No matter where your celebrations may take place – pool party, barbecue, or backyard relaxation – an outdoor speaker can add the soundtrack.
Depending on the space available to you, choose either wired and permanently installed systems or wireless Bluetooth options to customize to the environment you are in.
All the best outdoor speakers feature strong waterproof ratings and sturdy designs that can withstand being dropped or exposed to moisture, plus smart features like voice assistant support.
If you want to skip the reviews, we say get the JBL Boombox 3.
Best Wireless Bluetooth Speakers For Outdoors Reviews
Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
- Unbelievable sound: 12W of pure audio power with enhanced bass Thunders from dual neodymium drivers. An...
- Intense bass: exclusive bass up technology and a patented spiral bass port boost low-end frequencies to...
- Outdoor-proof: IPX7 protection safeguards against rain, dust, snow, and spills. Get incredible sound at...
- 24H Non-Stop Music: Anker’s world-renowned power management technology and a 5,200mAh Li-ion battery...
- Grab, go, Listen: classic design that has been refined and lightened, with effortlessly simple controls.
Priced affordably at approximately $50, the Anker SoundCore 2 is a Bluetooth speaker that can significantly enhance your phone audio without draining your wallet.
Its astounding battery life, lasting up to 24 hours, and its sturdy, water-resistant structure are top features.
Although it may not deliver audio performance on par with the highest-end waterproof speakers, the cost-effectiveness of the SoundCore 2 is undeniable, particularly if you’re keen on more budget-friendly options.
In terms of aesthetics, the SoundCore 2 might not be sweeping any design awards. It’s a nondescript black bar with a series of control buttons—power, play/pause, pairing, and volume—on its top surface.
Two 6-watt drivers are hidden behind a black metal grille on the front of the speaker, while on the side you’ll find a water-resistant covering that safeguards the micro USB charging port and a 3.5mm auxiliary port, handy for interfacing with older gadgets.
The speaker’s casing is clad in a matte black rubber material that is pleasing to the touch but prone to fingerprint smudging. The durability of the speaker’s construction is admirable, and its rough-and-tumble body and splash-proof design can bear the rigors of outdoor use.
Remember, though, that its water resistance is rated at IPX5, meaning it can handle light splashes but isn’t designed for full submersion like the UE Wonderboom.
The Anker SoundCore 2’s compact dimensions of 165mm x 54mm x 45mm make it conveniently portable, and easy to slip into a bag without concern about damage or excessive bulk. The rectangular shape contributes to its portability, and it’s lightweight enough for effortless travel.
When it comes to audio quality, the SoundCore 2 is fair, offering a significant improvement over any standard smartphone speaker. While the overall audio balance is decent, the bass response can be lacking, especially in genres like electronic dance music and hip-hop.
High-frequency sounds are acceptable but may distort when the volume is cranked up.
The volume output of the SoundCore 2 could be higher to satisfy some listeners. Although it’s sufficiently loud in a tranquil room, it may struggle to be heard over background noise.
In a volume and distortion comparison with the UE Wonderboom, the latter certainly outperformed the SoundCore 2.
JBL Boombox 3
- Massive sound and deepest bass: Enjoy your music with massive JBL Original Pro Sound. The new 3-way...
- 24 Hours of play time: Celebrate every moment with the sounds you love. From your early morning workout...
- IP67 dust and water proof: To the pool. To the park. The JBL Boombox 3 is IP67 dustproof and waterproof,...
- Strong, bold design: We've updated the sleek, iconic JBL silhouette. With twin sidecaps and a sturdy...
- Crank up the fun with PartyBoost:PartyBoost allows you to pair two JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers...
An ideal companion for a variety of gatherings, from house to pool to beach parties, the JBL Boombox 3 is a robust speaker that offers durability with an IP67 rating and impressive sound quality. However, it leans toward the expensive side considering its features.
As the latest entrant in JBL’s lineup of Bluetooth speakers, the JBL Boombox 3 succeeds the JBL Boombox 2.
Its loud sound and water-resistant qualities, along with an IP67 rating, make it an excellent option for parties. But does it justify the hefty price tag, and does it meet the expectations set by its predecessor?
The JBL Boombox 3 is a sizable portable Bluetooth speaker equipped with a handle for easy portability. It tips the scales at 6.7kg, which can be hefty to carry around.
