Best Bluetooth Speaker for On the Go and Home Use: Buyer’s Guide for 2021 and Best-Sellers

Using a Bluetooth speaker can be one of the most convenient, easiest, and best ways to enjoy your favorite music or podcasts when you’re on the go. You can use the best Bluetooth speaker on any type of outdoor adventure, picnic, or family outing. Finding a model that offers the type of range and battery life you need, depending on the application, will be crucial. Since Bluetooth technology continues to evolve, there are hundreds of models to choose from. Finding a speaker that can meet your needs shouldn’t be complicated, but it is.

Fortunately, I’ve taken the time to review dozens of the leading models on the market, narrowing it down to the top six models that are versatile, powerful, and offer the type of crystal clear clarity that you need. This buyer’s guide will go over all of the features you need, what type of range capabilities Bluetooth technology has to offer, and other information you need to know before you run out and buy a speaker for your next camping or hiking trip. Below, you’ll find the comparison chart that lists each of the models that landed on my top six list. It will include important information that will help you narrow down your choices, so you can choose a model that meets your needs, whether you need a new speaker for camping, your next backyard barbeque, or you simply need a speaker you can use at home while you’re working in the garden.

Bluetooth Speaker Comparison Chart

Product	Battery Life	Waterproof	Range	Rating
MuveAcoustics Bluetooth Speaker Shop On Amazon!	6 Hours	Yes	30 Feet
Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker Shop On Amazon!	24 Hours	No	66 Feet
OontZ Angle 3 Bluetooth Speaker Shop On Amazon!	20 Hours	Yes	100 Feet
JBL Flip 4 Bluetooth Speaker Shop On Amazon!	12 Hours	Yes	30 Feet
Bose SoundLink Bluetooth Speaker II Shop On Amazon!	8 Hours	Yes	20 Feet
Bose SoundLink Revolve+ Shop On Amazon!	16 Hours	Yes	30 Feet

MuveAcoustics Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Our Rating: (5/5)

This small, portable speaker offers surprisingly big sound, with deep bass and crystal clear mids. It’s also very beginner-friendly and can easily connect to any type of Bluetooth compatible device such as an MP3 player or a smartphone. The compact, lightweight design makes it a perfect choice if you’re searching for a speaker that’s highly portable. It’s IPX6 rated which makes it both waterproof and splash-proof. The speaker provides up to six hours of battery life, with a one hour charge time. It’s also covered by a thirty-day money-back guarantee and a one-year warranty. The speaker’s 6W driver offers plenty of power, so you’ll only need to use one speaker for a larger room. The higher volume is a must if you’re looking for a model you can use at your next outdoor family get together.

Conclusion

This speaker can produce enhanced bass, offering a solid, crystal clear performance. Even at full volume, you won’t have to worry about distortion. Highly portable, easy to use and pair, this is a speaker you can use and count on, whether you want to listen to music while you’re poolside, you’re traveling a need a model that’s highly portable, or you want the ability to listen to your favorite music as you move from room to room or indoor to outdoor, around the home.

Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

The best-selling speaker by Anker Soundcore offers zero distortion, impressive clarity, and deep bass, thanks to the two high-sensitivity driver and the addition of a bass port. The manufacturer claims that the speaker can provide up to twenty-four hours of battery life, which is almost three times the length compared to other speakers in this price bracket. If you’re not exactly tech-savvy, then you’ll appreciate how easy it is to pair your smartphone with this speaker. The 4.0 Bluetooth operating system provides a stronger connection, with a range up to sixty-six feet. The speaker housing is durable and features a drop-proof design that will not crack or chip in the event of an accident.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a speaker that’s beginner-friendly, easy to use, versatile, and compatible with Alexa, then you’ll love this latest model by Anker. The longer than average battery life, durable drop-proof housing, and intuitive controls will allow you to get the most out of your next music listening session. This model is perfect for on the go use, thanks to its longer range and lightweight design. Overall, despite its lower price, you’ll be hard-pressed to find another model in this price bracket that can compete.

OontZ Angle 3 Ultra Bluetooth Speaker

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

The speaker’s innovative digital audio processor will boost the bass while enhancing audio clarity for the highs and mids. The fourteen-watt powered speaker offers louder than average audio and features an impressively long Bluetooth range of one hundred feet. This model operates on Bluetooth 4.2 which provides a faster than average connection. It’s also compatible with all Bluetooth enabled devices including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and MP3 players. The IPX6 rating means that the speaker is waterproof and splash-proof, however, it cannot withstand full submersion. The battery will take approximately two hours to fully charge and offers a battery life of twenty hours, which is better than average.

