Progress does not stand still, and gramophones and players have been replaced by CD systems, players and smartphones, on which you can also listen to your favorite tracks.
But the sound quality, even on the most expensive smartphones, is still noticeably lower than on good sound systems. This problem is solved by portable speakers - devices that allow you to listen to music with high-quality sound wherever a person is.
These devices are in demand among both young people and older people. Each audience has its own preferences for the main characteristics that the selected speakers should have. But there are also qualities that are important for everyone:
- Sound quality - it should be spacious, rich, preferably with good bass, so that the listener can enjoy the full spectrum of volume.
- The case - the service life of the device will depend on the material it is made of.
- The dimensions of the speaker - here it is important to understand for what purpose it is purchased: for traveling and walking, or for organizing parties in the country. In the first case, you need a compact model, in the second, the dimensions will not play a big role.
- Functionality – whether the speaker will broadcast only recorded tracks or can work as a radio.
- Connection type – will it be a wired connection, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or NFC.
So which speakers will meet these criteria? The editors of Komsomolskaya Pravda have compiled a rating of the best models of portable speakers. At the same time, the price-quality ratio and the expert’s opinion were taken into account.
Best Inexpensive Portable Speakers (Mono)
Monophonic acoustics, regardless of their class, perform the same task as surround speakers - sound reproduction. The main difference between such devices and more advanced solutions is the use of only one channel. Moreover, in some cases, the device itself is equipped with several speakers. Portable models are good because you can take them with you into nature, attach them to a bicycle, or throw them in a backpack. And monaural speakers are usually cheaper than their stereo counterparts.
Xiaomi Mi Round 2
We'll start with the Chinese company Xiaomi, which recently announced that it plans to enter the automobile market. Her high-quality Mi Round 2 speaker is an ideal solution for the home. You can also take the device with you, for which the kit even includes a special control locking ring. But the lack of any protection does not allow you to comfortably enjoy the speaker outdoors.
The power of Mi Round 2 is 5 W, 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 – answer a call, pause and play, and a double press – breaks 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 1500 rubles.
Flaws:
- There is no charging cable included.
JBL GO 2
The second generation of the popular compact speaker from JBL. The capabilities of GO 2 are enough for home and outdoor gatherings with a small group. True, you need to use the device quite carefully. IPX7 protection will save you from water getting on the case and even a short-term fall of the speaker into a pool or pond. But dust or other small particles may still get inside the JBL GO 2.
The portable speaker is equipped with a noise-canceling microphone, which allows you to answer phone calls with it.
One of the main advantages of the model under review is its compactness and beautiful design. The manufacturer offers about a dozen body color options, so consumers can choose the right option to suit their clothing style. One of the best JBL Bluetooth speakers is equipped with a 730 mAh battery that can provide up to 5 hours of battery life. The battery charges in 150 minutes.
Advantages:
- many colors;
- good sound;
- moderate cost;
- compact dimensions;
- excellent sound quality;
- protection from water.
Flaws:
- not the best autonomy.
Ginzzu GM-885B
For some buyers, the cheap Ginzzu GM-885B speaker will be even more interesting than our chosen leader among monophonic models. Firstly, it is incredibly powerful (18 W) and is equipped with two speakers (50 and 152 mm). Secondly, the device can work via Bluetooth and completely independently. For this purpose, the GM-885B has a radio tuner, an SD reader, and a USB-A port that allows you to connect external drives. The Ginzzu speaker weighs an impressive 2.5 kg and its dimensions are 320x214x240 mm. This is quite a lot, so the manufacturer has provided a handle for ease of carrying.
Advantages:
- high power;
- two microphone inputs;
- quality of radio reception;
- high-quality assembly;
- excellent functionality;
- good volume reserve.
Flaws:
- large dimensions;
- weak bass.
Sony SRS-XB10
Beautiful, reliable, convenient - these are the main advantages of the Sony SRS-XB10. The Japanese manufacturer tried to make its compact speaker flawless for all users. Here even the instructions are made in the form of illustrations that anyone can understand. The Sony speaker is available in several color options, from standard white and black to bright yellow, red and orange.
The SRS-XB10 comes with a convenient stand, which is attached to the device using a rope. This allows you to place the speaker not only vertically, but also horizontally, and also mount it on a bicycle.
