Best Portable Speakers 2021 - Best deals for any budget

Portable speakers are preferred by any music lover due to their portability, durability and amazing sound quality. Here we'll show you the list of the best speakers available in 2020. Portable speakers are wireless which means they're pretty easy to use and move anywhere. No wonder they've become the go-to sound solution.

No matter where you prefer to go, either in the yard or garage, or you just want to take a walk to park you can always count on the best Bluetooth speakers. Even if you want to spend a day at the beach you'll be able to find the best waterproof speakers as well.

Moreover, since they are preferred by so many people there is also a wide variety of portable speakers one can choose from. However, when there is a large number of portable speakers in the market it means that it is quite difficult to make the right decision. Relax. We've done the hard work for you by conducting research and testing which are the best speakers one can buy in 2020.

These days, most of the Bluetooth speakers do come with voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant built-in. To put it differently, it means that some wireless speakers can be taken as smart speakers too since you can use them to control your smart home devices and count on them for other voice commands.

No matter what sort of portable speaker you're looking for, this article will help you to choose the best Bluetooth speaker you need in accordance with your budget.

The list of the best Bluetooth speakers you can buy

1. Sonos MovE Portable Speaker

Pros of this portable speaker

  • Integrates with a home Sonos speaker network

  • On-the-go tunes

Cons

  • Heavy

  • Cant be used as rear cinema speakers

Read the full review: Sonos Move review

With Sonos Move one can party anywhere. however, you should take into consideration to leave it as the main in-the-home wireless speaker too. No wonder it is ranked as the best Bluetooth speaker in the world. it is not even compared to the average Bluetooth speakers due to the fact that it has two quality drivers, a solid app that unlocks playback from a large number of wireless sources, multi-room capability and smart audio-tuning tech. however, it does have some disadvantages for instance it is heavy as a byproduct, it is also quite expensive thanks to its features, and it cannot be used as rear channels for home cinema set-up. Its features are described below:

Weight: 6.61 pounds (3kg) | Battery life: 10 hours | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n, 2.4 GHz, and 5GHz) and Bluetooth 4.2 | Drivers: One down-firing tweeter, one mid-woofer, two Class-D digital amplifiers | NFC: No | Aux-in: No | USB charging: Yes (USB-C, and comes with charging dock)

2. UE Boom 3 Speaker

Pros of this speaker

  • IP67 waterproof/dust-proof

  • Powerful sound

  • Rugged design

Cons

  • Audio needs to be clearer

Though a former best Bluetooth speaker UE Boom 3 is still a perfect choice for travelling. Many people weren't impressed with the UE Boom 3 as they were with the UE Boom 2. However, UE Boom 3 is considered as one of the best Bluetooth speakers one can buy in 2020. This speaker is one of the best choices you can make since it can get loud and not distort at higher volumes, it is not heavy so you can easily carry it on a camping trip, and you can tumble it in a bag unprotected.

This Bluetooth speaker is waterproof and also dust-proof. Another good thing about it is that it has a one-touch mix button which lets you pull up your favourite playlists without having to pick up your phone. You may even be able to find a much more detailed portable speaker, but UE Boom 3 comes at an affordable price.

Its features are described below:

Weight: 1.2 pounds | Battery life: 15 hours | Wireless range: 30+ feet | Frequency response: 90Hz-20kHz | Drivers: Two 1.75" drivers and two 1.75" x 3" passive radiators | NFC: Yes | Aux-in: No | USB charging: Yes

3. JBL Flip 5 Portable Speaker

Pros

  • Engaging, entertaining sound

  • Easy to use

Cons

  • No 3.5mm input

  • No mic for hands-free calls

JBL's Flip 5 is a simple speaker design in comparison to the other speakers on this list with Bluetooth-only playback and simple features. However, if you want a rugged, great-sounding portable speaker and can sacrifice voice control or hands-free functionality, look no further.

Due to its design and IPX7 rating this speaker is the perfect choice for outside and inside use. However, it is the ideal choice for an outdoor speaker at an affordable price of $119.95/£119.99/ AU$149.95.

It can be found in different colours such as camo print, in a limited Eco Edition which is made from 90% recycled plastic, whereas the portable speaker's entire packaging is biodegradable.

Its features are described below:

Weight: 1.2 pounds | Battery life: 12 hours | Wireless range: N/A | Frequency response: 65Hz - 20kHz | Drivers: 40mm | NFC: No | Bluetooth version: 4.2 | Aux-in: No | USB charging: No

4. Bose Home Portable Speaker

Pros

  • Great design

  • Well-balanced sound

Cons

  • Expensive

  • Lacking in bass

The market of speakers is growing every day therefore 2020 is considered to be the year of the portable smart speaker. For instance, Bose Portable Home Speaker is considered as one of the best speakers. With the creation of new portable speakers, this market is getting bigger and bigger.

