Its SOUNDBOKS companion app also features a graphic EQ and presets you can use to tweak its sound to your liking, and there are XLR ports you can use to connect it to an external microphone, guitar, or other instruments.
Best outdoor speakers 2021: portable, wireless, waterproof
Whether you genuinely love a podcast in the garden or you’re calmly nudged that way when your nearest and dearest does their online yoga class, grabbing an outdoor Bluetooth speaker is the solution. Listening to music on your bike with a portable speaker is probably a lot safer than wearing headphones, and sticking a playlist on while weeding the lawn surely eases that particular job. Whatever necessitates your music al fresco, there are plenty of portable outdoor speakers that aren’t phased by a daily dose of mother nature. All of these relatively dinky models are great for slinging in a bag, but don’t be fooled: there are plenty of high-fidelity options if you want to really level up the sound quality outside.
JBL Charge 5 Updated specs and subtle tweaks for JBL’s fifth-generation Charge Specifications Dimensions: HxWxD (cm): 22 x 9.6 x 9.4cm Power: 30W + 10W tweeter Features: waterproof, Bluetooth v5.1, power bank, voice assistant integration Connections: USB-C, USB-A TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime £159 View at Amazon £159 View at Richer Sounds £169.99 View at Selfridges Reasons to buy + Clearer and more detailed sound + Wider soundstage + Updated dustproofing Reasons to avoid – Nothing at this level Its predecessor carried an IPX7 rating, meaning it could handle being submerged in water to a depth of 1.5m, but the IP67-rated Charge 5 builds on that durability by also being fully dustproof.
Thanks in part to a new 10W tweeter and racetrack-shaped driver, the Charge 5 is currently as good a sound as you can get in a portable Bluetooth speaker design for under £200 ($200, AU$300). Award-winner last year – and if all you want is a portable outdoorsy Bluetooth speaker that sounds as good as £100 can buy, you’ll still be hard-pressed to better the Flip 5.
The new A1 supports Qualcomm’s latest aptX Adaptive Bluetooth 5.1 codec, there’s an IP67 rating for water and dust ingress, and Alexa is here – despite the fact that it’s Bluetooth-only.
Throw in its classy, well made design, easy to use operation and the bonus of Alexa, and you’re looking at a Bluetooth speaker sequel that has very much been worth the wait. JBL Xtreme 3 JBL’s newest rugged wireless speaker serves up a sonic surprise Specifications Dimensions: HxWxD (cm): 13.9 x 29.8 x 13.4cm Power: 100W Features: Bluetooth v5.1, PartyBoost for multiple connections to PartBoost enabled JBL speakers, IP67 rated Connections: 3.5mm, USB-C, USB-A out TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime £249 View at Amazon £299 View at Richer Sounds £299.99 View at argos.co.uk Reasons to buy + Rugged build + Impressive detail and dynamics + Strong sense of timing Reasons to avoid – No smart features – No hands-free for phone calls Yes, it’s rugged, it’s IP67 dust- and waterproof certified and you’d be forgiven for thinking at first glance that it might be more preoccupied with the amount of bass it’s producing rather than musical quality.
The JBL Xtreme 3 gained five stars across the board during our rigorous in-house testing, never appearing out of its depth no matter how complicated the musical arrangement. The 13-hour battery life is enough for any al-fresco extravaganza, while an IP67 rating means it won’t freak out if you drop it in a pool or leave it out at the beach. JBL Charge 4 A fun and bubbly Bluetooth speaker that’s serious when it comes to sound Specifications Dimensions: HxWxD (cm): 22 x 9.5 x 9.3 Power: 30W Features: waterproof, Bluetooth v4.2, power bank, voice assistant integration Connections: 3.5 mm stereo TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime £178.59 View at Amazon 148 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Rugged and water resistant + USB port for charging + Great sound quality Reasons to avoid – Perhaps too subtle for some Tribit Stormbox Micro A fun and bubbly Bluetooth speaker that’s serious when it comes to sound Specifications Dimensions: HxWxD (cm): 9.8 x 9.8 x 3.5cm Power: 9W Features: water/dustproof, Bluetooth 5.0, stereo-pairing mode Connections: 3.5 mm stereo TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime £42.99 View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Mature, musical sound + Surprisingly weighty bass + USB-C charger Reasons to avoid – Short battery life
Although a speaker of such dimensions is obviously limited in terms of bass weight, it does remarkably well; close your eyes while listening and you’ll picture a bigger product. Take note, Ultimate Ears: a little-known brand called Tribit Audio has produced a budget belter of a Bluetooth speaker.
JBL Charge 3 Rugged portable speaker that loves the great outdoors Specifications Battery life: 20hr Dimensions: HxWxD (cm): 8.7 x 21.3 x 8.9 Features: Bluetooth V4.1, IPX7 waterproof, power bank Power: 2 x 10W TODAY’S BEST DEALS £241.21 View at Amazon 120 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Impressive build + Clever design + Useful features + Weighty, punchy sound Reasons to avoid – Lacks a little subtlety As you might have twigged, it features a gargantuan 6000mAh battery – good for 20 hours playback and capable of charging dying smart devices via USB.
Tivoli Andiamo Stylish speaker that sounds as good as it looks Specifications Battery life: 20hr Dimensions: HxWxD (cm): 5.5 x 13.5 x 5.5 Features: Bluetooth 3.0 Power: 1 x 20W full-range driver TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime £184 View at Amazon £189 View at Peter Tyson 1 Amazon customer review ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Fast, agile, musical sound + Premium feel and build Reasons to avoid – Not much at this price It’s smallest speaker, the Andiamo (Italian for ‘let’s go’) makes up for its lack of frills with its sonic ability, Bang & Olufsen-esque styling and durable aluminium casing. JBL Link Portable For a great, affordable, durable home smart speaker, you’ll be hard-pushed to find a product that can match JBL’s Link Portable Specifications Dimensions: HxWxD (cm): 17 x 8.8 x 8.8 Power: 20W Features: waterproof, Bluetooth v4.2, Google Assistant built-in, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, music over wi-fi Connections: 3.5 mm stereo TODAY’S BEST DEALS £139.99 View at Acer UK Check Amazon Reasons to buy + Expansive sound + Packed with features + Premium design Reasons to avoid – No JBL Connect support – Fussy over placement JBL Xtreme 2 A stylish spin on a waterproof boombox Specifications Battery life: 15hr Dimensions: HxWxD (cm): 13.6 x 28.8 x 13.2 Features: Bluetooth V4.2, IPX7 waterproof, power bank Power: 2 x 20W TODAY’S BEST DEALS £149 View at Currys Prime £241.90 View at Amazon 8 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Clean, clear sound + Balanced bass + Solid design Reasons to avoid – Chunky proportions – No multiroom
But don’t be fooled by the “Xtreme” branding: this speaker sounds controlled and grown-up, offering crisp treble and a refined soundstage. JBL Go 3 JBL’s newest soap-sized speaker sounds good – but the finish and battery life won’t wash with today’s class leaders Specifications Dimensions: HxWxD (cm): 8.8 x 7.5 x 4.1 Power: 4W Features: Water/dustproof IP67, Bluetooth 5.1 Connections: USB-C TODAY’S BEST DEALS £29.99 View at O2 Mobiles £34 View at Richer Sounds Prime £34.99 View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Sensible treble + Fuller bass + More volume Reasons to avoid – Poor battery life – Not very durable finish
Loudest Bluetooth Speaker for Outdoors
I prepared a list of 8 of the loudest Bluetooth speakers that’ll make your party a memorable experience. These speakers feature a tough, rugged, functional design that’s perfect for outdoors. In addition, they enjoy dust ingression protection to varying degrees. The best Bluetooth speaker for the outdoors is one that won’t get shattered to smithereens if you dropped it accidentally.