An important advantage of this model is IPX5 protection. This allows you to take the device with you into the shower and get caught in the rain with it. The sound quality of the speaker is very good. By the way, the designation XB in the name means Extra Bass. And the low frequencies are really great here. However, the mids and highs didn’t let us down either, especially considering the attractive price tag of 2,500 rubles.
Advantages:
- high-quality assembly;
- built-in NFC module;
- powerful bass;
- beautiful design;
- mount/stand;
- splash protection;
- loud sound;
- excellent combination of price and capabilities;
- 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 are much better suited for music lovers, but they cannot boast of compactness. But you can also take devices from the next category with you. Yes, their dimensions are slightly higher than monophonic speakers. But any of the models considered is capable of “rocking” a cheerful company.
Ginzzu GM-986B
Cool portable speaker with flash drive and radio. The total power of the speakers in this model is 10 W. The range of frequencies they reproduce is from 100 Hz to 20 kHz. The device is supplied with 3.5 mm male/male and USB-MicroUSB cables, a strap and documentation. The capacity of the battery built into the GM-986B is 1500 mAh, which is enough for 5 hours of continuous music playback. The front panel of the speaker contains all the ports, including USB Type-A and an SD card slot, as well as controls.
Advantages:
- memory card support;
- convenient control;
- small sizes;
- battery charge indication;
- high volume.
Flaws:
- there is not enough handle for easy transportation;
- inexpressive lows.
SVEN PS-485
Next in the ranking of portable Bluetooth speakers is a model from SVEN. This manufacturer is very popular in the computer acoustics market because its products have 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 operate in several modes, a display and a control panel that allows you to customize any sound parameters. The ideal combination of price and quality, the SVEN speaker will also please karaoke lovers, since it has a microphone jack with an “echo” function.
Advantages:
- presence of an equalizer;
- reading USB drives;
- microSD card slot;
- built-in LED display;
- convenient control;
- clear sound;
- presence of backlight.
Flaws:
- quality of materials;
- volume reserve.
JBL Flip 4
In second place in the review of portable speakers with stereo sound is Flip 4 from the American company JBL. This model is perfect for both smartphones and tablet computers. The Flip 4 will appeal to music lovers and movie buffs looking to get rid of flat sound. In addition, the device can work for 12 hours straight!
Flip 4 is available not only in different colors, but also in a Special Edition with original patterns on the body. In Russia, unfortunately, you can only find the “camouflage modification” Squad.
Taking into account the declared autonomy, the speaker charges quite quickly - 3.5 hours. Other features of the Flip 4 include IPX7 water and dust protection. 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 emitters with a frequency range of 70-20000 Hz.
Advantages:
- complete moisture protection of the case;
- compact dimensions;
- great design;
- long battery life;
- perfect sound.
Flaws:
- There is no charging power supply included.
Harman/Kardon Go + Play Mini
Expensive and incredibly powerful portable speaker from the Harman/Kardon brand. Let us immediately warn you that the Mini prefix in the name does not mean compactness. It’s just that in this case you will get a kind of smaller analogue of the standard Go + Play model. The dimensions and weight of the speaker under review are quite impressive - 418 mm in length and almost 3.5 kilograms. Obviously, such a large device would not be without a durable handle, which 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 here are located on the back under a plug. Among other things, the manufacturer added a USB-A port to the speaker, but it is intended only for charging mobile devices. This is convenient if your phone starts to run out in nature. The device is controlled by three buttons. The power of the device is as much as 100 W. However, even at maximum volume the Go+ Play Mini sounds very nice and clear.
Advantages:
- metal handle;
- does not crackle at high volume;
- can work from a power outlet;
- high quality of assembly and materials;
- ability to charge smartphones;
- huge power of 100 W;
- excellent build and elegant design.
Flaws:
- there is no protection from dust and moisture;
- autonomy is good, but not for 15 thousand.
How to choose a portable speaker
For help in choosing a portable speaker, Komsomolskaya Pravda turned to Maxim Sokolov, an expert at the online hypermarket VseInstrumenty.ru .
Popular questions and answers
What methods of connecting portable speakers are there?
Maxim Sokolov explains what types of speaker connections there are. These are wireless and wired methods.
Wireless connection methods include:
- Bluetooth is the most common option. You can play music from almost any device: smartphone, tablet, laptop.
