8 Bluetooth Speakers That Let You Take Great Sound Anywhere

Are you headed to the beach, throwing a backyard party, or just want something compact for your desk? There’s a Bluetooth speaker built just for that.

This list collects the best Bluetooth speakers across a range of categories, including the best waterproof Bluetooth speakers for poolside use and the best portable Bluetooth speakers for travel or tight spaces. We combed through reviews from real users, store listings, and audio forums to find the top options that consistently stand out in sound quality, durability, and ease of use.

Whether you’re after deep bass, rugged build, or compact size, one of these picks should hit the mark. And if you’re hunting for the best sounding Bluetooth speaker overall, we’ve got that covered too.

Bose SoundLink Flex

Rated 4.7 on Amazon

The second-generation Bose SoundLink Flex is one of the best portable Bluetooth speakers available if you want big, room-filling sound from a compact design. You can hang it from a hook, lay it flat, or stand it upright (PositionIQ adjusts the audio so it always sounds right). With its upgraded Bluetooth 5.3, 12-hour battery, and support for high-quality AAC and AptX codecs, this model adds just enough new features to stay ahead. It’s fully waterproof, floats in water, and withstands dust and drops, making it a strong choice for anyone seeking the best waterproof Bluetooth speaker without compromising sound quality. If you’re looking for the best sounding Bluetooth speaker that still fits in your hand, this one’s tough to beat.

Pros:

• Surprisingly powerful sound for its size
• Fully waterproof and floats
• Can play from any position thanks to PositionIQ

Cons:

• No option for wired listening
• Silicone back attracts dust and lint

Anker SoundCore Select 2S

Rated 4.5 on Amazon

If you’re after the best Bluetooth speaker on a budget, the $45 Anker Soundcore Select 2S should be on your radar. It’s small enough to toss in a bag, lasts up to 16 hours on a charge, and holds its own with clean vocals and decent clarity, even if it doesn’t hit the deep lows of more expensive picks. You’ll get IPX7 waterproofing, so you don’t have to worry about splashes or quick dunks at the pool or beach. For something in this price range, it delivers impressive value, especially with app-based EQ controls and a ‘Bass Up’ option to give your playlists a bit more depth. This one is a smart choice if you’re looking for the best portable Bluetooth speaker without spending much.

Pros:

• Very compact and travel-friendly
• Waterproof for outdoor use
• Long battery life for all-day listening

Cons:

• Doesn’t get very loud
• Narrow sound spread makes it harder to hear from off-angle

JBL Flip 7

Rated 4.8 on Amazon

The JBL Flip 7 builds on what people loved about the Flip 6, but brings smarter upgrades that make it feel more refined. You get a tougher, more outdoorsy design with full IP68 protection, meaning it’s dust-proof, waterproof, and drop-resistant. Inside, the AI Sound Boost technology helps this compact speaker get loud without falling apart at the top end, making it one of the best sounding Bluetooth speakers in its size class. If you’re after the best waterproof Bluetooth speaker that can actually hold up to the outdoors and still sound sharp, the Flip 7 hits a sweet spot. And with up to 16 hours of playtime (via an extra 2 hours with Playtime Boost) and support for Auracast multi-speaker pairing, it’s a great option for group hangouts.

Pros:

• Durable, waterproof, dustproof, and drop-resistant
• Louder and clearer sound with improved bass
• Handy loop swap with Push-Lock accessory system

Cons:

• Costs a bit more than you’d expect for its size
• Sound isn’t quite as full as the larger JBL Charge 6

Bose SoundLink Max

Rated 4.6 on Amazon

If you’re looking for the best sounding Bluetooth speaker and don’t mind paying more for it, the Bose SoundLink Max makes a strong case. It delivers deep, room-shaking bass and crisp mids and highs, with more than enough power to fill a backyard or echo through a large living room. You get 20 hours of battery life, full waterproof and dustproof protection (IP67), and even a built-in USB-C port for charging your phone. The removable rope handle adds a touch of style and makes it easier to carry, even though it’s heavier than most portable options at just under 5 pounds. This is the best portable Bluetooth speaker for anyone who wants big sound without stepping up to a full party speaker system.

