TOP—7. Best Budget and Affordable Portable Bluetooth Speakers 2022. Rating for August!

Music lovers do not want to part with it under any circumstances, be it a trip out of town, a shower, or driving in a car. Portable speakers are a real salvation for them. They significantly save the power of smartphones and reproduce deeper, louder and clearer sound compared to speaker systems built into smartphones. The rating of the 7 best portable speakers with a flash drive, radio and bluetooth will help you understand the variety of models presented and purchase exactly the device you need.

In addition to the speaker ratings, in our article you will learn:

• Comparative characteristics of models.
• What to look for when purchasing
• Where can you buy goods at a discount.

JBL GO 3

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The first heroine of our TOP is JBL GO 3. This is a pocket model weighing only 210 grams that fits in the palm of your hand. Thanks to its compact size, you can always carry it with you in your pockets or bag. And thanks to the presence of a hook, you can hang it, for example, on a tree branch when you go out to relax in nature. And, although this speaker is very small, inside its body hides a high-quality 4.2 W speaker, capable of clearly reproducing all the details even in complex tracks: deep rolling bass, abrupt ringing drums, vocals and high-frequency effects. The column is assembled with high quality. Its body is made of wear-resistant fabric and rubber and is not afraid of water. So you can take it with you to the beach or to the pool without fear that falling into the water will damage the device. It is also worth noting that the manufacturer produces JBL GO 3 in a variety of bright colors, among which every user will definitely be able to find an option for themselves. Well, as for autonomy, a full battery charge of the JBL GO 3 will last for 5 hours of continuous music playback, which is an excellent indicator for such a small speaker. In general, an excellent pocket Bluetooth speaker that can significantly improve the quality of tracks played from a smartphone.

• Power: 4.6 W.
• Bluetooth: 5.1.
• Operating time: up to 5 hours.
• Auto power off.
• Microphone.
• Water protection IPX7.
• Dimensions: 88 x 75 x 41 mm.
• Weight: 210 g.

Comparison of the presented columns

The listed models have their own individual disadvantages and advantages. To decide and get an accurate answer to the question: “Which portable speaker with a flash drive and radio is the best?”, We present to your attention a summary table with the listed characteristics.

JBL GO 2

Another JBL representative in our TOP is the JBL GO 2 Bluetooth speaker. Like the previous participant, it is notable for its compact size and light weight, which will allow you to carry such a speaker with you everywhere in your bag, pocket or backpack. Plus, it comes in a variety of interesting colors. The loud signature JBL sound of this speaker is provided by a 3 W speaker. According to the manufacturer, it reproduces a frequency range from 180 to 20,000 Hz, which is quite enough for modern dance and pop music. To connect to smartphones or other music sources, the Bluetooth version 4.1 module is used, which provides a stable connection at a distance of up to 10 meters. In addition, you can connect to the speaker wired. It also has a microphone that allows you to communicate hands-free. Among other advantages of the JBL GO 2, it is worth noting the water-resistant housing that meets the IPX7 standard. Therefore, such a speaker is not afraid of splashes and short-term immersions in water. This means that you can take it with you to the beach or to the pool. Well, as for the autonomy of JBL GO 2, despite its compact size, this Bluetooth speaker has a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 730 mAh and can go without recharging for 5 hours.

• Power: 3 W.
• Bluetooth: 4.1.
• Operating time: up to 5 hours.
• Auto power off.
• Microphone.
• Water protection IPX7.
• Dimensions: 86 x 71 x 32 mm.
• Weight: 180 g.

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.

Defender Enjoy S500

Defender Enjoy S500 is a compact portable speaker that, in addition to a Bluetooth connection for playing music from smartphones, allows you to connect memory cards and USB drives to it, and also has the ability to connect via AUX or a 3.5 mm jack. This speaker also has an FM tuner. So with its help you can listen to your favorite radio stations. As for the sound quality, it is at a very good level for an inexpensive speaker. Defender Enjoy S500 is equipped with passive side radiators with a total power of 10 W, improving sound quality and enhancing bass. It also has support for True Wireless Stereo technology, which allows you to pair two speakers via Bluetooth and turn them into a stereo system. Among other features of the Defender Enjoy S500, it is worth noting the presence of buttons that allow you to control music playback. It also has a microphone that allows you to communicate through the speaker - as if you were talking on the phone in speakerphone mode. This Bluetooth speaker weighs only 300 grams and, due to its compact size, will be comfortable to hold in your hand and carry in your bag. And the special structure of the body will allow it to be installed both horizontally and vertically. Well, as for autonomy, a 1200 mAh battery is enough for such a speaker to work for up to 5 hours without recharging.

