In 2018, the number of Bluetooth-only speakers sold in the American retail market amounted to approximately $1.96 billion, showing that most people love wireless speakers. The major difference between a portable speaker and the traditional ones is how the two categories receive audio signals. A wireless or portable speaker picks up audio signals through radio frequency while the conventional devices receive audio signals over cables.

You will need the best portable speaker with incredible sound, extended battery life, and waterproof capabilities, among others, to enjoy listening to your favorite music. Today, the number of connected devices continues to increase, and a Bluetooth speaker allows you to play music anywhere. The portable Bluetooth speakers eliminate the problem of having to deal with cumbersome cables when going to the beach, conference room, or any other places.

The best portable speaker is an essential accessory because it offers the winning blend of portability and great sound. This detailed review will help you find the ideal speaker that satisfies your unique needs. Take your time and review the following list of products while considering the key features of each. Once you finish this guide, you'll be able to find one of the best portable speakers!

Editors choice

1. JBL FLIP 4

9.60 / 10
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If you are looking to buy the perfect portable speaker with a combination of fantastic features such as long battery life, waterproof technology, and sturdy build, JBL Flip 4 is an excellent pick. This speaker features an iconic cylindrical design with passive bass radiators on each end. The durable fabric used to make JBL Flip 4 is entirely waterproof, safeguarding the device against spills or accidental drops in water. The waterproof technology, the IPX7, also protects this portable speaker against sand, dirt, and dust.

You can carry your speaker to the beach without worrying about sand or water damage. Additionally, the waterproof technology is incredibly effective in that you can submerge the speaker in water without any catastrophe. JBL Flip 4 has volume up and down, play/pause as well as sync buttons, which are easy to access even when operating the device with dirty or wet fingers. The backside has a power button and a useful battery indicator.

JBL Flip 4 is available in six brilliant colors, giving you different options to pick from, including gray, red, teal, black, blue, and white. The speaker guarantees a remarkably powerful stereo sound, giving you a phenomenal listening experience. You will appreciate the dual external passive radiators that offer outstanding bass. Furthermore, there is no unwanted distortion when you crank up the volume.

JBL Flip 4 features a powerful battery that delivers 12 hours of uninterrupted playtime. The 3000mAh rechargeable battery ensures you enjoy your time at the beach or conference rooms without having to worry about the charge.

Key Features
  • 3000mAh battery
  • IPX7 waterproof technology
  • Voice assistant integration
Pros
  • Amazing sound quality
  • Loud volume
  • Water-resistant
Cons
  • Basic design
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JBL FLIP 4
Premium pick

2. Jabra Speak 710

9.55 / 10
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If you are after a high-quality speaker with a microphone package that is simple to use, looks stunning, and sounds amazing, Jabra Speak 710 is a perfect choice. The speaker connects to devices such as smartphones, tablets, and more via Bluetooth. The set-up and pairing process is straightforward and faster, giving you a comfortable time operating the equipment. The intuitive plug-and-play connectivity allows you to pair the speaker with other devices in just a few seconds via Bluetooth or USB.

Jabra Speak 710 is quite portable and lightweight, featuring a protective pouch to safeguard your speaker when traveling. This portable speaker has a stylish design that comes with the usual media controls like power, volume up and down, battery indicator, Bluetooth on/off, answer, hang up, and the Smart button. You will be filled with relish while listening to your favorite music anywhere. Additionally, this speaker allows you to take audio conferencing to the next level, and you can transform any space into a conference room.

Jabra Speak 710 offers exceptional sound. The speaker features immersive sound for music and calls, as well as HD voice and microphone. Jabra Speak 710 will make your meeting sessions more efficient because it guarantees remarkable in-room coverage. The sound is impressively loud, and you can hold a meeting with up to six people.

Jabra Speak 710 is compatible with numerous platforms such as Skype for business, GoTo meeting, Google, and more. The device works as a speakerphone as well as a speaker, giving you excellent sound quality when listening to your favorite tunes.

Key Features
  • Noise-canceling microphone
  • Up to 15 hours, battery life
  • Compatible with Google, GoTo meeting, Skype for business
Pros
  • Lightweight and quite portable
  • Extended battery life
  • Remarkable sound
  • Easy to set-up
Cons
  • Lag during phone calls
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Jabra Speak 710
Best value

3. AYL

9.30 / 10
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Offering the perfect balance between sound quality and portability, AYL is a dream-come-true for anyone who wants a small and mighty speaker. This speaker is equipped with powerful features but still retains its easy mobility.

