13 best portable speakers

If you love listening to music with friends and appreciate freedom of movement, then the best portable speakers are just what you need. By connecting them via Bluetooth to your smartphone, you will get higher quality and volume than when playing through the built-in speakers of even the best mobile device. But given the wide range of acoustics, it's not always clear which model to buy. Do you need to overpay when choosing a good Bluetooth speaker, or will you get the required capabilities from a cheaper option? Let's analyze this issue together in our review.

Best inexpensive portable speakers (mono)

Monophonic acoustics, regardless of its class, perform the same task as surround speakers - sound reproduction. The main difference between such devices from more advanced solutions is the use of only one channel. Moreover, in some cases, the device itself is equipped with multiple speakers. Portable models are good because they can be taken with you to nature, fastened to a bicycle or thrown into a backpack. And monaural speakers are, as a rule, cheaper than analogue ones with stereo.

1. CGBox Black

CGBox is music that is always with you. The compact wireless speaker is equipped with
a pair of speakers with a total power of 10 W and a USB port for playback
music from flash drives. The device also provides AUX playback and
radio. If you are relaxing in nature in a noisy company and the volume of one speaker
you do not have enough, then if you have two similar devices, you can use
true Wireless Stereo.

At maximum volume, the device can work up to 4 hours from
one charge, and on average - about 6-7. The battery is charged through the port
MicroUSB.

The CGBox Black has a built-in microphone and can be used for conversations
hands-free with a connected smartphone. The column also provides
protection against water and moisture according to the IPX6 standard. This means that strong jets near
basin and river will not harm the device. But immersion in water is better
refrain. The signal-to-noise ratio in this speaker model is 70 dB, and
frequency range - from 150 Hz to 15 kHz.

Advantages:

• compact size;
• sound quality;
• the presence of a USB port;
• radio mode;
• nice design;
• pairing TWS.

Disadvantages:

• frequency range;
• average autonomy.

2. Xiaomi Mi Round 2

Let's start with the Chinese company Xiaomi, which recently announced that it plans to enter the automotive market. Her quality Mi Round 2 speaker is the perfect solution for your home. You can also take the device with you, for which there is even a special ring for locking the controls. But the absence of any protection does not allow you to comfortably enjoy the column in nature.

The power of Mi Round 2 is 5W, the sound quality is above average. If you need a solution for listening to music while cleaning the house or cooking in the kitchen, then choose a good portable speaker from Xiaomi. The device is controlled very simply: a long press on the wheel turns the device on / off, a short single press to answer a call, pause and play, and a double press to break the current pairing. By rotating the user can change the volume level.

Advantages:

• convenient control;
• white / black colors;
• pairing speed;
• activity / charge indicator;
• low price from 21 $.

Disadvantages:

• no charging cable included.

3. JBL GO 2

The second generation of the popular compact speaker from JBL. GO 2 has enough features for home and outdoor gatherings for a small company. True, you need to use the device carefully enough. IPX7 protection will save from water ingress on the case and even a short-term fall of the column into a pool or pond. However, dust or other small particles can still get inside the JBL GO 2.

The portable speaker is equipped with a noise canceling microphone that allows you to answer phone calls with it.

One of the main advantages of the reviewed model is its compactness and beautiful design. The manufacturer offers about a dozen body color options, so consumers can choose the right option for their style of clothing. One of the best Bluetooth speakers JBL is equipped with a 730 mAh battery, capable of providing up to 5 hours of battery life. The battery is charged in 150 minutes.

Advantages:

• many colors;
• good sound;
• moderate cost;
• compact size;
• excellent sound quality;
• protection from water.

Disadvantages:

• not the best autonomy.

4. Ginzzu GM-885B

For some buyers, the cheap speaker Ginzzu GM-885B will be even more interesting than our chosen leader among monophonic models. First, it's incredibly powerful (18W) and comes with two speakers (50mm and 152mm). Secondly, the device can work both via Bluetooth and completely independently. For this, the GM-885B has a radio tuner, an SD reader, and a USB-A port that allows you to connect external drives. The Ginzzu column weighs an impressive 2.5 kg, and its dimensions are 320 × 214 × 240 mm. This is quite a lot, so the manufacturer has provided a handle for easy portability.

Advantages:

• high power;
• two microphone inputs;
• radio reception quality;
• high-quality assembly;
• excellent functionality;
• good volume reserve.

Disadvantages:

• large dimensions;
• weak bass.

5. Sony SRS-XB10

Beautiful, reliable, comfortable - these are the main advantages of the Sony SRS-XB10. The Japanese manufacturer has tried to make its compact speaker flawless for all users. Here even the instruction is made in the form of illustrations that are understandable to any person. The Sony speaker is available in several color options, ranging from standard white and black to vibrant yellow, red and orange.

