How to choose a portable speaker with good sound in 2022?

How to choose a portable speaker? Main characteristics

There are quite a few criteria for choosing a gadget. Therefore, I divided all the characteristics into groups:

Dimensions and appearance
Sound quality
Connectivity
Autonomy
Control
Protection from dust and moisture
Additional features

See also: how to choose the right portable charger for your phone?

VERIFIED STORES WITH SPEAKERS ON ALIEXPRESS:
Huawei Office Store - high-quality branded electronics at discounts
Global Audio Store - speakers, headphones, amplifiers and other audio products
SANGEAN Official Store - speakers and radio in retro style (reminiscent of Marshall)
Divoom Official Store - youth electronics made in an unusual “pixel” design
SIAOEL Factory Store - replicas of famous brands of portable speakers and cool electronics for gamers
Xi aomi Store - Xiaomi products and inexpensive replicas of a famous company of portable speakers

Appearance criteria

Weight and size

The dimensions of the device are especially important if the speaker will be used outside the home. Agree, carrying around a bulky and heavy gadget is not the most pleasant pleasure. It’s another matter if the speaker has the most compact size and light weight.

When you buy a device for the dacha or listen to it at home, the choice may fall on larger models. With a large number of speakers and, accordingly, sound quality. But don’t think that the larger the device, the better it will sound. Playback quality does not always depend on size.

Housing material

The service life of the device will depend on the material of the case. If the model uses cheap Chinese plastic, then such a gadget will not last you long. There will always be a risk of damage to the housing due to mechanical impact. Again, if the speaker is initially purchased for listening to music only indoors, then the most ordinary plastic case will do. If practicality is an important criterion when choosing, pay attention to gadgets with a metal body or made of high-quality thick plastic.

Display

Having a screen will greatly help when controlling the device.

But do not forget that the battery charge decreases faster in gadgets with displays. Therefore, if the screen is not so important for the purpose of use, then it is better to focus on models without it.

Backlight

For variety, many manufacturers add multi-colored backlighting to their devices, which acts as a light and music system.

Sound playback quality criteria

Power

The maximum volume of the device depends on the power. This parameter is measured in watts. The more watts, the louder the sound will be. Based on power, portable speakers are divided into three types:

1.5-2 W - slightly louder than a smartphone speaker
15-20 W - the volume of a standard TV or average computer audio system
40-60 W - loud speakers comparable to car speakers

The more power, the faster the device’s battery drains. In addition, high-volume audio systems have large dimensions, which is not very convenient for transportation. But if the gadget is purchased for stationary use, next to an outlet, then no problems will arise. Again, it all depends on the purpose of use.

frequency range

In simple terms, the frequency range is the quality of the sound itself. The larger the range the speaker has, the fuller and richer the reproduced sound will be. Our ear is capable of hearing frequencies from 16 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Speakers with a frequency closer to this indicator will reproduce music better.

An interesting video in which you can test your hearing, as well as what frequency your audio devices support. Just turn on this video in headphones, on a laptop, smartphone or through a portable speaker and see from what frequency the sound is heard.

Attention! Do not play videos at maximum volume, especially with headphones. The video contains some captions, examples of frequencies in our lives.

Number of channels and speakers

There are three audio formats:

Mono (1.0) - plays music in one channel. Typically, inexpensive and small Bluetooth speakers are equipped with mono systems.
Stereo (2.0) - has two channels, which allows the sound to sound “more spacious”
Stereo (2.1) - sound with added bass, achieved by adding a subwoofer to the device (more about it below)

The number of speakers will play a role in how powerful, larger and louder the sound will be. Models with one speaker and two channels are strongly not recommended for purchase! The sound of such a gadget is poor and more like “porridge”.

Availability of a subwoofer

If you want to purchase a portable speaker with bass, then you should pay attention to stereo systems with a subwoofer. Bass power is measured in watts. In bluetooth speakers it can range from 1 to 150 W.

Connection types

The more ports for various connections in a speaker, the wider its application becomes. Of the common interfaces, devices are equipped with connectors:

micro-usb – for charging the device
Lithning - for connecting to iPhone
USB port – for charging other devices (power bank function), or connecting flash cards
micro SD – for memory cards
AUX 3.5 - if you suddenly want to listen to music on headphones

Wireless connections

Bluetooth – allows you to play music from a smartphone, laptop or tablet
NFC – if your smartphone has this function, you can play music through it
Wi-Fi is the best connection; you can control the speaker via a mobile application

Battery power

This parameter will determine how long the device can play without recharging. If you are purchasing a speaker for cycling or listening to music outdoors, then the battery power should not be lower than 2200 mAh . Of course, this is the bare minimum. At medium volume, a speaker with such a battery will work for about 5 hours.

