Best Bluetooth speakers

Bluetooth speakers have transformed how we experience audio in our homes and on the go. In 2024, the market offers an impressive array of high-quality options, from established brands like Sonos, JBL, and Bose to innovative newcomers pushing the boundaries of portable sound. With advanced features such as waterproof designs, extended battery life, smart assistant integration, and multi-room connectivity, today’s Bluetooth speakers are versatile audio powerhouses that adapt to various environments and lifestyles. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or at-home party thrower, our guide to the best Bluetooth speakers will help you find the perfect audio companion for your needs and budget.

Our testing goes beyond surface-level impressions. We’ve rigorously evaluated over 100 Bluetooth speakers in diverse real-world scenarios throughout the years. Above, you’ll find quick summaries highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of our top five Bluetooth speaker picks. Below, we dive deeper into how each top choice and runner-up performs based on our comprehensive testing process. While we don’t conduct laboratory measurements like frequency response curves for speakers, our evaluation includes extensive listening tests in various environments—indoors and outdoors, quiet and noisy settings—to assess sound quality, volume capability, and overall performance. We also measure battery life, evaluate build quality and durability, and test extra features like voice assistant integration and multi-speaker pairing. Our goal is to cut through the marketing hype and provide you with practical, real-world insights to help you choose the best Bluetooth speaker for you.

Why is the JBL Charge 5 the best Bluetooth speaker?

The JBL Charge 5 strikes an impressive balance between portability, durability, and audio performance. Its robust build makes it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures, while its sound quality rivals that of larger home speakers. The Charge 5 features a long-excursion driver and a separate tweeter, complemented by passive bass radiators on each side. This results in clear vocals and punchy bass that can easily fill a medium-sized gathering, indoors or out.

While it may be too large for a bag, the Charge 5 is small enough to carry, and the 20-hour battery life makes it perfect for beach days or weekend camping trips. The speaker also doubles as a power bank with its USB-A port, allowing you to charge your devices on the go. The JBL Portable app offers additional features like PartyBoost for connecting multiple speakers and a simple equalizer for sound customization.

Quick Specs

• Dimensions: 22.3 x 9.65 x 9.4 cm
• Weight: 960g
• Waterproof rating: IP67
• Bluetooth version: 5.1
• Colors: Grey, Blue, Forest Green, Teal, Squad, Black, Pink, White

Best smart home Bluetooth speaker: Google Nest Audio

The Google Nest Audio stands out as a smart speaker that combines aesthetics, functionality, and affordability. Its pillow-inspired design allows it to blend seamlessly into any home decor while delivering impressive audio performance and smart features.

The Nest Audio’s audio quality impresses with its neutral-leaning frequency response, thanks to its 75mm mid-woofer and 19mm tweeter. While it may lack deep bass, it excels in reproducing midrange and treble frequencies, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres and spoken word content. The speaker’s Media EQ and Ambient IQ features dynamically adjust the sound based on the content and your environment, ensuring optimal listening experiences.

Google Assistant integration shines in the Nest Audio, with quick response times and the ability to control smart home devices, make calls, set reminders, and more. The built-in machine learning chip promises to improve response times as it learns your habits, making your smart home experience even more seamless over time.

Quick Specs

• Dimensions: 175 x 124 x 78 mm
• Weight: 1.2kg
• Audio: 75mm woofer, 19mm tweeter
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz), Bluetooth 5.0
• Voice Assistant: Google Assistant
• Special features: Chromecast built-in, multiroom audio, stereo pairing

Best Bluetooth speaker from Apple: Beats Pill

The Beats Pill makes a strong comeback in the portable speaker market with its latest iteration. This compact speaker packs a punch with its bass-heavy sound profile, making it ideal for bass lovers who want a portable audio solution. Its IP67 rating ensures it can withstand dust, water splashes, and even brief submersion, making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures.

While the Beats Pill excels in bass reproduction, it does have some limitations. The sound quality noticeably declines at higher volumes, with compression and distortion becoming apparent above 50% volume. This makes it less suitable for larger parties or outdoor events where you might need to crank up the volume. The speaker also underemphasizes midrange frequencies, which may not appeal to listeners who prefer a more balanced sound signature.