The SRS-XB10 comes with a convenient stand that attaches to the device with a string. This allows the speaker to be placed not only vertically, but also horizontally, as well as mounted on a bicycle.

An important advantage of this model is the IPX5 protection. This allows you to take the device with you to the shower and get caught in the rain with it. The speaker is very good in sound quality. By the way, the designation XB in the title means Extra Bass. And the bass is really great here. However, the middle and top also did not disappoint, especially when you consider the attractive price tag from 35 $.

Advantages:

• high-quality assembly;
• built-in NFC module;
• powerful bass;
• beautiful design;
• mount / stand;
• splash protection;
• loud sound;
• an excellent combination of price and opportunity;
• autonomy up to 16 hours.

Best portable speakers (stereo)

If your sound requirements are higher, then one channel is definitely not enough. Of course, full-scale acoustics will suit the music lover much better, but they cannot boast of being compact. But devices from the next category can also be taken with you. Yes, their dimensions are slightly higher than mono speakers. But on the other hand, any of the considered models is able to "rock" a cheerful company.

1. Ginzzu GM-986B

Cool portable speaker with flash drive and radio. The total power of the speakers in this model is 10 watts. The range of frequencies reproduced by them is from 100 Hz to 20 kHz. The device is supplied with 3.5 mm male / female cables and USB-MicroUSB, a strap and documentation. The GM-986B has a 1500 mAh battery, which is enough for 5 hours of continuous music playback.The front of the speaker contains all ports, including USB Type-A and an SD card slot, as well as controls.

Advantages:

• support for memory cards;
• convenient control;
• small size;
• battery charge indication;
• high volume.

Disadvantages:

• there is not enough handle for easy transportation;
• inexpressive lower classes.

2. SVEN PS-485

The next in the rating of portable Bluetooth speakers is a model from SVEN company. This manufacturer is very popular in the computer acoustics market, since its products are distinguished by a good balance of price and sound quality. The same can be said about the PS-485. This model is one of the most popular portable stereo speakers according to customer reviews. It is equipped with two 14 W speakers, has a multi-colored backlight that can work in several modes, a display and a control panel that allows you to customize any sound parameters. An ideal combination of price and quality, the SVEN speaker will also delight karaoke lovers, since it has a jack for connecting a microphone with the "echo" function.

Advantages:

• the presence of an equalizer;
• reading USB drives;
• microSD card slot;
• built-in LED display;
• convenient control;
• clear sound;
• the presence of backlight.

Disadvantages:

• quality of materials;
• volume margin.

3. JBL Flip 4

In second place in the review of portable speakers with stereo sound is the Flip 4 from the American company JBL. This model is perfect for both smartphones and tablet computers. Flip 4 will appeal to music lovers and moviegoers looking to get rid of the flat sound. Plus, the device can work 12 hours straight!

The Flip 4 is not only available in different colors, but also as a Special Edition with original designs on the case. In Russia, unfortunately, you can find only the "camouflage modification" of the Squad.

Taking into account the declared autonomy, the column charges quickly enough - 3.5 hours. Other features of the Flip 4 include IPX7 water and dust resistance. The device also has a good microphone for talking on the phone. As for the speakers, they are represented by a pair of 8 W radiators with a frequency range of 70-20000 Hz.

Advantages:

• full moisture protection of the case;
• compact dimensions;
• great design;
• long work from the battery;
• perfect sound.

Disadvantages:

• no charging power supply included.

4. Harman / Kardon Go + Play Mini

An expensive and incredibly powerful portable speaker from the Harman / Kardon brand. Let us warn you right away that the Mini prefix in the name does not mean compactness. Simply in this case, you will get a kind of reduced analogue of the standard Go + Play model. The dimensions and weight of the monitored speaker are quite impressive - 418 mm in length and almost 3.5 kilograms. Obviously, such a large device is not without a sturdy handle that allows you to take it with you to nature or a party.

Go + Play Mini can work both from the built-in battery, which lasts up to 8 hours, and from the mains. All connectors are located on the back under the cover. Among other things, the manufacturer added a USB-A port to the speaker, but it is intended only for charging mobile devices. It is convenient if your phone starts to sit down in nature. The device is controlled by three buttons. The power of the device is as much as 100 watts. However, even at maximum volume, the Go + Play Mini sounds very nice and clean.

Advantages:

• metal handle;
• does not pop at high volume;
• can be operated from an outlet;
• high build quality and materials;
• the ability to charge smartphones;
• huge power of 100 watts;
• excellent build and elegant design.

Disadvantages:

• there is no protection against dust and moisture;
• autonomy is good, but not for 15 thousand.

Best Portable Bluetooth Speakers 2.1

Is it possible to say unequivocally which column is better? The answer likely depends on the budget and user needs. Therefore, in this case, we will express a subjective opinion, highlighting the leaders of acoustics from category 2.1. These are devices where, in addition to conventional speakers, there is a subwoofer. It allows you to enjoy deep low frequencies, which is especially important for electronic music and dynamic films.