Worth considering! In the characteristics of the product, the battery life on one charge is indicated when listening to music at medium volume of the device. Accordingly, if you use maximum volume, the operating time of the gadget is significantly reduced.

Ability to charge other devices

Or the power bank function, which allows you to recharge your smartphone or tablet from the speaker. This option is usually present on devices with a large battery capacity.

Device control types

The simplest controls are the buttons on the column itself . Usually these are standard commands such as play/pause, volume and rewind.

Larger systems are equipped
with remote controls to switch commands from a distance.
Control via a mobile application implies the ability to connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Moisture and dust protection

If the acoustics will be used outdoors, you should take care of protection from dust and moisture. The degree of protection is determined by the abbreviation IP x and has degrees from 0 to 8.

Additional functions

Additional features are bonuses that may or may not be available on the device.

Equalizer - helps to customize the sound for various genres and genres of music
FM radio - radio function
Speakerphone - allows you to talk on the phone or Skype handsfree
Panoramic audio - allows you to reproduce sound in 360 degrees

All these characteristics will help you choose a gadget depending on where and how you will use the device. Now let's look at individual manufacturers of portable acoustics for different wallets and needs.

Is it possible to put a bluetooth speaker in a car?

A portable speaker is a stand-alone device for playing music files. The main advantage of such a gadget is that it can be placed or placed in any place. Despite their compact size, Bluetooth speakers are capable of reproducing high-quality audio, without interference and quite loudly, but this depends on the power.

There are no fundamental restrictions associated with installing portable speakers inside a car. Its own battery allows the device to work for a long time without recharging. If the battery runs out, you can use the car charger.

Portable speakers from JBL

JBL is an American brand founded in 1946. The company produces audio systems and various related high-end electronics: portable speakers, headphones, soundbars, car speakers, etc. (source Wikipedia).

Official JBL store on Aliexpress Russia with fast delivery

JBL Charge 4 - the most popular acoustics

It is the most purchased model among fans of the American brand. Advantages:

Waterproof housing
Lithium-ion battery 7500 mAh (up to 20 hours of music playback)
Low price and constant discounts on this model

You can simultaneously connect several devices to the speaker via Bluetooth and enjoy a variety of music.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

Power: 30W
Range: 60-20000 Hz
Bass: Dual passive radiators
Wireless connection: via Bluetooth
Interfaces: USB A, USB Type C, 3.5 mm audio input
Battery: Li-ion 7500 mAh
Water and dust protection: IPX7
Additionally: shock-resistant housing, the ability to charge other devices from the speaker, connection to JBL connect+ (the ability to pair several speakers into one to increase sound power)
Case material: plastic, rubber, fabric
Dimensions (cm): 22*9.5*9.3
Weight: 965 g

Honest review of jbl charge 4

JBL Pulse 3 - festive and bright Bluetooth speaker

Thanks to bright lighting and 360-degree sound, the model creates a festive atmosphere around. Advantages:

Protected from water and dust, you can use the speaker by the pool or on the beach
Three speakers for surround sound
Beautiful and festive design

The maximum time for listening to music without recharging is up to 12 hours.
The gadget has a built-in speakerphone, with which you can talk on the phone hands-free. Siri and Google Now voice commands are also available. SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

Power: 20W
Range: 65-20000 Hz
Bass: yes
Wireless connection: via Bluetooth
Interfaces: micro USB 2.0, 3.5 mm audio input
Battery: Li-ion 6000 mAh
Water and dust protection: IPX7
Additionally: waterproof housing, bright “multi” backlight, connection to JBL connect+ (the ability to pair several speakers at once to increase sound power)
Case material: plastic, rubber, fabric
Dimensions (cm): 22.3*9.2*9.2
Weight: 960 g

Video review of JBL Pulse 3 after a year of use

JBL Clip 3 - a convenient portable speaker with a carabiner

An excellent speaker for lovers of travel and outdoor activities. Thanks to the convenient carabiner mount, this baby can be attached, for example, to a backpack and safely ride a bicycle.

The gadget, like the previous ones, is not afraid of water and dust. You can avoid distractions while doing business and talk hands-free with the echo- and noise-canceling speakerphone.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

Power: 3.3 W
Wireless connection: via Bluetooth
Interfaces: micro USB 2.0, 3.5 mm audio input
Battery: Li-ion 1000 mAh
Water and dust protection: IPX7
Additionally: built-in carabiner, speakerphone
Body material: plastic, fabric
Dimensions (cm): 13.7*9.7*4.6
Weight: 220 g

A short video review of JBL Clip 3

Ollivan A9

The device has many features and capabilities. In addition to good sound, the gadget boasts a memory card, LED backlight, and headset mode. The column is presented in an original design. Several color options available.