Conclusion

This model is beginner-friendly, is compatible with Siri, which will be a huge plus for iPhone users, and features a long range of one hundred feet, making it a good choice for on the go use, backyard get-togethers, or if you simply want a speaker you can rely on for outdoor use, or on your next hiking or camping trip. The longer charge time is a big drawback for some, but considering the twenty-hour battery life, the long charge time is a fair tradeoff.

JBL Flip 4 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

JBL is one of the leading speaker manufacturers in the world. Their latest portable Bluetooth speaker to hit the market allows you to connect up to two smart devices to the speaker, such as tablets or smartphones. The battery provides up to twelve hours of use per charge, which is a drawback for some, considering lower-priced models can offer twice the battery life. This model is also IPX7 rated, so it can handle being submerged, heavy rainfall, and splashes. If you have JBL speakers, then you’ll be happy to learn that this model can be linked to more than one hundred enabled speakers that you can use together at the same time to amplify sound for your next party.

Conclusion

Considered one of the leading models on the market that’s budget-friendly, durable, and versatile, while it’s not perfect, the sound quality it offers comes close.

This model may have a shorter battery life compared to other models on my must-have list, but it also offers a higher waterproof rating, the ability to link the speaker to your existing JBL sound system setup, and a durable design that’s drop-proof. The shorter range of thirty feet can also give some potential buyers pause. However, if you’re familiar with the quality of JBL speakers and the rich sound they have to offer, then you know this is a speaker that’s all quality and one that’s designed to last.

Bose SoundLink Color Bluetooth Speaker II

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

The latest Bluetooth speaker by Bose is water-resistant, rugged, and user-friendly. The speaker’s housing is made out of a soft silicone material that’s surprisingly rugged. The speaker operates on the 4.2 Bluetooth system, which is the latest in Bluetooth tech. Set up is simple, thanks to the speaker’s voice prompts which make pairing your speaker with a smart device a breeze. The battery life is disappointing, coming in at just eight hours with a one and a half-hour charging time. The speaker itself is very versatile and comes with a built-in mic, so you can access digital assistants such as Google Now and Siri. If you want more sound, you can pair another Bose speaker, for those big backyard barbeques or family dinners.

The speaker also has a very short range of just twenty feet, which can make using this model on the go or on your next camping trip feel very limiting. Competing models at a lower price can offer a range of up to one hundred feet, although they lack the sound quality that this model by Bose has to offer. The speaker is waterproof, yet I would be careful regarding how much water you allow it to be exposed to. A top of the line speaker will offer a waterproof rating of IPX7, whereas this speaker’s waterproof rating comes in at IPX4.

Conclusion

The short battery life and range can be dealbreakers for some. However, if sound quality is more of a priority than range and battery life, then you won’t find another model that can compete with this Bluetooth speaker by Bose. The durable housing, clear highs and mids, and rich bass response will totally change how you listen to music, whether you’re camping out with friends, hanging out by the pool, or want to listen to music while you cook. Pair it with another speaker for twice the volume and enjoy a high-quality sound system, at a price that’s reasonable.

Bose SoundLink Revolve+

Our Rating: (4/5)

Using a Bluetooth speaker couldn’t be easier, thanks to the simple design and intuitive controls. This model scored big in many areas, thanks to the high-quality drivers, and durable design. The speaker’s shorter range is a huge drawback for some since it can make outdoor use very limiting. Overall, the speaker’s versatility, ease of use, and excellent audio quality make it a great buy for the serious audiophile who is in search of a model that can provide crystal clear audio, on the go, or in the comfort or their own backyard. This model may come with a high price tag, but it also offers up to sixteen hours of play time, a 3.6 full-range driver, and it features voice prompt capability, thanks to the built-in mic.

The speaker’s aluminum body makes it highly durable, however, it has a lower waterproof rating of IPX4, which means it cannot be submerged in water and can only handle light rainfall. If you want to enjoy twice the sound, you can pair this speaker with a variety of Bose speakers. The range for this model is also limited, coming in at just thirty feet. For home use, this type of range may be sufficient, but if you’re looking for a model that you can listen to on your next backcountry adventure, then the limited range of thirty feet may be a dealbreaker for you.

