Heading outside for some fun? Bring your favorite tunes in the form of an outdoor-friendly Bluetooth speaker. PCMag has been reviewing Bluetooth speakers for as long as they've been around. Whether you want something compact, like the Bose SoundLink Micro, or a party box that produces yard-filling sound at top volumes, like the Sony ULT Tower 10, we have plenty of top options to choose from. Many of these recommendations are waterproof, making them safe for use while listening by the pool or at the beach. Read our informed and comprehensive reviews for all the details, followed by everything you need to know to pick the best outdoor speaker for you.
Overview
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![Sonos Play]()
Best Portable Sonos SpeakerSonos Play
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![Beats Pill (2024)]()
Best for iPhone UsersBeats Pill (2024)
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![Marshall Middleton II]()
Most StylishMarshall Middleton II
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![Sony ULT Field 7]()
Best BoomboxSony ULT Field 7
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![Sony ULT Tower 10]()
Best Party SpeakerSony ULT Tower 10
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![Tribit StormBox Mini+]()
Best Speaker Under $50Tribit StormBox Mini+
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![Anker Soundcore Boom 2]()
Best Affordable BoomboxAnker Soundcore Boom 2
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![Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen)]()
Most Affordable Bose SpeakerBose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen)
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![Tribit PocketGo]()
Best Compact SpeakerTribit PocketGo
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![JBL Flip 6]()
Best for Big Sound From a Small SpeakerJBL Flip 6
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![Sonos Play]()
Best Portable Sonos SpeakerSonos Play
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Sonos Play is a rarity in the company's lineup—an outdoor-friendly portable speaker with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities. We like its robust sound from dual tweeters and its seamless integration with an existing Sonos setup over Wi-Fi. Amazon Alexa and Sonos Voice Control options are welcome too, even if the speaker is now missing Google Assistant support. This reimagining offers great battery life, a charging dock, and a helpful indicator light.
Who It’s For
Sonos users: If you already have a Sonos speaker system, this is an excellent addition that you can easily take with you for on-the-go music. When at home, the Play can seamlessly join your other Sonos speakers.
People who want to talk to their speakers: The Play supports both Amazon Alexa and Sonos Voice Control, so you don’t have to pull your phone out of your pocket every time you want to change the music. Additionally, you don't have to choose one over the other; the Play supports both voice assistants simultaneously.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant Amazon Alexa Built-In Voice Assistant Sonos Voice Control Channels 2 Multi-Room Physical Connections None Portable Water-Resistant Wi-Fi Learn More Sonos Play Review -
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![Beats Pill (2024)]()
Best for iPhone UsersBeats Pill (2024)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The latest Beats Pill is a massive update over the original. It produces bright sound with rich bass and features an attractive design, complete with a dustproof and waterproof enclosure. Features such as USB-C wired playback, support for Apple and Google's Find My Device networks, and a super-portable size make it an excellent speaker to toss in a backpack and bring wherever you go. Let's not forget it's native integration with iPhones and iPads.
Who It’s For
Style-conscious listeners: The Beats Pill features an iconic design and is available in finishes such as Champagne Gold, Matte Black, or Statement Red. When on, the speaker pleases the ears. When off, it pleases the eyes.
iPhone users: Beats is owned by Apple, and the Pill delivers a smooth experience for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS users. On iOS, the speaker works in conjunction with system-level controls and the Beats app for more precise settings; Android users receive functional support but won't enjoy seamless integration.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Channels Stereo Multi-Room Physical Connections USB-C Portable Speakerphone Water-Resistant Learn More Beats Pill (2024) Review -
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![Marshall Middleton II]()
Most StylishMarshall Middleton II
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The rock-inspired Marshall Middleton II Bluetooth speaker provides impressively punchy bass and crisp highs. Despite looking like a guitar amp, it's fully waterproof and dustproof. Its battery can charge external mobile devices, and the top panel conveniently features discrete controls for bass and treble. Other highlights include a 3.5mm aux input jack, a mic for speakerphone calls, and support for the LC3 codec.
Who It’s For
Guitar and bass players: At first glance, the Middleton II looks like a miniature Marshall amp head—which is by design. Its styling evokes nostalgia for many musicians, making it a natural choice for those about to rock.