The AYL is ultra-small and compact. Weighing a meager 3 ounces, this speaker is easy to carry around and does not take up much space. A handy velvet pouch accompanies the speaker to further enhance its portability. This velvet pouch offers a stylish way to carry the speaker and protects it from damage.

Despite its small size, this speaker comes with a powerful 3W output that is surprisingly loud and crystal clear. The audio output retains the integrity of sound even when it is pumped out at high volumes. As a result, using the speaker is a highly enjoyable experience at every volume level.

You can use the AYL with a variety of devices. From phones to laptops, connecting to the speaker is a fairly simple process. The speaker comes with a 3.5mm audio cable that you plug into your device to access its high-quality sound. This audio cable is built using a universally-recognized head jack that can easily fit in most devices.

You can enjoy music from the speaker for long hours. Equipped with a long-lasting battery, this speaker can produce sound for up to 10 hours continuously. Consequently, you can listen to music peacefully without worries about charge levels.

Key Features
  • Powerful 3W output
  • 10 hours continuous playtime
  • Small and compact
Pros
  • Clear and rich sound
  • Portable
  • Multi-compatibility
Cons
  • Lacks wireless connection options
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If you want an authentic 360-degree listening experience, Bose SoundLink Revolve is an excellent pick. Whether it’s a craft night with kids, a solo dance, or a puzzle party with your friends, this speaker delivers the sound you need.

The True 360-degree coverage provides deep sounds when placed in the middle of a room for a consistent sound experience for everyone. Featuring a water-resistant design (IPX4), you shouldn’t worry about listening to favorite jams on a laundry area, pool, or kitchen sink.

The Bose Connect app allows you to switch between connected Bluetooth devices effortlessly, so anyone connected can DJ. Using the Bose SimpleSync Technology, members of the Bose smart family can pair to your speaker and, at the same time, play the same song.

Utilizing a flexible fabric handle, you can quickly grab the speaker on the go. The seamless aluminum body increases its durability while the rubberized bumpers protect it from knocks. Additionally, the smooth and soft buttons ensure you feel interactions naturally as they should be.

The multi-function button enables you to access your voice input from Google Assistant or Siri if your phone is not at hand. You can easily send a message or make dinner reservations from the speaker. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery offers an impressive battery life of up to 16 hours of playtime without compromising the powerful and deep sounds.

With a built-in Mic, you can receive personal or conference calls at a wireless range of approximately 10 meters from your phone.

Key Features
  • SimpleSync technology
  • Fabric handle
  • Bose Connect app
  • Built-in Mic
Pros
  • True 360-degree sound
  • Beautiful design
  • Detailed sound
Cons
  • Doesn’t include a charging dock
Buy This Product
Bose SoundLink Revolve

If you are looking for a portable speaker with exceptional clarity and accuracy, you will love OontZ Angle 3. This speaker delivers the highs and lows of sound excellently.

Equipped with dual precision stereo drivers, the OontZ Angle 3 ensures that all notes are delivered accurately. From the low notes to the high pitches, this speaker knocks them right.

For an immersive bass experience, the OontZ uses a special bass radiator that is designed to enhance its richness and allure. With this radiator, deep sounds have oomph and never sound bland.

This speaker comes with a powerful volume booster that increases loudness while maintaining sound integrity. Even at maximum volume, this speaker produces an enchanting and rich sound.

This speaker comes with Bluetooth 4.2 that is renowned for its great connectivity range and stability. With Bluetooth 4.2, you can easily connect to a speaker as far as 100ft.

Additionally, the speaker is compatible with multiple devices. From MacBooks to iPhones, connecting to this speaker is a stress-free and painless process. In case you have some reservations against Bluetooth, the presence of an AUX connection method provides a handy escape but a reliable connection option.

This speaker is powered by a battery that can last up to 14 hours. Rain and water are not completely destructive because the speaker has an IPX5 water-resistant certification.