Conclusion

This is another popular model by Bose that made it onto my top six lineup. The durable housing and loud audio that provides rich bass with no distortion and crystal clear audio are what makes this model a must-have for the audiophile. However, the shorter range is a big disappointment for some, considering the high price tag. If sound quality is more important than range, then you can’t go wrong with a model that has earned a reputation as one of the best portable Bluetooth speakers on the market. However, if you’re looking for a speaker that offers a longer range for your next family vacation, or for outdoor use around the home, then you’ll need a more versatile speaker, one that offers the type of range and connection power that won’t easily be broken by obstacles in the speaker’s path, such as trees and brush.

Bluetooth Speaker Buyer’s Guide

These speakers are versatile, user-friendly, and provide the type of crystal clear audio you would expect from some of the leading speaker manufacturers in the industry.

Bluetooth technology has been around for years, but it’s clear to see that this technology is much different than what it was just a few years ago. As more companies produce devices that operate with Bluetooth or are Bluetooth compatible, these speakers will become invaluable, as you pair them with your portable record player, smart devices, and more.

Thanks to Bluetooth technology, constant updates and improvements in both clarity, range, and overall sound quality, these speakers are more popular than ever before. The latest in Bluetooth tech now includes voice assistants, such as Google Now and Alexa, and a design that allows the speakers to work as smart home devices, allowing you to control compatible appliances in the home.

These speakers are highly portable and must be charged regularly, which is probably the biggest downside to using them, however, considering how portable they are, and affordable, it’s no surprise that more manufacturers are now producing a wide range of Bluetooth speakers that are available in a variety of price points.

Benefits of Using Bluetooth Speakers

The benefits that come with using speakers that operate via Bluetooth are almost endless.

• Portability is the biggest advantage these speakers offer. Most people will use them to stream music in their car or when they’re on the go. The speaker’s low power consumption also makes them a great choice if you’re looking for a portable speaker with a longer battery life.
• Because these speakers don’t use wires, you won’t have to deal with adapters and cables like you would with a traditional set of speakers.
• The fact that you don’t have to install these speakers and set up is as easy as charging the speaker and hitting the power button, makes them a great choice for people who aren’t exactly tech-savvy.
• These speakers are perfect for outdoor use. Want to play your favorite music or listen to the game when you’re grilling in the backyard? You can take these speakers with you wherever you go, whether you’re cleaning out the garage, working in the garden, or raking leaves in the front yard.
• Not only are they highly portable, but they’re also very easy to use. Their beginner-friendly design, combined with the simple and fast pairing feature, will allow you to pair a Bluetooth speaker with any type of compatible device, including a laptop, tablet, smartphone, or MP3 player.
• These speakers are a great choice for people who cannot afford a large audio set up at home, or for on the go use.
• You can take one of these speakers with you on your next trip to the beach, on your next camping trip, you can use one if you want to listen to your favorite music as you lie in bed, or you want to tune into your favorite podcast and listen in as you work around the yard.
• As you can see, you can find many uses for these innovative, portable speakers, and all for a price that’s

Other Must-Have Features

Bluetooth speakers allow you to listen to music on the go, in the comfort of your own backyard, or you can enjoy a crystal clear audio experience as you prepare dinner for the whole family. These speakers are designed with convenience in mind, and they can be just what the music lover needs to make yardwork, jobs around the home or folding laundry a little easier and more enjoyable. Basically, Bluetooth technology in general has changed everything. Now, these speakers make it possible to take your music from room to room, out to the garden, or at the park. There’s really no limit when it comes to what you can do with these speakers, especially if you’ve chosen one or two that offer a long-range and extra features such as a charging port.

There are many models of speakers to choose from these days that are available in a variety of price brackets. Before you buy a new set of speakers, first consider what type of applications you’ll use it for. Do you need a portable speaker to use outdoors for the next family gathering? Are you tired of missing the game every time you’re outside doing yardwork? Do you want to bring a speaker with you on the next camping trip? Many of the latest models feature the type of rugged design you need for outdoor use.

Signal Range

Did you know that placement can have an impact on how well the speaker performs? Most Bluetooth speakers have a range. In many cases, you’ll need to keep the device that’s streaming within thirty feet of the speaker, or the speaker will lose the Bluetooth signal and go silent. People, large objects, structures, and walls can cause the speaker to lose the signal. If the range is important to you, then pay close attention to this spec when you’re shopping around. Typically, you’ll find that a model’s range capabilities are directly reflected in the price. Higher priced models not only offer better sound quality but a significantly longer range, compared to low-priced speakers. In some cases, you can find a signal range of sixty feet up to one hundred feet.

