8 Best Portable Speakers

Hey there! Are you on the lookout for a portable speaker for your outdoor adventures or just to enjoy some music at home? Look no further, because we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be reviewing and comparing some popular portable speakers from renowned brands like JBL, Anker, Sony, and Bose. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of portable audio devices!

Over the years, portable speakers have become a must-have gadget for music lovers. They offer the convenience of taking your favorite tunes wherever you go, without compromising on sound quality. These compact devices have come a long way, evolving from cumbersome boomboxes to sleek and powerful speakers that fit in the palm of your hand. The advancements in technology have also made them more durable, waterproof, and dustproof, making them suitable for outdoor use and even in challenging environments.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the featured speakers. We have the JBL Go 3, which is not only portable but also comes with a built-in battery, Bluetooth connectivity, and a waterproof and dustproof design. It’s perfect for those who prioritize ease of use and durability. On the other hand, the JBL Flip 4 offers similar features but adds a longer battery life of up to 12 hours and the convenience of a noise-canceling speakerphone and voice assistant compatibility. If you’re looking for something even more robust, the JBL Flip 6 comes with powerful sound, deep bass, and an impressive IPX7 waterproof rating.

If you’re after a different brand, Anker’s Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker might catch your attention with its IPX5 waterproof rating, stereo sound, and an incredible 24-hour playtime. Sony’s SRS-XB100 Wireless Bluetooth Portable Speaker is also a great option with its lightweight and super-compact design, along with the extra-durable IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. Last but not least, the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ is known for its 360-degree sound, long-lasting battery, and handle for easy transport.

Stay tuned for the upcoming detailed reviews on each of these fantastic portable speakers, where we’ll delve into their features, sound quality, durability, and more. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys good music on the go, we’ve got the perfect portable speaker for you!

JBL Go 3: Portable Bluetooth Speaker with Battery, Waterproof & Dustproof – Black

The JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker is designed to provide high-quality audio in a compact and portable package. It is perfect for on-the-go use, allowing users to bring their favorite music anywhere they go. Whether it’s for a beach party, a picnic in the park, or simply enjoying music in the comfort of one’s own home, the JBL Go 3 is a versatile speaker that suits various situations and settings.

We are particularly impressed with the JBL Go 3’s powerful sound and punchy bass despite its small size. The JBL Pro Sound technology ensures crystal-clear audio with exceptional depth, making every beat and note come to life. This portable speaker delivers a listening experience that far exceeds expectations.

The JBL Go 3 is specifically designed to provide excellent sound quality while being highly portable. Its standout feature is the IP67 rating, which makes it both waterproof and dustproof. This means you can enjoy your favorite tunes by the pool or on a hiking adventure, without worrying about damage from water or dirt.

Another key feature is the Bluetooth connectivity, enabling users to wirelessly stream music from their smartphones, tablets, or any other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This enhances convenience and eliminates the hassle of dealing with wires and cables.

The JBL Go 3 also boasts an impressive battery life, offering up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge. This ensures long-lasting entertainment without interruptions and allows users to enjoy music uninterrupted for extended periods.

The JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker stands out for its exceptional build quality and durability. Its solid construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of outdoor activities and everyday use. Additionally, the sleek and stylish design makes it an attractive accessory that complements any style or decor.

• Impressive sound quality with deep bass

• Portable and lightweight design

• Waterproof and dustproof feature for outdoor use

• Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming

• Long-lasting battery life

• Limited playtime compared to other models on the market

• Some users may prefer more advanced features

JBL Flip 4, Black – Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker with 12 Hours Wireless Streaming, Noise-Cancelling Speakerphone & Voice Assistant

The JBL Flip 4, Black – Waterproof, Portable & Durable Bluetooth Speaker is designed to provide users with a versatile and convenient audio experience. Whether it’s for outdoor adventures, parties, or everyday use, this portable speaker is a reliable companion for anyone who enjoys high-quality sound on the go.

The JBL Flip 4 stands out for its exceptional audio performance and durability. It offers powerful stereo sound that fills the room, delivering crisp and clear music playback. Its waterproof design ensures that it can withstand rain or spills, allowing users to take it to the beach, poolside, or anywhere without worrying about damage.

This JBL speaker is built with a purpose: to provide users with an immersive and enjoyable audio experience wherever they go. It features up to 12 hours of wireless streaming, ensuring that the music never stops. With the ability to wirelessly connect up to two smartphones or tablets, users can take turns playing their favorite tunes and create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. The noise-cancelling speakerphone allows for crystal-clear calls, enhancing convenience.

