Bluetooth speakers are must-haves for music lovers. They offer great sound quality and are super portable. With so many options available, finding the right one can be tough. This guide will help you find the top 10 portable Bluetooth speakers under $250. Each speaker is great in its own way, and we’ll look at what makes them special. We’ll also cover the top 5 factors to think about when picking the perfect portable Bluetooth speaker.
Best Bluetooth Speaker Overall: Ultimate Ears Boom 3
The Ultimate Ears Boom 3 is our top pick for the best portable Bluetooth speaker under $250. It stands out for its amazing sound quality, rugged build, long battery life, and waterproof design. The 360-degree sound and deep bass make your listening experience immersive. Its durable and waterproof design makes it perfect for outdoor use. However, it doesn’t have a 3.5mm audio input, which might be a downside for some users.
Pros:
- 360-degree sound
- Waterproof and durable
- Long battery life
Cons:
- No 3.5mm audio input
Best Budget / Best Value: Anker Soundcore 2
If you’re looking for a great portable Bluetooth speaker without spending a lot, the Anker Soundcore 2 is a top choice. It offers impressive sound with strong bass at a budget-friendly price. Its compact size and water resistance make it great for travel. However, it might have some sound distortion at high volumes.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Strong bass
- Water-resistant
Cons:
- Sound distortion at high volume
Best for Sound Quality: JBL Flip 5
The JBL Flip 5 is the best when it comes to sound quality. Its powerful audio output and deep bass give a rich sound experience. Its rugged design and IPX7 waterproof rating make it a great choice for outdoor use. Some users may miss the 3.5mm audio input, though.
Pros:
- Powerful audio
- Deep bass
- Rugged and waterproof
Cons:
- No 3.5mm audio input
Best for Outdoor Use: Sony SRS-XB33
The Sony SRS-XB33 is perfect for outdoor adventures. It’s built tough with water and dust resistance and even has built-in lighting effects. The Extra Bass feature gives a strong low-end sound, making it a fantastic party speaker. Its weight might make it less portable for some users.
Pros:
- Durable build
- Water and dust resistant
- Built-in lighting effects
Cons:
- Relatively heavy
Best for Battery Life: Tribit StormBox Pro
For those who need a long-lasting battery, the Tribit StormBox Pro is ideal. It offers up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge. Its 360-degree sound and durable build make it suitable for various settings. However, it doesn’t have NFC pairing, which might be a drawback for some users.
Pros:
- Long battery life
- 360-degree sound
- Durable construction
Cons:
- No NFC pairing
Best Portable Bluetooth Speaker: Bose SoundLink Micro
The Bose SoundLink Micro is great for portability. Its small size and tear-resistant strap make it easy to carry on the go. Despite its size, it provides impressive sound quality. However, it lacks speakerphone functionality.
Pros:
- Compact and portable
- Tear-resistant strap
- Impressive sound quality
Cons:
- No speakerphone functionality
Best Overall for Connectivity: Marshall Emberton II
The Marshall Emberton II excels in connectivity. It offers seamless Bluetooth pairing and a range of up to 30 feet. Its compact and durable design, along with its multi-directional sound, makes it versatile. The lack of stereo pairing might be a limitation for some users.
Pros:
- Seamless Bluetooth pairing
- Compact and durable
- Multi-directional sound
Cons:
- No stereo pairing
Best Portable Speaker for Durability in 2024: JBL Charge 4
The JBL Charge 4 is the top pick for durability. Its rugged design and IPX7 waterproof rating make it perfect for outdoor adventures. It also doubles as a power bank for charging devices. However, it doesn’t support USB-C charging.
Pros:
- Rugged design
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- Doubles as a power bank
Cons:
- No USB-C charging
Best for Design: Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen)
For design lovers, the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) is the best choice. Its sleek design and premium materials make it a stylish accessory. The True360 sound technology ensures a great listening experience. However, it doesn’t have a 3.5mm audio input.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Premium materials
- True360 sound technology
Cons:
- No 3.5mm audio input
Best Wireless Speaker for Features: Soundcore Motion+ by Anker
The Soundcore Motion+ by Anker is packed with features. It has Hi-Res Audio certification, customizable EQ settings, and an extended Bluetooth range. However, its larger size might be a downside for those who prioritize portability.
Pros:
- Hi-Res Audio certification
- Customizable EQ settings
- Extended Bluetooth range
Cons:
- Larger size
Top 5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Portable Bluetooth Speaker
- Sound Quality: Look for speakers with clear and balanced sound. A speaker with strong bass and detailed sound, like the Tribit StormBox Pro, can enhance your music experience.
- Portability: Consider the size, weight, and design of the speaker. Compact and lightweight options, like the Bose SoundLink Flex, are great for on-the-go use.
- Durability: For outdoor use, choose speakers with rugged designs, water and dust resistance, and impact protection. The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 and Soundcore Motion 300 are great choices.
- Battery Life: Longer battery life is important for extended use. The Tribit StormBox Pro offers up to 24 hours of playtime, while the JBL Flip 6 provides around 20 hours.
- Connectivity and Features: Evaluate connectivity options and additional features. The JBL Flip 6 and Soundcore Motion 300 offer advanced functionality like customizable EQ settings and USB-C charging.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the top 10 portable Bluetooth speakers under $250 offer a variety of options, each excelling in different areas like stereo sound, waterproofing, and design. By considering the key factors such as sound quality, portability, durability, battery life, and features, you can find the perfect speaker for your needs. With ongoing advancements in technology, these speakers provide excellent value and performance. Whether for outdoor adventures, parties, or home use, these top picks are sure to impress.