How to choose a portable speaker with good sound: TOP

4.8 / 5 ( 42 voices)

To enjoy your favorite music, you need good sound quality. Mobile phones and tablets are the most convenient devices for playing music anywhere, but in most cases they do not provide the desired quality. You can use speakers, but there are limitations. They are heavy, bulky, wired, and require a power source. However, the time has come for portable Bluetooth speakers that make life much easier.

Portable Bluetooth speakers offer a convenient and effective solution to this problem because you can easily carry them with you without bulky cables that constantly get tangled. But here the question arises: how to choose a portable speaker? Which Bluetooth speaker is better?

These 10 tips will help you choose the best portable speaker that suits your needs.

What types of speakers are there?

There are many brands of wireless speakers on the market in different price ranges. To choose a quality model at an affordable price, you need to know what your options are and decide whether you need to pay extra for additional features.

Acoustic types

Mono - indicates the presence of a single, but sometimes powerful, speaker. If surround sound is required, this device will not provide it.
Stereo: two, three or more speakers. The sound is reproduced better, especially at high volumes. There is one caveat - such a system must be correctly positioned relative to the listener.
2.1. — systems. Here, a subwoofer is added to the speakers to ensure sound quality. The disadvantage of this option is the weight and dimensions.

It should be noted that the speakers are divided into one, two and three ways. What is the difference? One-way sound does not convey the full depth of sound; such a speaker is only suitable for playing in the background or listening to the radio. But two and three bands reproduce all types of frequencies: high, mid and low.

Portable speakers JBL Xtreme 2

What is the best bluetooth speaker to buy for home use? Take a closer look at this option - not everyone wants to carry 2.5 kilograms on the street, despite the presence of a special carrying belt in the kit, but for parties in the apartment this is what you need. The Xtreme 2 produces really good sound. Mid frequencies are in no way inferior to stationary acoustics of comparable price, and thanks to the increased diameter of passive radiators, its bass can surprise even discerning music lovers.

The Xtreme 2 lasts up to 15 hours on a single charge and charges from 0 to 100% in 3 hours - not bad. The model is not afraid of water, has a full USB port for charging other devices, and offers a high-quality microphone with a noise reduction system, which, unlike the disgusting microphones of most competitors, allows you to answer calls without any problems. The only drawback of the Xtreme 2 is that the acoustics themselves are charged from a rather massive charger with a proprietary connector.

Briefly about the product:

wireless stereo acoustics
power: 2 × 20 W
call voice assistant, speaker synchronization
audio input (AUX)
belt
waterproof housing, degree of protection: IPX7
from smartphone, button
working time: 15 h
power supply: autonomous
Power bank mode
Bluetooth 4.2

Pro Can be used as an external battery. Charger and strap included. Fast charging. Pre-installed microphone. Two passive radiators. Cons The belt clip is scratched. The construction is heavy. View all prices

Device Features

No matter how advanced flagship smartphones are, their speakers cannot provide ample opportunities for lovers of loud music. By purchasing speakers for your phone, you get the chance to equip your device with the functions of a music center and share tunes from your favorite playlist with those nearby. The presented device is a new type of technology. It is lightweight, which allows you to carry it with you.

This device is easy to connect and easy to use. You can purchase it at any hardware store. Manufacturers often endow their models with a bright, unusual design. The buyer can choose speakers that will suit his taste, mood and musical preferences.

There are both Bluetooth speakers for your phone that do not require a wired connection, and those that connect using a headphone jack. Therefore, for each smartphone you can choose a compatible model. Modifications designed for specific mobile phones are also available.

Phone speakers allow you to turn your device into a sound center and share your favorite music with others

What does the specialist think?..

When choosing portable speakers, you need to keep in mind that, as a rule, high-quality models are quite large in size. If you are interested in good sound and correct transmission of the maximum number of frequencies, then you should pay attention to large options with large speakers. In addition, they usually last longer offline.

