All products featured are independently chosen by us. However, SoundGuys may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links. See our ethics statement.
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.
Selecting the right Bluetooth speaker can significantly enhance your audio experience. Here are key factors to consider when choosing the best Bluetooth speaker for your needs:
- Budget: Determine your spending limit before you start shopping. Bluetooth speakers range from budget-friendly options under $50 to high-end models costing several hundred dollars. Remember, while higher-priced speakers often offer better sound quality and features, there are excellent options at various price points.
- Size and Portability: Consider where and how you’ll use the speaker. Smaller, lightweight speakers are ideal for travel or outdoor activities, while larger speakers generally offer better sound quality and volume but may be less portable. Balance size with performance based on your needs.
- Sound Quality: Evaluate the speaker’s audio performance, including bass response, clarity, and volume capability. Look for speakers with balanced sound profiles that suit your music preferences. Some models offer customizable EQ settings for fine-tuning.
- Battery Life: For portable use, longer battery life is crucial. Look for speakers that offer at least 10-12 hours of playback time. Some larger models can last 20 hours or more on a single charge.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: If you plan to use your speaker outdoors or in potentially damp environments, consider models with IP ratings for water and dust resistance. IPX7 or IP67 ratings offer good protection against water and dust.
- Connectivity Options: While Bluetooth is standard, some speakers offer additional connection options like Wi-Fi, NFC pairing, or a 3.5mm auxiliary input. Consider which options are important for your setup.
- Extra Features: Look for features that enhance usability, such as:
- Speakerphone capabilities for hands-free calls
- Voice assistant integration
- Multi-speaker pairing for stereo or surround sound
- Built-in power bank functionality to charge other devices
- Brand Reputation and Support: Consider purchasing from reputable brands known for quality audio products and good customer support.
- Compatibility: Ensure the speaker is compatible with your devices and supports the latest Bluetooth standards for stable connections and potentially better audio quality.
- Intended Use: Think about where you’ll use the speaker most often. A rugged, portable speaker might be best for outdoor enthusiasts, while a larger, more powerful speaker could be ideal for home use.
By carefully considering these factors and prioritizing the features most important to you, you can select a Bluetooth speaker that best fits your lifestyle and audio needs.
Why is the JBL Charge 5 the best Bluetooth speaker?
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent sound quality with clear vocals and strong bass
- Water and dust-resistant
- Long 20-hour battery life
- Can charge other devices via USB-A port
- PartyBoost feature for connecting multiple speakers
- Bluetooth multipoint connectivity
Reasons Not to Buy:
- Bulky for a portable speaker
- No built-in microphone for calls
- Lacks 3.5mm auxiliary input
- PartyBoost is not compatible with older JBL Connect+ speakers
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.
With its durable build, long battery life, and dependable sound output, the JBL Charge 5 is a versatile sonic adventure companion that doesn't compromise on quality.
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
The JBL Charge 4 has an IPX7 water-resistance rating and is, unfortunately, missing out on the dustproofing of the newer Charge 5. Its battery specs are identical, however, and its sound is very similar. Its Bluetooth 4.2 version is a little outdated, but it supports JBL Connect+, which means you can connect up to 100 compatible JBL speakers for playback.
Unlike the Charge 5, the Charge 4 retains a 3.5mm aux port for wired listening. If you want to save some cash and really want that aux port, we’d recommend going with the older Charge 4.
We anticipate the JBL Charge 6 to be announced in the coming year, but we don’t expect it to reinvent the wheel or render the Charge 5 irrelevant when it does come to market. However, it could mean that the JBL Charge 5 sees a price drop or goes on sale more often afterward. Still, The Charge 5 is an excellent Bluetooth speaker for under $200.
Best smart home Bluetooth speaker: Google Nest Audio
Reasons to Buy:
- Compact, stylish design
- Excellent sound quality for its size
- Integrated Google Assistant with quick response times
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Chromecast built-in
- Multiroom and stereo pairing
- Affordable
Reasons Not to Buy:
- Highly sensitive touch controls
- No auxiliary input
- Limited bass response
- Basic EQ options in the app
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.
With its balanced sound, responsive Google Assistant integration, and versatile connectivity options, Nest Audio is an excellent choice for building or expanding a smart home ecosystem.
