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Best Bluetooth speakers
Finding an audiophile who doesn’t like Bluetooth headphones is easy — just ask our own Chris Thomas — but for the average person, Bluetooth speakers are awesome. They let you take the party anywhere, and any of the best Bluetooth speakers can make your backyard barbecue an absolute hit. Whether you’re looking for something durable or something that will just sound great, you can’t go wrong with anything on this list.
What's new?
- This list of the best Bluetooth speakers was updated on July 16, 2024, to include a video breakdown of the best Bluetooth speakers.
- If you are shopping on a budget, be sure to check out our list of the best Bluetooth speakers under $50 and under $100.
Why is the JBL Charge 5 the best Bluetooth speaker?
Whether you host a pool party or go camping, the best all-around Bluetooth speaker you want by your side is the JBL Charge 5. This is a bulky Bluetooth speaker, but it’s still portable, so you can take it to a friend’s place or out on your next weekend trip.
Some of the best Charge 5 features can be found in other JBL products like the JBL Xtreme 2 and JBL Flip 5, but the Charge 5 falls perfectly in between these two units. You get some of that loud sound that the Xtreme 2 offers with comparable portability to the Flip 5. The Charge 5 makes all the right compromises, including battery life. You’ll get about 20 hours, and you can even use it to charge some of your other devices, thanks to a USB-A output (hence the name). As far as sound quality goes, the only area that isn’t great is the mids; these tend to take a backseat to the bass in small to medium-sized rooms.
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 Its Bluetooth 4.2 version is a little outdated, but it supports JBL Connect+, which means you can connect up to 100 compatible JBL speakers for playback.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 soon, 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.
The Sonos Move 2 is one speaker to rule them all
The Sonos Move 2 emerges as a multifaceted speaker suited for anywhere within or around your home. Aside from just a Bluetooth speaker, it also boasts many connectivity such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and even a line-in option for your turntable—with the right accessories. With the Sonos Move 2, the party follows you from room to room, not just because of its portability but also due to its impressive 24-hour battery life, IP56 weather resistance, and the ability to pair with another unit for that immersive stereo soundscape. Music enthusiasts will find the sound quality robust, with the Move 2 delivering solid low-end and clear vocals. However, the audio purists might notice a slight lack of finesse in the upper registers.
With smart assistant support, including Alexa and Sonos Voice Control, this speaker is at your beck and call. Set up is a breeze, thanks in part to the intuitive Sonos app, which brings your audio world together under one digital roof. When it comes to tailoring the sound to your space, Sonos’ Trueplay technology fine-tunes the output to your room’s unique acoustics using its built-in mics—ensuring optimal sound wherever it sits. Yet, it’s worth noting that this speaker has an apparent bias towards Apple users, with the absence of Google Assistant and high-quality Bluetooth codecs for Android devices.
If your priorities align with smart features and portability within the home, and you’re already embedded in the Sonos or Apple ecosystem, the Move 2 is a compelling choice.
The Sonos Move 2 brings many upgrades over its predecessor, such as stereo sound instead of mono, new capacitive touch controls, and a bigger 44Wh battery. However, that all comes with a higher price tag as well.
If you want to save some money, the first Sonos Move still brings many essential features, such as an IP56 rating, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and notably support for both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa compatibility, which might make all the difference if you have an Android device. Overall, it’s a great speaker for the house or backyard.
The Anker Soundcore Motion X600 has style
Crafted with an aluminum build, the Anker Soundcore Motion X600‘s aesthetic is not only pleasing but rivals that of much more expensive counterparts. Despite its heft and fixed handle, it boasts an IPX7 water-resistance rating, making it suitable for indoor use and occasional outdoor activities where water is involved.
Key features include Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity with LDAC support. This support enables the speaker to deliver high-fidelity sound, which, when combined with the spatial audio mode, offers a more enveloping listening experience. The companion app allows users to customize the EQ settings to their liking. Its ability to connect easily with devices and the option to pair two speakers for enhanced stereo sound further complement its versatile use in home environments.
Save some money with the Anker Soundcore Motion X500
The Anker Soundcore Motion X500 offers a compelling alternative to the X600, balancing portability with powerful audio. At $169.99, it’s more budget-friendly while still delivering impressive sound through its unique three-driver layout (two forward-facing, one upward-facing). The X500 maintains premium build quality with lightweight aluminum construction and IPX7 water resistance. While it shares Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC support, the X500 is significantly more portable at 2.11kg. Its “Spatial Dynamic” EQ setting provides robust audio, rivaling the X600’s spatial mode. Though it has fewer preset EQ options and slightly less power, the Motion X500 excels in versatility, making it ideal for users who prioritize mobility without major compromises in sound quality.