1. Ginzzu GM-886B

Yes, and Ginzzu again. But what if she produces really good options for her money? Model GM-886B will cost you modest 34 $... For this amount, the buyer will receive a pair of speakers of 3 W each, a 12 W subwoofer with a diameter of 102 mm and a beautiful, slightly aggressive appearance. One of the best-sounding speakers, the Ginzzu comes with Bluetooth, card reader, USB port and tuner. The device weighs almost two kilograms, so there is a strap on the case for convenience. Also in GM-886B provides the ability to adjust the equalizer and there is a small display.

Advantages:

• good autonomy;
• high quality subwoofer;
• simplicity and speed of connection;
• carrying handle;
• versatility.

Disadvantages:

• the sound, although loud, is not very clear;
• no charge indicator.

2. Marshall Kilburn

We cannot imagine a fan of quality sounding who would not have heard of the legendary Marshall brand. And our TOP portable speaker continues from this particular manufacturer. Traditional rock style design and impeccable build quality immediately make it clear why the device costs on average 210 $.

The Marshal range also includes the updated Kilburn II model. It costs more, but if you wish, you can buy this modification for just 224 $... She received support for aptX, became more powerful and reliable due to corner inserts, which retain their appearance for longer.

Kilburn can be powered by mains supply and built-in battery. For the second option, Marshall indicates a long battery life of the column up to 20 hours. However, in practice, this figure is achievable at low volume, and if you want to crank the device to the maximum, the autonomy will decrease by more than 2 times.

Pros:

• mains and battery operation;
• nice appearance in retro style;
• excellent autonomy;
• 2 speakers of 5 W each and a subwoofer of 15 W;
• low / high frequency controls.

Minuses:

• battery charge indication is not provided;
• no protection against water and dust ingress;

3. Harman / Kardon Aura Studio 2

The Aura Studio 2 is a purely home device that will appeal to buyers looking for quality sound with a luxurious look. The speaker works only from the network, and you can connect it to a sound source via a line-in and via a wireless interface. Visually, Aura Studio 2 resembles a Harman / Kardon Soundsticks model, which even received a place in the New York Museum of Modern Art.

Actually, in the reviews, the column is primarily praised for its futuristic design. Aura Studio 2 is available in black, burgundy, purple and navy blue. The upper part of the case is made of transparent plastic, so it is almost impossible to break it. But such material is easily scratched and dirty, so you need to monitor it. Of the minuses, you can also highlight a hole on top where dust can fall.

Harman / Kardon Aura Studio 2 is equipped with six 40 mm speakers, which are placed in a circle in a stand. They are complemented by a 30W subwoofer located at the bottom. All controls (touch) are located on the front panel. The volume in Aura Studio 2 is controlled by a slider, and you can understand the current level by the luminous ring inside the speaker.

Advantages:

• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules;
• two wired connections;
• excellent appearance;
• rich sound;
• circular LED backlight.

Disadvantages:

• the plastic of the turbine is easily scratched;
• dust may accumulate inside.

4. Creative Sound Blaster Roar Pro

Creative model tops the list of the best portable speakers. From the looks of the Sound Blaster Roar Pro you can understand the premium direction of this speaker. The body has the shape of an elongated parallelepiped with rounded edges. The device weighs a little more than a kilogram, which is quite a bit for a device with 5 speakers and a battery that provides autonomous operation up to 10 hours. The best price for a Creative speaker on the Russian market is 168 $.

The Sound Blaster Roar Pro has an NFC tag for fast wireless pairing.

On top of the speaker are the main buttons for volume control, turning the device on and off, controlling the connection and activating the ROAR mode.The latter allows you to instantly increase the volume and achieve surround sound, but to activate this option, the speaker must be connected to the network. Another part of the controls and all the connectors are on the back. The Creative Sound Blaster Roar Pro outputs sound from the front (two speakers), the side (one each), and the top (subwoofer).

Advantages:

• excellent sound quality;
• USB for charging smartphones;
• battery life;
• many settings for your own preferences
• slot for memory cards microSD;
• excellent build quality and parts;
• support for wireless microphones;
• NFC tag and sound enhancement modes.

Which bluetooth speaker is better to buy

As we noted earlier, the choice of acoustics, like any other technique, depends on your preferences. It is impossible to say unequivocally which column is the best so that it suits all buyers. For example, among compact models, solutions from JBL and Sony will be excellent options. If you want more powerful sound, but for the same price, then take a closer look at the products of the Ginzzu brand. Harman / Kardon and Marshall are examples of companies making products for the true music lover. The same goes for Creative. All devices from these brands can operate on the network, but please note that in the case of Aura Studio 2, the speaker can only receive power through the cable.