Best Bluetooth Speakers for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: January 23rd, 2024

🔊Bluetooth speakers are kind of a must these days, whether you're a music lover, a party host, or someone who enjoys the great outdoors. The thing is, the market's swamped with options, and finding the perfect one can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

That’s where we come in. Based on thorough research and some hands-on testing, we've pinned down the best Bluetooth speakers for a variety of needs. Whether you want great sound quality, rugged durability, or something budget-friendly, we've got you covered.

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Overall Best: JBL Charge 5

CHARGE 5 - Portable Waterproof (IP67) Bluetooth Speaker with Powerbank USB Charge out, 20 hours playtime, JBL Partyboost (Grey)

The JBL Charge 5 stands out as our top overall pick for its exceptional audio performance and durability. According to the manufacturer, it offers up to 20 hours of battery life, making it perfect for all-day events. Its IP67 rating ensures it’s both waterproof and dustproof, so you can confidently use it at the beach or by the pool. Additionally, this speaker doubles as a power bank, allowing you to charge your devices on the go. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or exploring the outdoors, the JBL Charge 5 delivers reliable, high-quality sound in any setting.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$139.95 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the JBL Charge 5 Speaker? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How does the sound quality of the JBL Charge 5 compare to other portable speakers?
The JBL Charge 5 really shines when it comes to sound quality compared to other portable speakers. It's got this amazing balance with powerful bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, making it sound great no matter what you're listening to. Our research shows that people often praise its ability to keep the audio quality top-notch even at higher volumes, which is something a lot of portable speakers struggle with. This makes it a solid choice for outdoor gatherings and parties where you need that extra volume. Plus, it's built tough with an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, so you can take it to the beach or pool without worrying too much about damage. However, there's a bit of a catch with the battery life. The manufacturer says it can last up to 20 hours, but our data suggests that's a bit optimistic. Initially, folks seem happy with how long it lasts, but over time, with frequent use, some have noticed it drops to around 6-7 hours at medium to high volumes. This means while the JBL Charge 5 offers fantastic sound and durability, you might see the battery performance dip after a while. So, if sound quality and ruggedness are at the top of your list and you're okay with recharging more often or using it where you have access to power, the JBL Charge 5 might be just what you need.
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Can you connect multiple JBL Charge 5 speakers together?
Yeah, you can totally connect multiple JBL Charge 5 speakers together! They use this thing called PartyBoost. Basically, you can link up JBL speakers that have PartyBoost for a bigger, synchronized sound. The manufacturer says the Charge 5 has this feature, so you can pair it with other PartyBoost-compatible speakers for either stereo sound or just to spread the music across more space. According to our research, people find this feature super handy for get-togethers, like parties or barbecues, where you need the sound to cover a larger area. Setting it up through the JBL Connect app is a breeze. You can easily switch between party mode and stereo mode right from the app. Just a heads up: PartyBoost works only with other JBL speakers that have the PartyBoost feature. So, if you’ve got older JBL models with [JBL Connect](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DJBL%2BConnect%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [JBL Connect+](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DJBL%2BConnect%2B%2B%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), they won't be able to link with the Charge 5 using PartyBoost. All in all, if you want to amp up your JBL Charge 5's sound by connecting multiple units, PartyBoost is the way to go. Get ready to crank up the volume and enjoy some great tunes with your friends and family!
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Is the JBL Charge 5 waterproof?
Yep, the JBL Charge 5 is waterproof. According to the manufacturer, it has an IP67 rating, meaning it's totally dust-proof and can handle being dunked in water up to about 3 feet deep for half an hour. So, it's perfect for outdoor adventures like beach trips, poolside hangs, or even rainy hikes without worrying about the elements messing it up. Something else that's pretty cool: it has JBL’s PartyBoost, so you can link it up with other PartyBoost-compatible speakers for a bigger sound. Just a heads-up though, this feature won't work with older [JBL Connect+ speakers](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Djbl%2Bconnect%2Bspeakers%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which might be frustrating if you have some of those around. Overall, the Charge 5 is great if you need a speaker that can take a splash and still deliver awesome sound.
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Runner-up: Bose SoundLink Max

NEW Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker, Large Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker, Up to 20 Hours of Battery Life, USB-C, Built-in 3.5mm AUX Input, Black