People seeking a wide soundstage: The Middleton II is not particularly large, measuring 4.33 by 9.05 by 3.86 inches (HWD), but Marshall engineers the speakers inside to produce good stereo separation and a broad soundstage. Its companion app also lets you tweak the sound as you see fit with a 10-band EQ.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels Stereo Physical Connections 3.5mm Physical Connections USB-C Portable Speakerphone Water-Resistant Learn More Marshall Middleton II Review -
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![Sony ULT Field 7]()
Best BoomboxSony ULT Field 7
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Sony's ULT Field 7 strikes a good balance between size and power. It delivers exceptionally strong audio with thunderous bass in a dustproof and waterproof design. Moreover, the guitar and mic inputs for karaoke, along with the built-in LED lights, make it great for backyard parties. Toss in features like advanced Bluetooth codecs and multiple wired and wireless inputs, and you have a winning combination.
Who It’s For
Bass lovers: If you want to not only hear the bass but also to feel it, the ULT Field 7 is a great pick. Its normal mode thumps, but the bass becomes palpable in the air once you hit the Bass Boost button.
Entertainers: Beyond being a great speaker, the ULT Field 7 also features guitar and mic inputs, allowing anyone to jam along with music or sing their heart out with karaoke. It also has lighting effects that sync with the beat to enhance the vibe.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels Stereo Physical Connections 1/4-inch Physical Connections 3.5mm Physical Connections USB Portable Water-Resistant Learn More Sony ULT Field 7 Review -
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![Sony ULT Tower 10]()
Best Party SpeakerSony ULT Tower 10
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Sony ULT Tower 10 is the ultimate speaker for backyard parties. It might be oversized and weighty, but it provides thunderous volume levels, intense bass response, a customizable light show, and a wide variety of wired and wireless inputs for high-quality playback. For karaoke fans, it includes a wireless mic and a guitar input with adjustable gain. A dedicated app lets you crank up the fun to 11.
Who It’s For
Party people: The ULT Tower 10 is incredibly loud, and our reviewer found that the speaker, when outside, could be heard from two blocks away. It’s not just loud; it delivers excellent sound that can be shaped using the speaker’s app controls, and it brings the beat.
People with a lot of space: This speaker is large in sound and physical size. At over 3.5 feet high and weighing nearly 64 pounds, this speaker prioritizes sound quality over portability. On the plus side, built-in wheels make it easier to move.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels 2 Physical Connections 1/4-inch Physical Connections 3.5mm Physical Connections Optical Physical Connections USB Portable Learn More Sony ULT Tower 10 Review -
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Credit: Mark Knapp
![Tribit StormBox Mini+]()
Best Speaker Under $50Tribit StormBox Mini+
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
For under $50, the Tribit StormBox Mini+ offers a surprisingly loud and capable sound signature, a solid app with an adjustable EQ, and a fully waterproof IPX7 rating. It also supports the AAC and SBC codecs for higher-quality playback from Apple and Android devices. Other highlights include a speakerphone, a rugged build, and decent battery life.
Who It's For
Mixed Android and iOS households: If you’re looking for an outdoor speaker that can play good audio from both Android devices and iPhones, the StormBox Mini+ delivers at a low price. Its codec support lets your family and friends stream regardless of platform and enjoy.
Tinkerers: The StormBox Mini+ works with a companion app that offers four EQ presets and allows you to create your own. You can also adjust the behavior of the LEDs.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels Stereo Physical Connections 3.5mm Physical Connections USB-C Portable Speakerphone Water-Resistant Learn More Tribit StormBox Mini+ Review -
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![Anker Soundcore Boom 2]()
Best Affordable BoomboxAnker Soundcore Boom 2
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Anker Soundcore Boom 2 is easy to tote thanks to its built-in handgrip. It offers palpable bass power and fun LED lighting in a waterproof, portable design. It has a powerful companion app that includes a customizable EQ, delivers 80W of power, carries an IPX7 rating, and can last roughly 24 hours per charge.
Who It’s For
People who want big sound for less cash: The Boom 2 produces plenty of bass and gets loud without distortion, even at maximum volume. We're also fans of the default tuning, which delivers a vibrant sound.