Throw a party with the JBL PartyBox Stage 320
The JBL PartyBox Stage 320 is our pick for the best party Bluetooth speaker. This powerful 240-watt stereo speaker delivers room-filling sound with booming bass, perfect for energizing any gathering. Its improved portability, thanks to wider wheels and a telescoping handle, makes it easy to transport to beach parties or backyard BBQs. The Stage 320 boasts an enhanced light show, IPX4 water resistance, and impressive 18-hour battery life with swappable battery packs for extended playtime. While it’s a significant investment, the combination of robust sound, customizable EQ settings via the companion app, and party-ready features like dual 1/4″ inputs for instruments and microphones make it a top contender for those who frequently host lively social events.
The JBL Clip 5 is the best Bluetooth speaker under $100
The JBL Clip 5 stands out as our top budget pick for portable Bluetooth speakers. This latest iteration brings some welcome upgrades while maintaining the compact, adventure-ready design the Clip series is known for. At$79.95 at Amazon, it offers excellent value with its improved 7W output, 12-hour battery life, and robust IP67 water and dust resistance. The standout feature is the new compatibility with the JBL Portable app, which provides preset and customizable EQ options. The signature built-in carabiner has been widened for more versatile attachment options, and the thicker silicone padding enhances its durability. While it won’t replace larger speakers for room-filling sound, the Clip 5’s portability, durability, and improved audio quality make it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures or casual listening on the go. The addition of Auracast support for pairing with other compatible JBL speakers adds further versatility to this already impressive little device.
The Sony ULT Field 1 packs a punch
For those seeking a rugged, portable Bluetooth speaker that doesn’t compromise on bass, the Sony ULT Field 1 is an excellent choice under $200. Its standout feature is the dedicated “ULT” button, which engages a powerful bass boost that adds substantial low-end thump to your music. This feature significantly improves the overall sound quality, making the ULT Field 1 punch well above its weight in terms of bass response.
Despite its compact size, the ULT Field 1 is built to withstand the great outdoors, boasting an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. Its durable design, complete with a shock-proof exterior and rubberized end caps, ensures that it can handle the occasional drop or tumble without sustaining damage.
While the companion app lacks advanced sound customization options, the ULT Field 1’s simplicity is part of its charm. Just hit the ULT button, and you’ll instantly experience a satisfying bass boost that breathes new life into your favorite tracks. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or embarking on a weekend adventure, this portable powerhouse delivers impressive low-end performance that belies its compact form factor.
Bring the party anywhere with the Anker Soundcore Boom 2 Plus
The Anker Soundcore Boom 2 Plus is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts and party hosts. This robust speaker delivers powerful sound with its dual 4.5-inch woofers and 1-inch tweeters, pumping out up to 140 watts of audio. Its IPX7 water resistance and floatable design make it perfect for the poolside or bringing to the beach
What sets the Boom 2 Plus apart is its built-in LED party lights, adding some visual flair to your outdoor gatherings. The companion app allows for easy customization of both sound and lighting effects, with a 10-band EQ for fine-tuning audio to your preferences. With an impressive 20-hour battery life and the ability to charge your phone via USB, this speaker ensures the party keeps going long into the night.
While it may not be the most portable option due to its size, the Boom 2 Plus compensates with its durability and powerful bass response, especially when using the BassUP feature. For those seeking a versatile, feature-packed speaker that can withstand the elements and keep the party alive, you can’t go wrong with the Anker Soundcore Boom 2 Plus.
The JBL Go 4 is the best bang for your buck
The JBL Go 4 is a noteworthy upgrade to its predecessor, offering impressive features in an ultra-portable package. This tiny speaker packs a punch with its improved durability, featuring additional silicone protection and an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. The standout improvement is its compatibility with the JBL Portable app, which now includes a 5-band customizable EQ for personalized sound tuning. While it maintains the same 4.2W output as the Go 3, the Go 4 boasts an extended battery life of up to 7 hours.
Its compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for travelers or outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize portability. The addition of Auracast support allows pairing with other compatible JBL speakers, enhancing its versatility. Although it may not deliver room-filling sound or deep bass due to its small size, the JBL Go 4 excels as a convenient, durable, and affordable option for on-the-go listening.