This brand had other outdoor-friendly speakers, therefore Bose's Portable Home Speaker design is simply gorgeous that meets weather-ready robustness with a light build and handle that lends itself to listening on the go.

Even though it doesn't meet the features of the Sonos Move or the value for the money of UE Boom 3 and JBL Charge 4, if you prefer the Bose sound and its build quality then this is the right speaker for you.

Its features are described below:

Weight: 2.4 pounds | Battery life: 12 hours | Wireless range: N/A | Frequency response: N/A | Drivers: N/A | NFC: No | Bluetooth version: 4.2 | Aux-in: No | USB charging: Yes

5. Anker Soundcore Flare Portable Speaker

Pros

  • Quite an impressive sound for the size

  • Great mobile app

  • Waterproof

Cons

  • Gets harsh at maximum volume

Anker is known for making excellent budget wireless speakers. Even though Anker SoundCore 2's sound wasn't that impressive, the price was affordable so we couldn't complain. However, for about $20 more you can get the Anker Soundcore Flare. Moreover, it is a great waterproof Bluetooth speaker that can compete against any other Bluetooth speaker.

This speaker is perfect in the sub-$100 wireless speaker section. In other words, if you're looking for a wireless speaker at an affordable price we suggest Anker Soundcore Flare.

Its features are described below:

Weight: 1.1 pounds | Battery life: 12 hours | Wireless range: 20m / 66ft | Frequency response: N/A | Drivers: 2 x 1.75" Full Range + 2 x Passive Radiator | NFC: No | Aux-in: Yes | Bluetooth version: 4.2 | Weatherproofing: Yes-IPX7 | Charges devices over USB: No

6. UE Wonderboom 2 Speaker

Pros

  • Small in size with great sound

  • IP67 dustproof/waterproof

  • 30% better battery life

Cons

  • Restrictive soundstage

This speaker has always been at the top of the best waterproof speaker list ever since its debut for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it's rugged, it plays louder than its diminutive sound suggests, and it can be paired to other UE Wonderboom speakers to amplify sound. Even though the design of UE Wonderboom 2 looks almost identical to the first one, the Ultimate Ears packed with a few upgrades make Wonderboom 2 way better such as the battery life up to 30% in comparison to the original, way better bass response, and the Outdoor Boost feature which makes the speaker get even louder than before.

The UE Wonderboom 2 is an excellent rugged and waterproof speaker that you'd want to take everywhere. just because it is small it doesn't mean that it doesn't get loud. It does get loud and it has a great sound. However, it is obvious that it cannot match the bass response of larger speakers such as UE Boom 3 or the Bose SoundLink Revolve, but its bass does add warmth and intensity to music that the former one lacked.

You can get it for $100 (£90 AU$129) and it is one of the best waterproof speakers one can buy. It is recommended for people that prefer to take their speakers to the beach and pool areas.

Its features are described below:

Weight: 0.93 pounds | Dimensions: 104 x 95.3mm (H x D) | Battery life: Up to 13 hours | Wireless range: 100 ft (33 m) | Frequency response: 75 Hz – 20 kHz | Drivers: two 40 mm active drivers and two 46.1mm x 65.2mm passive radiators | NFC: No | Bluetooth version: N/A | Aux-in: No | USB charging: No

7. JBL Charge 4 Speaker

Pros

  • As a charger for your phone

  • Long lasting battery life

Cons

  • No 360-degree sound

JBL Charge 4 doesn't have that much difference from the JBL Charge 3 since the speaker series had a major success. However, it differs in the fact that it does add way better tonal balance.

Though it might look like a boring update on paper, JBL Charge 4 is one of the best waterproof speakers in the market. For the money you pay you get a speaker that sounds great, as a place to charge your phone and lasts all day.

Its features are described below:

Weight: 2.2 pounds | Dimensions: 8.66 x 3.74 x 3.66 (W x D x H) | Battery life: Up to 20 hours | Wireless range: 30 ft (10 m) | Frequency response: 60Hz–20kHz | Drivers: N/A | NFC: No | Bluetooth version: 4.2 | Aux-in: Yes | USB charging: Yes

8. UE Hyperboom Speaker

Pros

  • Great sound

  • Smart dual connection function

  • Stylish design

Cons

  • Quite heavy

This speaker will take the party to a whole other level since it is quite powerful, and it can be used indoors as well as outdoors. Even though Ultimate Ears' largest speaker it still keeps its style with its discreet design. Additionally, it adds two Bluetooth radios so you can switch anytime you want between two phones.

Even though it is mainly preferred for parties where you need tons of bass, this speaker is able to deliver a well-balanced soundscape. So, you'll never feel as if you're playing bass to make a party at the expense of other elements in the music. In other words, it is not important what sort of music you put on, you'll get a unique atmosphere anyways.

When features are concerned, the Ultimate Ears app allows you to connect the Hyperboom to other UE speakers to pair and use them together. We definitely recommend it for small and large parties.