Pool people: The Boom 2 is water-resistant and can survive submersion up to three feet. That assumes you can submerge the Boom 2, because this speaker floats. If, for whatever reason, the Boom 2 takes a dive, it should survive.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels Stereo Physical Connections USB Physical Connections USB-C Portable Speakerphone Water-Resistant Learn More Anker Soundcore Boom 2 Review -
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![Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen)]()
Most Affordable Bose SpeakerBose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The second-gen SoundLink Micro offers the Bose sonic experience at a relatively low price. Its companion app lets you manage Bluetooth settings, customize the speaker’s shortcut button, and set up the EQ. This small speaker doesn't deliver the deepest bass, but it’s better than expected considering the compact design.
Who It’s For
Bose fans: If you’re loyal to Bose, the SoundLink Micro is the way to go if you’re looking for a low-cost portable speaker. It produces good sound, considering its size, and lasts up to 12 hours on a single charge.
People who listen everywhere they go: This speaker features an adjustable nylon strap, allowing you to attach the SoundLink Micro to bags, bike handlebars, or just about anything. If you want a speaker that travels with you, without having to chuck it in a bag, the SoundLink Micro is a great pick.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels Mono Physical Connections USB-C Portable Water-Resistant Learn More Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) Review -
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![Tribit PocketGo]()
Best Compact SpeakerTribit PocketGo
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The waterproof and affordable Tribit Pocket Go comes in at just 3.19 by 4.25 by 1.65 inches (HWD) and 7.8 ounces. It produces a full sound despite its small size, and it has exceptional battery life.
Who It’s For
Those who travel light: This tiny speaker easily fits in a bag and, at under 8 ounces, won’t weigh you down. Tribit claims a 20-hour battery life, so you shouldn’t need to carry a backup battery.
People who like physical controls: All of the Pocket Go's controls are on the top edge of the speaker. If you want a wireless speaker that gets down to business at the press of a (real) button, this is the one.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels Mono Physical Connections microSD Physical Connections USB-C Portable Speakerphone Water-Resistant Learn More Tribit PocketGo Review -
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![JBL Flip 6]()
Best for Big Sound From a Small SpeakerJBL Flip 6
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
JBL's Flip 6 speaker isn't as bulky as the Charge 5 or nearly as large as the Boombox 3, but it still produces surprisingly robust sound with rich lows from its weatherproof, oblong frame, thanks in part to passive bass radiators at both ends. It also comes in an attractive array of colors.
Who It’s For
People who want bass in a small package: The Flip 6 delivers powerful low-frequency depth. At maximum volume, the Flip 6 outputs good audio and remains distortion-free.
Specs & Configurations
Bluetooth Built-In Voice Assistant None Channels Mono Physical Connections USB-C Portable Water-Resistant Learn More JBL Flip 6 Review -
Compare Specs
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4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
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4.0 Excellent |
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4.5 Outstanding |
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Best For | Best Portable Sonos Speaker | Best for iPhone Users | Most Stylish | Best Boombox | Best Party Speaker | Best Speaker Under $50 | Best Affordable Boombox | Most Affordable Bose Speaker | Best Compact Speaker | Best for Big Sound From a Small Speaker | Best Portable Sonos Speaker | Best for iPhone Users | Most Stylish |
Channels | 2 | Stereo | Stereo | Stereo | 2 | Stereo | Stereo | Mono | Mono | Mono | 2 | Stereo | Stereo |
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Physical Connections | None | USB-C | 3.5mm, USB-C | 1/4-inch, 3.5mm, USB | 3.5mm, Optical, USB, 1/4-inch | 3.5mm, USB-C | USB-C, USB | USB-C | USB-C, microSD | USB-C | None | USB-C | 3.5mm, USB-C |
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Built-In Voice Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Sonos Voice Control | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | Amazon Alexa, Sonos Voice Control | None |
Buying Guide: The Best Outdoor Speakers for 2026
Can You Submerge Outdoor Speakers Underwater?
Manufacturers often claim a speaker is water-resistant or waterproof, but the only true measure of protection from liquid and other potential hazards is its IP rating.
Every proper IP rating consists of either a two-digit score or an X (which serves as a placeholder) followed by a single digit. The first digit refers to a product's protection against solids (such as dust), and the second refers to protection against liquids. The number range for solids spans from zero (no protection) to six (dustproof), and, for liquids, it's zero to eight (waterproof and submersible beyond depths of a meter for extended periods). When you see ratings with an X, it usually means the manufacturer didn't officially test for protection but believes the rating would be higher than zero. Most portable wireless speakers fall somewhere in the IPX5 to IPX7 range.
