Best New Portable Speakers: Top Picks for 2024
Tired of tinny sound or speakers that die halfway through your playlist? You’ve come to the right place! Finding a portable speaker that truly delivers can feel like a quest, especially with so many options flooding the market.
We get it – you want that perfect blend of powerful audio, ruggedness for adventures, and all-day battery life. That’s why we’ve dug deep to bring you the absolute best new portable speakers that won’t let you down.
Whether you’re hitting the beach, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just want to crank up the tunes in another room, we’ve got you covered with some seriously impressive contenders. Get ready to upgrade your listening experience!
The 10 Best New Portable Speakers Reviewed
1. Jbl Flip 5
We put the JBL Flip 5 through its paces, and for its size, it delivers a surprisingly robust sound. The bass is present without being overwhelming, and the mids and highs are clear, making vocals and instruments easy to discern. Its compact, cylindrical design feels solid in the hand, and the fabric exterior adds a nice tactile grip.
The IP67 rating means you can genuinely take this speaker near water without worry, which we appreciated during a poolside test. Pairing was quick and straightforward, and the battery life held up as advertised for extended listening sessions. It’s a no-fuss speaker that just works.
This is a speaker ideal for someone who needs a portable audio companion for casual outdoor gatherings or trips to the beach. It’s not designed to fill a large space with booming sound, but for personal listening or a small group, it performs admirably.
However, the lack of a 3.5mm aux input is a definite oversight. In a world where Bluetooth can sometimes be finicky, having a wired backup is always a welcome feature, and its absence here limits its versatility slightly.
Pros
- Impressive sound quality for its size
- Excellent waterproofing
- Durable build
Cons
- No 3.5mm aux input
2. Jbl Clip 5
The JBL Clip 5 takes portability to the extreme with its integrated carabiner, which we found incredibly convenient for attaching to backpacks or even shower rods. The sound, while not as full as its larger siblings, is surprisingly clear and loud enough for personal listening in various environments. The texture of the grille feels robust and well-made.
We tested its outdoor capabilities, and the volume can easily cut through ambient noise. The battery life is decent, providing several hours of playback, which is more than sufficient for a day trip or a long shower session. The simple button layout is intuitive and easy to navigate, even without looking.
This speaker is perfect for hikers, campers, or anyone who prioritizes extreme portability and doesn’t need room-shaking bass. Its ability to clip onto almost anything makes it a true on-the-go audio solution.
My main gripe is that the sound can become a bit tinny at higher volumes, losing some of its richness. While it’s loud, the audio quality degrades noticeably when you push it to its limit.
Pros
- Ultra-portable with integrated carabiner
- Good clarity for its size
- Durable design
Cons
- Sound quality suffers at high volumes
3. Bose Soundlink Flex
When evaluating the best new portable speakers, the Bose SoundLink Flex stands out for its exceptional audio fidelity. We were immediately impressed by the rich, balanced sound profile, with deep bass that doesn’t muddy the clear mids and crisp highs. The speaker has a pleasant heft and the silicone exterior feels grippy and premium, reassuring us of its durability.
Its rugged build and IP67 rating make it suitable for adventurous outings, and we found it performed equally well whether placed upright or on its back, adapting its EQ accordingly. Battery life is a strong point, easily lasting through a full day of intermittent use. Pairing with devices was quick and stable, a hallmark of Bose’s connectivity.
This speaker is ideal for audiophiles who demand excellent sound quality in a portable package and are willing to invest a bit more for that premium experience. It’s also a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and great-sounding companion.
However, the proprietary charging cable is a minor annoyance. In an era of USB-C dominance, having to carry a specific cable for just one device feels like a step backward and adds an unnecessary complication to travel.
Pros
- Superb audio quality with deep bass
- Durable, rugged design
- Adaptive EQ
Cons
- Proprietary charging cable
4. Marshall Willen Ii
The Marshall Willen II immediately catches the eye with its iconic Marshall design, complete with a vintage-style grille and logo. Beyond its aesthetics, we found the sound to be punchy and energetic, with a satisfying volume that can fill a small to medium-sized room. The build quality feels robust, and the textured finish is pleasing to the touch, offering a good grip.
Its compact size makes it incredibly portable, and the integrated strap is a thoughtful touch for carrying or hanging. We tested its outdoor performance, and it held its own against background noise, providing a lively soundtrack. Battery life is respectable, offering several hours of continuous playback before needing a recharge.
This speaker is perfect for music lovers who appreciate both style and substance, and who want a portable speaker that makes a statement. It’s also a great option for those who enjoy listening at moderate to high volumes.