- Wi-Fi – works if you have a gadget with an Internet connection. There are mobile applications to control speakers.
- NFC is a convenient option for synchronizing with a smartphone that has this function.
Wired connection methods include:
- AUX – audio input makes it possible to connect a smartphone or any other device to the speaker using a cable with a standard mini-jack plug.
- Lithning – cable connection for Apple smartphones and tablets.
- Micro-USB – allows you to connect a cable with a connector for almost any device. For example, if there is a mini-jack plug at the other end, you can play music from a computer, laptop, smartphone or MP3 player.
Maxim Sokolov says that the Lithning or Micro-USB output can also be used to connect the speaker battery charging cable, and the presence of Micro-SD and USB ports makes it possible to connect flash cards with music.
How to choose a speaker with the right power?
According to Maxim Sokolov , power determines the loudness of the speaker. The more watts, the louder the sound will be. The choice depends on the purpose of use. Devices can be roughly divided into three categories.
- Up to 2 W – weak speakers that sound a little louder than a smartphone speaker. Suitable for use in small rooms when loud sound is not needed. For example, this is a good option for listening to quiet background music, audio books, lullabies for children, or music for yoga classes.
- Up to 20 W – a format that can be compared with the volume of a TV or computer audio system. A good option for use at home or outdoors. You can listen to music or play sound from your tablet while watching movies.
- Up to 60 W – loud acoustics that can be compared to car speakers. Great option for parties and events. It is worth noting that the dimensions of such a speaker are impressive - often models have a floor-standing design.
How does the declared power of a speaker differ from the rated power?
Some manufacturers indicate two power parameters for speakers:
- Maximum is the peak value that can be applied to the speaker for a short time. It is not supported for long-term listening, but is only indicated as a technically achievable value.
- Nominal - characterizes the output value that is supplied to the speaker for a long time without the risk of breakdown. This is what you need to focus on when choosing a column.
Is stereo sound important for a portable speaker?
Maxim Sokolov believes that for music lovers and those who want to enjoy listening, a stereo channel is simply necessary. With it, the sound is more spacious, and you can hear every instrument. There are two versions of stereo: 2.0 - has two standard channels, 2.1 - additionally has a subwoofer and puts an emphasis on bass.
You can also find mono speakers on sale - their sound circuit is labeled 1.0 (one channel). Don't expect good sound from them. The music will sound like mush, especially at high volumes. Although there is also a demand for such devices. For example, they can be used to listen to audiobooks or watch movies. The main advantage is the affordable price. You can find a good option for 500 – 600 rubles.
Best Portable Bluetooth 2.1 Speakers
Is it possible to say unambiguously which column is better? The answer probably depends on the user's budget and needs. Therefore, in this case, we will express a subjective opinion, highlighting the acoustics from the 2.1 category as leaders. These are devices that, in addition to regular speakers, have a subwoofer. It allows you to enjoy deep low frequencies, which is especially important for electronic music and dynamic films.
Bengher Home Studio
Stylish wireless speaker from the best speaker manufacturer. The design of Home Studio is imbued with minimalism, so it will fit perfectly into any interior. For convenient transportation of the device, it is equipped with a soft leather handle.
Home Studio uses TWS (True Wireless Stereo) technology, which allows you to combine several manufacturer's speakers into a single stereo system.
At the top of the acoustics there is a toggle switch to turn the speaker on/off, 2 buttons for selecting the signal source and controlling playback, as well as three controls. They are responsible for controlling volume, bass (BASS) and treble (TREBLE).
There are also two connectors on the case: USB-C and AUX. The first is required to charge the built-in battery, and the second is required for a wired connection.
The rated power of Bengher speakers is 100 W, and the impedance is 4 ohms. The device's autonomy is ensured by a 6000 mAh battery, which allows Home Studio to play music for up to 8 hours. Charging time is 3-5 hours.
Advantages:
- laconic design;
- loud speakers;
- capacious battery;
- carrying case;
- simple controls;
- TWS support.
Ginzzu GM-886B
Yes, and again the Ginzzu company. But what can you do if it produces really good options for your money? The GM-886B model will cost you a modest 2,400 rubles. 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 Ginzzu speakers is equipped with Bluetooth, a card reader, a USB port and a tuner. The device weighs almost two kilograms, so for convenience there is a strap on its body. The GM-886B also provides the ability to adjust the equalizer and has a small display.