At the very least, it should withstand moisture to some extent, but that’s not to say you should start looking for ways to submerge your speaker in water to see what happens! That means you won’t have a single moment of awkward silence at the party. If the speaker comes with additional features such as a flashlight, that’s a good thing, but that often means a higher price. JBL Boombox IPX7 rated speaker withstands rain, spills or submersion in water
Adaptive EQ reads the room and automatically balances the sound Mobile range of music play is up to 150 ft (45 m) View on Amazon Features Cup Holders and USB Port for Phone Charging View on Amazon JBL PartyBox 300 Built-in 10,000 mAh battery for 18 hours of playtime
The Soundboks 2 Very Loud speaker delivering crisp trebles and deep bass 144W RMS pushes 122 dB through two 10” woofers and 1” silk dome tweeter This speaker has four active transducers and two bass radiators that deliver high-quality sound.
It’s IPX7 waterproof, which means it can withstand any weather, making it perfect for outdoors; the speaker can even float in water! Button controls on top let you connect Bluetooth, change music soundtracks, or adjust the volume. Its 60W RMS power amp provides a crisp, robust sound for your music.
It is great for small to medium gatherings, and the stereo Connect+ feature helps you link several JBL speakers if you want. Some users have complained about connectivity issues as needing some improvement, although others described it as amazing.
It’s also not a very portable speaker; the device is quite heavy, weighing over 11 lbs (5 kg), so it’s not easy for taking it on a hike or outdoor trip.
Still, if you want a loud, bass-heavy system for outdoor parties or gatherings, this is the perfect one, delivering awesome JBL sound. What gives this portable Bluetooth speaker its awesome clarity is its design, which includes a five-band graphic equalizer. If you do a little research, you’ll find that other speakers in the same category don’t actually have an active subwoofer.
Even though the bass on this speaker can shake the ground, you can keep the music going for up to nine hours on battery power alone. You can stream your music source easily, whether you have an iPad, Android, Kindle, whatever.
You can feel the bass in your feet and hear all the highs in full stereo as you would on an indoor home system.
If you bring this to an outdoor event, expect people to ask questions about price and where you purchased your portable speaker.
While the UE Hyperboom might be a bit large for some tastes, this speaker can handle any party grooves you throw at it with a smart and stylish design. It delivers a well-balanced sound and plenty of bass, all from the touch of an app on your smart device. It comes with two 4.5″ woofers, two 1″ dome tweeters, and two massive 3.5″ x7.5″ passive radiators to expand the system’s sound pressure level. The woofers and tweeters are fine-tuned to deliver a punchy bass while providing balanced mids and clear highs.
The speaker has a built-in microphone that “listens” to the audio to adapt the equalization and provide the best sound possible, depending on where it’s placed. If the speaker is in a small room, it will auto adjust so that the bass doesn’t sound boomy.
In that case, it will increase the bass so that the music doesn’t sound thin, and it does it automatically. One cool feature about this speaker is that it has an optical input, making it very practical to connect it to your smart TV and use it as a vertical soundbar.
Just remember that if you use it as a charging dock, the battery won’t last as long. Just keep in mind that those speakers, although they are waterproof, they are not even close to the loudness and sound quality that the Hyperboom can offer. It has an elegant diamond shape, two-tone fabric, and a pull-out strap for carrying The BOOM App offers features like Remote On/Off, PartyUp, Customizable EQ, One Touch to Your Playlist, and more. With the One-Touch music control, you can play, pause, and skip tracks directly from the speaker without reaching for your phone. Altec Lansing ALP-XP850 Xpedition 8 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker There are plenty of speakers that have the volume to rise about the crowd, but so many of them just don’t have a kickin’ bass to keep the party going, if you know what I mean. The specs from the manufacturer say that together this creates a max peak power of 420 watts.
While Altec Lansing states that you get up to a 24-hour’s worth of run time, keep in mind that number applies to use at a lower volume. If you run it at a moderate volume you can get a good eight hours of playtime before needing to recharge the batteries. Running it at max volume you will find that it needs to be plugged into an outlet after about five to six hours. So, if you’re planning to take this to an event with limited access to outlets, have backup batteries, and be sure to bring the car charger.
It still ranks as one of the loudest Bluetooth speakers for outdoors, with good, quality sound for your money. One thing that stands out about the Treblab HD Max Bluetooth speaker is its quality build, price, and the handful of features it delivers.
It’s not as loud as the other speakers presented in this list but still delivers a good bang for your buck.
For its size, it provides a decent volume for your indoor or outdoor parties. For starters, it is IPX6 water-resistant, which means that it can resist heavy rain and water splashes. Just keep in mind that this doesn’t mean waterproof, don’t dunk it in the ocean or pool no matter how crazy the party gets! At only 5.6 lbs (2.55 kg), it is ideal for taking it to your next hike or outdoor party with confidence. Its carrying strap is made from heavy-duty nylon, and the metal clips will keep the speaker secured to your shoulder.
When it comes to the build quality, it stands out thanks to its PVC chassis and heavy-duty outer fabric that protects the speakers.
The passive radiators are ionized aluminum which adds a nice touch to the overall build. The HD Max delivers crisp, detailed highs and deep full bass for a speaker this size. With the indoor mode selected, the bass is boosted, and treble is dialed down a bit to provide you with a better listening experience.
You can get up to 20 hours of play from a single charge – only at 30% volume and not using it as a power bank The actual battery life is around 8 hours at 50% volume – which is good if your outdoor trip lasts only one day If you are looking for a portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers beautiful sound and gives you a lot of bang for your buck, look no further than the Treblab HD Max.
Sony GTK XB90 High Power Portable Bluetooth Party Speaker with Lights The sound, including the bass, is great, which makes the light show features all the more fun. Designed for mad basslines, this portable speaker has some serious punching power in the low-end department. The GTK XB90 was designed to deliver a strong bass, but overall the speaker is good and loud. JBL PartyBox 300 High Power Portable Wireless Bluetooth Party Speakers with lights
On top of that, the speaker included a full panel of lights that creates awesome visual effects that will be the hit of your next party.
At about three feet tall, it’s a bit clunky, but when you consider the fantastic sound that comes out of this thing, you won’t mind lugging it to your next party. The battery life on the JBL holds for hours of play at top volume, which is good because this speaker is loud and has a phenomenal bass. The speaker does double duty as a mini PA system or DJ booth.
The PartyBox has the crisp, balanced sound you’d expect from the JBL brand. Between the crisp sound, volume, and light effects, you won’t be disappointed.
They call it “The New Soundboks.” Click the following link to read the full unbiased review of the Soundboks 3. With this deal, you’ll easily become the guy who throws the most exciting parties in the neighborhood.
loud outdoor bluetooth speakers
The SoundLink Flex Bluetooth speaker is engineered to deliver clear, deep sound that’s powerful enough to fill a room and loud enough for outdoor adventures. Whether hanging from a backpack or lying flat by the pool, the speaker’s PositionIQ technology optimizes the sound for natural audio.