Quick Specs

• Dimensions: 219 x 71 x 70 mm
• Weight: 680g
• Waterproof rating: IP67
• Battery life: 24 hours at 50% volume
• Charging: USB-C with fast charging
• Special features: Lossless listening via USB-C, stereo pairing with second Pill speaker

Best sound quality for a Bluetooth speaker: Anker Soundcore Motion X600

The Anker Soundcore Motion X600 stands out as a high-end portable speaker that doesn’t compromise on sound quality. Its five-driver system, including an upward-firing driver, creates an immersive soundstage that’s uncommon in speakers of this size. The spatial audio mode adds noticeable depth and height to your music, making it a great choice for audiophiles who want a portable solution.

While it may not be the most rugged or portable option, the Motion X600 excels in home environments. Its aluminum build and unique grille design make it a stylish addition to any room. The speaker offers a good balance of features, including LDAC codec support for high-quality streaming, a customizable EQ through the Soundcore app, and the ability to pair two speakers for an even more expansive soundstage.

Quick Specs

• Dimensions: 311 x 171 x 81mm
• Weight: 2.35kg
• Waterproof rating: IPX7
• Battery life: 12 hours at 25% volume
• Charging: USB-C (6 hours for full charge)
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC, 3.5mm aux input
• Special features: Spatial audio mode, BassUp technology, customizable EQ

Best Bluetooth speaker with bass: Anker Soundcore Boom 2 Plus

The Anker Soundcore Boom 2 Plus is designed for those who want their music loud and their bass even louder. This robust speaker packs a serious punch with its dual 4.5-inch woofers and 1-inch tweeters, delivering up to 140 watts of power when BassUP mode is engaged.

While it may be too bulky for casual outings, the Boom 2 Plus shines in party settings. Its IPX7 water resistance and ability to float make it perfect for poolside or beach use. The built-in LED lights on the passive radiators add a visual element to your music, enhancing the party atmosphere.

The companion app offers extensive customization options, including a 10-band EQ for fine-tuning the sound to your liking. The ability to boost frequencies as low as 48 Hz allows bass enthusiasts to really feel the music. With PartyCast 2.0, you can connect up to 100 compatible speakers for an even more immersive audio experience.

Quick Specs

• Dimensions: 442 x 151 x 228 mm
• Weight: 3.8kg
• Waterproof rating: IPX7
• Battery life: Up to 20 hours (at 50% volume, BassUP and lights off)
• Output: 140W (with BassUP enabled)
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 (SBC codec)
• Special features: BassUP 2.0, LED party lights, PartyCast 2.0

Best Bluetooth speaker for clipping onto a backpack: JBL Clip 5

The JBL Clip 5 continues the legacy of its predecessors as the go-to speaker for outdoor enthusiasts and casual listeners on the move. This latest iteration brings some welcome upgrades while maintaining the compact, rugged design that made the series popular.

The Clip 5 boasts a more premium look and feel compared to its predecessor, with a wider carabiner for more placement options and thicker silicone padding on the back for added protection. The 7W of output from its 1.75″ driver and passive radiator provides sufficient sound for personal or small group listening in outdoor settings.

New features like companion app support allow users to fine-tune their listening experience with preset and custom EQ options. The Auracast feature enables pairing with other compatible JBL speakers, though it’s worth noting that this limits you to mono sound and default EQ settings.

Quick Specs

• Dimensions: 86 x 46 x 134 mm
• Weight: 285g
• Waterproof rating: IP67
• Battery life: 12 hours
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3
• Output: 7W

Best Bluetooth party speaker: JBL PartyBox Stage 320

The JBL PartyBox Stage 320 is the ultimate portable party machine, designed to turn any gathering into an unforgettable event. This powerhouse speaker combines booming sound, dazzling lights, and improved mobility to create the perfect centerpiece for your next celebration.

The Stage 320 impresses with its 240 watts of stereo power, delivered through dual 6.5″ woofers and 25mm dome tweeters. This setup ensures that your music not only fills the space but also maintains clarity and punch, even in outdoor settings. The redesigned light show adds a visual spectacle to match the audio performance, with customizable options available through the JBL PartyBox app.

Improvements in portability, including a telescoping handle and wider wheels, make it easier to transport this 16.5kg party machine. The IPX4 water resistance rating means you don’t have to worry about light rain or splashes by the pool. With up to 18 hours of playtime and the option for swappable battery packs, your party can keep going long into the night.

Quick Specs

• Dimensions: 335 x 385 x 669 mm
• Weight: 16.5kg
• Waterproof rating: IPX4
• Battery life: Up to 18 hours (depending on volume and light show intensity)
• Output: 240W
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4 (SBC, AAC codecs)
• Special features: Customizable light show, swappable battery packs, dual 1/4″ inputs

Best pocket-friendly Bluetooth speaker: JBL Go 4

The JBL Go 4 proves that good things come in small packages, offering a surprising amount of features and durability in a pocket-sized speaker. This latest iteration builds upon the success of its predecessor with notable improvements in both design and functionality.

