Whether you’re hosting a gathering by the beach, setting up an outdoor movie night, or simply want to enjoy some music while you work, a high-quality portable Bluetooth speaker is an essential item to have. The top-notch options available today offer more than just music playback – they deliver robust bass, clear vocals, and even customizable sound modes tailored to the type of content you’re listening to. Some models also come with extra features such as built-in LED lights that create a mesmerizing visual display, making them perfect for parties or evening get-togethers.
The best portable Bluetooth speaker is not just about sound quality, but also about convenience. Some speakers are designed to be incredibly compact, fitting easily into a bag, while others boast rugged, waterproof designs built for outdoor adventures. If you’re in the market for a compact Bluetooth speaker for travel or a larger speaker that can fill a room with sound, there’s something available to suit every need.
With so many choices out there, finding the perfect Bluetooth speaker can be overwhelming. To help, we’ve compiled a list of top picks that balance excellent audio, portability, and extra features to keep your music going wherever you are.
Table of contents
Best portable Bluetooth speakers: $50 to $200
Best portable Bluetooth speakers: $200 to $450
Best portable Bluetooth speakers: $450 and higher
Factors to consider in a portable Bluetooth speaker
Weather-proofing
IP ratings (Ingress Protection) are indicators that define the level of protection against solid objects and water. The rating consists of two numbers: the first indicates protection against solid objects, ranging from 0 (no protection) to 6 (dustproof), and the second indicates water resistance, ranging from 0 (no protection) to 9 (protected against immersion and high-pressure jets). If a product has an “X” instead of a number, it means the product wasn’t tested for that aspect. Even if a speaker is labeled as waterproof, it may still have some innate resistance to solids, but there’s no guarantee.
IP67 is a common rating that indicates a high level of resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use, such as by the pool, in the rain, or at the beach. However, if the speaker has ports, a high rating may not apply when the ports are in use, as they often require a tight-fitting cover to maintain the rating.
When choosing a portable Bluetooth speaker, consider the IP rating and your intended use. If you plan to use the speaker mostly indoors, it might be worth investing in a model with better sound quality and a lower IP rating.
Battery life
As portable Bluetooth speakers are designed for use on-the-go, battery life is a crucial factor. A minimum of 12 hours of playback is a common benchmark, but more battery life is always better, especially if you plan to use the speaker for extended periods or for activities like podcast listening. However, be aware that battery life specs often list the maximum runtime at low to mid-volume, and actual usage may vary.
Some manufacturers provide more transparent information about battery life at different volume levels, which is helpful. Additionally, consider the type of charging port used, as some speakers support USB-C, while others use micro-USB or come with an adapter for convenience.
If your speaker also has Wi-Fi connectivity, it may be designed to remain on and connected, which can drain the battery faster. In such cases, it’s essential to turn off the speaker when not in use to maximize battery life.
Range
Bluetooth 5 offers improved range and connectivity compared to its predecessors. However, the actual range can vary depending on the environment. Companies may list the maximum possible range, but this is often tested in ideal conditions. In practice, obstacles like walls and interference from other devices can affect the range.
It’s common to experience signal drop issues even at short distances, such as when carrying your phone in a pocket. To minimize connectivity issues, keep the speaker relatively close to the source device, especially in areas with potential interference.
Latency
For those using a speaker as a computer output or as a soundbar solution, latency can be a concern. However, most modern speakers have addressed this issue, and lip-sync problems are relatively rare. If you plan to use a speaker for video playback, look for devices with the latest Bluetooth 5 technology and lower latency codecs like aptX. Keeping the speaker close to the source device can also help minimize latency issues.
Extra features
Some speakers offer more than just music playback, with features like built-in LED lights that create a captivating visual display. If you enjoy a bit of visual flair with your music, consider models with customizable light effects.
Sound quality is also essential, and the best Bluetooth speakers deliver a balanced mix of punchy bass, clear highs, and strong vocals. Many models include customizable sound modes to suit different genres or listening experiences. Additionally, consider the design and aesthetics, as many models come in compact sizes and various colors to match your personal style.
Other portable Bluetooth speakers we tested
Sonos Roam
Although the Sonos Roam has its strengths, including good sound quality and a durable waterproof design, there are other Bluetooth speakers that offer more features and better battery life at a lower price point. In our review, we gave the Roam a score of 87, praising its sound quality and ability to work well within an existing Sonos ecosystem. However, the price of $180 is relatively high, and the 10-hour battery life is shorter than some of our top picks.
Monoprice Soundstage3
The Monoprice Soundstage3 offers big sound at a mid-range price of $250, with a variety of inputs rarely found on portable Bluetooth speakers. Although it has a boxy design and can be less rugged, it puts out crisp highs alongside booming lows. However, the bass can overpower the rest of the output, and the low-slung button panel can be annoying to use. If you prefer a speaker with more emphasis on mids and highs and plan to use physical buttons, there are better options available.
JBL Boombox 3
Fans of JBL’s sound profile may enjoy the JBL Boombox 3, which is a decent grab-and-go speaker with a loud output. Although it’s not the best option for long-throw sound in large outdoor areas, it’s a good choice for those who want a rugged and portable speaker. However, the price remains relatively high compared to other options with similar sound quality. If you’re looking for a JBL speaker, consider exploring other options, including the less portable JBL PartyBox series, or waiting for discounts.
Soundcore Motion X500
The Soundcore Motion X500 has a unique, tall, metallic design with a fixed handle and produces 40 watts of clear sound. It can get pretty loud and serves up a good dose of bass, although it’s primarily a front-facing speaker. The speaker supports LDAC hi-res audio for Android users and has a spatial audio feature, although the benefit is minimal. The original pre-order price of $130 made it a decent option, but
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