Used in conjunction with the JBL Connect app on your smartphone or tablet, you can connect up to two mobile devices to play music through this speaker, with up to 12 hours of playing time thanks to the built-in rechargeable battery.
Continuous runtime might appear a little shorter.
The simple design of this speaker hides many of the special features that it offers. The excellent sound quality with deep bass sounds and a high treble provide an unmatched clarity to your music, be it jazz, pop, or heavy metal, and the waterproof design lets you use it in any wet conditions.
Bluetooth, 3.5-mm AUX input
16 watts (2 tweeters)
up to 12 hours
Durable fabric material, Rubber (IPx7 water-proof)
JBL Connect+ technology (pairs with other Connect+ compatible speakers), Control buttons, Built-in microphone for hands-free calling, Compatible with a wireless control app
6.89" x 2.76" x 2.68"
1.14 lbs
1 year
A built-in 8000 mAh rechargeable battery delivers amazingly long runtime of up to 24 hours while a USB port can serve for charging any mobile devices converting the speaker into a power bank.
The unit is pretty heavy.
Distinguished by professional-grade audio output, strongly built, and fairly portable, the W-KING D8 Bluetooth speaker is a real find for all sorts of parties both indoors and outdoors. It will deliver crystal clear stereo sound and keep you partying all day long.
Bluetooth, 3.5-mm AUX input, USB-port
50 watts (2 tweeters, 2 woofers)
up to 24 hours
Hard plastic/ABS material (IPx5 water-resistant)
Control buttons, Built-in microphone for hands-free calling
12.6" x 4.8" x 4.7"
~5 lbs
1 year
Bluetooth 5.0 technology and the latest Bluetooth ATS chip will ensure stable signal transmission within the range up to 100 feet. So, even with multiple other wireless devices around, there will be no risk of interference or cross-connection.
There is no microphone.
This Bluetooth speaker from BUGANI is versatile enough to accompany you while trekking, camping, or caravaning and connect to any Bluetooth-enabled device to add a splash of quality music sound to your home parties or enjoy stereo sound movies and videos in a family circle.
Bluetooth, 3.5-mm AUX input, Slot for microSD cards
30 watts (2 tweeters)
up to 20 hours
Hard plastic/ABS material (IPx5 water-resistant)
Control buttons
10.6" x 3.8" x 6.2"
~3.9 lbs
1 year
The unit body is made of premium quality materials to make sure the device will serve you for a long time, without sound quality deterioration. Besides, the body is completely water- and dustproof.
The included charging cable is rather short.
Though the JBL GO2 is pretty small and features only 3.1 watts of power output, don't let the size and relatively low power fool you. Solidly built to withstand harsh conditions, it produces high-quality sound, which is in no way hollow or flat and will meet the needs of the most exacting music lovers.
Bluetooth, 3.5-mm AUX input
3.1 watts (1 tweeter)
up to 5 hours
Hard plastic, Metal (IPx7 water-proof)
Control buttons, Built-in microphone for hands-free calling
3.39" x 2.8" x 1.24"
0.4 lb
1 year
Thanks to the AUX input, the speaker can connect to MP3 players and any other non-Bluetooth enabled devices. Besides, it has an SD card slot and FM radio to listen to some news if necessary.
No water resistance.
Offered at a fairly affordable price, the Anker SoundCore Mini is a powerful feature-rich speaker delivering sound performance comparable to that of premium models. Independent operation, multiple connectivity options, and quality playback are among its major fortes.
Bluetooth, 3.5-mm AUX input, Slot for microSD cards, FM-radio
5 watts (1 tweeter)
up to 15 hours
Hard plastic
Control buttons, Built-in microphone for hands-free calling
2.6" x 2.6" x 2.6"
0.55 lb
18 months
High Quality Performance
A problem that has plagued many portable Bluetooth speakers is one of audio quality. The small, portable nature of these devices often doesn't lend itself to giving great audio quality, with cheap internal speakers built inside of a small enclosure. Although the portable nature of these devices provide a measure of convenience, many users are still missing out on getting a high-quality audio experience. This often begs the question of why having great audio quality along and high convenience has to be mutually exclusive.