Available in two color options – black and camouflage, it aligns with the current trend of JBL speakers that are rated IP67 for resistance to water and dust.
This allows the speaker to endure being underwater up to one meter for a duration of 30 minutes and it’s entirely resistant to dust. These features make it the perfect speaker to bring along to the beach or a picnic, and cleaning it is as simple as rinsing it off.
The speaker is configured with one subwoofer, a pair of midrange drivers, and two tweeters, all facing forward. The dual passive radiators on the sides of the Boombox 3 create vibrations that can be felt when playing music with heavy bass.
For connectivity, the Boombox 3 leverages Bluetooth 5.3 and supports the SBC codec. The back of the speaker hosts a 3.5mm port for a wired connection with your phone, alongside a USB-A port for phone charging.
For an uninterrupted power supply, it can be plugged directly into a wall socket. As per JBL’s claim, the Boombox 3 has a wireless operation time of 24 hours and takes about 6 hours and 30 minutes to recharge fully.
There’s also an accompanying app for the speaker – the JBL Portable app, available on iOS and Android. The app allows for software updates, EQ adjustments, and speaker connections via PartyBoost mode.
In terms of audio performance, the JBL Boombox 3 shines with clear, loud output. The sound doesn’t deteriorate even when the volume is cranked up, making it a suitable option for parties.
The speaker tends to favor bass, which may be a bonus or a minus depending on individual preferences. However, the JBL Portable app’s equalizer feature allows for toning down or amplifying the bass as per your liking.
Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3
- Bigger, longer, more efficient: That bigger 360° sound in a petite package - the UE WONDERBOOM 3 mini...
- Booming bass, bigger 360-degree sound: WONDERBOOM 3 is engineered to deliver full stereo audio; tap the...
- 14 hours of boom: Forget the charger - WONDERBOOM 3 rechargeable portable Bluetooth speaker bangs longer...
- Waterproof, dustproof, and floatable: The IP67 rating means WONDERBOOM 3 can be submerged in 1 m of water...
- Double up for stereo: Pair 2 WONDERBOOM 3 cordless speakers for even louder sound; press once to double...
The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 is an impressive portable Bluetooth speaker, ideal for parties or travel. Its compact, durable design and lightweight structure make it easy to carry in a backpack. However, the absence of USB-C charging could be viewed as a minor setback.
Gone are the days when blasting music through smartphone speakers at a gathering was considered passable. The audio quality was inevitably poor, often leading to grating, highly distorted sound.
Thankfully, Bluetooth speakers have evolved significantly, offering high-quality sound from compact devices that can fit in a purse or a backpack.
The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 exemplifies this trend, providing excellent sound for house parties or adventurous camping trips. But does it have any shortcomings?
The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 is a portable Bluetooth speaker designed for mobility and user-friendly operation. It houses two active drivers and two passive radiators that contribute to a comprehensive sound output.
Its IP67 rating implies it’s dust-resistant and can withstand being submerged in a meter of water, making it ideal for outdoor use. To enhance the sound outdoors, there’s an “Outdoors Boost” button that modifies the audio quality accordingly.
Bluetooth is the primary means of audio reception for the speaker, and there’s no provision for a wired connection. For a stereo sound experience, it can be paired with another Wonderboom 3 unit.
The speaker also supports Bluetooth multipoint, allowing simultaneous connectivity with up to two devices. Its controls are all physical buttons, each corresponding to a particular feature, and it charges via a Micro-USB port.
The audio quality of the Wonderboom 3 is commendable. Despite its small size, it delivers a loud sound with an even frequency response, avoiding any excessive emphasis on specific frequencies.
While it doesn’t match the bass power of larger speakers or a setup with a dedicated subwoofer, it still holds its own.
The Outdoor Boost button, located at the bottom of the speaker, tweaks the sound to adapt to outdoor environments, considering there are no walls or corners for sound to bounce off—quite a clever feature.
For those who enjoy using the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 outdoors, the IP67 rating—signifying water resistance for up to thirty minutes of submersion and dust resistance—will be appreciated.
The company also claims the speaker can survive drops from heights up to five feet. Although we wouldn’t recommend testing this, the overall impression is that the Wonderboom 3 is a well-constructed and robust unit.
Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 Portable
- ULTIMATE SOUND: Super portable wireless bluetooth speaker with 360° bold, immersive, crystal clear sound...
- POWERED FOR ADVENTURE: Rechargeable battery stays powered and pumping tunes for 20 hours on a single...
- EXTREME PERFORMANCE FABRIC: MEGABOOM 3 is covered in shimmering two-tone fabric that’s tough, beautiful...
- SUPER PORTABLE, WATERPROOF & VIRTUALLY INDESTRUCTIBLE: Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 is seriously waterproof...
- ALL-NEW MAGIC BUTTON: With MEGABOOM 3 you can play, pause, skip and control any streaming music directly...
The UE Megaboom 3 is a solid contender if you’re in the market for a speaker upgrade or replacement. It builds upon the exceptional features of its predecessor, the Megaboom, offering improved sound, battery longevity, and durability, all at a lower price point.
It’s not just one of the top-ranking waterproof speakers; it’s a leader among Bluetooth speakers in general. Let’s delve into our UE Megaboom 3 review to understand why.
The Megaboom 3, measuring 8.9 x 3.4 inches and weighing 2 pounds, streamlines the cylindrical look of its earlier version, enhancing several design elements.
The volume buttons, previously sticking out, are now seamlessly integrated into the mesh exterior, and the charging port is conveniently relocated from the bottom to the side.
On the top of the speaker, you’ll find a power button, a Bluetooth pairing button, and a central feature called the Magic Button.
The Magic Button can be configured to initiate playlists on Apple Music or Deezer. However, its core function lies in controlling playback. A single press pauses or plays the current track, and a double tap progresses to the next song.
This feature replaces the previous model’s touch-sensitive top and offers more consistent operation.
The Megaboom 3 omits the auxiliary input, meaning a wired connection isn’t possible, a feature removed during the redesign. The speakerphone function was also eliminated in this new model.
Audio-wise, the Megaboom 3 provides a well-balanced output of bass, mids, and trebles. It has a slightly elevated bass compared to the original Megaboom and a more robust overall sound than the Fugoo Style-S, handling various music genres with aplomb.
When it comes to volume, the Megaboom 3 truly shines. Its sound can reach nearly 100 decibels at maximum volume, although some distortion may occur at this level.
The IPX67 rating on the Megaboom 3 ensures it’s waterproof up to 3 feet of water for 30 minutes. During testing, the speaker was submerged in a sink full of water for 5 minutes, and its performance remained unaffected.
The speaker’s battery life is impressive, with UE claiming it can last up to 20 hours on a full charge—a likely understatement. After approximately 10 hours of usage at low to moderate volumes, the Megaboom 3 had 77% of its battery remaining.
Pairing the Megaboom 3 with an iPhone was quick and efficient, and the speaker demonstrated strong signal strength, even through multiple indoor walls.
The latest Boom and Megaboom app (available for iOS and Android) introduces several practical features but also removes a few. It allows pairing the Megaboom 3 with older models and other UE speakers, such as the Boom 2 and Boom 3.
The Magic Button can be assigned to specific playlists, with a 3-second press initiating playback. Preset equalizer settings can be selected, or custom ones can be created. However, the new app lacks an alarm feature and doesn’t support Siri or Google Assistant via the speaker.
Sonos Move
- Get brilliant sound anywhere with the weatherproof and drop-resistant Move. Control with your voice, the...
- Experience surprisingly deep bass, a wide soundscape, and automatic Trueplay tuning that perfectly...
- Stream over WiFi and connect Move to the rest of your Sonos system at home. Switch to Bluetooth when...
- With an IP56 rating, Move stands up to humidity, rain, snow, dust, salt spray, UV rays, and extreme heat...
- With an IP56 rating, Move stands up to humidity, rain, snow, dust, salt spray, UV rays, and extreme heat...
The Sonos Move makes its mark as a versatile yet sophisticated addition to the brand’s lineup, catering to the niche of listeners who desire a portable home audio solution.
Despite being Sonos’ debut attempt at a Bluetooth speaker, its performance and design merit serious consideration. Yet, is this transition from home-based to mobile audio a successful venture for Sonos?
Known primarily for their stylish and user-friendly home audio systems, Sonos doesn’t have a reputation for ruggedness.