Key Features
  • Dual precision stereo drivers
  • Special bass radiator
  • Powerful volume booster
  • Lasts up to 14 hours
Pros
  • Rich bass
  • Quality sound
  • Multi-compatibility
Cons
  • Not waterproof
Buy This Product
OontZ Angle 3

You will love Sony SRS-XB12, thanks to its winning combination of both a compact design and great sound. Weighing at 8 ounces, this speaker is small and light enough for you to toss it into a travel bag or deep pockets. The detachable matching strap adds portability as you can hang the speaker.

The dustproof design is capable of withstanding dusty surfaces during outdoor activities. You can listen to music while hiking, camping, or even climbing a mountain without worrying about any damages. The speaker is IP67 rated, making it ideal to use on pools or besides fresh running water, provided all ports are firmly sealed.

With Bluetooth version 4.2, you can connect to compatible devices within 3 seconds so you can enjoy music wherever you are. The speaker provides you with an extended 16 hours battery life for you to party longer. Additionally, the LED indicator notifies you of the charging and battery status.

Just like the cylindrical body, the bottom panel is rubberized to prevent the speaker from dancing across tabletops when playing certain tracks. The speaker utilizes an add function that allows you to connect two wireless speakers to achieve an upgraded stereo sound.

This speaker features a passive radiator that works with monaural speakers to boost low-end tones. As such, you get to listen to your favorite music with powerful beats and rich bass.

Key Features
  • Speaker add function
  • Extra bass
  • Waterproof and dustproof
Pros
  • Impressive audio sound
  • Waterproof and dustproof
  • Portable
  • Long battery life
Cons
  • No NFC
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Sony SRS-XB12

If you are looking for versatility and rich sound, Sonos One makes a perfect portable speaker. This speaker is sturdy and will add some wowing moments to your listening experience. With built-in Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, you can quickly set alarms, play music, and get questions answered entirely hands-free.

The Sonos S2 app brings all your voice, streaming, and control services together so you can easily browse and listen to podcasts, music, and audiobooks at any time. Additionally, you can connect different Sonos speakers over Wi-Fi to let out a home sound system that brings everyone together.

The ethernet port comes in handy when your Wi-Fi is unstable or weak. Instead of using mechanical buttons, this speaker features impressive touch-sensitive buttons that involve tapping and swiping, so you can easily skip tracks and adjust the volume.

The compact design makes it fit any space in your room. You can tuck it in a bookshelf or place it on a kitchen countertop, and it will still deliver epic sounds. The humidity-resistant design allows you to play music while taking a shower.

The seamless matte finish makes it attractive, so it can blend with any décor. The Apple AirPlay 2 enables you to stream and play everything you love from Apple devices effortlessly. The LED indicates voice feedback, battery, and mute status.

Key Features
  • Apple AirPlay support
  • Voice control
  • Humidity resistant
Pros
  • Powerful sound
  • Supports AirPlay
  • Multi-room audio
Cons
  • No Bluetooth
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If you are looking for a speaker that is ideal for meetings, you will love eMeet. This speaker is integrated with cutting-edge technology that allows multiple users to have vivid conversations through it.

eMeet comes with four microphone arrays that offer a wide surround distance. These microphone arrays use artificial intelligence to produce distortion-free sound and allow up to 8 people to comfortably use the speaker during a meeting. As a result, conversing during a conference call becomes a stress-free process.

These microphones are also noise-isolating, enabling the speaker to pick up your voice quickly and instantly. As such, conversing is not a struggle, and recipients hear your voice loud and clear.

This speaker guarantees high-quality sound. Equipped with a VoiceA algorithm, the eMeet produces rich and mesmerizing sound every time. An acoustic echo canceller that is coupled with the VoiceA algorithm creates an echo-free sound. Consequently, you can expect the sound to be both immersive and captivating.

A variety of connection options such as Bluetooth, AUX, and USB allow multiple devices to connect to the speaker. From phones to laptops, this speaker accommodates them all. Consequently, you will have no problem finding a suitable connection method.

You will love eMeet’s convenient design. Compact and lightweight, this speaker can easily fit into your pocket or briefcase.

The speaker also looks good with its futuristic design. With interactive lights and an upscale touch panel, eMeet instantly looks high-tech and business-ready.