The JBL Flip 4 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker is JBL's answer to that question. Featuring a waterproof enclosure, this speaker has been designed to provide both high audio quality and convenience in one simple device. The audio played by this device is clear and loud, with the speaker being surprisingly powerful for one of its size. The waterproof enclosure ensures that this speaker can be used in almost any weather conditions, and even makes the perfect poolside companion. No longer do you need to worry about having your speaker too close to the water. In fact, you can even put it in the water if you so desire, as it will remain buoyant while still delivering great audio.
JBL Home Speakers You Can Use Wherever You Are
Many other great features are included in this Bluetooth speaker. As with many other JBL wireless Bluetooth speakers, it includes the JBL Connect+ technology, which allows for the connection of multiple speakers in order to provide true immersion in the audio for a large group of people. The ability to sync with two different mobile devices simultaneously also allows for more than one person to control which music or audio is being played at any given moment. This means that you can have a friend take control of the playlist while you are busy doing something else, which greatly adds to the convenience provided by this speaker.
This model includes a built-in 3000mAH lithium-ion battery, providing up to 12 hours of playtime, and can quickly be recharged, even while in use. Also included is speakerphone functionality, which automatically pauses music while on a call, with easy one-touch answering and great call quality provided by both the speaker and the built-in noise cancelling microphone. This helps make this speaker perfect not just for parties and get-togethers, but also for conference calls. With such flexibility in its use, this JBL speaker with mic makes the perfect companion for wherever you are.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $99.95 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B01MSYQWNY |
What customers say about this product
Key Specs(4.4)
Size & Weight(4.4)
Features(4.4)
Interfaces(4.3)
Professionally Sounding Party Maker
If you want your party to really rock, the top-quality audio sound is a must. Be it a pool party, dance night on the beach, or a small shindig with friends when camping or hiking, the W-KING D8 Bluetooth speaker will let you create an exciting atmosphere anywhere!
Fitted with two 25-watt acoustic drivers and dual passive bass radiators located on both of its sides, the speaker produces deep, rich, and voluminous studio-level audio that will sound loud, clear, and very professional. Meanwhile, a dual-speaker configuration will provide a 360-degree stereo sound, very much alike to the one produced by high-end stereo systems.
As far as the sound quality goes, the W-KING D8 Bluetooth speaker is up to the snuff. The acoustics here is amazing and shows balance across the whole spectrum. Bass is deep and rich enough, and it doesn't swamp mids and treble, delivering clear and well-shaped midrange and highs.
When it comes to connectivity, the W-KING D8 will ideally pair with any Bluetooth-enabled device within a range of up to 100 feet, working fine with both Android and iOS gadgets and will let you connect it with a wired headset or any other non-Bluetooth device via a 3.5mm audio jack.
Long-lasting in All Senses
Powerful and delivering superior audio quality, the W-KING D8 is solidly built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Some might even consider it a bit heavy with its weight being 5 lbs but that weight, in fact, is its advantage as it gives the unit more durability and stability on different surfaces. Besides, it is certified to IPX5 protection class, meaning the speaker is also shock-, dust, and waterproof, so you can rest assured it will stand strong against accidental splashes and drops from small heights.
To continue, the acoustic system is powered by a high-capacity, rechargeable 8000 mAh battery that gets fully charged in just about 3 hours and provides up to 24 hours of playback depending on the volume you choose. This will be enough to party all day long and do not bother about the recharge. In addition to that, the W-KING D8 can even double as a power bank, enabling you to feed your smartphone, tablet, action camera, or mp3 player on-the-go.
In a word, distinguished by rugged construction, powerful audio output, and professional-grade sound, the W-KING D8 Bluetooth speaker is a real find for all sorts of indoor and outdoor parties.
| Last updated price | $65.44 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B07WNZS2FR |
A Good Bang for Your Buck
When looking for a Bluetooth speaker, apart from it being portable, we also expect it to deliver quality sound and stand strong against environmental impacts. With the BUGANI M90, you'll get it all without breaking the bank.