However, with the Move, Sonos significantly ramps up its robustness, boasting an IP56 weatherproof rating and purported shockproof capabilities.
Although we didn’t deliberately subject it to harsh tests, it survived a three-foot fall from a bedside table unscathed. Still, the soft plastic finish may not withstand a fall on harder surfaces without getting scuffed.
The Sonos Move, despite its name, tends not to stray far from its charging bracket. In this mode, it primarily functions as a smart speaker, always ready for duty, given its constant state of charge.
This charging cradle integration is a commendable feature that we’d love to see in more Bluetooth speakers. Moreover, the Move can also be charged via any USB-C charger, adding a layer of convenience.
Although the Sonos Move offers portability, its heft (around 3kg) and the awkwardly shaped built-in handle make it less suitable for longer distances or more adventurous outings.
If your lifestyle demands a lighter, more travel-friendly companion, consider options like the JBL Flip 6 or the UE BOOM 3.
However, if you need a quality speaker for indoor use that can also accommodate occasional outdoor use, the Sonos Move is a viable candidate. Its ability to transition smoothly from a living room centerpiece to a backyard entertainer might make it the ideal choice for some.
Sony SRS-XE300 X-Series
- Line shaped diffuser distributes music evenly across a wide sound stage
- IP67 water, dust, and shockproof design
- X-Balanced speakers provide power, clarity, and distortion-free sound
- Up to 24-hour battery life with quick charging
- Personalized sound control via the Sony | Music Center app
Valued at $199.99, the Sony SRS-XE300 takes its place as the intermediate member of Sony’s newest X series of Bluetooth speakers, flanked by the SRS-XE200 and SRS-XG300.
It surprises with its robust volume, given its compact form factor, and scores points with its rugged design. The additional app, offering an assortment of EQ and battery optimization options, brings a certain charm.
However, Sony’s unconventional approach to driver configuration does not seem to deliver on its promise of superior sound spread. If the unique design had noticeably improved performance, the higher price tag could be justified, but it falls short in this respect.
Therefore, at $179.99, the JBL Charge 5 continues to be our preferred choice in this price segment, its traditional driver arrangement delivering a sound experience that is more reliable.
With a weight of 2.9 pounds, the SRS-XE300 comes in shades of black, gray, and teal. Its form resembles an elongated, curved pentagon and measures 9.4 by 4.1 by 4.7 inches (HWD).
It allows for both vertical and horizontal placements, though most promotional images from Sony depict it in a vertical stance.
At first glance, the source of the sound isn’t easily discernible because Sony employs a line-shaped diffuser for this device. The vertically aligned drivers are broader than what the slim line of fabric-covered grilles may imply.
Sound is projected through a slender slit instead of a freely exposed cover. A majority of the device is clad in sturdy silicone, leaving only a vertical control strip on the right side exposed.
Beneath the grille, two 1.9-by-2.8-inch full-range drivers are stacked vertically. The oval layout, affording more area on the speaker cone, is expected to generate higher sound pressure and limit driver movement.
Sony’s claim is that this design choice should result in stronger bass, diminished distortion, and an expanded soundstage. There are passive radiators at both ends; however, one is located at the bottom when the speaker is placed vertically.
Although the radiators can project sound in a forward or upward direction, we recommend starting with a horizontal placement to prevent any radiator from facing blockages. Interestingly, the default sound output from this speaker is mono, but the stereo output can be enabled through the app.
This device is compatible with Bluetooth 5.2 and supports the AAC, SBC, and LDAC codecs, but AptX is not supported. The provision of LDAC support opens up the possibility of high-resolution streaming for Android users. In the app, this model can be paired with other models from the X series for a synchronized multi-speaker configuration. For Android users, Google Fast Pair is another handy feature.
The control strip houses buttons for power, Bluetooth, multifunction (which handles playback, track navigation, and call features based on the frequency of pressing), volume, battery (which verbally informs about the remaining battery life), and a mute/unmute feature for the microphone.
The buttons are user-friendly, but a slight lag was observed between pressing a button and receiving auditory confirmation. An LED nestled between the power and Bluetooth buttons signifies when the speaker is powered or charging.
An additional light beneath the battery button illuminates when the Stamina mode is activated, which will be discussed further later.
pohopa Bluetooth Speakers Waterproof
- √ WIRELESS STEREO DUAL PAIRING: TWS function lets you pair two speakers for a powerful 20W true stereo...