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
Reasons to Buy:
- Impressive bass output
- Long 24-hour battery life
- Water and dust resistance
- Fast pairing with both iOS and Android devices
- Compact and portable design
- Lossless listening support via USB-C
Reasons Not to Buy:
- Sound quality deteriorates at higher volumes
- Lacking in midrange frequencies
- No built-in equalizer
- Pricier than some competitors
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.
With its impressive bass response, long battery life, and durability, the Beats Pill is a solid choice for those seeking a portable speaker for personal use or small gatherings.
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
Reasons to Buy:
- Premium aluminum build with elegant design
- Impressive sound quality with spatial audio mode
- Customizable EQ via the companion app
- Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC codec support
- Water resistance
- 12-hour battery life
Reasons Not to Buy:
- Relatively heavy and wide
- No dust resistance
- Pricier than some competitors
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.
With its premium build, customizable sound, and immersive audio experience, the Anker Soundcore Motion X600 is ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in a stylish, semi-portable package.
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: Brane X Smart Speaker
Reasons to Buy:
- Powerful 200W of output
- Built-in subwoofer for PLENTY of bass
- Stereo playback
- IP57 dust and water resistance rating
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Customizable EQ via companion app
- 3.5mm aux in
- aptX and aptX HD codec support
Reasons Not to Buy:
- Heavy
- Charges via AC cable only
- Pricey
There’s no way around it—the Brane X is a beast of a speaker designed for those who want their music loud and their bass even louder. This robust speaker packs a serious punch with its built-in 6.5″ x 9″ downward-firing subwoofer and offers stereo playback with two 2.5-inch mid-range drivers and two .75″ dome tweeters.
With its powerful bass output, customizable sound, and 200W of output, the Brane X is the ultimate portable party starter for beach days, pool parties, and backyard BBQs.
While it may be too bulky and heavy for casual outings, naturally, the Brane X shines in party settings. Its IP57 water resistance also make it suitable for poolside or beach use.
The companion app offers decent customization options, including a 5-band EQ for fine-tuning the sound to your liking. If you’re keen on using the Brane X around the house, it also offers Wi-Fi connection with voice assistant support for “Hey Alexa.” We’re also happy to see that the Brane X still offers a 3.5mm aux input for a wired connection.
Quick Specs
- Dimensions: 237 x 155 x 177 mm
- Weight: 3.5kg
- Waterproof rating: IP57
- Battery life: Up to 12 hours
- Output: 200W
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1 (SBC, AAC, aptX and aptX HD), Wi-Fi, 3.5mm aux
- Special features: Built-in subwoofer, Wi-Fi connectivity, Voice assistant, and a whopping bass response.
Best Bluetooth speaker for clipping onto a backpack: JBL Clip 5
Reasons to Buy:
- Built-in carabiner for easy attachment
- Affordable
- Water and dust resistance
- 12-hour battery life
- Companion app with customizable EQ
- Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connection
- Auracast feature for pairing with other JBL speakers
Reasons Not to Buy:
- Limited stereo separation
- Sound quality decreases at higher volumes
- No custom EQ when using Auracast
- “Playtime Boost” mode significantly reduces audio quality
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.
With its durable build, improved sound, and versatile attachment options, the JBL Clip 5 is the perfect audio companion for hikers, campers, and anyone who wants music on the go.
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
Reasons to Buy:
- Powerful 240W stereo output
- Improved light show with customizable options
- Water resistance
- Enhanced portability with telescoping handle and wider wheels
- Swappable battery packs for extended playtime
- Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint connection and AAC codec support
- Dual 1/4″ inputs for microphones or instruments
Reasons Not to Buy:
- Expensive
- Large and heavy at 16.5kg
- No XLR or USB-C inputs
- Plastic housing prone to scratches
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.
With its room-filling sound, customizable light show, and enhanced portability, the JBL PartyBox Stage 320 is the go-to choice for those who want to take their parties to the next level.
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
Reasons to Buy:
- Ultra-compact and lightweight
- Water and dust resistance
- New companion app with 5-band customizable EQ
- Improved 7-hour battery life
- Affordable price at $49.95
- Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connection
- Auracast feature for pairing with other JBL speakers
Reasons Not to Buy:
- Limited bass response due to small size
- No stereo separation
- “Playtime Boost” feature significantly reduces sound quality
- No custom EQ when using Auracast
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.