Additionally, the JBL Flip 4 comes with extra features that make it even more appealing. Users can link over 100 JBL Connect+ enabled speakers together to amplify the party and create a surround sound experience. They can also conveniently access voice assistants like Siri or Google Now with a simple button press, adding a touch of smart functionality to this portable speaker. The inclusion of bass radiators ensures that users not only hear but also feel the bass, providing a sensational audio experience.

The JBL Flip 4 excels in terms of build quality and audio performance. Its waterproof and durable design ensures that it can withstand the elements and endure outdoor adventures. The 12-hour battery life offers extended playtime, making it suitable for all-day events. With its exceptional sound quality and robust construction, this portable Bluetooth speaker delivers a reliable and enjoyable audio experience.

Pros:

• Powerful stereo sound.
• Waterproof and durable design.
• Noise-cancelling speakerphone for clear calls.
• Can wirelessly connect multiple devices.
• Easy access to voice assistants.
• Includes bass radiators for enhanced audio experience.

Cons:

• May be a bit bulky for some users.
• Bass response could be further improved.

The JBL Flip 4, Black – Waterproof, Portable & Durable Bluetooth Speaker is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and reliable portable speaker. With its impressive sound quality, durable construction, and additional features like voice assistant support and PartyBoost connectivity, this speaker offers a comprehensive audio solution for various occasions and environments. Whether it’s for outdoor adventures or indoor gatherings, the JBL Flip 4 delivers an immersive and enjoyable listening experience.

Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker with Waterproof Design, Stereo Sound, Long Battery Life, Portable Wireless Speaker for iPhone, Samsung, and More

The Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker is a versatile and portable device that is perfect for anyone who loves music on the go. It is specifically designed for users who want to enjoy their favorite tunes wirelessly, whether it be at home, in the park, or on a camping trip.

This upgraded version of the Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker offers an astonishing sound experience that is truly breathtaking. With its high-sensitivity drivers and patented bass port, it delivers deep bass and exceptional clarity without any distortion. The powerful sound it produces is bound to impress even the most discerning audiophiles.

The primary purpose of the Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker is to provide users with a high-quality audio experience in a portable package. It features Bluetooth 5.0 technology, ensuring instant pairing with compatible devices and maintaining a strong connection up to 66 feet away. This makes it perfect for those who want to freely move around while listening to their favorite playlists.

One of the standout features of this speaker is its long battery life. Equipped with Anker’s exclusive battery technology, it offers an impressive 24 hours of continuous playback, ensuring you never run out of music during your adventures.

In addition, the Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker boasts a waterproof build with an IPX5 rating. This means that it is fully protected against liquids, making it ideal for poolside parties, beach trips, or even rainy day adventures. You can enjoy your music without worrying about accidental splashes or spills damaging the device.

The overall quality of the Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker is exceptional. It combines high-quality audio performance with a durable and portable design. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or simply want to enhance your everyday listening experience, this speaker delivers on all fronts.

• Pros:

  • Astonishing stereo sound with deep bass and zero distortion
  • Long-lasting battery life of up to 24 hours
  • Waterproof build for worry-free use in various environments
  • Effortless Bluetooth connectivity with a strong and reliable connection
  • Lightweight and portable design for easy transportation

• Cons:

  • Some users may find the volume controls to be less intuitive than desired
  • The speaker’s design is simple and may not appeal to those looking for a more stylish option

With its astounding sound quality, long battery life, and impressive features, the Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker is undoubtedly one of the best portable speakers available. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or simply want to enjoy music in your backyard, this speaker is a reliable and high-performing choice.

JBL Flip 5 Black Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The JBL FLIP 5 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact and durable speaker that can be easily taken on the go. Its primary use is to provide high-quality, wireless audio playback from various devices through Bluetooth connectivity.

One of the standout features of the JBL FLIP 5 is its superior sound quality. The powerful speaker produces immersive, crystal-clear audio with deep bass and sharp treble, ensuring an enjoyable listening experience. The Premium JBL Sound Quality ensures that every note and beat is delivered with precision and clarity.

Additionally, this portable speaker boasts a remarkable 12 hours of playtime, allowing users to enjoy their favorite music for extended periods without worrying about running out of battery. It is powered by a rechargeable battery, which can be easily charged using the included USB cable.

