Looking for the best outdoor Bluetooth speaker? I was first introduced to one of these a while back and now it’s a staple in our home. Our top three picks will have you jamming out in no time. Whether you’re looking for something small and portable or something with a little more power and reliability, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s face it, most of us all love music. It gets us pumped up for a workout, maybe gets us amped up for work, helps us relax after a long day, and is the perfect accompaniment to any party. But lugging around a heavy speaker can be a pain and Bluetooth speakers that are small enough to fit in your pocket often don’t have the best sound quality. This is one reason why I truly believe everyone should have an outdoor Bluetooth speaker. One that was designed specifically for the outdoors (because that matters). These speakers are designed to provide clear, powerful sound while being lightweight and portable. And because they’re Bluetooth-enabled, you can control them from your phone or other devices without having to be in the same room.
Polk Audio Atrium 4 Outdoor Speakers
These speakers were engineered with the outdoors in mind. Period. Polk Audio Atrium 4 is truly an enriched audio experience for users. If you use semi-quality speakers, Polk Audio Atrium 4 will provide you with a dramatic improvement in your listening experience.
There is a two-year warranty on the polypropylene body of the speakers. Despite their diminutive size, they generate excellent sound quality and volume, so you don’t have to worry.
Besides being aesthetically pleasing, the speed lock system is also quite convenient. During installation, this mechanism comes in helpful.
These speakers are built to withstand the rigors of daily use. The Polk Audio Atrium 4 is hard to beat in terms of value for money. They’ll run you about $200 on Amazon (the best price we could find), but the value return and sound quality + experience are definitely premium. It’s reassuring that outdoor speakers of this kind of excellent quality can be yours for a very reasonable price. It won’t put a dent in your wallet.
The molded-in bracing and mineral-filled polypropylene cabinet can withstand extreme environmental fluctuations. It’s not a problem if it rains because these speakers are waterproof. Atrium 4 is a reasonably simple speaker to set up as well.
Benefits
- The sound quality is excellent
- It can withstand all weather conditions, super durable
- Includes stainless steel and brass hardware for 100% rust-free
- Can be placed vertically or horizontally so you get a customized experience with aesthetics
- It is reasonably priced.
Drawbacks
- Require a more significant amount of power and you have to buy the Bluetooth receiver to truly unleash that remote feature. A receiver will run you about $80 and a little technical know-how to install.
As far as outdoor speakers go, you can’t go wrong with the Polk Audio Atrium 4. These speakers pack a powerful punch despite their small size and won’t bust your wallet. It will not disappoint you if you reside in a location that encounters extreme temperatures and crazy weather.
JBL FLIP 5, Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker
The JBL Flip 5 speaker is an updated version of Flip 4’s cylindrical-shaped speakers. There is a range of colorful and cheery colors to choose from and more subdued black and white options for the Flip 5. A flat rubber panel stops the speaker from rolling around when it is placed upright or on its side. For people who want audio while they are engaged in any kind of water-related activity, this is the outdoor Bluetooth speaker to get.
There is a strap attached to one end of the speaker, and it can withstand submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes with an IP-7 rating.
It is slightly more environmentally friendly because it is made from recycled plastic and packaged in a way that minimizes the impact on the environment. It’s the little things that matter and the fact that JBL is making this kind of environmentally-conscious action is definitely noble.
Additional features include stereo playback across two speakers with the Party Boost function. Making calls or using your voice assistant is impossible without a microphone.
Benefits
- High-quality audio
- Long-lasting battery (JBL boasts of up to 12 hours of playtime)
- USB-C Quick Charge (the Flip 4 doesn’t have this)
- A 20W power output
- The sound is well-balanced and precise
- There is a lot of depth and warmth in the bass.
- Waterproof and rugged design
- Warm and dynamic sound
- Super easy to set up
Drawbacks
- A wired connection to a computer is not possible
- Lack of a microphone
- Lack of a 3.5mm jack.
You can carry the JBL Flip 5 everywhere, rain or shine, without worrying about running out of juice before the party is finished with this speaker. And with a price tag of around $100, this just might be one of the best Bluetooth speakers around.
Bose Soundlink Flex Bluetooth Portable Speaker
This wireless waterproof speaker for outdoor travel is not only an Amazon Choice product, but it delivers all the goods you could ask for from a portable speaker. It truly is a remarkable product. Is that surprising? Not really, considering it’s built by one of the premier audio brands around. Bose did an excellent job with this model. What really stands out is the placement and functionality of its buttons. On the side or top of the speaker, a control strip runs along its length when the speaker is standing up. Immediately below the screen are the power button, the volume control (minus) button, the speakerphone pinhole microphone, and the left and right sides of the screen have Bluetooth pairing buttons. By pressing twice, you can skip forward, or three times, you can go backward. The multifunction button allows you to play music, make calls, and navigate tracks. Buttons are easy to find (no guessing what the button does ~ which I’ve seen a lot with these kinds of speakers) and easy to operate.
In addition to the rubber covering on the rest of the speaker, there are feet on both the back and bottom that allow you to pull the Flex forward or upward. Bose just hit perfectly on those little nuances you notice. The back-firing passive radiator is covered with a small grille on the back which is fully waterproof. The right side comes with a loop to allow the speaker to hang from a carabineer or hook. Some things that make for great audio include powerful sound, deep bass, and clear highs.
Benefits
- The Bose Soundlink Flex is dust-tight and waterproof.
- The speakerphone sound is crisp and clear.
- IP67 waterproof standards
- USB-C charging and a battery life of up to 12 hours per charge
- Pairs with most Bluetooth enabled devices
- Built-in microphone
Drawbacks
- There have been some connectivity issues with the Bose Connect app with some consumers
- Upper-mid EQ sounds aren’t as crisp vs the JBL Flip 5 (still good though)
Bose Soundlink speakers are one of the best choices if you are looking for good outdoor speakers for private settings. If you plan on being active and involved with a lot of people and water, you may want to opt-in for the JBL Flip 5.
Do You Really Need An Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker
Let’s be real: Do you really need an outdoor Bluetooth speaker? The answer may surprise you. While Bluetooth speakers are certainly not essential, they can be a great addition to any outdoor space (and indoor as well). Here are a few reasons why I love these cool pieces of tech: First, Bluetooth speakers provide great sound quality. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just enjoy listening to music outdoors, Bluetooth speakers can help you enjoy your favorite tunes in high quality. Secondly, Bluetooth speakers are portable. Portability is a huge feature of sound nowadays. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, Bluetooth speakers can be a great way to take your music with you. Picnics, backyard parties, small gatherings…it doesn’t matter. They’re small and lightweight, so you can easily pack them up and take them with you wherever you go. Finally, Bluetooth speakers are weather-resistant and very durable. Even if you don’t plan on ever using these in the outdoors or in inclement weather or around water…they’re still a solid option for portable sound.
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