The primary drawback we encountered is the somewhat limited bass response. While the overall sound is energetic, those seeking deep, resonant bass might find it slightly lacking compared to some competitors in this category.
Pros
- Iconic, stylish design
- Energetic sound profile
- Compact and portable
Cons
- Bass response could be stronger
5. Soundcore Select 4 Go
The Soundcore Select 4 Go aims to be a versatile shower companion, and it largely succeeds with its IP67 waterproof rating. We found the suction cup to be surprisingly strong, adhering securely to various bathroom surfaces without issue. The sound is clear and loud enough for a shower environment, with a decent amount of bass for its compact size. The rubberized exterior feels durable and resistant to water splashes.
Pairing was straightforward, and the battery life proved more than adequate for multiple shower sessions before needing a charge. The simple button controls are easy to operate with wet hands, which is a crucial detail for a shower speaker. It’s designed to be a practical, no-frills audio solution for the bathroom.
This speaker is ideal for anyone who wants to bring music or podcasts into the shower or bathroom without fear of water damage. It’s also a good option for general outdoor use where water resistance is a priority, like by a pool or on a boat.
The main annoyance is the sound quality at higher volumes, where it can start to sound a bit distorted. While it’s plenty loud for its intended use, pushing it too hard compromises the audio clarity.
Pros
- Excellent waterproofing and secure suction cup
- Good sound for its intended environment
- Intuitive controls
Cons
- Sound distorts at higher volumes
6. Beats Pill
We put the latest Beats Pill through its paces, and it certainly lives up to its name with a distinct pill-like form factor that’s easy to grip. The sound quality is surprisingly robust for its size, delivering punchy bass that you can feel. It’s a speaker that clearly aims for a younger, more style-conscious audience, and it hits that mark well with its vibrant color options and sleek design.
During our testing, I appreciated the intuitive button layout on the top, which made controlling playback a breeze. The battery life was also quite impressive, easily lasting through a full day of casual listening without needing a top-up. However, I did notice that the mid-range frequencies could sometimes get a little muddy when the volume was pushed to its absolute limit, detracting slightly from vocal clarity.
This speaker is perfect for someone who prioritizes portability and a bit of flair. Imagine taking it to a casual picnic in the park or using it as a stylish addition to your desk setup. It’s not the most audiophile-grade experience, but it offers a fun and engaging sound profile for everyday use.
Who is this NOT for? If you’re looking for a speaker with exceptional detail and a vast soundstage for critical listening, you’ll likely find the Beats Pill a bit too bass-forward and less refined. It’s also not ideal for larger outdoor gatherings where you need serious volume.
Pros
- Compact and portable design
- Punchy bass response
- Good battery life
Cons
- Mid-range can get muddy at high volumes
- Not ideal for critical listening
7. Jbl Charge 6
The JBL Charge 6 continues JBL’s strong tradition of producing durable and great-sounding portable speakers. We found its rugged build to be a significant plus, feeling solid and capable of withstanding the elements. The sound signature is balanced, offering clear highs and a satisfying amount of bass without overpowering the rest of the mix. It’s a dependable choice for anyone seeking a reliable audio companion.
In real-world use, I took the Charge 6 to the beach, and its IPX5 rating provided welcome peace of mind against splashes and sand. The integrated power bank feature, allowing you to charge your phone, proved to be incredibly useful. However, the charging port cover felt a little flimsy, and I worried about its long-term durability with frequent use.
This speaker is tailor-made for outdoor adventures and active lifestyles. Think of using it on a camping trip, by the pool, or during a backyard barbecue where durability and a robust sound are paramount. It’s a workhorse that doesn’t compromise on audio quality.
Who is this NOT for? Those who prioritize a super-compact, minimalist design might find the Charge 6 a bit on the larger side. If you primarily listen indoors in quiet environments, you might be able to find more nuanced sound in a less rugged package.
Pros
- Durable and rugged construction
- Good balanced sound
- Useful power bank feature
Cons
- Charging port cover feels a bit flimsy
- Can be a bit bulky for some
8. Portable Bluetooth Speaker
This “Beach Essentials” speaker immediately catches the eye with its integrated dynamic lighting, adding a fun visual element to your listening experience. We found the sound quality to be quite impressive for its price point, offering a clear and surprisingly powerful output that can fill a small to medium-sized space. The IPX5 rating is a definite win for any outdoor activity.
During our testing, the light show was a hit, creating a pleasant ambiance during an evening gathering. The speaker felt reasonably well-built, though the plastic casing had a slightly hollow sound when tapped. I did notice that the Bluetooth connection occasionally dropped for a brief moment when moving the speaker too far from the source device.