The BUGANI M90 is quite compact and small, even though it weighs a bit more than some other wireless speakers on this list. At 4 lbs, it won't add much heft to your backpack and it won't be a hassle to carry it with you on trips, picnics or anywhere else. It is also a little stunner. Brushed exterior finish in black ideally pairs with a bright orange handlebar and controls, making it look very stylish and up-to-date.
Designed for outdoor use, this speaker has a great level of protection. It is made of reliable materials containing hard plastic and rubberized materials and has a water-resistant and shockproof body which allows it to easily stand to the active daily use. Thus, even if you place it near the pool, splashes won't do any damage to its components.
The sound quality of this Bluetooth speaker is nothing to sniff at either. Powered by an advanced digital audio processor, two mighty drivers, and a pair of precision tweeters, it churns out crisp and clear stereo sound with punchy deep bass and impressive balance of midrange and treble. The 30-watt output is loud enough to be played at a party or large open venues and the sound will not get distorted or become scratchy, as it often happens to cheap speakers. All of this makes it the BUGANI M90 a strong fit for pool parties, movie nights, camping and hiking tours, and so on.
With Solid Connectivity
As far as compatibility goes, the BUGANI M90 is quite versatile, featuring the latest Bluetooth 5.0 technology, AUX input, and a MicroSD card slot. Thus, you can connect it to your smartphone, laptop, tablet or even headphones and listen to music while on the go. It does, however, lack a microphone, so if you're planning to use it to make phone calls, the BUGANI M90 won't suit you. If not, the speaker is certainly not a bad deal.
With a 100-foot wireless range, this Bluetooth speaker produces great sound, with no interference or accidental cross-connection, that will keep your parties going all day and night long.
| Last updated price | $39.98 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B0837DX77S |
Amazing Quality in a Pocket-size Format
As of now, JBL speakers hold the leadership in the market, being famed for the top-quality sound and top-quality build. The JBL GO2 is not an exception to that rule and, though squeezed into a pocket-size format, will amaze you with its fantastic quality.
Right off the bat, this model is distinguished by the ultimate portability, measuring just 3.39" x 2.8" x 1.24" and weighing 0.4 lbs, which will let you easily fit it into a backpack, laptop bag, or even a purse. Besides, it boasts an appealing design, with a soft velvety metal body finish that comes in a whole variety of colors, ranging from vibrant blue and red to deep black to mild mint and posh gold. So, all JBL fans fall in love with this cutie from the first sight and eagerly add it to their collections of bulkier siblings.
However, the standout of this Bluetooth speaker is, of course, its amazing audio performance. This might seem incredible given the speaker's tiny size, but since this is the JBL Bluetooth speaker we're talking about, we aren't surprised. Despite pocket dimensions, the JBL GO2 sounds very loud and can crank the tunes, churning out a voluminous and well-balanced sound with crisp highs and mids and thumpy bass.
Apart from Bluetooth capabilities, the JBL GO2 allows connecting non-Bluetooth devices via an AUX input and making phones calls using the speakerphone with a noise-canceling technology.
Let Water Flow and Music Go
Bright, stylish and extremely portable, the JBL GO2 is built to serve you for a long time. A combo of hard plastic and metal can take quite a beating and won’t get damaged in case of accidental falls. More than that, the speaker is fully weather-proof. Instead of a regular cloth exterior, it features a rubberized coating that will repel water and give dust particles no chance to get inside. Certified to IPx7 protection class, it can be even plunged into the water for a short time. As such, the GO2 can be safely used on the beach, near the pool, or straight in the shower.
The only downside of this speaker is a battery life that delivers only 5 hours of continuous runtime, which is noticeably shorter as compared to other units of this type. As for the rest, the JBL GO2 is a well-rounded compact speaker that provides solid sound and construction quality.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $29.88 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B07QJ2117B |
Affordable Combo of Power and Size
If you're on a budget yet want to get a good quality speaker, we recommend paying attention to the Anker SoundCore Mini. This model offers a smart combo of amazing sound and compactness while coming at a more than reasonable price.