Advantages:
- good autonomy;
- high-quality subwoofer;
- simplicity and speed of connection;
- carrying handle;
- versatility.
Flaws:
- the sound, although loud, is not particularly clear;
- no charge indicator.
Marshall Kilburn
We cannot imagine a fan of high-quality sound who has not heard of the legendary Marshall brand. And our TOP portable speaker from this particular manufacturer continues. The traditional rock style design and impeccable build quality immediately make it clear why the device costs an average of 15 thousand rubles.
The Marshal range also includes the updated Kilburn II model. It costs more, but if you wish, you can buy this modification for only 15,990 rubles. It received aptX support, became more powerful and reliable due to corner inserts that retain its appearance longer.
Kilburn can be powered by mains power or a built-in battery. For the second option, Marshall indicates a long battery life of the speaker up to 20 hours. However, in practice, this figure is achievable at low volume, and if you want to turn the device up to 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 and a subwoofer of 15 W;
- Bass/treble controls.
Minuses:
- there is no battery charge indication;
- no protection against water and dust;
Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 2
Aura Studio 2 is a purely home device that will appeal to buyers looking for high-quality sound, complemented by a luxurious appearance. The speaker only works from the network, and you can connect it to a sound source via a linear input and via a wireless interface. Visually, Aura Studio 2 is reminiscent of the Harman/Kardon Soundsticks, which even earned a place in New York's Museum of Modern Art.
In fact, the reviews primarily praise the speaker for its futuristic design. Aura Studio 2 is available in black, burgundy, purple and dark 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 take care of it. One of the downsides is also the hole at the top where dust can fall.
Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 2 is equipped with six 40 mm speakers, which are placed in a circle in the stand. They are complemented by a 30 W 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 glowing ring inside the speaker.
Advantages:
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules;
- two wired connections;
- excellent appearance;
- rich sound;
- circular LED lighting.
Flaws:
- turbine plastic is easy to scratch;
- Dust may accumulate inside.
Creative Sound Blaster Roar Pro
The leader in the list of the best portable speakers is a model produced by Creative. Just by the appearance of the Sound Blaster Roar Pro you can understand the premium nature of this acoustics. 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 battery life for up to 10 hours. The best price for a Creative speaker on the Russian market is 12,000 rubles.
For quick wireless pairing, the Sound Blaster Roar Pro includes an NFC tag.
On top of the speaker are the main buttons for controlling the volume, turning the device on and off, managing 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. Some more controls and all connectors are located at the rear. The Creative Sound Blaster Roar Pro outputs sound from the front (two speakers), the sides (one each), and the top (subwoofer).
Advantages:
- excellent sound quality;
- USB for charging smartphones;
- battery life;
- many settings to suit your own preferences
- microSD memory card slot;
- excellent build quality and parts;
- support for wireless microphones;
- NFC tag and sound enhancement modes.
Choosing a powerful, portable music speaker starting at $100
Sometimes you want to pamper yourself with powerful, assertive sound and a wide frequency range without cluttering your living space with surround audio equipment. In this case, you just need to get a portable speaker that can outperform many stationary devices, and the presence of a rich set of useful functions will expand your capabilities. Many gadgets are equipped with capacious batteries with a run time of more than 6-7 hours without recharging and even with the function of recharging external devices, which will be very useful in nature or far from energy sources.
Marshall Kilburn II
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A portable speaker in a retro style with a recognizable classic design from the manufacturer Marshall. The front protective metal mesh is designed in the style of professional studio microphones. The body is partly made from recycled wood. The corners are covered with special covers to protect the overall body.
Characteristics:
- bluetooth 5.0 (with aptX support);
- frequency range 52 Hz – 20 kHz;
- bass, treble tone control;
- amplifier power 20 W (LF) + 2 x 8 W (HF);
- amplifier type class D.
BlitzWolf BW-WA3
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A powerful wireless speaker with 4 drivers, RGB backlighting, a capacious battery and moisture protection according to the IPX5 standard. There are 4 built-in speakers, 2 for high and low frequencies. This creates a confident, dense sound complemented by passive speakers. The ends are equipped with RGB backlighting, which creates a unique effect while listening to music.