Loudest Bluetooth speakers 2021: The best speakers capable of summoning the devil himself
When it comes to choosing from the wide range of the loudest Bluetooth speakers, there’s plenty of competition – with brands including Marshall, Amazon, SoundBoks, JBL, Sony and Bose all vying for your attention and your hard-earned cash. While we go into some depth about our favourite loudest Bluetooth speakers in our full list below, you may have cash burning a hole in your pocket and simply want to know our top recommendations. Meanwhile, the Amazon Echo Studio offers superb spacious sound, pumping bass and can throw out a thoroughly decent 90 dB – the kind of volume that’s guaranteed to wake up a sleepy household or keep a party going into the small hours. Amazon Echo Studio The best smart Bluetooth speaker for overall sound quality Specifications Launch price: $199/£189 Loudness: 90 dB Frequency Response: 30Hz to 24kHz Audio Output: 330W Dimensions: 206 mm tall x 175 mm diameter (8.1 inches tall x 6.9 inches diameter) Weight: 3.5 kg (7.7 lb) Audio: 1″ tweeter, three 2″ mid-range speakers, and 5.25″ woofer Battery Life: n/a Features: 3.5 mm, mini-optical Toslink line in, supports dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11, Zigbee smart home connectivity, Alexa app, Fire TV compatibility, supported audio format to include FLAC, MP3, AAC, Opus, Vorbis, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos, Sony 360 Reality Audio/MPEG-H; includes support for CD Quality (16-bit) and Hi-Res (24-bit); supported music streaming services to include Amazon Music (Standard and HD), Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, Pandora, SiriusXM, iHeartRadio, TuneIn TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at very.co.uk Prime View at Amazon View at John Lewis Reasons to buy + Voice-controlled with Alexa + Room acoustic analysis for custom sound Reasons to avoid – Not portable In this case, delivering up to 90dB of sound – as loud as a revved-up lawn mower – the Echo Studio does a very good job of shaking that notion. SoundBoks (Gen. 3) One of the loudest Bluetooth speakers gets a thunderous upgrade Specifications Launch price: $999/£899 Loudness: 126 dB Frequency Response: 40Hz – 20kHz Audio Output: 72W Dimensions: 66 x 43 x 32cm (25.6 x 17 x 13 inches) Weight: 15.4kg (34 pounds) Audio: Two 10-inch 96dB woofers and a 104dB compression driver tweeter Battery Life: 40 hours Features: Bluetooth 5.0, Pro Panel with 2 × Combo microphone/instrument (XLR, 1/4”) input, 1 × 3.5mm Stereo Input, 1 × 3.5mm Stereo Output TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Amazon Check Thomann Reasons to buy + As loud as the front row at a concert + 40-hour charge Reasons to avoid – Weighs in at a heavy 15.4kg The SoundBoks (Gen 3) matches the excellent 40 hours of battery from the last model at mid-volume, and it can be connected to your smartphone or tablet through Bluetooth 5.0. Sure, it’s not the most stylish of speakers on the market, but to make it a little easier on the eye, SoundBox offer customers a choice of grill colours: Black, white, orange, blue and red. JBL Boombox 2 JBL give their much-loved audio monster a makeover Specifications Launch price: $499/£479 Loudness: 101 dB Frequency Response: 50Hz-20kHz Audio Output: 2 x 40 W RMS-woofer + 2 x 40 W RMS-tweeter Dimensions: 48.5 x 20.1 x 25.7cm (19.1 x 7.9 x 10.1in) Weight: 5.9 kg (13 lbs) Audio: 4-inch woofer x 2, 20mm Tweeter x2 Battery Life: 24 hours Features: Bluetooth 5.1, IPX7 waterproofing TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at Currys Check Thomann Reasons to buy + Massive volume + 24-hour battery life + Completely waterproof Reasons to avoid – You may not like the boombox aesthetic – even with its updated new look
It’s a smidgen heavier but you’ll still get 24 hours of playtime on a single charge and like its older sibling, it’s completely waterproof thanks to IPX7 tech.
Anker Soundcore Rave The loudest Bluetooth speaker dedicated to body-rumbling power Specifications Launch price: $220/£199 Loudness: 105 dB Frequency Response: 70 Hz to 20,000 Hz Audio Output: 160W Dimensions: 552 × 322 × 310 mm Weight: 9.80 kg (21.61 lb) Audio: 2 × 5.25” Woofer, 2 × 2” Tweeters, 1 × Bass Port Battery Life: 24 hours Features: Bluetooth 5.0, IPX4 water resistance, in-app control TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Box View at Jacamo Check Thomann Reasons to buy + Booming power and an intensely deep bass + App connected for lighting control and EQ tailoring + Water-resistant casing Reasons to avoid – Weighs a not-so-light 17 kg Soundcore has taken this a step further by using BassUp technology, a digital signal processor that gives listeners a richer and clearer low-end.
The Rave sits at a moderately low price point and holds all the power and perks expected from a speaker that prides itself on being the loudest thing in the room. Marshall Woburn II The classiest Bluetooth speaker here Specifications Launch price: $499/£429 Loudness: 110 dB Frequency Response: 30–20,000 Hz Audio Output: 110W Dimensions: 400 x 310 x 200 mm (15.75 x 12.20 x 7.87 In) Weight: 8.55 kg (18.85 lbs) Audio: 2 x ¾ inch dome tweeters, 2 x 5¼ inch subwoofer Battery Life: 20 hours Features: Bluetooth 5, 3.5 mm stereo jack, RCA, supports two bluetooth devices at a time, Marshall app, bass reflex system with port TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at John Lewis View at Currys Reasons to buy + Classic design from a legacy amp maker + RCA and stereo jack for analog listening + Three channel control via an app or manually on the speaker’s panel Reasons to avoid – Nothing-proof – keep away from bad weather and splashes of any kind Other additions include a Marshall app which gives you the ability to turn the speaker on and off, as well as manually control the volume, bass and treble. The speaker offers great overall sound and was built to sustain clear, low frequencies thanks to its two subwoofers duelled with a bass reflex system and external port.
Although this Marshall Bluetooth speaker is low fuss, it is high maintenance considering it’s not waterproof, dirt-proof, beer-proof… so keep this baby inside and away from spillage. Despite its relative size, however, we were impressed with the depth and thud that came from bass and low-end sounds, and can vouch for its volume levels which retain clarity even when you push it to its limit.
