments. With a substantial 13,400mAh battery, it offers up to 20 hours of playback and can double as a power bank to charge other devices. The Motion Boom Plus also features Bluetooth 5.3 for stable connectivity, customizable EQ settings via the Soundcore app, and PartyCast 2.0 for pairing with multiple speakers However, some users have reported issues with passive radiators bulging in high temperatures, potentially affecting bass performance . Overall, the Motion Boom Plus offers a compelling combination of powerful sound, rugged design, and useful features for those seeking a versatile outdoor speaker.
Pros:
- Loud 80W sound with strong bass
- Long 20-hour battery life
- Waterproof and dustproof (IP67)
- Bluetooth 5.3 with stereo pairing
- Customizable EQ via app
Cons:
- No built-in mic for calls
- Bass can be overpowering
- A bit bulky to carry
- Occasional Bluetooth issues
- Long charging time
EarFun UBOOM L
The EarFun UBOOM L is a standout budget Bluetooth speaker that delivers impressive audio performance and rugged durability. Equipped with dual 55mm drivers and passive radiators, it produces a spacious, room-filling sound with punchy bass and clear mids, making it suitable for various music genres. Its IP67 rating ensures it’s dustproof and waterproof, and the speaker even floats, adding to its outdoor appeal. With a 16-hour battery life, USB-C charging, and a 3.5mm aux input, it offers versatility for different listening scenarios. However, some users have noted that at higher volumes, the bass can overshadow mids and highs, and there’s no companion app for EQ customization. Despite these minor drawbacks, the UBOOM L offers exceptional value for its price, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a portable and robust speaker.
Pros:
- Loud, punchy sound with clear mids
- IP67 waterproof and floats
- 16-hour battery life
- Aux input and stereo pairing
- Built-in mic for calls
Cons:
- No EQ app
- Bass can overpower at high volume
- Plain design
- A bit heavy, no strap
- Slow to charge