• Power: 10 W.
• 80 – 20000 Hz.
• Bluetooth: 5.0.
• Operating time: up to 5 hours.
• Microphone.
• Radio.
• Dimensions: 65 x 65 x 140 mm.
• Weight: 300 g.

Editor's Choice: UE Megaboom

UE Megaboom: two days of battery life
The Ultimate Ears Megaboom model lasts a full 45 hours before the next charge. This means the speaker will last an entire festival weekend if necessary; Currently, no model even comes close to this indicator.

The Megaboom model has acceptable equipment, however, in terms of sound it provides only average performance.

Click the table to enlarge it

Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Speaker 2

The next heroine of our TOP is Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Speaker 2. This speaker weighs only 155 grams and, thanks to its compact size, can be conveniently carried in a bag or backpack and held with one hand. The sound provided by the speakers of this speaker is quite loud. Enough for a house party. And as users note, even at maximum volume, Mi Bluetooth Speaker 2 produces clear sound without distortion. You can connect to the speaker either via Bluetooth or using an AUX cable. Moreover, you don’t have to go to your smartphone or player to adjust the volume. This can be done directly from the column by clicking on the appropriate buttons. Other features of the Mi Bluetooth Speaker 2 include a built-in microphone, thanks to which you can answer calls handsfree, and what’s most remarkable is that the device has a noise reduction system. So your interlocutors will clearly hear your voice during conversations. Well, in terms of autonomy, this Bluetooth speaker will delight its owners with 10 hours of music playback thanks to a battery with a capacity of 1200 mAh.

• Power: 6 W.
• 100 – 18000 Hz.
• Bluetooth: 4.2.
• Working time: up to 10 hours.
• Microphone.
• Dimensions: 155 x 60 x 26 mm.
• Weight: 155 g.

Lists of the best!

The presented models are aimed at average buyers and their needs. But a portable speaker with Bluetooth and a flash drive has wider functionality and a wider range of models. Therefore, we bring to your attention an additional rating of the best speakers according to various criteria.

• Convenient control, beautiful design and loud sound - BBK BTA106.
• Loud, high-quality and strong – Tesler PSS-555.
• Best Bass – Bose SoundLink Mini Bluetooth speaker.
• Budget portable speaker – Defender Moon Solo.
• Lightweight and small budget speaker – Xiaomi Square box Cube.
• A speaker with the ability to recharge a smartphone from it – Philips BT7700.
• Expensive, powerful and large speaker with excellent sound – Harman/Kardon Go + Play Mini.
• The best speaker system under $100 is the JBL Flip 4.
• Beautiful design and useful functionality - GZ electronics LoftSound GZ-22.

Defender G22

Our TOP is completed by the Defender G22. This speaker is equipped with speakers with a total power of 20 W, providing good quality sound and can be used as part of a stereo system of several similar devices that support True Wireless Stereo technology. The advantages of the Defender G22 include support for Bluetooth 5.0, which provides a stable signal over a long distance. In addition, this speaker allows you to play music not only wirelessly from a smartphone, but also via an AUX or USB cable, as well as from memory cards and USB flash drives. It also has an FM receiver. So with this speaker you can listen to your favorite radio stations. In addition, the Defender G22 has a microphone that allows for hands-free communication. Other features of this speaker include convenient control of music playback and calls using buttons on the body. It also boasts rubberized legs that provide it with a stable position and a strap for easy carrying on the shoulder. And thanks to the increased capacity battery of 3000 mAh, this speaker will be able to play music for 6 hours.

• Power: 20 W.
• 40 – 20000 Hz.
• Bluetooth: 5.0.
• Operating time: up to 6 hours.
• Microphone.
• Radio.
• Dimensions: 115 x 120 x 297 mm.
• Weight: 1220 g

What to look for when choosing?

