10 best portable speakers

Cycling, picnic, outdoor exercise, friendly gatherings away from the outlet - there are plenty of situations when only a portable speaker can become a source of relatively high-quality sound. Bluetooth speakers are mobile, small in size, fit in the pocket of a backpack or purse, and can be combined into a system of several speakers for surround sound. But what can I say ... they can help in creating a sound background when watching a movie or even creating a romantic atmosphere for two! Some models are equipped with an NFC module and a power bank function. Which one to choose so as not to regret the money spent? We will give you a hint.

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10 JBL GO 2

Compact speaker with a low price tag. There is no carabiner here, but for its price it is even more profitable than the Clip 3 model (a very popular budget option from JBL). GO 2 has an interesting rectangular shape and is waterproof. The most suitable purpose of application is to create a musical background, but for full-fledged dances and dances, it is better to choose a more expensive speaker.

Separately, it is necessary to mention the sound - here it is very decent, to match the eminent brand. It seems that there are even more low frequencies than that of the third "clip". Despite its price segment, this portable acoustics can work not only via Bluetooth, but also via an audio cable, and is also equipped with a speakerphone!

Experts don't like the tight plug on the entrances. This provided better sealing, but during the first time of operation it can be quite annoying.

Pros:

• Low price with good sound
• Compact size, mobility
• IPX7 moisture resistant
• Aluminum frame
• Variety of colors

Minuses:

• Limited management
• Only 5 hours of battery life

9 JBL CLIP 3

Best portable speaker with good bass. Compared to the previous model, this one is slightly larger, but still compact enough to appeal to the lover of hikes, walks and outdoor activities. The convenient carabiner makes the speaker easy to carry in a purse or backpack, and it also contributes to a higher structural strength. As for its size, the "clip" produces a loud sound (although distortion is possible at high levels). However, this is definitely not an option for parties. Low frequencies are a little lacking, which should be understood by bass lovers before buying. Dimensions take their toll ...

Once again, JBL is pleased with the price. Sure, you can find cheaper and smaller pieces of acoustic art on the market, but for its price the CLIP 3 offers pretty good sound and build quality.

Pros:

• Portability
• Interesting design and 10 body colors
• Waterproof IPX7 + carabiner
• Approximately 10 hours of battery life
• A justified low cost

Minuses:

• No JBL Connect support
• Lack of low frequencies

8 Sony SRS-XB10

Another mobile-sized mono speaker. The Sony model boasts a long battery life (up to 16 hours of battery life) and can be placed both vertically and horizontally. Ease of use is really thought out here - for this, the manufacturer can confidently put the "five". In addition to Bluetooth, the speaker received an NFC module for quick connection to sound sources.

The modest size did not greatly affect the capabilities of the device. Tracks of almost any genre are reproduced with high quality, the emphasis is on rich, but at the same time soft low frequencies, not to the detriment of other frequencies. The volume reserve is not so hot, but it is sufficient for comfortable listening in "outdoor".

Pros:

• Small size
• Sophisticated ergonomics
• Splash water proof
• Outstanding autonomy for this size
• Good balance of frequencies

Minuses:

• Directional sound
• Very easily soiled case

7 GZ electronics LoftSound GZ-88

Column with an interesting design in the form of an unidentified flying object.The round section on the rear panel is not only a design element, but also a passive radiator.

These are not very expensive mobile speakers with imitation of three-dimensional sound (and finally, stereo sound appeared in our rating!). An excellent choice for a gift for a lover of non-standard solutions. The body is made of metal, the original design, decent sound quality - a good set for a portable speaker for a fraction of 5 thousand rubles. For easy pairing with other devices, an NFC module is provided, and it is also possible to connect using a cable. The built-in speakerphone allows you to answer calls.

Pros:

• Custom design
• Robust metal case
• Good build quality
• 3D sound
• Adequate value for such sound
• Excellent reputation on the Internet

Minuses:

• Distortion at high volume levels

6 JBL Flip 4

Very popular and loved by many music lovers. The best you can buy in the under $ 100 portable speaker category.

The first thing that the buyer will highly appreciate is the volume reserve. Moreover, the sound is characterized by purity, distinct audibility of high and medium frequencies, and low frequencies do not "fail" anywhere. The possibilities of group connection are impressive - up to 100 of these speakers can play simultaneously, and already two, working in pairs, are enough to sound a sports field well. There is also water resistance and a variety of case colors to choose from.

More ease of use will be provided by indicator lights to show the charge level in the form of five points. Battery life is 12 hours, in real conditions the speaker works for about 10 hours at maximum volume.

Pros:

• Loudness and clarity of sound
• Durable, rubberized frame
• Light weight, convenient dimensions
• Variety of colors
• Not raised price tag
• Recognized by buyers and experts

Minuses:

• Tracks cannot be switched back

5 JBL Charge 3

The model has a stylish, well-thought-out design, has received several technologies at the disposal of the buyer. It is possible to connect to a powerful stereo system, use the JBL Connect + application, unite not only new, but also old representatives of the line into a single system.

Along with the use of high-quality plastic and silicone, there is an IPX7 waterproof rating. The dimensions of the speaker allow you to put it in a bag, a deep pocket, and it holds in your hand confidently.

2 speakers and 2 passive radiators reach a power of 10 W and perfectly play tracks of various genres - both light lyrical compositions and heavy rock. The range of reproducible frequencies is from 65 Hz to 20 kHz.