Konstantin Kotovsky

Advantages and disadvantages of the device

Having considered all the pros and cons, it is easy to come to the conclusion how convenient the device is to use and whether it is advisable to purchase it.

pros

quality sound relative to size. At first glance, it cannot be said that such a compact device is equipped with a powerful speaker;
work autonomy. A capacious battery provides several hours of operation without recharging;
weight and size. There are speakers so small that they fit easily into a bag.
wireless connection with gadgets. No cables needed; just activate bluetooth and the devices will quickly connect to each other;
a powerful battery allows you to use the speaker to recharge your smartphone;

The main disadvantage is that if the speaker dies and there is no source of electricity nearby, you will not be able to hear the music.

As you can see, the advantages of portable speakers far outweigh the disadvantages. And if you like music that accompanies you everywhere, this is the right choice.

Power type

There are several types of power supply for a portable speaker:

From the battery . These speakers are the most common on the market. They are easy to use, but require constant charging from the mains.
From batteries . The only downside is the need to frequently replace batteries.
Combined type of power supply from both battery and mains. Perfect for those users who do not plan to move the column often.

The best manufacturers of portable speakers with good sound

The most famous manufacturers of portable speakers:

JBL is a company with more than 70 years of history. It produces a wide range of quality products, including portable speakers.
Xiaomi is a Chinese company and has repeatedly been at the top of technology in the mid-price segment. The acoustics for smartphones are high quality.
Harman is an American brand that produces a wide range of electronics. Harman speakers are of the highest quality.
Sony is a Japanese company that guarantees that its products meet the highest standards.
Sven is a national brand that produces high-quality equipment known all over the world.

Best Portable Bluetooth 2.1 Speakers

Is it possible to definitely say 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 acoustic leaders of category 2.1. These are devices that, in addition to regular speakers, have a subwoofer. It allows you to hear deep low frequencies, which is especially important for electronic music and dynamic films.

Ginzzu GM-886B

Yes, and again the Ginzzu company. But what if he produces really good options for his money? The GM-886B model will cost you a modest 2,400 rubles. For this figure, the buyer will receive a pair of 3 W speakers, a 12 W subwoofer with a diameter of 102 mm and a beautiful and slightly aggressive appearance. Ginzzu is one of the best sounding speakers, it is equipped with Bluetooth, card reader, USB port and tuner. The device weighs almost two kilograms, so for convenience there is a strap on the case. In addition, the GM-886B offers equalizer settings and a small display.

Advantages:

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

Defects:

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

Marshall Kilburn

We can't imagine a quality sound engineer who hasn't heard of the legendary Marshall brand. And our TOP of portable speakers continues from this manufacturer. 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 line also includes the updated Kilburn II model. It costs more, but if desired, this modification can be purchased for only 15,990 rubles. It received aptX support, became more powerful and more reliable thanks to corner inserts that retain their appearance longer.

Kilburn can be powered from the mains or from a built-in battery. For the second option, Marshall points to the speaker's long battery life of up to 20 hours. However, in practice, this figure is achievable at low volume, and if you want to push the device to maximum, battery life will decrease by more than 2 times.

Professionals:

operation from mains and battery;
looks beautiful in retro style;
bass/treble controls.
excellent autonomy;
2 speakers 5 W and subwoofer 15 W;

Flaws:

Battery charge indication is not provided;
no protection against water and dust;

Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 2

The Aura Studio 2 is a pure home device that will appeal to buyers looking for quality sound with a luxurious look. The speaker operates only on mains power, and you can connect it to a sound source via line-in and wireless. Visually, the Aura Studio 2 is reminiscent of the Harman/Kardon Soundsticks, which even earned a spot in New York's Museum of Modern Art.

In fact, reviews mostly praise the speaker for its futuristic design. Aura Studio 2 is available in black, burgundy, purple and navy blue. The top of the case is made of transparent plastic, 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.

The Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 2 features six 40mm speakers arranged in a circle on a 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 the current level can be determined by the light ring inside the speaker.

Advantages:

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules;
two wire connections;
circular LED lighting.
excellent appearance;
rich sound;

Defects:

turbine plastic is easily scratched;
Dust may accumulate inside.

