Sony ULT Field 3 vs Sony ULT Field 5: Which ULT Field speaker is right for you?

Sony’s ULT lineup of portable speakers is quickly expanding, but which new model is right for you?

In one corner, we’ve got the ULT Field 3, a compact, carry-anywhere speaker that still packs a punch. In the other, the ULT Field 5. The larger, louder option with a few more tricks up its sleeve. Both deliver that signature “Powerful Bass” with a press of the ULT button, but they offer very different experiences when it comes to size, output, and features.

Whether you’re planning beach hangs or backyard ragers, we’re breaking down everything you need to know in this Sony ULT Field 3 vs. ULT Field 5 comparison.

What’s it like to use the Sony ULT Field 3 compared to the Sony ULT Field 5?

The Sony ULT Field 3 and ULT Field 5 are both capable, durable, and great-sounding speakers, but they cater to different priorities. The ULT Field 3 is smaller and lighter, weighing 1.2kg, making it easy to toss in a backpack or carry around one-handed. The ULT Field 5, on the other hand, is much larger and weighs almost three times as much at 3.3kg. That extra size brings more output, deeper bass response, and some cool customizable lights built around its passive radiators.

Both speakers have a rugged design, optional shoulder straps, and an IP67 rating, meaning they’re dust-proof and water-resistant—ideal for the pool, the beach, or any outdoor adventure. However, the ULT Field 3 has an edge here. Sony also rates it as “shock-proof,” so it should handle the occasional tumble. Given how hefty the ULT Field 5 is, I’d be a little more worried if that one took a fall.

How do you control the Sony ULT Field 3 and Sony ULT Field 5?

The ULT Field 3 and ULT Field 5 offer identical control panels on top of each speaker’s enclosure. Below is how each speaker operates.

Sony ULT Field 3 controls:

Sony ULT Field 5 controls:

Should you use the apps of either Sony ULT Field 3 or Sony ULT Field 5?

The Sony Sound Connect app is worth downloading, it offers a few handy features regardless of which model you end up choosing. One of those is a unique option that lets you choose between “Priority on Sound Quality” and “Priority on Stable Connection.” If you choose sound quality, the app automatically selects the best Bluetooth codec between SBC and AAC (and LDAC, in the case of the ULT Field 5). Having connection issues? Flip on Stable Connection mode, and the speaker will default to SBC for a more reliable stream.

Of course, this is also where you’ll find your EQ settings and your lighting controls, in the case of the ULT Field 5 case. Both speakers offer custom EQs, with the ULT Field 3 giving you a 7-band EQ and the ULT Field 5 stepping it up to 10 bands. However, you can’t use these to tweak the ULT presets. Instead, you have to start from scratch with a new custom profile, and even then, the EQ just isn’t powerful enough to match the bass boost from ULT mode, which is a bit of a letdown. So, if you’re into personalizing your sound, your options are a little limited with the ULT series.

How do the Sony ULT Field 3 and Sony ULT Field 5 connect?

The ULT Field 3 connects to your device via the slightly dated Bluetooth 5.2 and supports both the SBC and AAC codecs. The ULT Field 5 steps things up with Bluetooth 5.3 and adds support for LDAC alongside SBC and AAC. Bonus points go to the ULT Field 5 here—it also includes a 3.5mm AUX input for wired listening, which the Field 3 lacks.

Both speakers support multipoint connectivity, so you can stay connected to two devices at once and switch between them seamlessly. Android users also benefit from Google Fast Pair, making setup quick and painless.

Is battery life better on the Sony ULT Field 3 or Sony ULT Field 5?

Surprisingly, battery life is nearly identical between these two speakers. The ULT Field 3 promises up to 24 hours on a single charge, while the ULT Field 5 offers 25. Still, either speaker will provide ample listening time, not to mention a 10-minute quick charge feature.

It’s also worth noting that both speakers include a “Battery Care” mode. When enabled, this feature prevents the battery from charging to 100%—similar to what some smartphones do—to help preserve long-term battery health.

Does the Sony ULT Field 3 sound better than the Sony ULT Field 5?

The Sony ULT Field 3 and ULT Field 5 sound pretty different, mainly because of their size, driver setup, and overall power. The ULT Field 3 is a smaller mono speaker with a single full-range driver and passive radiators, while the ULT Field 5 steps things up with a stereo setup, dual drivers, and more power under the hood.

Thanks to that bigger build and stereo design, the ULT Field 5 delivers a fuller, bassier sound and gets noticeably louder without distorting. It also offers better left-to-right separation, giving your music a wider, more open feel compared to the more focused mono output of the ULT Field 3.

If you’re looking for something to listen to music with around the house or at a park to hang with a few pals, the ULT Field 3 does the job. But if you want something for larger outdoor events and parties, or you just really like your music loud and bassy—especially with genres like rap or EDM—the ULT Field 5 is the way to go.

Should you get the Sony ULT Field 3 or Sony ULT Field 5?

Both the ULT Field 3 and ULT Field 5 are capable, durable speakers that deliver solid bass and good overall sound, especially with ULT mode engaged or ULT 2 mode on the Field 5. Choosing between them really comes down to portability, output, and budget. Here are a few more points to help you make your decision:

What should you get instead of the Sony ULT Field 3 and Sony ULT Field 5?

You can split the difference and check out the more affordable Soundcore Boom 2. This durable speaker sits between the ULT Field 3 and ULT Field 5 in terms of size, delivers plenty of bass, and features a floatable design. You still get a cool built-in, customizable light show, too. Find one $89.99 at Amazon.

Keeping things fun and budget-friendly, the EarFun UBOOM X is another solid option. While it’s even heavier than the ULT Field 5, the price is hard to beat. You still get dual RGB party lights behind the grill to keep the vibes going, solid bass response, and plenty of EQ options to dial in your sound. The UBOOM X is available for $159.99 at Amazon.