Bluetooth speakers allow you to wirelessly play music, podcasts, and more from your phone or tablet. Portable Bluetooth speakers are ideal for listening on the go, from outdoor adventures to backyard hangouts. In this post, we'll review some of the top portable Bluetooth speaker options to consider.
1. JBL Flip 6 - A Leader in Portable Sound
The JBL Flip 6 is one of the best all-around portable Bluetooth speakers you can buy. This cylindrical speaker delivers incredibly bold, high-quality audio with thumping bass in a compact and durable package.
Some key features:
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Powerful sound with deep bass - Dual passive radiators provide thrilling, intense audio that you can feel.
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IPX7 waterproof rating - You can submerge the Flip 6 in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes.
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12 hour battery life - Plenty of playtime for an afternoon by the pool or all day at the beach.
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Rugged design - Made from durable fabric materials with a sturdy rubber base.
Priced around $130, the JBL Flip 6 is top value and one of the best all-purpose portable Bluetooth speakers.
2. Bose SoundLink Micro - Ultra Portable Listening
For those who prioritize portability and compact size, the Bose SoundLink Micro is a perfect pick. Measuring just 3.5 by 1.5 inches and weighing under 1 pound, this speaker is tiny but mighty.
Highlights include:
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Surprisingly full, balanced sound - Crisp highs and a rich mid-range come through despite the small size.
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IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating - Can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes.
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Soft silicone exterior - The rugged outer casing absorbs impacts if you accidentally drop the speaker.
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6-7 hours of battery per charge - Enough for most day trips or short overnight outings.
At around $100, the SoundLink Micro is a smart choice for a super portable Bluetooth speaker. The audio quality beats what you'd expect from such a compact device.
3. Sony SRS-XB33 - A Lively, Fun Speaker
With its flashing lights and colorful design, the Sony SRS-XB33 is perfect for social gatherings and adding energy to any occasion.
What you get with the XB33:
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Vibrant light show - An LED perimeter flashes along with the beat of your music. Choose from various light patterns.
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24 hour battery life - Keeps the music playing all day or night long.
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IP67 rating - Dust tight and waterproof for up to 30 minutes in 1 meter of water.
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Sony's signature Extra Bass - Enhanced low-end adds a punchy, dynamic element great for pop, hip hop, and EDM.
Priced around $89, the SRS-XB33 combines great audio performance with exciting lights and style. It's the ultimate Bluetooth speaker for pool and beach parties.
4. Marshall Emberton II - Improved Classic Design
The recently released Marshall Emberton II packs upgraded features into the iconic Marshall amp design.
What's new:
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30+ hour battery life - Almost double the playtime of the original.
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Improved IP67 water resistance - Fully waterproof, not just splash resistant.
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Refined audio - More balanced sound with smoother mids/highs and deeper bass.
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USB-C charging - Faster charging for quick power boosts.
With a price around $170, the Emberton II takes an already excellent Bluetooth speaker and makes welcome improvements. It's the top choice for Marshall style in a portable package.
5. JBL Charge 5 - Bigger Speaker, Bigger Sound
If you need more powerful audio for larger gatherings, the JBL Charge 5 is an excellent pick. With its larger size, you get booming stereo sound.
What to expect:
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Loud, bold audio - Dual passive radiators and a woofer deliver highly detailed sound with thundering bass. Fills larger rooms.
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Rugged build - Sturdy fabric housing with rubber end caps withstands drops and dings.
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20 hour battery life - Plenty for multi-day camping trips or an all-day barbecue.
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IP67 waterproof rating - No concerns if splashed or out in the rain.
The JBL Charge 5 costs around $130, delivering bigger sound and an extended battery in a durable package ideal for the outdoors. It's great for tailgates, camping, and pool parties.
6. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 - Floatable 360-degree Sound
The Wonderboom 3 from Ultimate Ears is optimized for listening pools or on the water. It floats in water and delivers 360-degree sound projection.
Key specs:
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Floats upright in water - Perfect for pools, lakes, or the ocean thanks to its buoyant design.
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All-around immersive sound - Two active drivers and two passive radiators fill the space with your favorite tunes.
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13-hour battery life - Keeps the music going all day.
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IP67 dust/waterproof rating - Withstands submersion in liquid up to 1 meter deep.
Priced at $90, the Wonderboom 3 brings your music to life whether lounging poolside or floating down a river.
7. JBL Xtreme 3 - Portable Booming Bass
For bass lovers, the JBL Xtreme 3 portable Bluetooth speaker pumps out deep, resonating low end you can feel.
What you get:
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Huge bass - With four drivers plus dual passive radiators, the Xtreme 3 delivers chest-thumping bass.
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15 hours of playtime - Long-lasting battery keeps beats going.
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IP67 waterproof - No problem if splashed or soaked.
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Portable but still large - Weighs 5.5 pounds but has a shoulder strap for carrying.
The powerful audio performance makes the $280 Xtreme 3 worth considering for EDM, rap, and other bass-heavy genres.
8. Marshall Willen - A Trendy Retro Speaker
For a Bluetooth speaker with throwback vibes, check out the Marshall Willen. This portable model packs the iconic Marshall amp style into a contemporary wireless speaker.
Highlights of Marshall Willen:
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Vintage Marshall look - Vinyl covering and gold accents mimic classic amps.
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15+ hours of battery life - Plenty of playtime.
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IP67 water resistance - Protected from splashes and spills.
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Phone charging - The Built-in USB port lets you charge your phone from the speaker battery.
For $115, the Willen adds a touch of retro cool to any space while providing great sound quality.
9. JBL Clip 4 - Ultra-Portable Clip-On Speaker
If you're looking for a Bluetooth speaker that can go anywhere and enjoy music on the move, the JBL Clip 4 is an excellent option to consider. This tiny speaker packs a sonic punch thanks to JBL's signature sound.
Best Features you get:
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Integrated carabiner - Clips onto backpacks, belts, bike handles, and more.
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Surprisingly loud volume - Pumps out immersive sound for its tiny size.
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IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating - Great for outdoor activities and trips.
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10 hour battery life - Provides a whole day of musical enjoyment.
Priced around $80, the Clip 4 is perfect for listening anywhere thanks to its ultra-portable design.
10. Anker Soundcore Flare Mini - Pint-Sized Party Speaker
Don't let its small stature fool you - the Soundcore Flare Mini delivers exciting 360-degree audio and lighting effects in a portable package.
What you'll enjoy:
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360 degree sound - Fills the space despite its compact form.
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LED lights dance with music - Choose from multiple patterns and colors.
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IPX7 waterproof rating - Pool parties? No problem.
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8-10 hours battery life - Keeps the good times rolling.
For just $36, the Flare Mini provides fun musical immersion perfect for dorms and small gatherings.
Conclusion
Any of these portable Bluetooth speakers would make an excellent choice for listening pleasure on the go. Base your decision on your intended use, priorities for sound quality and battery life, and budget. Whichever model you select from this list will provide an audio boost over your phone's tiny built-in speakers when you're biking, hiking, lying by the pool, or exploring the outdoors this year.
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