With its ultra-portable design, improved durability, and new app support, the JBL Go 4 is the perfect companion for those who want quality sound in the most compact package possible.
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)
Reasons to Buy:
- Support for aptX codec (Snapdragon Sound devices)
- Versatile mounting options with built-in strap
- Clear, balanced sound with customizable EQ
- 12-hour battery life
- Multipoint connection
Reasons Not to Buy:
- Minimal upgrades from 1st generation
- Limited EQ options in the companion app
- No auxiliary input
- Buttons can feel mushy
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.
With its rugged build, improved connectivity, and Bose's signature sound quality, the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who don't want to compromise on audio performance.
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
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2)
- Long 24-hour battery life
- Good sound quality with stereo output
- Water and dust resistance
- Trueplay auto-tuning for optimal sound
- Compatible with Alexa and Sonos Voice Control
Reasons Not to Buy:
- High price point
- Heavy
- Requires Sonos app and account creation
- No Google Assistant support
- Additional accessories needed for full functionality
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.
With its robust build, long battery life, and multi-room capabilities, the Sonos Move 2 is the ideal choice for those looking to integrate a portable speaker into their smart home ecosystem.
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 Boom 2 Plus ($249.99 at Amazon): The Boom 2’s bigger sibling and our runner up for “Best Bluetooth speaker with bass”. If the Brane X is out of your price range, consider this less expensive alternative. It provides stereo playback with a hefty bass response, and of course, its built-in light show.
- 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.
- 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 Wonderboom 4 ($85.99 at Amazon): The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 is a great portable Bluetooth speaker, good for impromptu park hangs and on the go. It’s small, sturdy, and well built, and is light enough to easily be thrown in a backpack. Unlike its predecessor, the Wonderboom 3, which relied on a micro-USB port, the Wonderboom 4 also now charges via USB-C.
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.
- October 15, 2024: We added more top picks and reformatted each section to include reasons to buy and not to buy and quick specs.
- July 16, 2024: We added a video breakdown of the best Bluetooth speakers for the Summer of 2024.
Frequently asked questions about Bluetooth speakers
When evaluating the landscape of Bluetooth speakers, the JBL Charge 5 consistently stands out as a top contender. Ideal for diverse settings, from pool parties to camping trips, it strikes a harmonious balance between the robust sound of the JBL Xtreme 2 and the convenient portability of the JBL Flip 5. However, the “best” is subjective and largely depends on individual preferences and specific use cases.
In today’s audio landscape, Bluetooth speakers have certainly earned their place. Brands like JBL, Sonos, and Bose have refined their technology to offer sound quality that rivals many wired systems. While purists might still lean towards wired setups for absolute precision, modern Bluetooth speakers provide a sound experience that satisfies the vast majority of listeners.
There are plenty of speakers that you can hang. For one, there’s the JBL Clip 5, which has a built-in carabiner that’s the closest thing I can think of to a hook. It’s also super affordable and one of the best values you’re going to find in the Bluetooth speaker market if you want something portable.
For house parties, we’d recommend going with the JBL PartyBox Stage 320. It’s loud, sounds good, has built-in party lights, is splashproof for…rain, and has swappable battery packs to keep the party going. You can also hook up a microphone or guitar to jam live.
Sadly, this is a feature that is becoming slightly less common now that smartphones are abandoning the connector. Still, you can find out which Bluetooth speakers have the jack and which ones don’t by either looking at the product specifications page or by reading our reviews.
There is no definitively better brand between Bose and JBL. It depends on your specific needs and preferences. Bose is known for clear, balanced audio, while JBL tends to produce a more bass-heavy, energetic sound. Bose speakers are generally more expensive but very well built. JBL offers good value for money across its lineup.
Again, it comes down to your priorities. Sonos is centered around multi-room audio setups and seamless wireless connectivity between their ecosystem of speakers. Bose focuses more on audio fidelity and premium build quality in individual speakers. Sonos is very user-friendly, and both deliver good sound reproduction.
Not necessarily better, but they serve somewhat different purposes. JBL makes portable Bluetooth speakers ideal for outdoor use, while Sonos specializes in home multi-room speaker systems. JBL is a solid option for bass-heavy sound on the go, whereas Sonos provides a seamless whole-home audio experience if that’s what you need.