Key factors to consider when choosing a speaker system:

• dust protection;
• protection from moisture;
• dimensions (size and weight);
• Battery capacity;
• support for different connection types;
• frequency range;
• power;
• intended place of use;
• number of speakers;
• number of channels;
• price.

Rating of popular brands

AuthorVoting

• 1 Marshall is an English brand that is associated with legendary guitar amplifiers. These devices stood at the origins of modern music, and have long been considered the standard of guitar sound. Currently, the Marshall brand produces not only musical equipment, but also household audio equipment, including portable speakers.
• 2 Bang & Olufsen is a Danish company founded in 1925. One of the world leaders in the production of Hi-Fi systems. The company's devices have great sound, a stylish and minimalist design in the Apple style, but are quite undemocratically priced.
• 3 JBL is an American company known for its audio equipment. The first products under this brand appeared in 1945 - these were dynamic heads and loudspeakers. Recently, the brand has become widely known in the portable audio market. According to many users, the company produces the best portable speakers in terms of price/quality ratio.
• 4 Sony is a Japanese manufacturer that needs no introduction. The company was founded back in 1946 and became the third largest Japanese multinational corporation, after Hitachi and Panasonic. During its existence, the Sony brand has become synonymous with the word “quality”.
• 5 DreamWave is a well-established American company founded in 2010. Specializes in the manufacture of portable audio devices. Her mission is to change the way music is integrated into people's daily lives. And judging by the results, she copes well with it.

Also trustworthy: Bose, Harman/Kardon, GZ electronics, Tronsmart, Xiaomi, Sven.

The best compact Bluetooth speakers

Small speakers weigh from 190 g to 1 kg. Despite their size, this section contains truly powerful devices that are capable of reproducing clear bass and ringing highs no worse than the “large” ones.

Bose Soundlink Mini II

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The wireless speaker is capable of storing 8 mobile devices simultaneously, playing audio from two sources and operating in hands-free mode. In addition to Bluetooth, you can connect any gadget to the device via the AUX interface.

Advantages:

• work with two devices simultaneously;
• hands-free mode;
• metal case;
• stylish design.

Flaws:

• high price.

Despite the light weight (670 g) and modest dimensions, the cost of the speaker is high. The cost is justified by excellent sound, a wide range of convenient features, and a sturdy build.

Samsung Level Box Slim

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

97%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The column is made in the shape of a rectangle, there is a leg at the back to place the device like a photo frame. Despite its compactness, the acoustics received a capacious battery and powerful speakers. Autonomous operation for 30 hours, moisture protection according to the international protocol IPX7 and the power supply function of a smartphone make this device indispensable when traveling.

Advantages:

• light weight;
• affordable price;
• capacious battery;
• recharging function.

Flaws:

• soiled surface.

Two identical speakers quickly combine into a stereo system with an increased power of 16 W, which is a decent figure for such babies. The speaker weighs only 190 grams, and its functionality is truly amazing.

Sony SRS x11

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

96%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The small cube-shaped portable speaker is available in five colors: red, pink, black, blue and white. The body is covered with something like soft rubber - very pleasant to the touch. On one side there are buttons, also soft, with tactile markings. On the opposite side of the cube there are connectors for connecting the charging and audio cables. Next to the inputs there is an Add button for quickly switching between modes (mono/stereo).

Advantages:

• little weight;
• high-quality sound with a power of 10 W;
• NFC module;
• affordable price;
• convenient control.

Flaws:

• the static rubber coating attracts dust.

The speaker weighs 215 grams and comes with a small lanyard for carrying it. You can connect to the device via NFC or Bluetooth. Speakerphone mode and microphone allow you not to turn off the speaker during a phone call.

Philips BT7900

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

92%

buyers recommend this product

The compact speaker weighs only 530 g, but has amazing power. The Bluetooth connection radius is a record 30 meters, which is three times higher than existing standards. This was made possible thanks to the EverPlay system, which includes an ultra-sensitive antenna and radio frequency filter.

Advantages:

• VT connection radius – 30 meters;
• light weight;
• powerful speakers;
• protection from moisture and dust.