Sonos Move The best portable smart speaker Specifications Launch price: $399/£399 Loudness: 85 dB Frequency Response: n/a Audio Output: n/a Dimensions: 240 x 160 x 126 mm (9.44 x 6.29 x 4.96 inches) Weight: 3 kg (6.61 lb) Audio: one tweeter, one 3.5 inch mid-woofer Battery Life: 10 hours Features: IP56 water and dust resistance, supports WiFi 802.11, Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth connectivity TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at John Lewis View at very.co.uk Reasons to buy + Bluetooth, WiFi connected and voice activated + Portable + Weather proof with a shock-resistant case Reasons to avoid – Not the best bass While we’re delighted to see the return of the live scene after such a long layoff, we have to say we’ve become quite partial to checking out sound systems and speakers in our own property or, more recently, over at a friend’s place. Some speakers like the SoundBoks (Gen 3) are big and bulky, while the Marshall Woburn II is emblazoned with the audio giant’s instantly recognisable label. Others like the JBL Boombox 2 hark back to the good old days of the humble ghetto blaster – minus the double tape deck and radio dial – while the Anker Soundcore Rave comes with flashing bells and whistles making it an ideal choice for those who like to party hard. While we’re big supporters of playing things loud, it’s possible to cause permanent damage to your ears if you’re always cranking it (don’t believe us, Metal Hammer deputy editor Eleanor Goodman told us what it’s like living with Tinnitus). Not only is it a large, weighty speaker, but it packs a serious punch in the volume department too, thanks to two newly upgraded 10-inch 96dB woofers and a 104dB compression driver tweeter.
Best waterproof speakers 2021: the top outdoor speakers for any budget
The best outdoor waterproof speakers can protect the circuitry from splashes, rain and water-based wear such as being dropped in puddles or pools. This high rating signifies that the speaker can be submerged in a body of water – up to 1 meter – for roughly half an hour.
And while we’re sure you most likely won’t be listening to your tunes underwater (although no judging from us if you do), the rating means that your speaker will be protected from sudden splashes or downpours. While these outdoor speakers are designed with waterproofing in mind, that also means they’re incredibly robust, and impressively resistant to wear and tear. The best speakers still need to offer solid feature sets, so expect more than just build quality and safety ratings from our picks below. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 The best portable waterproof speaker Specifications Weight: 0.93 pounds Battery life: 10 hours Wireless range: 100+ feet Frequency response: 80Hz – 20kHz Drivers: Two 40mm active drivers, two 46 x 65mm passive radiators NFC: No Aux-in: No USB charging: Yes TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Dell Prime View at Amazon View at Walmart 5 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Great sound for its size + IP67 dustproof/waterproof rating + 30% better battery life than its predecessor Reasons to avoid – Restrictive soundstage for some tracks
Sonos Roam The best waterproof speaker for indoors and out Specifications Weight: 0.95 pounds Battery life: 10 hours Wireless range: 100+ feet Frequency response: N/A Drivers: One tweeter, one mid-woofer NFC: Yes Aux-in: No USB charging: Yes (USB-C) TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Crutchfield View at Walmart Prime View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Powerful audio performance + Easily portable design Reasons to avoid – Fairly pricey compared to others on the list – Bass can be overwhelming The Sonos Roam is our pick for the best Bluetooth speaker on the planet, and with an IP67 dust and water resistance rating, it can handle the great outdoors with ease.
The mini Sonos speaker boasts a powerful sound, rugged design, excellent connectivity features, and smart home control. A bass-heavy audio performance makes it ideal for use outdoors, while a clever Automatic Switching feature means it’s easily used indoors, too – though audiophiles may dislike the overwhelming low frequencies and rhythmic handling. JBL Flip 5 A fun, no-frills waterproof speaker Specifications Weight: 1.2 pounds Battery life: 12 hours Wireless range: N/A Frequency response: 65Hz – 20kHz Drivers: 40mm NFC: No Bluetooth version: 4.2 Aux-in: No USB charging: No TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at Walmart View at Sweetwater Sound Reasons to buy + Engaging, entertaining sound + Easy to use compared to others on the list Reasons to avoid – No 3.5mm input – No mic for hands-free calls JBL’s Flip 5 is a simple soul with Bluetooth-only playback and modest features, but if you desire a rugged, great-sounding portable speaker and can sacrifice voice control or hands-free call functionality, you won’t be disappointed.
Anker Soundcore Flare 2 The best budget Bluetooth speaker Specifications Weight: 1.29 pounds Battery life: 12 hours Wireless range: 20m / 66ft Frequency response: N/A Drivers: Dual drivers and passive radiators NFC: No Aux-in: No USB charging: No TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Walmart View at Walmart Prime View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Great sound quality + Speakerphone feature + IPX7 water-resistant Reasons to avoid – No 3.5mm AUX jack While it lacks a built-in voice assistant, its sound, build quality and excellent app make it a great value.
This is a speaker that can get loud and not distort at higher volumes; be light enough to carry on the move but remain durable enough to tumble in a bag unprotected. It’s waterproof as well as dust-proof, and has a one-touch mix button that lets you pull up your favorite playlists without needing to pick up your smartphone.
There are certainly more detailed outdoor speakers out there (see: Bowers and Wilkins Zeppelin down below), but at a price that’s relatively affordable to all, the UE Boom 3 hits all the right notes for the third year in a row. Ultimate Ears Megablast The best outdoor speaker for battery life Specifications Weight: 1.93 pounds Battery life: 20 hours Wireless range: 100+ feet Frequency response: 65Hz – 20kHz Drivers: Two 2” drivers and two 2” x 4” passive radiators NFC: Yes Aux-in: Yes USB charging: Yes TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon Prime Low Stock View at Amazon View at Walmart 1 Amazon customer review ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Convenient Alexa integration + Bigger sound, better battery Reasons to avoid – Expensive compared to rivals – Charging dock sold separately
Bass is stronger and richer than its smaller UE Boom 3 and Wonderboom 2 brothers, and this is the speaker for anybody who wants to really blare their music at a party. For the money, you get an outdoor speaker that sound great, is tough as nails, acts as a charger for your phone, and lasts all day.
JBL Boombox 2 The best waterproof party speaker Specifications Weight: 13 pounds Battery life: 24 hours Wireless range: N/A Frequency response: 50Hz – 20kHz Drivers: N/A NFC: N/A Aux-in: Yes USB charging: Yes TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Walmart Prime View at Amazon View at Harman Reasons to buy + Loud, distortion-free sound + IPX7 water-resistant + Great 24-hour battery life Reasons to avoid – Expensive compared to rivals – No smartphone charging
It’s a hefty tag to pay for a pretty one-dimensional product, but if you need an outdoor-ready speaker for a family gathering and don’t care about hi-res audio, the JBL Boombox 2 has you covered. Thankfully, that adage has never been less applicable: the speaker gets loud enough to fill up a medium-sized room, and at full volume, there’s only a little distortion on the highs. Plus, this outdoor speaker is IPX7 water and dust resistant so it’ll put up with a day at the beach or pool without a problem.
Braven Stryde 360 A versatile, weatherproof speaker at an affordable price Specifications Weight: N/A Battery life: 12 hours Wireless range: N/A Frequency response: N/A Drivers: 2 x full range driver, 2 x passive radiator NFC: No Aux-in: No USB charging: Yes TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at invisibleSHIELD Prime View at Amazon 286 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Syncs with a second speaker + Great price-to-performance ratio Reasons to avoid – No 3.5mm aux jack – Average battery life compared to rivals
The best outdoor speakers in 2021
They deliver loud, impactful audio to enjoy your favorite playlists outside, while also being portable enough to place in several locations for stereo sound from all angles. Heading into the cold winter season, you still have some time to figure out what outdoor speakers are best for your al fresco setup this coming Spring.
You may even find some of our favorites as part of this year’s Best Cyber Monday deals, so bookmark the page to stay up on the latest audio product sales. Make sure to bookmark our Best Black Friday Deals page for all the latest sales on the top products from every major electronics category.