The JBL FLIP 5 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker is designed to meet the needs of music enthusiasts who are always on the move. With its compact size, this speaker fits easily into backpacks, suitcases, or even pockets, making it the perfect companion for outdoor activities, parties, or travel.

The key features of this portable speaker include its IPX7 waterproof rating, enabling it to withstand splashes, rain, and even submersion in water. This makes it ideal for poolside parties or beach outings. Furthermore, the Flip 5 can be paired with multiple speakers using the PartyBoost feature, allowing users to amplify the sound and create a more immersive experience.

The JBL FLIP 5 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker is well-regarded for its exceptional build quality and durability. Its rugged exterior ensures that it can withstand rough handling and outdoor conditions. The speaker’s design not only looks sleek and modern but also provides functionality, as the built-in clip allows for easy attachment to backpacks or other accessories.

Some pros of the JBL FLIP 5 Portable Speaker include its impressive sound quality, long battery life, and rugged, waterproof construction. On the other hand, a potential downside is the absence of a built-in speakerphone function, limiting its use for hands-free calling.

The JBL FLIP 5 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker offers an excellent combination of portability, durability, and powerful sound reproduction. Its array of features makes it a top choice for music lovers on the go.

JBL Flip 6 – Portable Bluetooth Speaker with Powerful Sound, Deep Bass, and Waterproof Rating, 12-Hour Playtime, JBL PartyBoost for Speaker Pairing (Black)

The JBL Flip 6 is a versatile portable speaker that is perfect for use at home, outdoors, and while traveling. With its powerful sound and deep bass, it can enhance the audio experience in any setting.

We like the JBL Flip 6 because of its impressive sound quality and durability. It delivers a powerful and immersive audio experience, making it perfect for music lovers who want to enjoy their favorite songs with enhanced clarity and bass.

The JBL Flip 6 is designed to provide a portable and convenient audio solution for various situations. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and transport, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings, parties, or even while on the go. The speaker is IPX7 waterproof and dustproof, ensuring that it can withstand splashes and harsh outdoor conditions.

One of the key features of the JBL Flip 6 is its impressive battery life, offering up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge. This means that you can enjoy uninterrupted music throughout the day without worrying about running out of battery.

With JBL PartyBoost, you can connect multiple JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers for a truly immersive audio experience. Whether you want to create a stereo sound or amplify the party atmosphere, the JBL Flip 6’s PartyBoost feature allows you to easily connect and sync multiple speakers.

The JBL Flip 6 is known for its exceptional build quality and durability. Its rugged construction ensures that it can withstand rough handling and outdoor conditions without compromising its performance. With its sleek and stylish design, it effortlessly blends into any setting and adds a touch of sophistication to your audio setup.

Pros:

• Powerful sound and deep bass
• IPX7 waterproof and dustproof
• Long-lasting battery life
• JBL PartyBoost for multiple speaker pairing
• Sleek and stylish design

Cons:

• Some users have reported connectivity issues with PartyBoost

The JBL Flip 6 is a top choice for those in need of a portable speaker that delivers excellent sound quality, durability, and versatility. With its impressive features and performance, it is a reliable companion for any occasion, be it at home, outdoors, or while traveling.

Sony Wireless Bluetooth Portable Speaker

The Sony SRS-XB100 Wireless Bluetooth Portable Lightweight Super-Compact Travel Speaker is designed for individuals who are constantly on the go and in need of a portable speaker that delivers powerful and clear sound.

This portable speaker from Sony has caught our attention for several reasons. Firstly, its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, perfect for travel or outdoor activities. Additionally, the versatile strap included with the speaker allows for convenient attachment to bags, bikes, or anywhere you need it.

The Sony SRS-XB100 is built to withstand tough conditions, as it is both waterproof and dustproof, with an impressive IP67 rating. Whether you’re at the beach or hiking in the mountains, this speaker will continue to deliver high-quality sound without any worries.

With up to 16 hours of battery life, you can enjoy uninterrupted music for an entire day. The battery life indicator ensures that you are always aware of when it’s time to recharge.

The Bluetooth compatibility enables seamless connection and streaming from your devices. The Sound Diffusion Processor technology provides excellent sound dispersion, filling any space with clear audio and deep bass.

Furthermore, this portable speaker is equipped with a microphone featuring echo cancelling technology for crystal-clear hands-free calling. It also has a USB Type-C port, ensuring fast charging and easy connectivity with other devices.

With Sony’s expertise in audio technology, the SRS-XB100 ensures exceptional sound quality. The deep bass and sound diffusion capabilities allow for an immersive listening experience, no matter where you are. The durable construction ensures longevity, even in challenging environments.

• Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Excellent sound dispersion and deep bass
  • Waterproof and dustproof
  • Long battery life
  • Crystal-clear hands-free calling

• Cons:

  • Limited color options available

The Sony SRS-XB100 Wireless Bluetooth Portable Lightweight Super-Compact Travel Speaker is a top choice for those seeking a high-quality and durable portable speaker. Its versatility, long battery life, and impressive sound make it an excellent companion for any adventure.

Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) Portable Bluetooth Speaker with Microphone, Silver

The Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) Bluetooth Speaker is a portable speaker that is perfect for various uses. It is ideal for outdoor gatherings, pool parties, beach trips, picnics, and other events where you want to enjoy high-quality sound on the go. Whether you are listening to music, podcasts, or taking calls, this speaker will provide exceptional audio performance.

We love the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) Bluetooth Speaker because of its excellent sound quality and impressive features. It delivers true 360-degree sound, ensuring consistent and uniform coverage. You can enjoy the music from every angle, creating an immersive listening experience. Additionally, it offers 17 hours of battery life, allowing you to enjoy your favorite tunes for an extended period without worrying about running out of power.

The purpose of the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) Bluetooth Speaker is to provide users with a portable and high-performing audio solution. It features a durable and water-resistant design, making it suitable for outdoor use. The speaker is also equipped with a built-in microphone, enabling you to take calls and access your device’s voice assistant seamlessly.

One exciting feature of this speaker is Bose SimpleSync technology, which allows you to pair it with other compatible Bose products. This feature ensures that the sound follows you from room to room, and you can easily sync multiple devices for a more immersive audio experience.

The Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) Bluetooth Speaker is crafted with precision and attention to detail, resulting in a product of exceptional quality. From its sleek design to its robust build, this speaker exudes durability and reliability. The sound performance is top-notch, delivering deep and clear audio across a wide range of frequencies.

Pros:

• True 360-degree sound coverage
• Long battery life for extended use
• Water-resistant and durable design
• Built-in microphone for hands-free calling
• Easy connectivity and syncing with other Bose products

Cons:

• Relatively higher price compared to other portable speakers
• Limited color options

With its impressive sound quality, durable build, and convenient features, the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) Bluetooth Speaker is undoubtedly a top choice for anyone looking for a portable speaker that delivers exceptional audio performance.

JBL Charge 5 Mini Black Bluetooth Speaker – Waterproof and USB Charge Out

The JBL Charge 5 Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker is a versatile device that can be used for numerous occasions. Whether it’s for outdoor adventures, pool parties, or simply listening to music at home, this speaker is designed to provide high-quality sound and a convenient user experience.

The JBL Charge 5 Portable Speaker stands out among its competitors due to its impressive features and performance. With its JBL Pro Sound technology, this speaker delivers exceptional audio quality, ensuring a rich and immersive listening experience. The optimized long excursion driver, separate tweeter, and dual JBL bass radiators further enhance the audio output, providing clear highs and deep bass.

The JBL Charge 5 Portable Speaker is built to withstand various outdoor conditions. Its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating allows you to take it on hikes, to the beach, or anywhere else without worrying about damage from water or debris. Additionally, the speaker features a long-lasting battery that provides up to 20 hours of playtime, ensuring uninterrupted entertainment throughout the day.

One notable feature of the JBL Charge 5 is its PartyBoost capability. With this feature, you can pair two JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers together in stereo, or link multiple speakers for even more powerful sound. This makes it perfect for larger gatherings or parties where you want to amplify the music and create an immersive audio experience.

Furthermore, the JBL Charge 5 includes a built-in power bank, allowing you to charge your devices on the go. This feature eliminates the need for additional chargers or power banks, making it a convenient all-in-one solution.

The JBL Charge 5 Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker offers outstanding overall quality. From its durable construction to its impressive audio performance, this speaker provides a reliable and enjoyable listening experience. It seamlessly combines functionality, durability, and immersive sound, making it an excellent choice for anyone in need of a portable speaker.

• Pros:

  • Exceptional sound quality with JBL Pro Sound technology
  • Waterproof and dustproof design for outdoor use
  • Long battery life of up to 20 hours
  • PartyBoost feature for stereo pairing or linking multiple speakers
  • Built-in power bank for charging devices on the go

• Cons:

  • Some users may find the price higher compared to other portable speaker options on the market.