The JBL Flip 6 is a small but mighty portable Bluetooth speaker
The JBL Flip 6 builds upon the signature Flip series design with its cylindrical shape and dual-passive bass radiators that cap off either end of it. The Flip 6 has a new IP67 rating, along with better battery life than the Flip 5. JBL didn’t reintegrate the headphone jack here, but you get Bluetooth 5.0 and Bluetooth multipoint instead.
Just as before, the JBL Flip 6 uses PartyBoost, which gives you the option to sync up to 100 compatible JBL speakers for extra-loud sound. You can also synchronize two JBL speakers for stereo output, but this requires the speakers to be of the same generation. You can’t use Flip 5 and Flip 6 for stereo sound. Even with this oddity, the Flip 6 stands as one of the best adventure speakers you can buy.
What about large Bluetooth speakers?
Though a larger Bluetooth speaker might fit into the lives of a few of you out there, the times you’d want a large Bluetooth speaker are a bit more limited to when you don’t have to move it around all that much. In that case, some people decide that having a dedicated system at home might be the better investment now that soundbars and home receivers pretty much all support Bluetooth anyway. However, if you have a pool or fire pit or just don’t want the hassle of hooking up a dedicated system, larger Bluetooth speakers may be for you.
There are a number of options in this space from the more traditional manufacturers like JBL. These speakers naturally outperform their smaller, portable counterparts because they can produce much louder volumes across a wider area and work with any phone equipped with Bluetooth. However, their size also brings drawbacks. For instance, the batteries take a long time to charge, run out faster than you might expect, and playing music at higher volumes can annoy neighbors. Price, too, is often a bit high to cover the added cost of more powerful components. Because of this, most people will find portable speakers to be more budget-friendly.
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.
- Bose SoundLink Flex ($129 at Amazon): The Bose SoundLink Flex makes for a good hiking or shower companion and delivers playback that distinguishes vocals and instruments well.
- 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 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 ($418 at Amazon): The Sonos Roam is a reliable rugged and portable smart speaker. If you already have a Sonos ecosystem set up, this speaker makes for a nice addition on a patio or in another room. Similarly, if you want to start a smart home journey, it’s a small and easy-to-use way to dip your toes into the water.
- 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 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
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.
To enable Bose SimpleSync, you need to download the Bose Music app (iOS/Android). You can then connect the Revolve+ II to your Bose home speakers and soundbars for multi-room audio.
The Bose Music app is different from the Bose Connect app (iOS/Android), which you need in order to connect other Bose SoundLink speakers together in Party Mode or Stereo Mode. The Bose Connect app also makes it easy to customize the voice prompts, set an auto-off timer, and more.
Outdoor speakers are perfect if you really want to deck out your backyard with the best-sounding audio possible, especially if you find yourself entertaining guests regularly. Keep in mind that they are quite expensive to purchase and may require a substantial amount of setup, running audio cables around your backyard, and whatnot. For a hassle-free, portable, and more cost-efficient solution, investing in a great Bluetooth speaker may be the way to go. At the end of the day, choosing the right speaker ultimately depends on your needs.
There are plenty of speakers that you can hang. For one, there’s the JBL Clip 3, 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.
Sticking with JBL, you can also go with the Flip 4 or the Flip 5. The Flip 4 has a built-in string, so you can hang it. The Flip 5, on the other hand, does not come with the string to hang it, but it does have the same attachment point, so you’ll just have to bring your own string (I recommend some paracord). There’s also the Bose SoundLink Micro speaker, which has a plastic clip along the back of it so you can clip it to things like thin poles or a backpack strap.
If none of those appeal to you, then you can also go with the UE Wonderboom 2, the House of Marley No Bounds XL, the Jam Hang Up, or even the Polk Audio Boom Swimmer Duo, all of which have some method of hanging them.
For house parties, we’d recommend going with the UE Hyperboom. It’s loud, sounds good, is IPX4 splashproof for…rain, and it also has two Bluetooth inputs. This means that while one person is playing music, a second person can pair to it in the background and queue up a song without interrupting what’s playing.
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.
Tough one. Stuttering can mean a few things, from being too far away from your speaker, a bad radio, or even just having objects in between you and the speaker. Though it’s possible that you have a fixable problem, if it persists for a long time, you may want to try troubleshooting to see whether your speaker or phone is in a bad place for the speaker first before calling tech support.
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.