- √ MOST-ENJOYING DISTANCE: ❤Bluetooth Distance(distance between HOST speaker and cell phone): up to...
- √ LED LIGHTS AROUND&20W POWERFUL SOUND: 20-piece built-in bright LED lights around light up for night...
- √ LARGE CAPACITY BATTERY: 4400MAH(each unit) built-in high capacity rechargeable lithium battery...
- √ WHAT YOU GET: 2xPohopa Bluetooth speaker, 2xMicro-USB cables, 3.5mm audio cable, User’s manual, our...
Looking for a discreet speaker option for your backyard that can withstand outdoor conditions? The Pohopa EF-B210G might be the solution.
These sleek speakers are sold in pairs and are designed to resemble lanterns, blending seamlessly with your landscaping. Equipped with built-in LED lights, they not only provide audio but also serve as outdoor lighting fixtures.
Thanks to Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily stream music from your phone, and enjoy over 60 hours of uninterrupted playback. Additionally, these speakers have an IP54 rating, ensuring resistance to dust and water exposure.
It’s important to note, however, that like many outdoor decorative speakers we’ve tested, the focus of the Pohopa EF-B210G is more on design than sound quality.
While they are more than suitable for casual listening sessions, discerning audiophiles may detect a slightly muddier and less defined sound compared to premium alternatives like the Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3.
Furthermore, without any customization options, you won’t be able to fine-tune their performance.
That being said, if audio fidelity is not your top priority, these speakers are still an excellent choice, delivering ample volume for your music or podcasts. In summary, they rank among the top wireless outdoor speakers we’ve tested.
Tribit StormBox Blast Portable Speaker
- Best Wireless Boombox - CNET
- Body-shaking XBass Tech: Providing a distortion-free, rich, and balanced sound, Tribit StormBox Blast is...
- Incredible 30H Playtime: Thanks to Tribit's Runstretch technology, this wireless speaker could provide 30...
- 32 Led Lights Sync to the Beats: The Tribit StormBox Blast is more than a portable speaker, it's a show;...
- Bluetooth 5.3 & Customize EQ Modes: Advanced Bluetooth 5.3 technology ensures up to 150 feet of music...
This party speaker weighs approximately 5.5 kilograms and exudes a sturdy feel with its robust handle. It beckons you to carry it on your shoulder, reminiscent of the iconic ghetto blasters from the last century.
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, this speaker not only promises significantly clearer sound compared to the cassette tapes of classic models, but it also boasts an eye-catching light show featuring 32 LEDs that flicker to the beat of the music.
By pressing the light symbol on the impeccably designed and labeled keypad, as is customary for Tribit, you can conserve energy, although it’s worth noting that energy consumption is not a pressing concern in this case.
However, it serves as an effective means to extend the battery life for park gatherings or beach parties.
While achieving the full promised 30 hours of battery life with the light shows may be unrealistic, if a power outlet is accessible at the party location, there are no inhibitions to turning up the light and sound levels.
Tribit provides a reasonably priced Bluetooth speaker with a standard power supply unit, which conveniently charges the 2200 mAh battery in under four hours.
The front panel of the Tribit Stormbox Blast features two wedge-shaped LED bars surrounding two 3cm tweeters and two 11cm bass-midrange drivers.
These components are driven by either 2 x 15 or 2 x 30 watts, resulting in a total power output of 90 watts. The two outer tweeters on either end of the front panel support the vibrant light bars with their illuminated membranes, producing captivating light organ effects.
Square passive bass radiators on each side of the speaker cabinet further enhance the low-frequency performance. For those craving even more powerful bass, the XBass button provides an additional boost.
To ensure that beach parties with the Tribit Stormbox Blast leave no lasting traces, the speaker boasts an impressive IPX7 water resistance rating, allowing it to be submerged up to one meter.
The ports on the back are protected from splashes and dirt by a rubber flap. Additionally, the Tribit Stormbox Blast offers versatility in connectivity, featuring a USB-A port that allows it to function as a power bank, supplying power to smart devices while simultaneously playing music via Bluetooth or the analog 3.5 mm AUX jack input.
With its comprehensive connectivity options, this Bluetooth speaker is well-equipped for various scenarios.
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