Pros:

• Grippy textile surface
• Good sound for its price and size
• Powerful bass
• Working in the power bank mode
• Light weight and medium size
• Multicolor

Minuses:

• Bluetooth has a short range
• No protection of passive membranes at the ends

4 Harman / Kardon Onyx Studio 5

If compactness is not the main thing for you and low price is not a priority, but sound quality is at the forefront, this is one of the optimal solutions. Despite the slightly increased dimensions, compared to the previous models of the rating, it is also easy to carry, comes with an aluminum handle, and is pleasant to the touch.

Although there is no stereo here, Studio 5 is quite capable of providing high-quality sound in a space of 30-40 m2. The sound is characterized by "meatiness", the predominance of "lows" and even some detail. The speaker actually performs well when playing different styles of music and when scoring movies.

Away from the outlet, the device will work for about 8 hours, there is practically no self-discharge, but the process of charging the battery lasts as much as 5 hours.

Pros:

• Interesting design
• Bass sound and clear highs
• Good build quality
• Ease of use
• Convenient transportation

Minuses:

• Special charger
• No stereo
• No protection against water and dust

3 Bose SoundLink Revolve

Probably the best monaural portable speaker on the market.Made of plastic (with soft-touch coating) and aluminum, which has a rough texture and fits perfectly in the palm of your hand. Unlike the black Revolve Plus, this version is less easily soiled and less prone to being covered in prints.

The small size of the speaker contributes to mobility and easy transportation. With the built-in microphone, you can not only answer voice calls, but also use voice commands via Apple Siri or Google Assistant. Bose also has a proprietary application - Bose Connect, which allows you to control the device via a smartphone.

Users have a minimum of complaints about the sound. It's balanced and clean here. Low frequencies may lack some depth, but they are clearly audible and collected. Mediums are characterized by transparency, smoothness, warmth, high, relatively detailed and neat.

Pros:

• Great sound
• Sound 360 system
• IPx4 protection
• Rich functionality
• Remote control with Bose Connect
• Excellent build quality

Minuses:

• In a pair, such speakers do not always work stably
• Mono sound

2 Marshall woburn

The well-known company for the production of acoustics Marshall has several excellent portable speakers at once, in particular, the Kilburn and Kilburn II, but there are some weighty claims to them. We will consider an equally interesting Woburn model.

The speaker has its own special style - it looks like an expensive guitar amplifier. Also, similar speakers were once used by fans of rock and roll. The assembly is of high quality, using expensive materials. Unlike many budget options, there are plenty of knobs and keys here, allowing you to quickly control volume or even bass.

However, Marshall's mobility is rather arbitrary, since the gadget weighs as much as 8 kilograms and has very large dimensions. 2 x 70W speakers deliver superb sound with plenty of headroom. One of them is aimed at playing bass, so everything is in order with the depth of sound.

Pros:

• 140W total power
• Crystal clear sound
• Deep bass
• Optical input
• Original retro design
• Build quality and finish

Minuses:

• No NFC
• High price
• Conditional portability

1 JBL PartyBox 300

The best portable speaker with good sound for parties, parties in the hut, for country discos, etc. Let the device be portable, but at the same time it has large dimensions - only one height is 690 mm! The column is quite heavy, it is better to carry it with two strong male hands.

The matte plastic, from which the speaker case is made, is reliable and not easily soiled, there are no soft-touch and glass, which are fashionable nowadays, but orange inserts, branded for JBL, are in place. Colored light music adds even more effect. It is quite adequate, does not blind the eyes, does not cause irritation and a feeling of cheapness. There are 3 glow modes, the backlight can be switched off.

What is important in the first place for sounding at a party? Power, deep lows, dynamics. There is no problem with that - the sound is just like that. 2 woofers + 3 tweeters do their job. Low on bass? Shudder the windows by activating Bass Boost. The volume headroom is enough for a party of almost any size. At the same time, the sound is quite soft, although the demanding audiophile will find something to complain about. Be that as it may, portability always requires some trade-offs.

Pros:

• Lighting effects, 3 modes
• Powerful "bottoms"
• Large headroom
• Bluetooth + RCA + mini-jack + USB
• Up to 15 hours of battery life
• Durability, build quality
• Convenient playback control

Minuses:

• Long-term charging (about 5 hours)
• Large weight and dimensions
• Lag when using a guitar or microphone

Which portable speaker is the best to choose in 2020?

First of all, the buyer is interested in the sound. To get a good sound, you should allocate more than $ 50 for a purchase, even better - closer to a hundred.If your budget is larger, you can qualify for relatively high sound quality, but choosing the right model from a reputable manufacturer is important.

Do I need to look at the power indicator? Yes, if a high maximum volume threshold is important to you. But often the more power, the more overall acoustics. The vast majority of models up to 5 thousand rubles weigh less than 1 kg, are up to 175 mm wide, which means they are easy to transport.

Autonomy is also important. More than 10 declared hours of work without recharging is already good, but keep in mind that in reality this figure may be slightly lower.

The best portable speaker for you is the one that meets your exact needs. Prefer to control mechanical buttons? Need a speakerphone / microphone? Is the Powerbank function important? Worried about moisture protection? Make a choice, taking into account your terms of use, and it does not always make sense to overpay for additional options.