JBL has enhanced the Go 4’s durability with additional silicone protection around the edges, making it even more resistant to wear and tear. The speaker maintains its IP67 rating, ensuring it can handle dust, sand, and even submersion in water. Despite its small size, the Go 4 delivers respectable sound quality, especially when fine-tuned using the new 5-band EQ available in the JBL Portable app.

While it may not have the booming bass of larger speakers, the Go 4 excels in providing clear, mid-range focused audio in a form factor that can literally fit in your pocket. The improved 7-hour battery life ensures your tunes keep playing through extended outings or beach days.

Quick Specs

• Dimensions: 94 x 78 x 42 mm
• Weight: 190g
• Waterproof rating: IP67
• Battery life: Up to 7 hours
• Output: 4.2W
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 (SBC codec)
• Special features: JBL Portable app support, Auracast for multi-speaker pairing

Best Bose Bluetooth speaker: Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen)

The Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) builds on the success of its predecessor, offering a robust portable speaker experience with some modern refinements. While it may look nearly identical to the original, this new iteration brings some key technological improvements to the table.

The SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) maintains the durability that made the original popular, with its IP67 rating ensuring protection against dust and water. The updated Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and support for the aptX codec (on compatible devices) provide a more stable connection and potentially higher audio quality for Android users.

Sound quality remains a strong point, with Bose’s PositionIQ technology automatically adjusting the audio based on the speaker’s orientation. While the EQ options in the companion app are somewhat limited, they do allow for some sound customization to suit your preferences.

Quick Specs

• Dimensions: 203 x 45 x 89 mm
• Weight: 589g
• Waterproof rating: IP67
• Battery life: Up to 12 hours
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 (SBC, AAC, aptX)
• Special features: PositionIQ technology, SimpleSync for pairing with other Bose speakers

Best Sonos Bluetooth speaker: Sonos Move 2

The Sonos Move 2 is a premium smart speaker that doesn’t compromise on sound quality or features. Its ability to seamlessly switch between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity makes it a versatile choice for both home and outdoor use. The Move 2 boasts impressive stereo sound from its compact form factor, with Trueplay technology automatically adjusting the audio to your surroundings.

While it may be too heavy for frequent travel, the Move 2 excels as a movable home speaker. Its IP56 rating ensures it can withstand dust and water splashes, making it perfect for patio or poolside use. The speaker’s 24-hour battery life is a significant improvement over its predecessor, allowing for extended listening sessions without worrying about charging.

Quick Specs

• Dimensions: 241 x 160 x 127 mm
• Weight: 3 kg
• Waterproof rating: IP56
• Bluetooth version: 5.0
• Battery life: 24 hours
• Charging: USB-C and included charging cradle
• Colors: Black, white, olive