To start off, the Anker SoundCore Mini is very small. The dimensions of 2.6" x 2.6" x 2.6" and 0.5 lbs of weight allow it to easily fit in your palm and make it an ideal companion for jogging, driving, doing yoga or cycling in the park with it barely taking any space in your bag. Meanwhile, the neat barrel-like design in black feels very classy and will make it a stylish addition to any desktop.
As compact and budget-friendly as it is, the Anker SoundCore Mini produces surprisingly high sound quality. It packs 5 watts, which puts it in a row with bigger models since it is decently loud for the speaker of its size.
The unit is fitted with a single tweeter and the sound comes out of the top. Meanwhile, it still hosts both an active driver and a passive radiator to amplify bass and avoid flat and scratchy sound typical of smaller speakers.
The unit might be inferior to larger counterparts in terms of volume, yet you’ll still enjoy a full and beefy sound. And the battery will ensure up to 15 hours of constant music flow.
Packing Multiple Music Options
Smart compactness and high performance aside, the Anker SoundCore Mini has yet another ace down its sleeve. That’s multiple music options. Thus, just like any Bluetooth speaker, it easily hooks to any smartphone or tablet operated by Android or iOS and can function as an added speaker for your laptop or PC. Other than that, the AUX input will let you pair this little thing with non-wireless devices as well while a MicroSD slot is included to playback MP3s. To add more, the SounCore Mini has a built-in FM tuner enabling you to listen to the radio. Though it might seem a relic of the past today, the radio can be of great help if you get stuck somewhere without access to the Internet.
Cutting down to the chase, at a price below $30, the Anker SoundCore Mini is a well-engineered compact device that packs even more features you’ll come across in more expensive models.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $23.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B01HTH3C8S |
What customers say about this product
Features(4.7)
Key Specs(4.7)
Size & Weight(4.8)
Interfaces(4.6)
Infographics
What Is a Bluetooth Speaker?
Can't spend a day without music and sharing it with others, but your phone/tablet sound just doesn't cut it? There is no need to suffer from limitations anymore. A Bluetooth speaker is an easy-to-use portable device, which will allow you to enjoy the high-quality sound of your favorite tracks anytime and anywhere. Simply connect it to the device at hand - be it your laptop, phone or tablet - and freely listen to music while walking with friends or being out with your family on a picnic. What's more, many modern wireless speakers come with a built-in microphone so you can not only listen to music but also use it to answer calls should you connect it to your smartphone.
Having selected a speaker for use on the go, you might be interested in reading about speakers best used at home.
What Features to Compare
Interface
When selecting a Bluetooth speaker, the first thing to pay attention to is the interfaces it has. All of the modern portable speaker models are able to connect via Bluetooth, usually with a version 4.0 set by a manufacturer, which allows up to 10 m of distance for connectivity. Except for that standard connection, more advanced models are equipped with a high-speed NFC protocol used to synchronize devices simply by touching one of them to another. And there are models that offer you an alternative to a wireless connection - they can be connected via AUX audio cable. The most functional models, of course, have all of those features, wireless and wire-based alike.
Performance
When we are done reviewing all the different types of interfaces, the next characteristic to note is Bluetooth speaker's performance. The quality and loudness of sound would mostly depend on the general power of the speaker and in order to obtain good and qualitative sounding the power should be not less than 3W. For those who look into buying a speaker for the outdoor use where there are such interferences to the sound as wind, we would recommend getting one with a power between 10W and 20W. Due to the device being portable, its performance depends on the time a model can work on a single charge and also on the number of speakers inside. The usual operation time for Bluetooth portative speakers varies from 5 to 10 hours, but there are models able to last up to 12 hours after being fully charged. The number of speakers is also extremely important, as some may argue that devices with only one speaker are unable to transfer the full richness of the original sound. For those who seek the best of sound quality, we would recommend choosing a model with more than one speaker and, even better, a subwoofer, to experience everything the sound has to offer.