Creative Sound Blaster Roar Pro

The creative model tops the list of the best portable speakers. By the looks of the Sound Blaster Roar Pro, you can tell the premium direction this speaker is going. The body has the shape of an elongated parallelepiped with rounded edges. The device weighs just over a kilogram, which is quite a lot for a device with 5 speakers and a battery that guarantees battery life up to 10 hours. The best price for a creative column on the Russian market is 12,000 rubles.

The Sound Blaster Roar Pro is equipped with an NFC tag for fast wireless connectivity.

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

Advantages:

excellent sound quality;
USB for charging smartphones;
support for wireless microphones;
many settings according to your preferences
NFC tag and audio enhancement mode.
battery life;
excellent build quality and components;
microSD memory card slot;

Rating

For comparison, I would like to make a brief overview of speakers that differ in quality, performance, and, accordingly, price. Let's try to understand whether you need to pay more or get by with a budget option that will satisfy even a music lover.

JBL GO

pros

Compact size
Ergonomic design
Good sound
Reasonable price
Fast battery charging
Good battery capacity

Minuses

There is no lanyard included for easy transportation of the device.

From 1275 ₽

A budget model of good quality with a rubberized body for stability. With one speaker, a total power of 3 W and one playback band, this “baby” produces good sound. It connects to gadgets via Bluetooth, and a linear output is also provided. There is an auto shut-off function that saves battery energy. Convenient placement of buttons prevents accidental activation of the speaker. The weight of the device is 130 grams, which makes it easy to transport.

GZ electronics LoftSound GZ-44

pros

Capacious battery
metal case
Acceptable price
Build quality
Clarity of sound reproduction
Compactness

Minuses

Lack of bass
The LED on the front panel does not turn off

From 1999 ₽

The stereo sound of the speaker system provides clear reproduction (2 speakers of 3 W each). Frequency range 60 - 19000 Hz, signal-to-noise ratio - 85 dB. Average performance indicators make it possible to use the system both at home and outdoors. The built-in microphone allows you to use the speaker for hands-free calls. A huge plus is Bluetooth 4.2 (keeps connection up to 15 meters). The weight of the device is 560 grams.

Bose SoundLink Mini II

pros

High quality workmanship
Ergonomic design
Good battery (charge lasts for 10 hours)
Ease of management

Minuses

Noise is heard when connected via AUX cable
High price

From 13980 ₽

Interfaces: Bluetooth (connection range up to 9 meters), microUSB, AUX. You can connect 2 devices at once via wireless communication; if music stops being transmitted from the first gadget, playback will automatically start from the second. The battery can be charged via USB, and an independent charging stand is also provided. The durable aluminum case will protect the device from shock and damage. Weight 670 grams.

Genius SP-906BT

pros

Good sound
User-friendly design
Ergonomics
Capacitive battery
Price
Easy to use

Minuses

Poor microphone quality
Battery takes a long time to charge
No memory card support

From 700 ₽

Small size, weight 140 grams and a convenient carabiner included ensure easy transportability of the device. One speaker with a power of 3 W is the minimum indicator for sound speakers, but at the same time, this model is the combination of price and quality in the best possible way.

Sony SRS-XB10

pros

Clear sound
Long battery life
Waterproof housing
Price
High quality built-in microphone

Minuses

Inconvenient controls
Marky building
Long battery charging
At maximum volume it wheezes

From 2116 ₽

A speaker with a water-repellent casing is a godsend for extreme sports enthusiasts and those who simply like to travel outside the city. One 5W speaker produces fairly clear and loud sound, and soft bass is also heard. As standard, there is a line-out and Bluetooth; the additional NFC function provides quick connection with gadgets.

Ginzzu GM-886B

pros

Bass is heard
Sound
Long battery life
High quality build

Minuses

No low battery indicator
The rounded body makes it difficult to fix the device

From 3190 ₽

A medium-sized device with good sound and an affordable price. The sound is provided by 2 small speakers and a subwoofer, this affected the weight of the device, making it heavier - 1.74 kg. But the sound quality has improved significantly. The sound is adjusted using a manual equalizer. The speaker has 4 connection options: USB, line-in, SD memory card and Bluetooth. An additional function - digital radio, ensures complete autonomy, even if there is no music source.