Considering its excellent audio performance, durability, and innovative features, the JBL Charge 5 Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker is highly recommended for those who seek a versatile and top-notch portable speaker.

Comparison of Specifications

Product	Bluetooth Speaker	Waterproof	Battery Life	Connectivity	Additional Features
JBL Go 3	Yes	IP67	Up to 5 hours	Bluetooth-enabled devices	Ultra-compact size, punchy bass
JBL Flip 4	Yes	Completely waterproof	Up to 12 hours	Bluetooth-enabled devices	Noise-cancelling speakerphone, JBL Connect+
Anker Soundcore	Yes	IPX5	Up to 24 hours	Bluetooth 5.0	Patented bass port, lightweight design
JBL Flip 5	Yes	IPX7	Up to 12 hours	3.5mm stereo connector	PartyBoost feature, JBL sound quality
JBL Flip 6	Yes	IP67	Up to 12 hours	3.5mm stereo connector	Bold design, PartyBoost for multiple speaker pairing
Sony SRS-XB100	Yes	IP67	Up to 16 hours	Bluetooth	Super-compact, durable, and lightweight design
Bose SoundLink Revolve+	Yes	IP55	Up to 17 hours	Bluetooth-enabled devices	True 360-degree sound, built-in microphone
JBL Charge 5	Yes	IP67	Up to 20 hours	Bluetooth	Long excursion driver, dual JBL bass radiators, built-in powerbank

The above table provides a comparison of the specifications for the eight Bluetooth speakers. These specifications include whether the speaker has Bluetooth connectivity, its waterproof rating, battery life, connectivity options, and additional features.

It is important to note that each speaker offers its own unique features and capabilities. These specifications will help potential buyers determine which speaker best suits their needs and preferences.

Conclusion

In summary, the review covers eight different portable speakers: JBL Go 3, JBL Flip 4, Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker, JBL Flip 5, JBL Flip 6, Sony SRS-XB100, Bose SoundLink Revolve+, and JBL Charge 5. Each speaker has its unique features and specifications to cater to different needs and preferences.

JBL Go 3

The JBL Go 3 is a portable speaker with Bluetooth, a built-in battery, and a waterproof and dustproof feature. It offers decent sound quality and is ideal for users who prioritize portability and outdoor use.

JBL Flip 4

The JBL Flip 4 is a durable Bluetooth speaker that is both waterproof and portable. It provides up to 12 hours of wireless streaming and includes features like noise-cancelling speakerphone, voice assistant, and JBL Connect+. It is suitable for individuals who want a reliable speaker for various environments.

Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker

The Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker boasts IPX5 waterproof rating, stereo sound, and an impressive 24-hour playtime. It offers a great balance between sound quality and battery life, making it a good choice for those who want a versatile and long-lasting portable speaker.

JBL Flip 5

The JBL Flip 5 is a small, waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker. It delivers powerful sound and deep bass with a 12-hour playtime. With JBL PartyBoost for multiple speaker pairing, it is an excellent option for those who enjoy hosting outdoor gatherings or traveling.

JBL Flip 6

The JBL Flip 6 is another portable Bluetooth speaker that offers powerful sound and deep bass. It has an IPX7 waterproof rating and provides 12 hours of playtime. Its JBL PartyBoost feature allows multiple speaker pairing, making it suitable for home, outdoor, and travel use.

Sony SRS-XB100

The Sony SRS-XB100 is a wireless Bluetooth speaker that is lightweight, portable, and super-compact. It is not only waterproof and dustproof with an IP67 rating, but also offers a 16-hour battery life and a versatile strap. It is a great option for those seeking a travel-friendly speaker with hands-free calling capability.

Bose SoundLink Revolve+

The Bose SoundLink Revolve+ is a Bluetooth speaker with microphone and 360-degree sound. It is water-resistant and offers a long-lasting battery life. With its handle, it is convenient for on-the-go usage and suitable for individuals who prioritize sound quality and portability.

JBL Charge 5

The JBL Charge 5 is a portable wireless Bluetooth speaker with IP67 waterproof rating. Its standout feature is the USB charge out capability, allowing users to charge their devices. It is perfect for those in need of a reliable speaker with the ability to charge their devices while on the go.

Overall, each speaker has its drawbacks. Some may have limited sound quality, shorter battery life, or lack certain features compared to others. However, based on specific needs and preferences, the JBL Flip 5 stands out as a great option for its balance of sound quality, portability, and features like JBL PartyBoost. It caters to individuals who enjoy outdoor activities or hosting gatherings.