Other Features
Now it's time to have a look at other features of the model. For once - size, as the device is designed to be portable. Size and weight play a big role since they influence the comfort the speaker can be carried around with. Some might want to use their speakers near the pool or at the beach. In this case, they might want to consider getting one with some kind of water and/or dust protection. Also, there are models with a high accumulator capacity allowing not only a long working time but also charging your other devices using its USB port. For comfortable speaker charging some companies provide charging cradles. When you need to find your way through the unfamiliar area the speaker can help with voice navigation tips for some models come with a voice helper installed, which can easily help you search for information, order food, and keep up-to-date with the news.
How to:
FAQ:
Q: What is the range of the speaker operation?
A: The range of the device operation depends on the conditions of the Bluetooth signal transmission, such as the presence of various obstacles: large objects, walls, etc., on the signal path. The range of Bluetooth operation for this model is up to 30 feet in case there are no obstacles between the speaker and the source of the signal.
Q: Will there be any difference in the quality of the sound from the speaker when fed a Bluetooth signal from different devices?
A: The Bluetooth technology, which a speaker supports, is a digital one. Therefore, there will be no difference in the quality of the resulting sound whichever Bluetooth-enabled device you use with the speaker. With that, you can use any device you find most convenient to output the sound with via the speaker.
Q: Can I listen to music from such portable speakers except for using the Bluetooth connection?
A: Despite the fact that such portable speakers are designed to use the Bluetooth wireless connection as the primary one, they offer a wide range of connection options. Many speaker models have a built-in 3.5 mm audio input port for a wired analog connection, so you can connect these speakers to the audio out of your tablet PC, smartphone or a laptop via a cable. More advanced speakers can even operate as standalone mp3 players and play your mp3 tracks from a micro SD card (some models support up to 32 GB cards) without additional devices.
Q: How can I charge the speaker?
A: Most of the models have a built-in battery that can be charged via a cable. Some speakers are equipped with a USB port for charging, some speakers have a dedicated charging port. Most Bluetooth speakers though offer both options.
Q: What is the battery life of Bluetooth speakers?
A: The battery life of Bluetooth speakers varies greatly with the model and depends on several factors. The built-in battery capacity is of the most importance, the bigger the capacity the longer the speaker battery life. Though, the speaker output power and the loudness level, at which you listen to the speaker also play an important role. As a rule, the more powerful the speaker is and the louder the sound is, the shorter its battery life will be. Usually, Bluetooth speakers offer from several hours to several dozens of hours of battery life.
Q: What mobile devices are Bluetooth speakers compatible with?
A: You can pair your speaker with any Bluetooth-enabled gadget, including almost all modern smartphones, smartwatches, tablet PCs or even DAPs with the Bluetooth connection. For the most part, modern speakers are compatible with Bluetooth-enabled devices based on iOS, Android or Windows operating systems, but you need to check the specific model specifications to know for sure.
Q: Are Bluetooth speakers for outdoor or for indoor use only?
A: It depends on a speaker model, though many speaker models are designed to be suitable for both outdoor and indoor use. Such versatile speakers are usually manufactured in compliance with different environmental standards, which are listed in their specifications and manuals.
Sources:
1. Lewis Skinner How to Buy the Best Wireless or Bluetooth Speaker, Which?
2. Bluetooth Speaker Buying Guide, Best Buy.
3. How to Pick the Best Wireless Speaker, Consumer Reports. March 2016.
4. Electric Jen Choosing a Portable Bluetooth Speaker, Tesla Rati. March 3, 2016.
5. 5 Essential Things to Consider When Choosing Wireless Speakers, VentureBeat. November 17, 2014.
6. Natasha Stokes How to Solve Bluetooth Pairing Problems, Techlicious. December 22, 2014.
7. Wireless Speaker, Wikipedia.
8. Michael Calore Gift Guide: 21 Wireless Speakers for 21 Types of People, Wired. November 25, 2015.