Great sound, solid craftsmanship, special features, and convenient portability are what make up the best outdoor speakers. Smart features are loaded into the Roam such as alarms, voice controls, and proprietary Automatic TruePlay that adapts sound for its environment and content. Something less expensive is the JBL Go 3, a fully waterproof alternative to the Roam that packs strong audio performance into a tiny design. The best outdoor speakers have to withstand the elements and deliver robust bass, crisp treble and full midrange with enough power to be heard over both the wind and the chatter of a party.
With a 4.5-inch mid-woofer/tweeter and a 0.8-inch tweeter inside each speaker, the Atrium 4 aptly handled both the distorted guitars of classic rock and the thumping bass of hip-hop while producing clear vocals. Sonos Roam The best outdoor speaker with an ultraportable design Specifications Drivers: Mid-woofer, tweeter Wireless: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Output: Not stated Battery: 10 hours Mounting hardware: None TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Crutchfield View at Walmart Prime View at Amazon Reasons to buy + Lightweight + Extensive connectivity + Auto TruePlay sound tuning Reasons to avoid – No Bluetooth multipoint – Middling battery life Its outdoorsy credentials mainly come from even better weatherproofing: with an IP67 rating, the Sonos Roam is protected against dust ingress and can survive full submersion in water, let alone a little rain. The AW-650 speakers are built like a tank, with a UV-resistant ABS plastic polymer enclosure that’s backed by Klipsch’s lifetime warranty.
V-Moda Remix A small, but mighty outdoor speaker with a built-in amp Specifications Drivers: Glass Fiber Dual-Driver Wireless: Yes Output: 10 watts (per driver) Battery: 10 hours Mounting Hardware: Yes TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at Walmart View at Musician’s Friend 139 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Loud, balanced audio with booming bass + Stunning design + Lots of customization options Reasons to avoid – No multiroom solution – Can distort at high volume This well-built and stylish speaker delivers booming bass, warm highs, and crisp mids, plus it comes with an integrated headphone amplifier. The current price drop should also make this an enticing purchase for those who want a mini boom box that pumps out loud sound. Yamaha NS-AW150W Affordable and flexible outdoor speakers with good overall sound Specifications Drivers: 5-inch Polyetherimide Woofer 0.5-inch dome tweeter Wireless: No Output: 35 watts Battery: None Mounting Hardware: Yes TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Crutchfield View at Walmart Check Amazon Reasons to buy + Crisp treble + Full vocals + Flexible mounting Reasons to avoid – Mediocre bass – Water resistant, not waterproof
It may be small but it’s certainly not poorly-made, earning itself the same IP67 rating as the Sonos Roam: enough for both heavy-duty waterproofing and strong protection against dirt, sand or dust ingress. The sheer affordability is another enticing factor, and we got twice the “official” 5 hours of battery life on medium volume, though for entertaining large backyard parties you may need something more powerful.
Dual LU53 Big bass on a budget Specifications Drivers: 5.3-inch woofer, 1-inch midrange driver, 0.8-inch tweeter Wireless: No Output: 60 watts Battery: None Mounting Hardware: Included TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at Walmart 255 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Big bass for size + Versatile mounting options + Weather resistant Reasons to avoid – Not as crisp as competitors Although not as crisp or as detailed as the Atrium 4s, the Dual LU53’s bigger size creates a wide soundstage that can entertain the crowd at your next barbecue.
Sonos Move The most powerful outdoor smart speaker Specifications Drivers: One downward-firing tweeter, one mid-woofer Wireless: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Output: Not stated Battery: 10 hours Mounting Hardware: None TODAY’S BEST DEALS View at Crutchfield Prime View at Amazon View at Walmart 689 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Superb audio quality + Built-in Automatic TruePlay technology + Easy Wi-Fi-to-Bluetooth connection conversion Reasons to avoid – Pricey – No smart features in Bluetooth mode This beefy Bluetooth speaker offers Sonos’ signature high-end soundscape on top of a 10-hour battery that should last through all of your backyard festivities. On top of offering rich bass and crisp dialogue, the Sonos Move is one of the best outdoor speakers for folks who want smart features. The speaker supports both Alexa and Google Assistant for voice controls, and can switch from Bluetooth to Wi-Fi on the fly, making it ideal for just about any outdoor setting.
UE Megaboom 3 The best wireless Bluetooth speaker Specifications Size and Weight: 8.9 x 3.4 x 3.4 inches, 2 pounds Battery Life (Rated): 20 hours Water Resistance: Yes Maximum Sound Level: 90db Voice Controls: No TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at Dell View at Walmart 23 Amazon customer reviews ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Reasons to buy + Big bass and full vocals + Good battery life + Can pair with older Megaboom and Boom models for stereo sound Reasons to avoid – Big and heavy for a portable – No speakerphone JBL Charge 5 An outdoor speaker that can charge your phone Specifications Size and Weight: 8.7 x 3.8 x 3.7 inches, 2.1 pounds Battery Life (Rated): 20 hours Water Resistance: Yes Maximum Sound Level: Not stated Voice Controls: No TODAY’S BEST DEALS Prime View at Amazon View at Crutchfield View at Walmart Reasons to buy + High sound quality + Water- and dust-proof + Long battery life Reasons to avoid – Limited app – Few extras High-grade waterproofing is combined with strong protection against dust and grit, to the Charge 5 is ideal for beach trips and pool parties. The housings of these ingeniously designed speakers are made to resemble 17-inch-high hunks of either sandstone or granite, depending on the overall aesthetic of your patio or garden.
But on the inside, Klipsch has packed these faux boulders with punch: dual 0.8-inch tweeters and a 6.5-inch woofer deliver superior sound quality, with brass that pops and bass that comes in heavy and authoritative. But if you’re willing to go the distance for maximum outdoor sound and minimal footprints around your grounds, pony up a few extra clams for these secret speakers.
This 14-inch tall speaker offers huge, balanced sound for outdoor gatherings and cookouts, and lasts for 24 hours on a charge to power your patio hangs all day and night. With easy Bluetooth pairing to any mobile device, big bass and sharp high-end, the Hyperboom is one of the best outdoor speakers you can buy for social gatherings.
If you have a small patio or mainly want music for dinner parties, a smaller set of outdoor speakers may be perfectly adequate. But if you have a large suburban backyard or want to host crowded dance parties, you may want to shop for larger speakers with more audio capacity.
We also look at size and range to determine how the outdoor speaker will sound in different settings, from a large backyard to a smaller patio or deck.
7 Loudest Portable Outdoor Bluetooth Speakers in 2021
With summer always just around the corner somewhere, it’s the perfect time to search for the best and loudest portable outdoor Bluetooth speakers. Organize your pool parties, play podcasts in the garden, or host a dance night in your backyard – outdoor entertainment has no boundaries. While every brand of portable Bluetooth speakers boasts of providing the best sound quality and other features, not all of them are always true to their claims though.
Therefore, you can’t just grab any loud wireless speaker simply by reading its label. And if you do, you’ll most likely spend your hard-earned money on a product that may not offer you a good quality sound nor optimum bass you may be after. If you don’t want to see these, then jump directly to the list of the 7 loudest Bluetooth speakers for use outdoors.