The Bose SoundLink Max is our runner-up, praised for its superb sound quality and sturdy design. Its premium look and feel are complemented by a replaceable rope handle, making it easy to carry. Fully waterproof and dustproof, this speaker can withstand various conditions, ensuring longevity. Weighing 4.89 pounds and priced around $399, it may be on the expensive side, but its performance justifies the cost. The SoundLink Max delivers rich, balanced audio, making it a worthy investment for those who prioritize sound and build quality.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$55.00 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Bose SoundLink Max Speaker? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How does the sound quality of the Bose SoundLink Max compare to other Bose speakers?
The Bose SoundLink Max has a reputation for great sound quality. Our research highlights its rich, clear sound and strong bass, making it a solid choice for a portable speaker. But there are a few things to keep in mind when stacking it up against other Bose speakers like the [SoundLink Flex](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSoundLink%2BFlex%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [SoundLink Revolve+ II](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSoundLink%2BRevolve%2B%2B%2BII%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). One key limitation is that the SoundLink Max doesn't support stereo pairing with other Bose speakers, so you can't link two of them for true stereo sound or integrate it into a bigger Bose setup. This is something other models offer, and it's a feature some people miss. On the plus side, it does have multipoint Bluetooth, so you can connect two devices at once and easily switch between them. All in all, while the SoundLink Max performs well, the lack of stereo pairing is a drawback that some folks find disappointing.
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Can you pair two Bose SoundLink Max speakers together?
Unfortunately, you can't pair two Bose SoundLink Max speakers together for stereo sound right now. This has been a bit of a letdown for some, especially given the 'SoundLink' branding, which kind of sets that expectation. It's too bad because the SoundLink Max has some great features like its IP67 waterproof rating and a 20-hour battery life. But yeah, if you're hoping to connect two for that stereo experience, it's a no-go at the moment. From what we've seen, quite a few folks have mentioned this in their reviews, expressing frustration that such a high-end speaker doesn't have this capability. Even professional reviews from places like [PCMag](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DPCMag%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [CNET](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DCNET%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) point out that while the SoundLink Max sounds great and is built well, it definitely misses the mark by not letting you connect multiple speakers. There is some speculation that a future firmware update might add this feature, but there's no official word from Bose about that happening. So, if being able to pair speakers for stereo sound is super important to you, you might want to check out other options that already offer it. For now, the Bose SoundLink Max is an excellent standalone speaker but just doesn't have that stereo pairing option.
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Is the Bose SoundLink Max waterproof?
The Bose SoundLink Max isn't actually waterproof. According to the manufacturer's product description, it has an IPX4 rating. This means it can handle splashes, like if it gets wet from light rain or near the pool, but you shouldn't submerge it or expose it to heavy downpours. So, it's pretty resistant to casual water exposure but for anything more intense, you might need to look for a different speaker with a higher waterproof rating.
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Budget Pick: Anker Soundcore 2

Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker with 12W Stereo Sound, Bluetooth 5, Bassup, IPX7 Waterproof, 24-Hour Playtime, Wireless Stereo Pairing, Speaker for Home, Outdoors, Travel