Waterproof

If you love the outdoors and you want to make your next hiking or camping trip even better by adding music to the mix, then look for a speaker that’s waterproof. These speakers can handle inclement weather conditions such as snow, exposure to UV rays, and rain. These speakers will be built in a dust-resistant, shock-resistant and water-resistant housing that will protect them from whatever mother nature throws its way. If you’re looking for a model that’s waterproof, make sure you check the speaker’s waterproof rating and ensure that the speaker is labeled as weather-resistant or waterproof. Look for a rating of waterproof rating IPX6 or higher.

Built-In Charging Port

Models that come equipped with a built-in recharger can be a perfect choice for an overnight camping trip, a long flight, or when you’re working on a backyard project all day. A speaker with this capability will come with a built-in USB port that will allow you to charge your smartphone when you’re on the go or out of the house and your battery is running low.

Powered or Rechargeable

For the most part, when a person is shopping for a Bluetooth speaker, they’re looking for a wireless model, one that’s highly portable and allows you to listen to music wherever you go. However, there are powered models available as well. These models are perfect for a permanent home setup and are powered by an AC adapter, instead of built-in batteries.

These powered models offer better sound clarity and volume, but they obviously lack the type of portability that some buyers are looking for. Since they’re powered by electricity, you won’t have to worry about the battery running out, but you won’t be able to take these speakers with you when you run errands or visit a friend’s house. You can, however, set these speakers up in your backyard and enjoy endless music streaming at your next backyard barbeque. Obviously, both types have their pros and cons, but if you don’t want to worry about running out of juice or forgetting to recharge your speakers, then the wired variety can be a better option. If portability is a priority, then go with a wireless model that comes equipped with built-in batteries.

Audio

Models of high-fidelity speakers offer the type of sound clarity that audiophiles will appreciate. This type of tech results in high-performance audio, with top of the line sound clarity and accuracy. Most of these models will come with digital to analog converters, which are designed to reproduce even the finest details in a track.

Multi-Room Setups

If you love listening to music in every room of the home, then look for models that allow you to pair more than one speaker. This capability means you can listen to the same song on multiple speakers, so you can place one speaker in every room of the home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Portable Bluetooth Speakers Stereo?

These speakers will allow you to stream podcasts and music, wherever you are. They’re available in both mono and stereo configurations. If you want better than average sound quality, then shop around for high-fidelity stereo speakers that earned a high user rating for sound clarity.

What Makes a Speaker Better?

Each type of speaker works by producing a certain frequency that’s softer or louder than other models. If your goal is to purchase a speaker that offers accurate audio reproduction, then the less variation in volume between each frequency the better the sound quality.

Does Bluetooth Decrease Sound Quality?

Every step involved in the audio chain will have an impact on the output of sound. Wireless standards and codecs must be able to work with hardware that may not be designed to deliver high-quality sound. In some instances, Bluetooth will not have much of an impact on sound quality. This can also be a matter of the quality of the device you’re streaming from.

Is AUX or Bluetooth Better?

In most cases, people will not be able to tell the difference. However, an aux connection will always be able to provide better sound quality compared to Bluetooth. Digital connections, such as a USB connection can provide even better sound.

Is WIFI Better than Bluetooth for Music?

WIFI features a significantly larger bandwidth compared to Bluetooth, which gives it the ability to stream lossless audio. WIFI gives users the ability to set up different audio zones that can be controlled by a single device.

Can You Stream Music Through Two Bluetooth Speakers?

In order to get audio from more than one speaker, you can use an app, such as Bose Connect or Bluetooth Five, which sends audio to more than one device at once. If your Bluetooth speaker offers this type of tech, the manufacturer will include information in the user’s manual in regard to how to pair more than one speaker to your device.

Final Thoughts

The best Bluetooth speaker will offer the type of range, sound quality, and clarity that all buyers are looking for. They should also offer a longer range and a connection that’s not easily broken due to an obstacle or structure. There are many models of Bluetooth powered speakers to choose from. Not all speakers are created equal, so you’ll find that you have your work cut out for you, should you decide not to purchase one of the models in my top six list. However, you now have all the information you need to do your own research and find a speaker that suits your needs, whether you want a model you can use for your next camping trip, barbeque get-together, or for outdoor use when you’re working in the yard.