The size of a Bluetooth speaker plays a very important role in deciding its sound quality. On the other hand, if a speaker is very small, it may not be able to cut through the outdoor noise and deliver a good audio sound.
When talking about the best Bluetooth speakers, some names that come to our mind are JBL, Yamaha, Boss, and so on. There are loudspeakers that offer aesthetic design elements like light shows and ombre effects.
Other features that the loudest portable Bluetooth speakers may include: Good battery life/power bank For this reason, manufacturers like JBL, for instance, pay special attention to the size of loud portable Bluetooth speakers.
Owing to this, you can easily find compact Bluetooth speakers that can fit into your pocket or backpack. In this article, we have included the loudest portable outdoor speakers that may not fit in your pocket, but can be easily carried around either in a backpack or using conveniently built-in handles.
With dimensions of 7.5 x 11.7 x 19.4 inches, this speaker only weighs 13 pounds, which considering it also has an integrated carry handle makes it easily transportable, so your audio can follow you wherever you go. Just remember though, the speaker doesn’t have a waterproof or dustproof rating, which means it can be damaged if rained or even splashed on.
The entire body of the speaker is black with a hint of a silver accent in the form of volume knobs. Not only does this portable Bluetooth unit look stylish and attractive, but it also offers incredible crystal clear audio sound and deep and powerful bass thanks to the dedicated high- and midrange drivers as well as a dual coil subwoofer that sits neatly behind a black grille. In addition to the above, this loudspeaker also has a panel on the front of the unit that displays information like the EQ, battery life, sound volume, etc. With the graphic equalizer and its 4 presets you can customize your tunes the way you like them, allowing for appropriate output when listening to different genres of audio: music, news, podcasts, audiobooks, and so on. It features 200 watts of non-stop power, which is thrice more than many other regular Bluetooth speakers. There is a warning on the manufacturer’s website though, about the speaker delivering the loud audio sound and that punchy bass that could get you in trouble with the local cops. With Aiwa Exos-9 you could take your dance party to the next level, but we wouldn’t judge if you read this article to the end, so you make your own decision, whether this one has the most power and the loudest volume. The list of the loudest Bluetooth outdoor speakers could well be incomplete without having the JBL Boombox 2 in it.
So, built tough, the Boombox 2 produces massive sound and pumps out monstrous bass. It has been tested and given an IPX waterproof rating of 7, which means that you could use it at pool parties, on the beach, and anywhere else around water without having a fear of the speaker being damaged by it. Weighing 11.5 pounds, the Boombox 2 is a tiny bit lighter than the Aiwa Exos-9, so you can carry it around just as easily as an Exos-9. The PartyBoost option allows you to link multiple Boomboxes 2 together to make a party larger and even louder.
Dimensions: 10.01 x 19.48 x 7.69 inches Features summarized: JBL Boombox 2 Bluetooth Speaker The Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 isn’t as large as the first two speakers described above, but it doesn’t mean it can’t pack a punch!
MEGABOOM 3 Bluetooth Speaker It weighs about 2 pounds, but oh boy, it produces a kick-ass sound that can also be customized and pre-saved. MEGABOOM 3 comes with an IP67 dust and waterproof rating that makes it a perfect pool and beach companion.
The speaker can be fully submerged in water for up to 30 minutes, but it won’t stay in for long as it floats. With its monstrous battery that provides up to 20 hours of playtime, depending on the audio content and the volume level, you can party loud all day and all night without worrying about recharging it.
With the BOOM app, you will get more features including PartyUp, Musical Alarm, Remote Control, Customizable EQ, and a few others. Pair up to 8 Bluetooth capable audio source devices, with up to 2 at the same time Connect 150+ other compatible UE speakers
Trance is an ultraportable speaker due to its small size, lightweight, and flexible integrated handle. Soundcore Trance Bluetooth Speaker Its 5.25-inch woofer pumps out thundering beats and the 2-inch tweeter delivers clear high notes. The integrated BassUp tech that is exclusive to Soundcore and a large passive radiator help to intensify the bass.
This speaker will allow for concurrent pairing of 2 audio source mobile devices, so you and your friends can take turns DJing.
It is waterproof with an IPX7 rating, so all of its internals are completely protected if submerged in water for up to 3 feet up to 30 minutes. With the Soundcore app, you will be able to change modes too in or outside, which helps to balance the sound when inside and boost the bass when out.
This may not be the best or loudest Bluetooth speaker in the world, but it is hard to beat for the price tag it comes at, and it delivers stunning audio and an unforgettable music experience, which should be loud enough for small gatherings. Dimensions: 5.25 x 5 x 2.25 inch Features summarized: Soundcore Trance Bluetooth Speaker
The battery can charge your mobile phone or tablet via a USB port, so the device you are streaming from is never destined to run out of power while partying big. Pair up to 2 audio source devices at the same time, so you and your friend don’t have to argue about whose playlist is better, but simply take turns DJing.
Dimensions: 8.66 x 3.74 x 3.66 inches Features summarised: Sale JBL Charge 4 Bluetooth Speaker Just because a speaker comes at a cheaper price doesn’t mean it will offer cheap sound quality.
This XDOBO Bluetooth speaker offers one of the loudest and clearest audio sounds in its price range that can lift your parties to the next level. Just because a speaker comes at a cheaper price doesn’t mean it will offer cheap sound quality.
This XDOBO Bluetooth speaker offers one of the loudest and clearest audio sounds in its price range that can lift your parties to the next level.
True wireless stereo sound and noise cancellation tech are what this XDOBO product stands out for.
Push that voice control button on the speaker and you’d be able to ask the digital assistant of your choice, Siri or Google and the like, to make a call for you. Grab this loudest portable unit today and your next boat trip or golf game will be accompanied by a fantastic loud audio experience. Last but definitely not least, meet the portable AOMAIS GO with a loud sound for under $100 that is ideal for your next pool party, paddleboat, or kayak boat trip. You can also use its battery as a power bank, meaning you can charge your other portable mobile devices and even earphones or earbuds.
Pair 2 of AOMAIS GOs together for a louder true wireless stereo sound, increased audio output, and richer bass. Plug your TV into one AOMAIS GO, pair it to the second and watch music video clips or a movie with true surround sound. The conveniently integrated handle and its comfortable size make this AOMAIS GO product easily portable. Leave it inside, as long as it is within the specified Bluetooth range, you can take calls using the speaker as it has a built-in microphone.
AOMAIS GO is perfect for people who travel a lot, lead an active lifestyle or simply love music. Overall, it’s an awesome value-for-money device that has one of the best battery life options in this price range and one of the loudest Bluetooth speakers. 2x15w full-range drivers & 10w tweeter totaling to 40w audio output 2 x passive radiators Bluetooth 5.0 Although each one of them offers outstanding audio performance for their price, the MEGABOOM 3 and Exos-9 have a slight edge over others thanks to the loudness these speakers produce.
All of these speakers will connect to devices with the latest Bluetooth versions and come with quality drivers that produce loud music as well. While some of these Bluetooth speakers are bigger than others, a few of them are slightly heavy, they still are portable and can be easily transported anywhere.