- total power 100 W;
- built-in battery capacity 5000 mAh;
- moisture protection according to IPX5 standard;
- support for TF, USB interfaces;
- Fast charging support.
Mifa WildBox
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A bright representative of youth acoustics in the truest sense. There is bright RGB lighting and 4 built-in speakers with a total power of up to 60 watts. At the same time, the built-in battery can serve as a portable power bank with a capacity of 10,000 mAh and an output power of up to 50 W. The case is manufactured to support the IP67 waterproof standard.
Characteristics:
- built-in battery 10000 mAh;
- moisture protection according to IP67 standard;
- Bluetooth 5.2;
- operating time up to 24 hours without recharging;
- 4 built-in speakers: 2 LF and 2 HF.
Shinco PI-12
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This is a real mobile acoustic system that includes not only playback of music from various media, but also light music, radio and karaoke. Moves on wheels with a comfortable handle. The kit includes a wireless microphone and remote control. All controls are located on the top of the case, there is also an informative display.
Characteristics:
- 2 speakers LF-12″ and HF-2.5″;
- frequency range 45-20 kHz;
- total power 60 W.
Anker Soundcore Motion Boom A3118
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A powerful portable speaker with titanium drivers (titanium diaphragms), proprietary BassUp bass reproduction technology, IPX7 waterproofing and up to 24 hours of operation without loss of power. Stereo sound is recreated through 2 speakers of 30 W each. The battery capacity is 10 mAh.
Characteristics
- 2 speakers 30 W each;
- Frequency Range: 60Hz ~ 20kHz (-3dB);
- IPX7 water and dust protection;
- built-in battery capacity 10000 mAh;
- control via soundcore app.
JBL PARTYBOX GO
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A powerful portable speaker that can reproduce any popular audio file format. The capacious battery can play music for up to 6.5 hours without recharging. Surround sound and a wide range of reproduced frequencies will delight and create a festive atmosphere in any company. Control via the included remote control or proprietary application. Protection according to the IPX4 standard allows you to use the device outdoors, and there is a convenient strap for carrying.
Characteristics:
- woofer size 133 mm;
- tweeter size 2 x 44 mm;
- total power 100 W;
- frequency range 50 Hz – 20 kHz;
- Built-in battery capacity 2500 mAh.
Bose SoundLink Mini II
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A special feature of this speaker, besides, of course, the purest sound, is the remote battery stand, which can be used to increase the built-in battery. Natural sound with crisp tweeters and punchy bass in a cutting-edge design. The built-in battery will last for 12 hours without recharging. Weight only 670 g.
Marshall Stockwell I
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Another Marshall Stockwell wireless speaker in its own style or Old School design. It's both stylish and cool at the same time. The body is made of plastic with a wood finish. Sound from two speakers hidden behind audio fabric. The golden metal frame adds to the aesthetics. All controls are brought to the top edge. At the same time, the dimensions and weight are minimal.
characteristics:
- 2 speakers, 2.25″ each;
- operating time up to 30 hours;
- built-in battery 6600 mAh;
- dimensions 26x14x4 cm;
- weight 1.2 kg.
The last sale of November is very soon, so I recommend choosing the gadgets you like in advance, saving them in your cart and using the current promotional codes and coupons from the seller. With them the discounts will be much nicer.
Just from November 25, pleasant promotional codes begin to work: LOVEBF33 ($33 discount from $300), LOVEBF44 ($44/$400), LOVEBF55 ($55/$500).
In my profile you can find tests and selections for other interesting gadgets.
additional coupons
Bobster100allnov provides a discount of 100 from 1000 rubles Bobster200allnov provides a discount of 200 from 2000 rubles.
Which bluetooth speaker is better to buy?
As we noted earlier, the choice of acoustics, like any other equipment, depends on your preferences. It is impossible to say unequivocally which speaker is the best so that it suits all buyers. For example, among compact models, solutions from JBL and Sony are excellent options. If you want more powerful sound, but for the same price, then take a closer look at Ginzzu brand products. Harman/Kardon and Marshall are examples of companies that make products for true music lovers. The same applies to Creative. All devices from these brands can operate from the network, but keep in mind that in the case of Aura Studio 2, the speaker can only receive power via cable.