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality with deep bass and clean highs
• Rugged, waterproof design with premium build
• Long 20-hour battery plus USB-C charging for other devices

Cons:

• Expensive compared to similar-sized speakers
• No built-in mic for voice calls or speakerphone use

Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 4

Rated 4.3 on Amazon

The Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 4 earns its spot on our list with strong sound quality, rugged design, and real portability. It pushes out clear vocals and bright instrumentals, with just enough bass kick to keep things lively (think pop, EDM, and hip-hop). The 360-degree design means you’ll get the same sound wherever you’re standing, making it a great pick for gatherings. And if you’re looking for the best waterproof Bluetooth speaker with style and a travel-friendly size, this one delivers with IP67 protection, a built-in hook, and USB-C charging. While it doesn’t get quite as loud as some of the bigger picks, it’s one of the best portable Bluetooth speakers for casual use in just about any setting.

Pros:

• Balanced 360-degree sound in a compact design
• Waterproof and dustproof (IP67), ideal for travel
• Graphic EQ and PartyUp features for flexible playback

Cons:

• Doesn’t get very loud
• Bass can distort at high volumes

JBL Boombox 3

Rated 4.6 on Amazon

The JBL Boombox 3 is the go-to pick if you want sheer volume and deep, booming bass. It’s one of the loudest portable Bluetooth speakers out there, and it doesn’t distort even when cranked up. The battery can last up to 24 hours, and the rugged IP67 build means it’s fine by the pool or on a dusty trail. At over 14 pounds, it’s heavier than most other portable options, but the solid handle makes it manageable if you’re heading somewhere. The companion app’s EQ lets you dial in the sound, but the default profile already sounds great across genres, especially bass-heavy ones.

Pros:

• Loud and powerful with strong low-end
• Waterproof and dustproof (IP67)
• Up to 24 hours of battery life
• Sturdy handle for easier carrying

Cons:

• Heavier than most portable speakers
• Soundstage feels more directional than immersive

Tribit Stormbox Blast 2

Rated 4.6 on Amazon

Tribit’s Stormbox Blast 2 Bluetooth speaker is the best bang-for-your-buck if you like parties. It pumps out 200 watts of sound with surprisingly strong bass for its price. You get an 80W subwoofer, dual 45W mids, and two 15W tweeters. It’s loud, bass-heavy (especially with Bass Boost on), and built like a tank with an IP67 waterproof rating. Karaoke fans will like the two mic inputs, and you can customize the built-in light show through the app. The speaker can run up to 30 hours, and it can also charge your phone if needed. But once you crank the volume and lights, expect the battery life to drop. At nearly 16 pounds, it’s not exactly easy to carry around, but if you’re throwing a backyard party or need serious volume on a budget, this is a great pick.

Pros:

• Mic inputs for karaoke
• Light show customization
• Huge sound with deep bass
• IP67 waterproof/dustproof
• Incredible battery life

Cons:

• Heavy
• No included mics
• Battery life drops at high volume

Marshall Middleton

Rated 4.4 on Amazon

The Marshall Middleton packs rich, immersive sound into a rugged, vintage-style body. It uses Marshall’s True Stereophonic tech for a wide soundstage and includes physical EQ controls for adjusting bass and treble. With up to 20 hours of battery life, IP67 dust and water resistance, and the ability to charge other devices, it’s made for both home setups and outdoor adventures. You can also connect multiple Middleton speakers using Stack Mode for bigger sound. It’s pricey for the size, but the performance and build quality help justify it.

Pros:

• Excellent sound for its size with customizable EQ
• IP67 dust and water resistant
• Can charge other devices
• Up to 20 hours of battery life
• Stack Mode for multi-speaker use

Cons:

• It’s not cheap
• No stereo pairing option
• Bluetooth connection can be finicky for some users
• Heavier than it looks (4 pounds)

What to Look For When Choosing a Bluetooth Speaker

When picking out the right Bluetooth speaker for you, ensure it matches your priorities. Here are some things to notice when shopping around:

• Sound quality and loudness: Look at output power and any DSP equalization to determine if it delivers clear sound at your desired volume.
• Portability and size: Consider weight, dimensions, and whether it has handles or loops. Look for something compact for travel, or beefier for big sound.
• Battery life and charging: Check both total runtime and whether it supports USB-C or can act as a power bank. This isn’t as important if you never plan to take it off the table.
• Durability and waterproofing: Look for an IP rating to ensure that it can survive rain, dust, and accidental drops, especially if you’re looking for an outdoor Bluetooth speaker.
• Advanced features: EQ controls (via app or onboard), multipoint Bluetooth, multi-speaker pairing, and codecs like AAC/aptX or lossless support.
• Price and value: Compare specs like sound performance and features for the price, and look out for sales or bundled deals.
• Reviews: Don’t overlook feedback from real users.

Frequently Asked Questions