Key Features
  • Four AI microphone arrays
  • Noise isolating microphones
  • Futuristic design
Pros
  • Up to 8 people can talk clearly
  • Stress-free speaking
  • High quality sound
Cons
  • Lacks bass enhancer
Buy This Product

Powerful and edgy, the Motorola SonicSubs 530 is the perfect speaker for anyone who likes to have fun. This speaker is integrated with cutting-edge features that ooze superiority and elegance.

The Mototora SonicSubs 530 uses a 10W, powerful speaker to produce crystal clear sound. This speaker pays special attention to the bass sound. Not only is bass enhanced, but it is also enriched. As a result, music from this speaker is enchanting and glorious.

The speaker is designed to be exceptionally portable. With dimensions of 5.51 by 2.91 by 2.95 inches, this speaker is small, compact, and does not take up much space. Therefore, you can easily carry the speaker everywhere you go.

The Motorola has a built-in microphone that allows you to access voice assistants like Siri and Alexa. This microphone makes your life quite easy. Apart from making voice commands, you can use the microphone to make hands-free calls. The hands-free calling feature is particularly useful when you are jamming to music and driving.

You can rest easy if a little rain or swimming pool water splashes on the speaker. This speaker is water-resistant and has a certification of IPX5. Consequently, a little water is not catastrophic to the speaker.

The speaker is battery powered and has an impressive battery life of up to 9 hours. Therefore, you can comfortably use this speaker outdoors.

Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 technology, this speaker is compatible with most devices. Additionally, due to Bluetooth 5.0, the connection range is wide and reliable.

Key Features
  • 10W powerful speakers
  • Built-in microphone
  • IPX5 certification
Pros
  • Crystal clear sound
  • Easy to carry around
  • Voice assistants
  • Waterproof
Cons
  • Limited connection options
Buy This Product
Motorola SonicSubs530

Durable, compact, and versatile, the DOSS SoundBox is a great pick for outdoor lovers.

Sound is one of the most critical features in a speaker, and the DOSS SoundBox doesn’t disappoint. The two six-watt high-performing drivers deliver a 360-degree stereo sound at a distance without compromising the clarity. Distortion is less than one percent, even at high volume, plus the lows aren’t overdriven or too dominating. There’s also a passive bass radiator which makes bass-heavy songs in various genres more immersive.

The speaker excels when it comes to battery life, thanks to the in-built lithium-ion 2200mAh rechargeable battery. It offers you around 12 hours of playtime when the volume is at 75 percent. You can place the speaker on a poolside without worrying about any damages as it withstands water splashes with the IPX5 rating.

On top is an intuitive interface with a laser-curved finishing. It lets you adjust the volume, answer phone calls, pause, play, and skip tracks with ease. The speaker saves you from the hassle of dealing with tangling wires as it connects via Bluetooth 4.0 technology. You can connect it to most of your Bluetooth-enabled devices up to a distance of 10 meters without experiencing dropouts.

The DOSS SoundBox comes in various eye-catching colors, including tiffany blue, black, yellow, white, light pink, and grey. This allows you to pick one that rhymes with your unique style.

Key Features
  • IPX5 waterproof
  • Sensitive touch control panel
  • Built-in mic
  • Includes a 3.5mm auxiliary cable
Pros
  • Elegant design
  • Great battery life
  • High-quality sound performance
  • Available in gorgeous-looking colors
Cons
  • Not fully waterproof
Buy This Product
DOSS SoundBox

Wireless speakers enable you to connect them with your music player using any of the existing connection technologies. You can pair your devices such as tablets, smartphones, and laptops with the loudspeaker using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or the neoteric Near Field Communication (NFC). It is essential to consider some specifications like battery life, sound quality, design, water resistance, and connectivity. Battery life is a critical parameter to evaluate because you do not want a portable device that runs out of charge after one hour.

Battery Life

You want a portable speaker that will keep the music coming and the fun going. Today, you can find speakers that last an average of 6-10 hours, and some devices even feature an extended battery life of 24 hours. The tiny speakers tend to last for a few hours because they have smaller batteries, while larger devices have extended battery life. If you plan to play your music louder, you might opt for a large but portable speaker.

The louder you play your audio, the more current the speaker will use, making the battery to deplete faster. You can also find some devices that guarantee fast charging while other models offer more than 10 hours of uninterrupted playback on a full charge. Depending on your plans for the speaker, the best device should offer at least 10 hours of battery life. The next vital element to consider is the sound quality of the portable speaker.