Note!
A significant drawback of the model is its weak battery. It only lasts for a few hours of continuous use.

Price: 387 rubles.

Marshall portable speakers

Marshall – legendary English quality acoustics. All products of this guitar amplifiers. When you buy a speaker from this brand, you are not investing your money in vain. After all, the price and quality of the manufacturer always justifies itself.

Marshal stockwell - compact and stylish

High sound quality, relatively small size, easy Bluetooth connection. All this is perfectly combined in a stylish case with a corporate logo.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

Power: 27 W
Range: 50-20000 Hz
Wireless connection: via Bluetooth
Interfaces: USB A, 3.5 mm audio input
Battery: Li-ion 6600 mAh
Case material: plastic
Dimensions (cm): 14*26*4
Weight: 1200 g

Marshal stockwell acoustic sound test (we couldn’t find a good Russian-language video)

Marshall Kilburn - speaker with built-in subwoofer

Compactness combined with powerful speakers and deep bass. The design of the model takes us back to the golden age of rock and roll. Capacious battery with a performance of up to 20 hours of continuous listening.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

Power: 2 x 5 W
Range: 62-20000 Hz
Bass: built-in subwoofer 15 W
Wireless connection: via Bluetooth
Interfaces: USB A, 3.5 mm audio input
Extras: durable vinyl case, leather carrying handle
Case material: plastic, metal, leather
Dimensions (cm): 14*24.4*14
Weight: 3000 g

Video review of Marshall Kilburn

Marshall Acton BT - with built-in equalizer

An inexpensive and very stylish model with a retro design and excellent sound will appeal to lovers of high-quality music. Deep and clear sound with a built-in subwoofer, as well as the ability to customize the sound to suit you.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

Power: 2 x 8 W
Range: 50-20000 Hz
Bass: subwoofer 25 W
Wireless connection: via Bluetooth
Interfaces: 3.5 mm audio input
Extras: vintage design
Case material: plastic
Dimensions (cm): 16*27*15
Weight: 3000 g

A short review of Marshall Acton portable speakers

Here is a review of popular portable acoustics. If you liked it, save the site to your bookmarks; there are frequent updates on selections of electronic goods.

LiitoKala Bluetooth Shower Speaker

The device is moisture resistant and has a good battery. In addition, it is equipped with suction cups that are attached to wet tiles even after six months of use. Among the minuses, the following can be noted: there is no radio and memory card, there is no random playback mode for tracks.

Price: 200 rubles.

Winjoin MC-008

The gadget has an interesting design and does its job well. Good sound and built-in radio will please the owner of the device.

Price: 304 rubles.

Wireless speakers can be bought for less than 500 rubles. To do this, you need to go to AliExpress and select the model you like. Buyers will be satisfied with the product. All products have an original design, and their prices are affordable.

Jqaiq

Another interesting invention from Chinese manufacturers. The speaker is available in several colors and works for 2-3 hours without charging. Maximum power 35 W.

Also read: Secure phones for mobile banking

Price: 444 rubles.

Ssdfly XC-Y3

A miniature speaker will come in handy on the road. It doesn't take up much space and looks quite attractive. Advantages include a built-in radio and the ability to answer calls.

Price: 322 rubles.

Hiperdeal

If you want to buy not just a speaker, but an exclusive item, this is the device for you. The device has a flattened shape, a memory card, and is capable of working for several hours without interruption. In addition, the device allows you to answer calls.

Price: 331 rubles.

TD-V26

In addition to playing tracks, the speaker performs additional functions. It is equipped with a radio, all information is displayed on the display.

Also read: Is it worth buying an iPhone SE in 2019?

Price: 303 rubles.

Onleny bulldog

If you want to buy a stylish thing, you shouldn’t deny yourself this. A speaker in the shape of a bulldog will lift your spirits, and you can take it with you anywhere. The case is plastic, the battery lasts for 3-4 hours of continuous operation.

Price: 407 rubles.

Ravi

The gadget has an elongated shape, the design is modest and laconic. There is not a single unnecessary detail here. At the top there are buttons to control the device. Additionally, you can listen to the radio.

Price: 371 rubles.

Elistooop

Compact column, made in the shape of a miniature mushroom. Thanks to the suction cup, you can attach it to your smartphone. Available in 7 different colors.

Price: 161 rubles.

Note!
Elistooop supports all Bluetooth devices.