The Best Portable Speakers
Portable speakers have become a must-have accessory for those who want to take their music on the go. Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a party, or just relaxing at home, having a high-quality portable speaker is essential. The market is filled with a variety of options, but with our expert help, we can help you find the best portable speakers to fit your needs. At Gadget Insider, we’ve tested and compared the top brands, such as JBL, Bose, and many more, to provide you with the ultimate guide for selecting the best portable speakers.
Our Top Picks
-
Best Overall: JBL Flip 5
-
Best Value: Anker Soundcore 2
-
Best Bluetooth Speaker: Bose SoundLink Revolve+
-
Best Waterproof Speaker: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2
-
Best Mini Speaker: Bose SoundLink Micro
Detail Reviews Of Top 5 Best Portable Speakers
1. Best Overall: JBL Flip 5
Specifications:
- Battery life: 12 hours
- Waterproof: Yes
- Bluetooth range: 33 feet
- Dimensions: 2.9 x 6.9 x 2.7 inches
- Weight: 1.19 pounds
Pros:
- Incredible sound quality with deep bass and crisp highs
- Rugged, durable design with waterproof feature
- Long battery life and quick charging time
Cons:
- No built-in microphone for hands-free calling
- No AUX input for wired connections
Product Summary:
The JBL Flip 5 is the best overall portable speaker, providing excellent sound quality with deep bass and crisp highs, all packed in a rugged, waterproof design that’s perfect for outdoor adventures. Its battery life lasts for up to 12 hours, and the device can be quickly charged. The only drawback is that it doesn’t have a built-in microphone or AUX input, but its sound quality makes up for it. Suitable for anyone who loves music and outdoor activities.
2. Best Value: Anker Soundcore 2
Specifications:
- Battery life: 24 hours
- Waterproof: Yes
- Bluetooth range: 66 feet
- Dimensions: 6.5 x 2.2 x 1.8 inches
- Weight: 12.6 ounces
Pros:
- Excellent battery life that lasts up to 24 hours
- Waterproof and dustproof design for outdoor use
- Affordable price for a high-quality portable speaker
Cons:
- Lack of depth in bass
- Mediocre sound quality at high volumes
Product Summary:
The Anker Soundcore 2 is the best value portable speaker, providing a long-lasting battery life of up to 24 hours and a waterproof and dustproof design that’s perfect for outdoor use. Its price is affordable for a high-quality portable speaker, but its bass depth is lacking, and the sound quality isn’t impressive at high volumes. Suitable for anyone on a budget who wants a reliable portable speaker for casual use.
3. Best Bluetooth Speaker: Bose SoundLink Revolve+
Specifications:
- Battery life: 16 hours
- Waterproof: Yes
- Bluetooth range: 30 feet
- Dimensions: 3.2 x 3.2 x 6 inches
- Weight: 1.5 pounds
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with a 360-degree coverage
- Waterproof and durable design
- Hassle-free Bluetooth pairing with voice prompts
Cons:
- No AUX input for wired connections
- Expensive price point
Product Summary:
The Bose SoundLink Revolve+ is the best Bluetooth portable speaker, providing exceptional sound quality with 360-degree coverage, all packed in a waterproof and durable design. Its Bluetooth pairing is hassle-free, thanks to voice prompts, and it provides up to 16 hours of battery life. However, its lack of AUX input and high price point may not be suitable for everyone. Suitable for anyone who wants the best Bluetooth speaker for a premium price.
4. Best Waterproof Speaker: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2
Specifications:
- Battery life: 13 hours
- Waterproof: Yes
- Bluetooth range: 100 feet
- Dimensions: 3.7 x 3.7 x 4 inches
- Weight: 15.5 ounces
Pros:
- Impressive waterproof feature with an IP67 rating
- Excellent 360-degree sound quality
- Long Bluetooth range of up to 100 feet
Cons:
- Average battery life compared to competitors
- Limited bass depth
Product Summary:
The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2 is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a portable speaker that can withstand the elements. With an IP67 rating, it’s both waterproof and dustproof, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Its 360-degree sound ensures that everyone can enjoy the music no matter where they are, and with a battery life of up to 13 hours, it will last all day long. The compact size of the WONDERBOOM 2 makes it easy to take it anywhere, and its ability to pair with another WONDERBOOM 2 for stereo sound is a great feature. While it doesn’t have a built-in voice assistant or audio playback controls, the WONDERBOOM 2 is still a solid choice for anyone who wants a rugged and reliable portable speaker.
5. Best Mini Speaker: Bose SoundLink Micro
Specifications:
- Waterproof and rugged design
- Up to 6 hours of battery life
- Bluetooth connectivity and voice prompts
Pros:
- Compact size and easy to carry around
- Clear and detailed sound
- Built-in speakerphone for taking calls
Cons:
- No voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant
- Short battery life compared to other mini speakers
Product Summary:
The Bose SoundLink Micro is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a compact speaker that can go anywhere. With a waterproof and rugged design, it’s perfect for outdoor activities, and its compact size makes it easy to take with you wherever you go. The sound quality is clear and detailed, and the built-in speakerphone is a great feature for taking calls on the go. While it doesn’t have a voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant, the Bluetooth connectivity and voice prompts make it easy to use. The battery life of up to 6 hours is shorter than some other mini speakers, but it’s still enough for most outings.
FAQs
Q: What is a portable speaker?
A: A portable speaker is a device that allows you to listen to music or other audio content on the go. It’s small, lightweight, and easy to carry, making it ideal for outdoor activities or travel.
Q: What should I look for in a portable speaker?
A: When shopping for a portable speaker, you should consider its sound quality, battery life, portability, and durability. Also, look for features like waterproofing, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice assistant integration, depending on your needs.
Q: Can I use portable speakers to make phone calls?
A: Yes, many portable speakers come with a built-in microphone and speakerphone capabilities, allowing you to make and receive calls hands-free.
Final Thought
In conclusion, portable speakers are a convenient and versatile way to enjoy music and audio content on the go. With so many options available, it’s important to choose a speaker that fits your needs and preferences. Consider factors like sound quality, battery life, and durability to find the best portable speaker for you.