12 Loudest Bluetooth Speakers of 2021 (Big and Small)
This article is all about buying a loud Bluetooth speaker and because of that we’ve added a Safe Music Listening Guide at the end with tips on how to protect your hearing. This should help you understand loudness, how it’s measured, and what to be aware of so you can enjoy your music for years to come. Take a peek at the graph below comparing the weight – which is usually not a bad indication of the physical size – of the loudest Bluetooth speakers on our list, with their corresponding volume: While most of our selection can be picked up and carried relatively easily, they are not the type of speakers you just throw in your backpack and head off to the beach.
While they’re portable they are slightly larger than our petite speakers and therefore pack more of a punch and generally deliver a better sound. They are compact portable Bluetooth speakers you don’t expect to be very loud, and they end up surprising you with some serious sound.
There would be some merit to that approach, but we are all about helping you make good purchase decisions, and we think that’s not the way to go. One of the limitations or challenges of driver design is that most speakers notoriously start distorting their sound and lose quality as you crank up the volume.
We’re selecting speakers that will deliver crisp undistorted lows, mids, and highs when performing at top volume.
34 lbs IPX: 5 Check Price The SOUNDBOKS is the loudest portable Bluetooth speaker money can buy. The large gauge mesh on the front of the third generation Soundboks openly displays the two 10″ woofers and 1″ tweeter that provide the top-quality music listening experience you will get with this Bluetooth speaker, and the side panels of this device each have an inlaid durable handle that will make handling this speaker more convenient. If you’re looking for a bargain you aren’t going to find it here, but for those of you looking for an incredible speaker with a great list of features and connectivity options you have found something special here.
13 lbs IPX: Unspecified Check Price One of the loudest Bluetooth speakers on the market at the moment is the Aiwa Exos-9. Design and Features The Aiwa Exos-9 is a modern portable Bluetooth speaker but with classic HiFi/boombox characteristics.
The fancy onboard capacitive touch control panel allows you to switch between inputs, play/pause, and adjust audio settings. Conclusion The Aiwa Exos-9 is an absolute beast and will be the perfect loud portable Bluetooth speaker for any occasion.
Having said that, the speaker is well built and will be good company for BBQs, garden parties, or even tailgating. Even though this speaker isn’t waterproof, you can still use the Exos-9 for a pool party positioned at a safe distance from the water.
15.5 lbs IPX: Unspecified Check Price So, you want a high-end party speaker that will blast music, but you don’t want to spend enough to pay for a month’s rent, introducing: the Bose S1! This is a Bluetooth PA speaker that will undoubtedly blow your and your friend’s socks off with its sheer volume at 109 dB peak.
Like most Bose products, the S1’s visual design is practical and sleek with a no-frills sort of appeal to it. The speaker is quite sturdy, it is made of very durable plastic, so it will go wherever the party is without any issues and provide you with music for 11 hours on a single charge. If you want more control over your sound, this speaker has two built-in 3-channel mixers and integrated EQ and reverb processing. The Bose S1 offers very high-quality audio at deafening volumes, and if you want your music any louder, you’ll need to pay quite a bit more for it.
Conclusion In conclusion, the Bose S1 Bluetooth PA speaker is a fantastic audio solution for parties, gatherings, or home audio if you are looking for intense volume and great quality but don’t want to spend the extra money for the highest the high-end has to offer. These are the speakers that you’re likely to park in a room and expect them to fill with great sounding (and in this case loud!) Featuring an IPX7 rated waterproof case, BassUp technology, and an integrated app, the Soundcore Trance is a great party speaker that will get the whole crowd moving without breaking your budget. Around the speakers, there are two circular LED lights that morph and dance along to your music and keep the party going strong.
Soundcore’s BassUp technology allows for both a balanced sound profile for indoor events and a Bass Boost mode for an improved outdoor listening experience. Feel free to take your Soundcore Trance into the pool or out on the boat because its chassis is rated for IPX7 waterproofing, so you don’t have to worry about going without your favorite music even if it gets fully submerged! On top of all of these fantastic features, you can also use the Soundcore Trance’s robust 18-hour battery to charge your devices, or pair two of these speakers together for a stereo music experience. With the Soundcore App, you can play party games, change between indoor and outdoor listening modes, and choose from 5 different LED visualizers that will sync with your music!
For its price, the Soundcore Trance delivers clear treble and great bass without distortion or popping. Conclusion Overall, the Soundcore Trance is one of the loudest Bluetooth speakers in its price range and boasts great build and sound quality. The Soundcore app integration and front-facing LED light show make this speaker a perfect audio solution for parties whether they’re indoors or outside, rain, or shine. It’s waterproof, loud, and durable, so no matter where the party takes you this Bluetooth speaker will have your back and provide you and your friends and family with all the music you love.
8 lbs IPX: 7 Check Price The makers of the Turtlebox present it as an “outdoor rugged Bluetooth speaker”, and you have to take but one look at the design to believe that they’re probably serious in this claim. Design and Features The design of the Turtlebox is different, though not completely unique, in that at a first glance you’ll be forgiven to think the makers took a hard-shell case, commonly used to protect and waterproof outdoor gear and camera equipment, and built a speaker in it. The IP67 Turtlebox shell is waterproof, dustproof, and shock-resistant and is intended to handle anything the elements throw at it. The lows are rich and it does a great job at keeping the mids and highs balanced at the same time.
If you want something more “refined” for your living room, consider the Aiwa Ecos-9, but if you’re looking for a speaker to take outdoors, this one should be top of your list. In fact, if you’re looking for a really loud small form-factor Bluetooth speaker you should consider the Turtelbox, whether you’ll be taking it outdoors or not.
The DBSOARS is designed to be carried like a briefcase, making it the perfect speaker to take… well, on the go. Design and Features The speaker comes with an IPX7 waterproof rating, which means it can be submerged to a depth of 1m (3.3 ft) for up to 30 minutes.
The built-in battery offers up to 30 hours of playing time, which means you can take the DBSOARS on extended trips, camping, tailgating, and more.
The speaker also features a 4-button onboard control panel, including functionality to play/pause, adjust the volume, skip tracks, and pair Bluetooth devices.
The DBSOARS features two 15W full-range drivers coupled to two bass radiators delivering up to 30W of sound. The mid-range and treble response is average sounding when compared to the more premium speakers on this list, but still clear enough to enjoy your music.
The speaker offers simple features with a big sound to keep the party going no matter where you are. 5.27 lbs IPX: 7 Check Price JBL is a firm favorite in the portable speaker market. The mega pro-audio brand has a product for just about every application but definitely leads the way when it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers. The JBL Xtreme 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker was released a few years ago but continues to be a firm favorite with consumers. At 11.5 inches long and weighing just 5.27 lbs, the Xtreme 2 is portable enough to throw in a large backpack to take on any adventures. Design and Features The JBL Xtreme 2 is somewhat chunky, a bit bigger than the average portable Bluetooth speaker. The speaker is covered in JBL’s signature rubberized mesh, offering protection from the odd bump and drop. The Xtreme 2 has an IPX7 rating, which means you can take it to the pool or beach without worrying about it getting wet (or even falling in!).
The JBL Xtreme 2 features a built-in speakerphone with a mic so you can make and receive calls while your mobile is paired with the speaker.
Call quality is decent, but you need to be close to the speaker for the caller to hear you properly.
You can pair up to 3 Bluetooth devices at the same time, making it easy to take turns playing music with your friends. There is a 6-button control panel on top of the Xtreme, allowing you to play/pause, adjust volume, skip tracks, pair Bluetooth devices, and enable JBL Connect+.