The best Bluetooth speakers: Notable mentions

• Anker Soundcore Boom 2 ($89.99 at Amazon): With plenty of bass on tap, customizable dual LED lights, and a floatable design, the Boom 2 brings a little something extra to your next outdoor gathering.
• Anker Soundcore Motion X500 ($169.99 at Amazon): The Anker Soundcore Motion X500 delivers. A nice step up from the smaller Bluetooth speaker options on the market without going overboard, the X500 really packs a punch while still remaining portable.
• Bose SoundLink Micro ($99 at Amazon): This is the perfect companion for bikers and picnic hosts; you can strap it onto your handlebars and or set it on the blanket and dig in. If you want a similar design with a louder output, consider the SoundLink Color II.
• Bose Portable Smart Speaker ($399 at Amazon): If you can’t decide between getting a portable Bluetooth speaker and a smart home speaker, another great option is the Bose Portable Smart Speaker. This omnidirectional speaker operates over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, so you can use it at home or outside. The Portable Smart Speaker is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant but can only make calls with Alexa.
• Google Nest Audio ($99.99 at Best Buy): This Google Assistant smart speaker is designed with music listening in mind—featuring a 75mm woofer, 19mm tweeter, and adaptive EQ technology that provides great sound in a compact form factor.
• JBL Flip 6 ($99 at Amazon): The JBL Flip 6 is a solid update to the JBL Flip 5, and the IP67 rating is a welcome upgrade. You still get JBL’s signature sound, and it’s just as easy as ever to sync this Bluetooth speaker with your devices.
• JBL Flip 5 ($89 at Amazon): If you’re looking for a Bluetooth speaker for less than $100, then the Flip series has always been a go-to. The JBL Flip 5 makes nominal but appreciated improvements upon the JBL Flip 4.
• JBL GO 3 ($39 at Amazon): This super-compact speaker is a steal. For something so small, it delivers powerful sound. It also has an IP67 rating and has a loop that you can use to hang it in the shower.
• Marshall Emberton ($119 at Amazon): This tiny Marshall speaker is perfectly fine, but it won’t knock your socks off. The biggest draw to the IPX7-rated Emberton speaker is its design and small form factor.
• Marshall Willen ($119.99 at Amazon): The Marshall Willen is a fun, durable, compact speaker perfect for those on the go, though it’s a little pricey relative to the competition. Snag this on sale.
• UE HYPERBOOM ($129 at Amazon): If you like UE but feel its previous offerings weren’t loud enough to power your parties, then the HYPERBOOM is perfect for you. Sure, it’s expensive, but it fills a niche that UE couldn’t previously fill.
• Sonos Roam 2 ($179 at Amazon): The Sonos Roam 2 doesn’t stray far from the original in terms of design, specs, and features. Frustrating app setup issues aside, it’s a great-sounding portable speaker. Existing Sonos users will benefit from their home smart setup reaching a little further. Still, with its new Bluetooth connection option, anyone can use it as a standalone Bluetooth speaker for your next adventure without relying on the finicky Sonos app.
• Sony SRS-XB100 ($58 at Amazon): If you’re looking for something cheap, portable, durable, and packed with bass, look no further than the Sony SRS-XB100.
• UE BOOM 3 ($129 at Amazon): This omnidirectional speaker is shaped like a bottle and has an IP67 rating. The volume gets plenty loud, but if you need to boost it even more, you can connect up to 150 compatible speakers on the UE app.
• UE Wonderboom 3 ($91.99 at Amazon): The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 is a great portable Bluetooth speaker, good for parties and on the go. It’s small, sturdy, and well built, and is light enough to easily be thrown in a backpack. However, the lack of USB-C charging does hinder it somewhat.

What you should know before you buy the best Bluetooth speaker for your needs

Bluetooth speakers are a dime a dozen, so here are a few things you should know before buying. What makes one speaker stand out from the next?

What is a Bluetooth codec?

Just like wireless headphones, Bluetooth speakers support specific Bluetooth codecs. For those unfamiliar with the concept, a codec determines how a file transmits from a source (phone) to a receiver (speaker). If you want a lag-free experience, make sure to invest in something that supports aptX or AAC if you’re an iOS user. Not only does this reduce latency, but it also allows for better streaming quality (at least if you use AAC with iOS).

Bluetooth isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. While we do like Bluetooth for its convenience, it’s not as good as wired when it comes to sound quality. We probably didn’t have to tell you that, but at least we can show you.

What is an IP rating?

Sometimes, a product’s specifications will plainly read “sweat-resistant” or something similar. However, if you know you’re going to take your speaker on a boat or to the beach, you should invest in something with an official IP rating. IP ratings denote the dust and water resistance of a particular product. Oftentimes, a product will be rated something like IPX4, and the X is just a placeholder for what would be a dust-resistant rating. For a product to withstand full submersion, it must be at least IPX7 or higher.

How we choose the best Bluetooth speakers

There are thousands and thousands of Bluetooth speakers worldwide, and it’d be impossible for us to review them all, but that doesn’t stop us from trying to get our grubby hands on all of them. If a speaker made it onto this list, then you can be sure we have firsthand experience with them and, in many cases, put them through our entire review process.

Not only do we directly review and test as many audio products as we can, but we also take into account what others are saying about a given product. We want our readers to be happy with their purchases, so we had to narrow down what it means to be “the best Bluetooth speaker.” In this case, we need it to sound good, be relatively affordable, and be durable. If a speaker’s intended use is for camping or hiking, we ensure that it’s received an official IP rating. Generally, if Bluetooth speakers perform well, there’s no need to overspend for the sake of overspending.

Why you should trust SoundGuys

Each writer adheres to a strict ethics policy and is committed to streamlining the research process for our readers. At the end of the day, we realize that you can spend an exorbitant amount of money to get the absolute best product in any given category. Still, we respect that many consumers don’t fall into that category. Ultimately, we want you to love what you purchase, and none of us may benefit from steering you toward or away from a certain product.

Frequently asked questions about Bluetooth speakers