If a manufacturer neglects to list a speaker's IP rating but claims a water-resistant design, you can probably assume that it can withstand rain, sweat, and minor splashes, as well as occasional quick rinses in the sink. But submerging it in a pool or tub is not a wise idea without knowing the IP rating.
One quick note: Bluetooth audio doesn't transmit particularly well underwater. A waterproof design's primary benefit is its ability to withstand accidents or rough conditions.
What Size Speaker Is Best for Outdoors?
Not all portable speakers are small enough to stash in your backpack. In fact, plenty of the ones we test are relatively large and heavy. They are portable in the sense that you can carry them from your car to the campfire, but we wouldn't advise hiking with them.
Obviously, size plays a role in determining how much bass response and volume a speaker can project. Don't expect a pocket-sized speaker to have much, if any, bass depth. Of course, the bass frequencies don't matter nearly as much as a powerful high-mid and high-frequency response outdoors; there aren't any walls to shake and resonate powerful bass vibrations, so sound can carry only directly through the air (which is much more the treble's forte).
How Do Speakers Sound Outside?
Portable Bluetooth speakers have come a long way in the last half-decade. Today, small speakers can pack some fairly impressive firepower. This is largely due to the widespread use of passive radiators.
Passive bass radiators utilize a rubber-like material that vibrates sympathetically with the output of a powered driver, like when you place a speaker on a long wooden table and notice the table vibrating (in effect, seemingly increasing the bass response). The vibrations often create a sense of deeper bass, even though these radiators don't receive any power. It sounds like a gimmick that shouldn't work, but some manufacturers have figured out how to make it work.
Some outdoor speakers also feature outdoor listening modes. These modes tend to boost the treble to compensate for the lack of reflective surfaces when you're in the middle of a field or forest. The walls in your kitchen or office do, indeed, perform a function in transmitting audio to your ears, and without them, high frequencies, in particular, can sound dull, especially if you're not close to the speaker.
One more thing to note is whether a speaker is mono or stereo. Plenty of the Bluetooth speakers we test, especially the smaller ones, have only a single driver. Or they may have multiple drivers, but the drivers handle different frequency ranges and not left and right channels—in other words, the manufacturer decided that pumping out stronger bass matters more than stereo separation. That's not necessarily a bad approach. After all, if your left and right drivers aren't farther apart than your ears, you're not likely to hear much stereo separation. And even if you do have enough space between the drivers for stereo separation, you must still be a decent distance away from the speaker to get the full effect. Some manufacturers offer a workaround: They allow you to pair two units for a significantly wider stereo sound.
(Credit: Anker)Bluetooth codecs might also be a factor for higher-end models. If you care about bitrate (even outdoors), look for something that works with the hi-res-capable LDAC codec.
What's the Battery Life of Portable Speakers?
Many of these extra features, along with drivers that produce big bass at high volumes, come at the cost of reduced battery life. Almost every speaker we test uses an internal battery that can be charged via a USB port or an AC power adapter.
Typical battery life for portable speakers ranges from 10 to 20 hours, depending on size and features. But keep in mind that these are estimates. Manufacturers often list a higher battery life based on the assumption that you will listen at modest volume levels. As you might expect, blasting a speaker at top volume drains the battery more quickly.
If the speaker you're considering delivers less than 10 hours of battery life, it might be worth investing in a portable battery pack to keep the party going.
How Much Should You Spend on an Outdoor Speaker?
There are plenty of quality outdoor-friendly speakers available for less than $100. The top end of this price range gets you a reasonably good bass response and, typically, stereo audio. At the lower end, you are likely to find smaller mono speakers that struggle a bit with lower frequencies.
Below, say, $50, you're flirting with options that might not sound markedly (or at all) better than your phone. And if you're willing to reach above $200, there are many alluring options that pack far more power and features.
If you don't necessarily need something rugged, check out our list of the best wireless speakers overall. For budget-friendly options, check out our top picks under $100. For more outdoor-friendly tech, see our best outdoor smart home devices.