Best medium-sized bluetooth speakers of 2024

Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3

Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 review

Our score:

The Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 stands out as a solid portable speaker option, offering a sleek design and robust build quality. Its cylindrical shape and two-tone fabric make it both stylish and durable, with an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. The speaker boasts impressive sound performance, delivering rich bass and clear highs with 360-degree sound. However, audiophiles might find the mid-range clarity slightly lacking.

The battery life is commendable, lasting up to 20 hours on a single charge, though this may decrease at higher volumes. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth capability and multiple device pairing, although the absence of an AUX input could be a drawback for some. The speaker is also compatible with voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant, adding to its versatility.

JBL Flip 6

JBL Flip 6 review

Our score:

The JBL Flip 6 offers a blend of ruggedness and modern design, making it a strong contender in the portable speaker market. Its cylindrical shape and durable fabric mesh with rubberized end caps ensure both aesthetic appeal and protection against drops. However, the slightly heavier build might be a downside for those prioritizing portability.

Sound performance is impressive, with a rich and balanced profile that handles various genres well. The dual passive radiators enhance bass, and vocals come through crisp and clear. While it performs well at high volumes, the bass can overshadow mids in bass-heavy tracks.

Battery life is solid, offering up to 12 hours of playtime. It charges via USB-C, but the absence of a battery level indicator could be inconvenient.

Connectivity features include Bluetooth 5.1 for stable connections and multiple device pairing. The PartyBoost feature allows for an enhanced stereo experience, although the lack of an AUX input might be limiting for some.

With an IP67 rating, the Flip 6 is both dust-tight and waterproof, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. However, the fabric material may show wear over time.

Portability is enhanced by a built-in strap, and the controls are user-friendly. The package includes the speaker, a USB-C charging cable, a quick start guide, and a warranty card, but lacks a carrying case.

Priced in the mid-range, the Flip 6 offers good value for money with its sound quality, durability, and essential features. While not the cheapest option, its overall performance and build quality justify the cost.

In conclusion, the JBL Flip 6 is a reliable, great-sounding speaker suitable for various environments, though it may lack some advanced features and can be a bit pricier than competitors.

Bose SoundLink Flex

Bose SoundLink Flex review

Our score:

The Bose SoundLink Flex is a portable Bluetooth speaker that promises high-quality audio performance in a compact design. It features a rugged, waterproof construction, making it suitable for outdoor use. The speaker includes a rechargeable battery that offers up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge. Additionally, it has a built-in microphone for taking calls and accessing voice assistants. The SoundLink Flex also supports Bose's PositionIQ technology, which optimizes sound quality based on the speaker's orientation. While it offers impressive sound for its size, some users may find it relatively expensive compared to other portable speakers in the market.

House of Marley Get Together

House of Marley Get Together review

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The House of Marley Get Together is a portable speaker that combines style, sustainability, and solid performance. Its design features natural bamboo and recycled fabric, offering a unique and eco-friendly aesthetic. While it’s not the lightest speaker, its sturdy build and smooth, sleek appearance make it suitable for both casual and outdoor settings. The control buttons are straightforward, although some might find them interruptive to the clean design.

Sound-wise, it delivers deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, though extreme volumes may cause slight distortion. Connectivity options include Bluetooth and auxiliary input, providing flexibility, although it lacks a USB port and NFC for instant pairing. The battery life is decent, offering up to 10 hours of playback, but it doesn’t support fast charging.

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom-2

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom-2 review

Our score:

The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 is a portable Bluetooth speaker known for its rugged design and impressive sound quality. It features a waterproof and dustproof exterior, making it suitable for outdoor use. The speaker offers a 360-degree sound experience, enhanced by an Outdoor Boost mode that increases the volume and clarity in open environments. With a battery life of up to 13 hours, it supports extended playback on a single charge. The Wonderboom 2 also allows for pairing with another Wonderboom speaker for a more immersive stereo sound. Its compact size and built-in loop make it easy to carry around. Despite its small stature, the speaker delivers robust bass and clear audio, making it a versatile choice for various listening scenarios. However, it lacks a built-in microphone, which means it cannot be used for hands-free calls.