Its features are described below:

Weight: 13 pounds | Battery life: 24 hours | Wireless range: Approx. 150 ft | Frequency response: 45 - 20,000Hz | Drivers: N/A | NFC: Yes | Aux-in: N/A | USB charging: No

9. Sony SRS-XB23 Speaker

Pros

  • Good sound quality

  • IP67 rating

  • Waterproof

  • Stereo pairing and Party Mode

Cons

  • Lower peak volume

Even though Sony's updated line of 2020 Bluetooth speakers has been recently launched it has gained tons of attention due to its great performance and value. For instance, the entry-level Sony SRS-XB23 is around $99 (around £80, AU$150) that is a portable outdoor speaker with 12-hour battery life.

It can get quite loud. It is recommended for people that like to take their speakers outdoors.

Its features are described below:

Weight: 1.3 pounds | Battery life: Up to 12 hours | Wireless range: 30 feet | Frequency response: 20 - 20,000 Hz | Drivers: X-Balanced Speaker, dual passive radiators | NFC: Yes | Aux-in: Yes | USB charging: No

10. Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd gen) Speaker

Pros

  • Crisp sound quality

  • Lightweight design

Cons

  • Flawed Alexa support

  • Buttons are tricky to find

This speaker is one of the best speakers and it is quite appealing. Bang and Olufsen Beosound A1 is better than its predecessor for the fact that it has better battery life and it is also waterproof.

With a breathtaking design no wonder that this speaker is part of the best speaker's list.

Its features are described below:

Weight: : 1.2 pounds | Battery life: : 18 hours | Wireless range: : 30m (100ft) | Frequency response: : 55 - 20,000 Hz | Drivers: N/A | NFC: No | Aux-in: No | USB charging: USB-C

11. Denon Envaya Speaker

Pros

  • Powerful, rich, room-filling sound

  • Better balanced audio than most

Cons

  • Stiff buttons

  • Slightly larger footprint

Even though it was launched two years ago Denon Envaya still remains as one of the best speakers one can buy in 2020. It has a powerful sound that will please any ear. It also comes with an IP67 rating, and it is dust-proof and waterproof. Additionally, the way it is built makes this speaker one of the most durable one can ever have.

However, this speaker has some flaws as well. For instance, the buttons located on the side can feel stiff and difficult to operate. Nevertheless, this speaker remains one of the best Bluetooth speakers one can purchase in 2020.

Its features are described below:

Weight: : 1.6 pounds | Battery life: : 13 hours | Wireless range: : 30m (100ft) | Frequency response: : N/A | Drivers: : 2 x 40mm Full Range Driver, 1 x 53x135 Passive Radiator | NFC: : No | Aux-in: : Yes | USB charging: : No

12. Urbanista Brisbane Speaker

Pros

  • Great audio performance

  • Second speaker pairing

Cons

  • Could be more rugged

  • Could look better

Despite the fact that it may not look appealing it is quite a powerful Bluetooth speaker. It offers a powerful, loud and rich sound. It suits any home. Moreover, it has a good battery life and it has the option to pair it with another Brisbane for real stereo sound.

It is suggested for anyone that prefers to have the freedom of wireless listening at high volume.

Its features are described below:

Weight: 1.5 pounds | Battery life: 10 hours | Wireless range: 30m (100ft) | Frequency response: 80-20,000Hz | Drivers: 2 x 52mm | NFC: No | Aux-in: No | USB charging: No

13. 1MORE Portable BT Speaker

Pros

  • Great sound quality for the size

  • Quite impressive bass at low volume

Cons

  • Limited IPX4 rating

  • Average battery life

This speaker sounds great for the price. Its bass sounds great at low volumes, however, it drops off at higher volumes.

It is recommended for travelling people that prefer better sound quality, a speakerphone and water resistance. However, if you're one of those people that want a more rugged speaker you probably have to look somewhere else.

Its features are described below:

Weight: 268g | Battery life: 12 hours | Wireless range: N/A | Frequency response: N/A | Drivers: N/A | NFC: No | Aux-in: Yes | USB charging: Yes

How to choose the best Bluetooth speaker?

With a large number of Bluetooth speakers on the market, it is no wonder that it's become quite hard to choose in between them. However, we will point out a few things you should check before buying a new speaker.

Firstly, you should know that some portable speakers are built with ultimate durability in mind, whereas, others are waterproof for camping and tunes by the pool. However, not all of the portable speakers are made for outdoor usage. Instead, they would look pretty good inside the house.

If you find it hard to choose the right portable speaker for you, you can start off by thinking where you are going to use that and find a speaker that suits you best. Therefore if you prefer taking your speaker to the beach you should buy a waterproof and dust-proof speaker.

Whereas, if you prefer parties, you should consider buying a speaker with the ability to connect two speakers together or a speaker with multi-point pairing which allows multiple devices to connect at the same time.

However, the price of a particular speaker plays a key role as well. You can save lots of money if you buy in October Amazon Prime Day or if you can possibly wait until Black Friday on November 27.

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