JBL Flip 4 Special Edition

pros

Compactness
Waterproof and dustproof
Build quality
Clear sound (has bass)
Acceptable price
Exclusive design

Minuses

Doesn't pair with Flip 3

From 4290 ₽

The stereo sound of two 8 W speakers and a high frequency range provide high-quality sound at both low and high waves. Ergonomic design, water-repellent coating and compact dimensions make this model a companion on hikes, walks and at home.

SVEN PS-72

pros

Lightweight
High quality build
Bluetooth connection distance up to 10 meters
Price
Capacitive battery

Minuses

No direct access to battery
No display
LED does not turn off
Radio does not work when charging

From 885 ₽

Stereo sound is provided by two 3 W speakers, thanks to which this “baby” weighing 300 grams sounds decent. Additional options are a radio tuner and a built-in microphone. Playing files is possible from a flash drive, via line input, USB connector or Bluetooth. The model is affordable and at the same time well made.

JBL Xtreme Special Edition

pros

High power
Reproduces bass clearly
Provides moisture protection
Capacious battery

Minuses

High price
Weight
Charges only via the included cord
Frequent defects in the battery charge indicator

From 8987 ₽

The device has two two-way 20 W speakers, which provides clear reproduction of high and low frequencies. A powerful system suitable for parties or outdoor recreation.

How not to make a mistake in choosing

To buy the best portable speaker for yourself, you need to understand the features of the equipment and decide for what purpose it is needed.

Briefly about the characteristics

Wideband (one-way) acoustics do not provide high-quality sound. Two- and three-way speakers reproduce the full range of the range, enhancing the sound.
Size and number of speakers. The larger the speaker, the better the sound. Also, the volume and clarity of playback depend on the number of speakers.
Output power. For small gadgets - at least 1.5 W, for 2.1 stereo systems - 2 W or more. Power directly affects the duration of a battery charge.
Mono or stereo. Stereo systems have powerful sound, a large battery, but the device itself is not as compact as a mono speaker.
Frequency range. The wider this indicator, the better the music will sound.

Optimal acoustic parameters for different purposes

For outdoor travel, you will need a compact and powerful gadget with a large battery. Approximate parameters:

high power from 5 to 40 W. The sound should be loud to easily fill open areas;
battery life up to 10-15 hours;
the presence of a holder is an additional convenience that allows you to repair the gadget;
dimensions do not exceed 25 cm in length and weight no more than 2 kg, for ease of transportation;
When relaxing by the pond, you will need a moisture-resistant coating.
mid frequency range 80 - 20,000 Hz;
availability of Bluetooth function for hassle-free connection to a smartphone;

For home use, you need powerful acoustics with clear sound reproduction, beautiful design and the ability to work from the network:

Power is enough from 5 to 20 W;
the battery within the walls of the house can be charged at any time, so this indicator is not so important;
pairing multiple devices to achieve stereo sound will allow you to watch movies comfortably;
you need to select the size to your liking, but do not forget that large acoustics sound better;
The built-in microphone is a useful feature as it allows you to receive incoming calls.
sound quality required from 70 to 21000 Hz;

For parties you will need a powerful device with a beautiful design and an additional light and music function:

high power required (up to 250 W);
battery life - maximum (up to two days), so that you can move the acoustics to a remote location from the outlet;
light music, as an additional feature, will not interfere with the party;
dimensions: unmistakably large speaker, with good power;
Possibility of pairing with other speakers.
The frequency range is very important (from 50 to 22000) so that loud music does not “get into” your ears;

The concept of “best speakers” does not exist, since they are so diverse in parameters that each is uniquely suited for its purpose. Therefore, for some, a pocket mini gadget will be the best, while others prefer a system with a subwoofer and weighing 3 kg.