If you’re on a budget but don't want to compromise on sound quality, the Anker Soundcore 2 is your best bet. For around $40, this speaker offers impressive 24-hour battery life and solid sound performance. It features an IPX7 waterproof rating, which means it can handle splashes and brief submersion, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The Anker Soundcore 2 provides excellent value for money, proving that you don’t have to spend much to enjoy good audio quality.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$38.73 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Anker Soundcore 2 Speaker? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Can you pair two Anker Soundcore 2 speakers together?
Yep, you can pair two Anker Soundcore 2 speakers. According to the manufacturer's description, they support True Wireless Stereo (TWS) pairing, letting you hook up two speakers for a bigger, stereo sound experience. Here's how you can set them up: 1. **Turn on both Anker Soundcore 2 speakers.** Make sure they aren't connected to any other devices. 2. **Enter Bluetooth pairing mode on both speakers.** Just press and hold the Bluetooth button until the light starts flashing. 3. **Initiate TWS pairing.** On one speaker, press the Bluetooth button twice. It'll look for the other speaker and pair up. Once they're linked, the primary speaker's light will stay steady, and the secondary one will flash slowly. 4. **Connect your device.** Now, use your phone or whatever device you have and connect to the primary speaker. You should only see one speaker in your Bluetooth list. After you're connected, you'll get stereo sound through both speakers. Our research indicated that people really like the improved sound and extra volume when using two together. Just a heads-up: TWS only works if both speakers are the same model. So, if you're trying to pair a Soundcore 2 with a different model, it won't work. The pairing steps are pretty straightforward, but if you hit a snag, the user manual or Anker's customer support can help you out. So if you're looking to level up your sound for parties or just home listening, pairing two Soundcore 2 speakers is a solid choice.
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How does the sound quality of the Anker Soundcore 2 compare to other speakers?
The Anker Soundcore 2 has pretty solid sound quality, especially for its price. But when it comes to navigating through tracks, it does have a bit of a letdown. According to our research, a lot of Bluetooth speakers allow you to skip forward or backward directly using the hardware controls—something you often even get with basic wired headphones. The Soundcore 2 doesn't quite hit the mark here. You can skip forward by double-pressing the play button, but there's no way to skip backward using the speaker itself, which is a bit of a bummer. This isn't mentioned in the user manual, which can be frustrating too. Some folks we've found are particularly annoyed by this, although others don't see it as a big deal and still think the speaker's other features make up for it. If being able to navigate tracks directly from the speaker is a must for you, you might end up needing to use your phone or look into a different speaker. In terms of sound, though, the Soundcore 2 does a great job, just keep the navigation thing in mind.
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Is the Anker Soundcore 2 waterproof?
Yep, the Anker Soundcore 2 is waterproof. The manufacturer says it has an IPX7 rating, so it can handle being submerged in up to a meter of water for 30 minutes. Perfect for pool parties or beach trips where there's a chance of it getting splashed or even briefly dunked. It's built tough to survive different environments without losing its performance. Beyond being waterproof, the Soundcore 2 delivers surprisingly good sound for its size, with solid bass and clear audio, thanks to Anker's BassUp technology. And from what we've found, the battery life is great too—up to 24 hours on a single charge, making it ideal for long trips or all-day events. Just a heads-up though: some folks have pointed out that it doesn’t have a previous track button on the speaker itself. You can skip tracks and play/pause, but if you need to go back to the previous track, you’ll have to do it from your phone or another device. If that's a dealbreaker, it might be worth looking at other speakers with more track control options. All in all, the Anker Soundcore 2 is a solid pick if you're looking for a waterproof speaker with good sound quality and long battery life. Its rugged design and IPX7 rating make it a great buddy for your outdoor adventures.
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Best for Portability: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2

Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2, Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker, Big Bass 360 Sound, Waterproof/Dustproof IP67, Floatable, 100 Ft Range - Bermuda Blue

For those who need a highly portable speaker, the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2 is an excellent choice. Weighing less than a pound, it’s incredibly lightweight yet offers a 13-hour battery life, according to the manufacturer. Its rugged design means it can handle the occasional drop or bump, and its IP67 rating guarantees protection against dust and water. Despite its compact size, the WONDERBOOM 2 delivers surprisingly powerful and clear audio, making it a favorite for travel and outdoor use.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$110.00 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2 - Bermuda Blue? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What is the range of the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2 Bluetooth connection?
The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2 has a Bluetooth range of up to 100 feet (about 30 meters). According to the manufacturer, this means you can keep your devices connected even if they're not right next to you. Our research shows that the connection stays strong and consistent within this range, which is great for outdoor events, parties, or just moving around the house without losing your signal. So, if you're looking for a reliable portable speaker with a good Bluetooth range, the WONDERBOOM 2 has got you covered.
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Can you pair two Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2 speakers together?
Yep, you can totally pair two Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2 speakers together! It's called 'Double Up' and it basically lets you connect two speakers for a more immersive stereo sound. According to our research, it's pretty easy to set up and can really boost the audio, which is awesome for bigger spaces or outdoor hangouts. Here's how you can do it: 1. **Turn on both speakers**: Make sure both WONDERBOOM 2s are on and not connected to other devices. 2. **Pair the first speaker with your device**: Connect your main WONDERBOOM 2 to your phone or any Bluetooth-enabled device. 3. **Double press the button**: On the main speaker, press the central 'Ultimate Ears' button twice. You'll hear a tone telling you it's ready to connect to the second speaker. 4. **Sync the second speaker**: Turn on the second WONDERBOOM 2 and double press its central button too. They should sync up in a few moments, and you'll get an audio confirmation. The manufacturer describes this feature as easy to use, and our data shows that people generally find the pairing process smooth with a stable connection. It's designed to give you great sound quality, whether you're indoors or outside. By the way, these speakers are tough and waterproof (IP67 rated), so don't hesitate to take them to your next pool party or camping trip. Bottom line: Pairing two WONDERBOOM 2s is simple and definitely worth it for that extra audio punch. Just follow those steps and enjoy your stereo sound!
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How loud is the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2?
The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2 is pretty loud for such a small speaker. The manufacturer says it can hit up to 87 decibels (dB), which is quite impressive given its size. This makes it a good fit for outdoor parties or any place where you need your music to be heard over background noise. From our research, people are really pleased with the volume and sound quality. They say that even when you crank it up, the sound stays clear and balanced, with nice bass and crisp highs. It's great for different types of music and works well both indoors and outdoors. The speaker also has an 'Outdoor Boost' mode that you can turn on to make it even louder and clearer for open spaces. This mode tweaks the sound settings so that it performs better outside, where audio can easily get lost. So, if you want a portable speaker that packs a punch in terms of volume and quality, the WONDERBOOM 2 is worth considering. Just remember to use the Outdoor Boost mode when you're outside for the best experience.
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Best Premium Sound: Bose SoundLink Revolve+

Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) Bluetooth Speaker, Portable Speaker with Microphone, Wireless Water Resistant Travel Speaker with 360 Degree Sound, Long Lasting Battery and Handle, Black

For audiophiles seeking premium sound, the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ is hard to beat. It’s designed to emit 360-degree sound, ensuring everyone in the room can enjoy the music. With up to 17 hours of battery life and a water-resistant design, this speaker is both practical and high-performing. Priced around $299, it’s a significant investment but comes with the assurance of deep, immersive sound that Bose is known for. The Revolve+ offers a well-rounded auditory experience, making it perfect for those who value top-tier audio quality.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$229.00 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ Series II Speaker? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Does the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) have an equalizer?
The Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) doesn't have a built-in equalizer that you can control through its app or on the speaker itself. From what we found, there’s no way to adjust EQ settings via the Bose Connect app, which some folks see as a downside, especially given the price. While the speaker delivers a balanced sound with good mid-range and treble, some people might feel the bass is a bit lacking and wish they could tweak it more directly. That said, you can still adjust your sound a bit through music apps like [Spotify](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSpotify%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which come with their own equalizer settings. It's a bit of a workaround and not as convenient as having those options right in the Bose app or on the speaker. So, if you're really into fine-tuning your audio, the lack of a built-in equalizer might be a bummer. But overall, the speaker gets high marks for its portability and sound quality.
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Can you pair two Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) speakers together?
Yep, you can pair two Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) speakers together. There's a feature called 'Party Mode' that lets you play music on both speakers at the same time, creating a more immersive sound. If you want a true stereo sound, you can switch to 'Stereo Mode,' which uses one speaker for the left channel and the other for the right. Just use the [Bose Connect app](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dbose%2Bconnect%2Bapp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to set it all up—it's pretty straightforward according to our research. We found that folks really like this feature for its simplicity and the way it boosts the audio experience. The SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) is already known for its great sound and portability, and pairing two of them together just takes it to another level. So, if you're looking to kick things up a notch with your music, pairing these speakers is a solid choice.
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Is the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) waterproof?
The Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) isn't fully waterproof, but it does have some water resistance. The manufacturer lists it as having an IP55 rating, which means it can handle some dust and low-pressure water jets from any direction. So, it should be fine with splashes or light rain, but it’s not meant to be fully submerged in water or left in heavy rain for long periods. From our research, folks have mentioned that the speaker works well in wet environments like by the pool or during a drizzle. Just don't take it for a swim or leave it out in a storm. It's built to last with occasional water exposure, but it's not made for heavy rain or underwater use. Also, just a heads-up: some people wish it had a [USB-C](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DUSB-C%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) port for charging instead of the [micro USB](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dmicro%2BUSB%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) it uses, since USB-C is more common and faster these days. But overall, its sturdy design and great 360-degree sound make it a solid choice for most situations. Just be a bit careful around water to keep it in good shape.
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