As to be expected from JBL, the Xtreme 2 is rock solid when it comes to sound quality. The Xtreme 2 is surprisingly warm and bassy for such a small speaker with a clear and upfront mid-range.
If you’re looking for a Bluetooth speaker for use at home, around the pool, and perhaps even on the odd outdoor adventure, then the JBL Xtreme 2 will be an excellent choice. 3.5 lbs IPX: 3 Check Price If you’re looking for a sleek and stylish portable Bluetooth speaker, then you may want to take a peek at the RIVA TURBO X. The minimalist design, capacitive touch buttons, and high-gloss top give the TURBO X a sophisticated, premium look. The TURBO X features an impressive 26-hour built-in battery placing it above many of the premium competitors in this department.
Audio Connections and Controls The TURBO X offers Bluetooth for wireless and ⅛-inch AUX for cable inputs. The TURBO X has an adjustable EQ and even offers a PHONO MODE for when you connect a turntable via the ⅛-inch AUX input.
Buttons include power, Trillium™ Surround, input selection/Bluetooth pairing, mute, volume, and TURBO MODE.
If you’re watching movies or playing games on your mobile, Trillium Surround will enhance the audio experience. If you’re watching movies or playing games on your mobile, Trillium Surround will enhance the audio experience. When engaged, the TURBO X will enhance specific frequencies, particularly the low-end, for a louder, more immersive audio experience.
Overall, the TURBO X is a fun Bluetooth speaker to listen to, especially for urban and dance music genres. Conclusion RIVA Audio is relatively new to the market but has already released several incredible Bluetooth speakers. In the last part of this article, we’ve included a list of 5 small loud Bluetooth speakers. In this small selection, you’ll find speakers as cheap as $28 while some of the premium brands will cost between $100 to $150. 1.47 lbs IPX: Unspecified Check Price Bose is one of the most popular consumer audio brands. This awesome little speaker is great for use around the home but is compact enough to fit inside a backpack or even a small handbag. This all-metal design offers durability but also gives the SoundLink Mini II a premium look and feel. As an optional extra, you can purchase Bose soft covers to dress your SoundLink Mini II stylishly and prevent the speaker from getting scratched.
The SoundLink Mini II will give you 10 hours of playing time from a fully charged battery. The computerized voice tells you the remaining battery life, Bluetooth pairing instructions, and even says who’s on the other end of the line for an incoming call. The SoundLink Mini II also has a built-in microphone so you can use voice assistants like Siri and Google. The speaker is also compatible with Alexa devices, and you can even pick up a SoundLink Mini II with an Echo Dot as a bundle offer on Amazon.
There is a simple 5-button onboard control panel giving you quick access to any paired device. Bose doesn’t specify the power output of the SoundLink Mini II; however, we can confirm it’s seriously loud for its size. Where most competitors tune the low-end of their Bluetooth speakers for dance and urban music, the SoundLink Mini II sounds incredible for all genres. The mid-range is forward with the SoundLink Mini II delivering excellent vocal clarity, especially given the speaker’s size!
Conclusion Bose is renowned for its quality in both sound and aesthetics, and the SoundLink Mini II is no different. 1.3 lbs IPX: 7 Check Price When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, Ultimate Ears is always up there just behind or often on par with big brands like JBL, Sony, and Bose. The speaker features a built-in speakerphone with a microphone allowing you to receive calls and use voice assistants. A single tap to the top of the speaker will play or pause songs, while a quick double-tap with skip to the next track.
The MEGABOOM features 2 x 2″ full-range drivers paired with 2 x 2″ passive bass radiators for improved low-end performance. Although the speaker has minimal onboard controls, the MEGABOOM app allows you to access many more functions and settings.
The SoundBox Touch features a 12-hour built-in battery that will fully recharge from flat in under 4 hours. The speaker carries an IPX4 waterproof rating which essentially makes the SoundBox Touch splashproof.
The call quality isn’t great, so I wouldn’t base my purchase of the SoundBox Touch on its speakerphone! Buttons include play/pause/call management, skip left and right, volume control, and input selection. The speaker will easily fill a small room which is great for dorms, home offices, the bedroom, or the kitchen. Mid-range and treble response is undoubtedly better than most Bluetooth speakers under $30, but nowhere near the quality of premium brands.
Conclusion If you’re looking for a cheap Bluetooth speaker that still has a premium sound and finish, then the DOSS SoundBox Touch is one to consider. The Touch comes in at the same price point as the Anker Soundcore, and both speakers have a similar sound profile.
The rubberized sides don’t just protect the Soundcore 2 from bumps and scratches, but also prevent the speaker from moving around when turned up to max volume. Adventure seekers will be pleased to know the Soundcore 2 features an IPX7 waterproof rating protecting the speaker against complete submersion to a depth of 1 meter (3.2 foot) for up to 30 minutes.
Audio Connections and Controls You have the option of cable or wireless with a ⅛-inch input and Bluetooth.
With the latest version of Bluetooth onboard, you can expect stable connectivity and range from the Soundcore 2. The Soundcore 2 delivers a decent amount of low-end; however, I wouldn’t call it a bass speaker by any means. Conclusion If you don’t like the gloss finish on the DOSS SoundBox Touch, then the Anker Soundcore 2 is a good alternative.
Decibels show the ratio between different signal levels whereas watts are an exact measurement of an electrical circuit’s rate of energy transference. This means that simply adding power is a very inefficient way to increase volume due to the dynamic driver speaker’s inherent design flaws. This means that in order to hear a very low-pitched frequency, like 20Hz, at the same perceived loudness as a noise of 1kHz (1000Hz) you would need to increase the dB by +50. If your speakers have a great frequency response but your room is filled with hard surfaces that reflect noise, your sound quality may still be muddy.
Sit in the same spot and play the same song or clip from a film and make small, measured adjustments to the location of your speakers, be sure to get creative! All rooms are different so take notes on increases and decreases in quality; you will be surprised how much a small adjustment can change your audio experience. Place throw rugs where sounds tend to bounce off of hard floors or add a few canvas paintings to your walls. If you want to spend your whole life listening to great speakers, the best approach is to be sure you protect your hearing. Standalone hardware dB meters usually cost anywhere from $50 to $300, so the app can get you a lot of functionality at a much lower price point. When using headphones, it is common knowledge to never listen at max volume, but with speakers’ people have differing opinions about what levels are comfortable for them. Many speaker systems have great frequency response and don’t require extreme volumes to hear details in the audio signals you are listening to. When listening at louder than normal volumes in the cases of concerts, festivals, and parties it is always wise to wear earplugs to protect your ears.
Wear earplugs in loud public settings like concerts or construction sites, and at home, don’t crank that knob all the way! It feels like Bluetooth speakers have come a long way in such a short space of time. Another spin-off feature of improving battery technology is that many Bluetooth speakers no also double as a power bank to charge your other devices. Brands like JBL, SOUNDBOKS, Bose, and Sony continue to deliver on sound quality. These brands do charge a premium, but the quality is far superior to the budget end of the Bluetooth speaker market. More and more Bluetooth speakers are also including Alexa integration with the ability to connect with Echo devices.
While not the loudest Bluetooth speaker we’ve come across, just listen to this: the 4500 peak watts are enabled by 108 patents.
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