Sound Quality

You can use these four aspects to find a speaker with excellent sound quality, frequency range, impedance, output power, and sound system. Hertz represents the frequency response or range of the portable speaker. An extensive range translates to better sound quality of the device. However, a wider range alone does not translate to great sound because how the ear perceives sound varies from person to person.

Factors such as the age of the listener play a vital role in sound perception since the ability to hear some frequencies decline with time. An ideal portable speaker should offer a frequency response between 100Hz and 20,000Hz. When playing an audio track, you usually hear the bass around the range between 20Hz and 250Hz. You hear vocals or instruments like piano and guitar around 250Hz to 4000Hz, while anything above these frequencies forms the treble.

The Watts represents the output power, and a tiny speaker can only develop less power because of the small size. It is essential to ensure you get a speaker that offers fewer amounts of distortion or none at the highest volume. Portability is a critical parameter, and you can consider getting a lightweight as well as a sleek speaker. This review offers great assistance when looking into the best portable speaker to purchase. Now that you've come to the end of this guide, you can revisit our list of products and pick which of the best portable speakers is perfect for you!

FAQ

Q: What Bluetooth technology do portable speakers use?

Given that Bluetooth is an evolving technology, the latest standards are better than the older ones. As such, portable speakers do not use the same Bluetooth technology. The first version of Bluetooth was released back in 1999. You’ll barely find any portable speakers using this technology today.

Most modern speakers use Bluetooth 4.0 or 5.0. Note that there are slight improvements in-between versions such that some speakers will have Bluetooth 4.2, 5.1, and so on. Always chose the speaker with the highest version number. It determines the range and signal speed.

A portable speaker with Bluetooth 5 will stay connected to the audio source up to 120 meters. Bluetooth 4 only gives you a 30-meter range.  Similarly, you get 2 MBPS with v 5.0 compared with 1 MBPS with v 4.0. The latest Bluetooth technology has less latency.

Q: Do all portable speakers use Bluetooth?

Not all portable speakers use Bluetooth to receive audio signals. The most common technologies which portable speakers connect with smartphones, computers, and other sources are Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) and Bluetooth (4.0 or 5.0).

While most small portable speakers do not have Wi-Fi capability, larger portable ones usually come equipped with the two technologies. In addition, speakers that feature Wi-Fi usually have smart features such as an inbuilt digital assistant. Such devices tend to be more expensive than their counterparts. Despite being portable, Wi-Fi-capable speakers are typically purchased for home, parties, and other settings that are likely to be equipped with a wireless connection.

Q: Does sound quality differ in portable speakers?

Like cabled speakers, portable audio devices have different sound profiles. Manufacturers prioritize various features when designing a portable speaker. In the high-end speakers, they deliver as many premium features as possible.

On the other hand, they feature the bare minimum specs when focusing on the budget segment. Most speakers are great at one feature but average at the next. Some produce heavy bass, while others attempt to balance everything out. Some have all the great features but are pricey.

You want a speaker that offers stereo sound. Your music preference should also be a critical factor when assessing a speaker’s performance. For example, a genre such as pop sounds best with high treble settings.

Q: How long does a portable speaker keep charge?

While large portable speakers don’t have any batteries, their smaller counterparts usually come equipped with them. Portable speakers that don’t have batteries rely on external power outlets. Despite a physical power connection, they allow you to send audio signals to their drivers over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Smaller portable speakers have batteries that keep them powered for six to 24 hours.

The battery capacity impacts other factors, such as the weight and size of the portable speaker. Decently sized speakers that can play music for more than 20 hours will be heavier and bulkier. While you can find light speakers with such long-lasting batteries, they will not sound as good.

Q: Will a portable speaker survive water damage?

Due to its electrical conductivity, water will short electronic circuits in most devices. Some Bluetooth speakers are waterproof and may have an IP rating. Such devices will survive water splashes and immersions depending on the rating.

As an example, the 2nd Gen Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 has an IP67 rating. It can stay submerged in water up to one meter deep for 30 minutes without damaging the electronic components.

Remember that most portable speakers are only rated for splash resistance and will get damaged if submerged. For example, the JBL Xtreme 2 will survive rainwater and occasional splashes but should never be submerged. If a portable speaker you are considering isn’t rated, assume that it’ll get damaged when exposed to water or dust.