All-Around Sound
A nice-sized, well-built, portable speaker with 360-degree audio and the classic Bose sound.
Omnidirectional 360-degree audio with trademark Bose staging for room-filling sound. IP55 rated against splashes and dust. Up to 17 hours battery life. Stylish fabric carrying handle.
Somewhat expensive. Technically a mono speaker.
Party Pleaser
JBL’s latest CHARGE speaker features hip styling and outstanding audio performance.
IP67 rating for water- and dust-proofing. USB-C and USB-A connections. Wide soundstage with excellent fidelity and power. Syncs to other current JBL speakers. Charges other devices.
Does not sync to older CHARGE models.
Most Fun
Ultimate Ears’ WONDERBOOM line boasts great outdoor sound in a fun, water- and drop-proof design.
Big and bold 360-degree sound with mid-boost button for outdoors. IP67 waterproof and dustproof. Pair two units for stereo sound. Up to 13 hours battery life. Drop-resistant. Floats.
No smart assistant.
Upscale Option
This super-compact speaker from Danish brand Bang & Olufsen offers great sound and deluxe styling.
IP67 waterproof and dustproof. Elegant, sturdy aluminum case. Leather strap. Spacious sound with good bass. Some 18 to 43 hours of battery life. Offers Alexa. Doubles as a phone speaker and mic.
Expensive. Requires app for smart options.
Surprising Power
Anker continues to impress in the portable audio category with this powerful waterproof speaker.
Thirty watts of sound from a pair each of tweeters, woofers, and passive radiators, with onboard DSP and stereo pairing capability. IP7 waterproof. USB-C and aux-in connections.
Not dustproof.