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We tested over 200 portable speaker models, and these are the best
By Maren Estrada,
2 hours ago
The expert product reviewers have been testing different portable speaker models for more than 15 years now. In that time, we have tested more than 200 different portable speakers from every top brand, including Bose, Sony, Anker Soundflare, Beats, Sonos, and so many more. Here, in this guide, we’re going to share our picks for the best portable speaker models you can get right now. Whether you’re looking for something cheap and affordable, powerful, or something with tons of bass, we’ll show you the best option on any budget.
All things considered, the Sonos Move 2 might be the best portable speaker we’ve ever tested. It’s 9.5 inches tall by 6.3 inches wide, yet it pumps out incredible sound that makes it seem like a much larger speaker. A built-in woofer on the back delivers shockingly deep bass, and 20+ hour battery life means you never have to worry about running out of power.
In addition to Bluetooth, the Sonos Move 2 also supports Apple AirPlay 2 as well as Wi-Fi streaming when connected to your Sonos system at home.
Also, unlike the original Sonos Move, the second-generation model is IP56 dust- and water-resistant, so you can take it to the pool without worrying about ruining it.
There is really only one major downside with the Move 2, and it’s the price tag. At $449, it’s one of the most expensive mass-market Bluetooth speakers out there. When you consider the sound quality and all of this model’s features, however, it’s worth the price. Or, if you want something that’s almost as good for much less money, the first-generation Sonos Move can typically be found for around $300.
Pros: Good sound quality, excellent battery life, great price
Cons: Poor bass response compared to pricier models
The Cambridge Soundworks OontZ Angle 3 portable Bluetooth speaker is the best affordable wireless speaker out there. It punches well above its weight, with sound quality typically found in more expensive options. It also has an upgraded 100-foot Bluetooth range, so you don’t have to worry about how far away you are with your smartphone. Perhaps best of all, its IPX5 water-resistance rating protects against splashes, so you can use it by the pool without splashes damaging it.
This is designed for you to have greater sound clarity, so you’ll get the music quality you expect. While the sound quality isn’t elite, it impresses, especially for the price. And, thanks to the Volume Booster 10+ watt power AMP, this pumps out more volume without distortion. The unique, triangular design also helps deliver sound at all angles. It connects easily with your devices, and the battery lasts for a very long time.
Best mid-range portable speaker: Anker Soundcore Flare 2
The Anker Soundcore Flare 2 Bluetooth speaker. Image source: Anker/Amazon
Pros: 12-hour battery life, IPX7 waterproof, light ring
Cons: Bass isn’t great
Anker is a brand that’s known for offering terrific quality products at affordable prices, but we still weren’t prepared for how impressive the Anker Soundcore Flare 2 was the first time we tested it. This delivers an immersive experience with 360-degree sound and the audio is bass-driven. The dual driver and passive radiators combine with BassUp technology to generate a portable party with 20W of intense sound.
The Flare 2 offers 12 hours of playtime, which is impressive. Also, it is IPX7 waterproof, so it’ll be safe to use by the pool. PartyCast lets you link over 100 Flare 2 speakers to take your party to the next level, basically creating a concert wherever you are.
Anker also added a fun design element: a ring that will light up and pulse to the music. The Soundcore app allows you to control many of the settings, including the colors.
If you want the best in the business, look to a company that has been making incredible audio products for decades. The Bose SoundLink Revolve+ Series II portable speaker is a top-of-the-line Bluetooth speaker in every regard. From the sound quality and 360-degree audio projection to jaw-dropping 17-hour battery life, the Revolve+ is as good as it gets. This model plays longer and louder than the original Revolve+, too.
It is a durable portable speaker with an IP55 water and dust resistance rating. It has a built-in mic for taking phone calls. Voice prompts walk you through pairing your device to the speaker. The speaker also supports Amazon Alexa, so voice controls allow you to control all your smart home gadgets, ask questions, and more.
The Bose app is extremely simple to navigate, allowing you to better control your speaker and customize your listening experience. However, the bass isn’t this speaker’s strongest suit. So, if that’s a make-or-break element for you, you may want to go with our next recommendation instead.
Best compact portable speaker: Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 2nd Gen
Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 2nd Gen Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker Image source: Bang & Olufsen/Amazon
Pros: Slim and intuitive design, Alexa support, good sound for its size
Cons: Bluetooth connection could be better
One of the best Bluetooth speakers you’re going to find to carry around in a bag or pocket is the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 2nd Gen portable Bluetooth speaker. It is so portable, plus it’s waterproof and rugged. I was actually shocked by how good this model sounds for a speaker that’s so small.
The A1 2nd Gen has a slim and intuitive design with an easy-to-use button interface. It’s also ultra-lightweight, so you can carry it anywhere without having to worry about it. There’s also a long cord that you can hold onto, or you can hang it from something while you’re listening.
Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound A1 2nd Gen has support for the Alexa voice assistant with Far Field technology. It also has an IP67 dust- and waterproof rating. It weighs just over a pound and comes in multiple colors, plus it has 18 hours of battery life.
Marshall Stockwell II Portable Bluetooth Speaker Image source: Marshall/Amazon
Pros: 20 hours of battery life, multi-directional “True Stereophonic” sound
Cons: Isn’t loud enough for larger gatherings
The Marshall Stockwell II portable speaker will help you get more out of your sound. It offers 20 hours of portable playtime on a single charge. This model utilizes a True Stereophonic sound projection system, a unique form of multidirectional sound from Marshall. It delivers 360° of sound, so no matter where you sit, you’ll be in a sweet spot.
The sound quality is impressive, though it doesn’t get quite as loud as some other models in this price range.
The Stockwell II is IPX4 water-resistant and equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 technology. Unlike newer standards, it has a wireless range of about 30 feet.
This is one of the best Bluetooth speakers that have multi-device functionality, so you can easily switch between two connected Bluetooth devices. Also, the guitar-inspired carry strap is an awesome touch, and we love that it’s styled after a Marshall amp.
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