Flaws:

• no charging head included;
• The USB cord is short and stiff.

14 W stereo sound is provided by two powerful speakers. The capacious battery allows you to continuously listen to music for 10 hours. Protection from moisture and dust in accordance with the IPX7 protocol allows you to wear the speaker without a cover in any conditions - it is not afraid of either rain or wind.

CGBox Black

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

86%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The small cylinder-shaped speaker is equipped with two speakers that produce quite high-quality sound. You can connect USB storage devices with recorded music to the device. Two similar speakers can easily be paired into a single media system in True Wireless Stereo mode. The device supports radio playback mode and has a headphone output. The speaker is protected from moisture according to the IPX6 standard, but it is better not to throw it into water.

Advantages:

• TWS mode for combining speakers;
• good sound;
• USB and AUX connectors;
• radio;
• interesting design.

Flaws:

• not a very capacious battery.

The battery will last for 3-4 hours of battery life at maximum volume or 6-7 hours if the volume is turned up a little. The speaker is charged in the same way as a mobile phone - via a microUSB port. The model is equipped with a microphone and, when paired with a smartphone, can be used as a headset for hands-free calling.

Xiaomi Mi Round 2

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

85%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

A portable speaker from a Chinese manufacturer is more suitable for home use than for walking on the street. The device does not have protection from external influences, but the kit includes a ring to lock the buttons. If you go outdoors with the device, then only put the speaker in your bag. Despite two speakers with a total power of 5 W, the sound quality is good.

Advantages:

• one control button;
• two colors to choose from;
• quick pairing with mobile devices;
• good price;

Flaws:

• no charger included;
• no protection from weather factors.

The column is controlled by one round button with movable edges. A long press turns the gadget on or off, the wheel around the button turns the volume down or up, and a double click breaks the connection with the smartphone. It’s unusual at first, but the user will appreciate the convenience of such control over time. A regular phone charger with a microUSB connector will help charge the device.

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How to choose a portable speaker

To avoid making mistakes when purchasing portable speakers, you need to pay attention to the criteria described below:

• Autonomy. This criterion indicates the operating time of the device on a charged battery. A portable speaker simply must have good autonomy, since this is its main value. Otherwise, you will only be able to use the device where there is a power outlet nearby. An exception would be if you do not plan to move the acoustics outside the room. Then it makes sense to sacrifice autonomy in favor of power and volume.
• Volume and power. Tailored to suit your needs. For example, to listen to music while cycling or on a picnic, high volume is not needed; autonomy is much more important. If the device is purchased for parties, then volume and power are one of the main selection criteria. As a rule, 50 W speakers are enough to organize an open-air disco for a noisy company. To listen to music while cycling, 5 W is enough. But keep in mind that volume is the pressure of a sound wave on the eardrum, and therefore only indirectly depends on power. This parameter is also affected by the diameter of the speakers, column design, etc.
• Sound quality. This criterion, oddly enough, is of secondary importance for a portable speaker. It’s unlikely that anyone buys a device to listen to how natural violins sound or how well bass guitar parts are “readable.” There should also be no obvious “defects” in the sound, that is, wheezing, crackling and serious dips in frequencies. The acoustics must have a good reserve of bass, which is so important for reproducing modern music.
• Additional options. The device may have a backlight, a built-in MP3 player, FM radio, a flashlight, the ability to play music from external USB drives, etc. When choosing additional options, you need to decide how much you need them. Often, excessive functionality negatively affects not only price, but also reliability.
• Controls. Some models are designed to be controlled exclusively from a smartphone or other gadget, which is not very convenient. The main elements should be placed on the panel of the column itself. For a large and powerful speaker, a remote control is a good idea.
• Moisture protection. This is a necessary parameter for those who are going to use the speaker outdoors. If the case is not sealed, dust and moisture will quickly damage the device.
• Dimensions and weight. This is an important criterion if you plan to take the speaker with you on walks or trips.

Keep in mind that if the model you like is not among our selection, it may have excellent characteristics “on paper” and meet your criteria, but in reality it may not be the best choice. Therefore, before purchasing, do not forget to look at reviews and comparisons, as well as read comments from real users.

Useful materials to choose from