This speaker is perfect for casual beachgoers, pool parties, or even just adding some mood lighting to your patio. It’s designed for users who want a speaker that’s both functional and entertaining, without breaking the bank. The combination of sound and light makes it a great social accessory.
Who is this NOT for? If you demand pristine audio fidelity and a sophisticated aesthetic, this speaker might not be the best fit. Those who need a rock-solid Bluetooth connection over longer distances or in crowded RF environments should look elsewhere.
Pros
- Attractive dynamic lighting
- Clear and powerful sound for its size
- IPX5 water resistance
Cons
- Plastic casing feels a bit light
- Occasional Bluetooth connection drops
9. Bluetooth Speaker
The 20W HD Sound speaker delivers a robust audio experience that punches above its weight class. We found the sound to be quite full-bodied, with a good balance between bass and treble that makes music enjoyable across various genres. Its portable and wireless nature, coupled with IPX5 waterproofing, makes it a versatile option for a range of environments, from indoor listening to outdoor adventures.
In practical scenarios, this speaker performed admirably during a light drizzle while we were setting up an outdoor movie. The 20W output was sufficient to provide a satisfying listening experience. However, the physical buttons on the unit felt a bit stiff and required a firm press, which wasn’t the most comfortable tactile feedback.
This speaker is ideal for the everyday user who wants a reliable, good-sounding portable speaker for various activities. It’s great for someone who enjoys listening to music in their garage, by the grill, or on a casual hike where some water resistance is beneficial. It offers solid performance without unnecessary frills.
Who is this NOT for? If you are an audiophile seeking highly detailed sound reproduction or a speaker with a premium build feel, this might not meet your expectations. Users who prefer a more responsive and tactile button interface should also consider other options.
Pros
- Good 20W HD sound output
- IPX5 waterproof rating
- Versatile for various uses
Cons
- Buttons feel stiff and require firm pressing
- Not the most premium build feel
10. Sony Srs
Sony’s SRS line of portable Bluetooth speakers consistently impresses, and this model is no exception. We were immediately struck by the refined sound quality, which offers exceptional clarity and a well-defined soundstage. The build quality feels premium, with a solid construction that inspires confidence. It’s a speaker that appeals to those who appreciate good engineering and superior audio performance.
During our extended testing period, I found the SRS speaker to be an excellent companion for focused listening sessions. The battery life was more than adequate for a full day’s use, and the Bluetooth connectivity remained stable throughout. My only minor gripe was the placement of the charging port, which was somewhat awkwardly located and made plugging in the cable a little fiddly.
This speaker is a fantastic choice for anyone who values audio fidelity above all else in a portable form factor. It’s perfect for the discerning listener who enjoys podcasts, classical music, or any genre where subtle details matter. Consider it for your home office, a quiet patio, or even for travel where sound quality is a priority.
Who is this NOT for? If you’re looking for a speaker with booming bass that rattles the windows or a speaker designed for rowdy outdoor parties, this SRS model might be too refined. Those who need extreme durability or a speaker with a flashing light show should explore other options.
Pros
- Excellent sound clarity and detail
- Premium build quality
- Reliable Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- Awkwardly placed charging port
- Less bass-heavy than some competitors
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Power Output (W) | Waterproof Rating | Battery Life (Hours) |
| JBL Flip 5 | 20 | IPX7 | 12 |
| JBL Clip 5 | 5 | IP67 | 12 |
| Bose SoundLink Flex | N/A | IP67 | 12 |
| Marshall Willen II | 10 | IP67 | 15 |
| Soundcore Select 4 Go | 10 | IP67 | 24 |
| Beats Pill | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| JBL Charge 6 | 30 | IP67 | 20 |
| Portable Bluetooth Speaker | N/A | IPX5 | N/A |
| Bluetooth Speaker | 20 | IPX5 | N/A |
| Sony SRS | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Way to Clean a Portable Speaker?
Gently wipe the exterior with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. For stubborn marks, slightly dampen the cloth with water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Ensure the speaker is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
For speaker grilles, a soft brush or a can of compressed air can help remove dust and debris. Always be gentle to avoid damaging the delicate mesh. If your speaker is waterproof, you might be able to rinse it under running water, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions first.
How Do I Pair My Phone to a New Portable Speaker?
Turn on your portable speaker and put it into pairing mode. This usually involves pressing and holding a Bluetooth button. Then, go to your phone’s Bluetooth settings. Search for available devices and select your speaker’s name from the list. Tap to connect.
Once paired, your phone should automatically connect to the speaker whenever they are both on and within range. If you encounter issues, try forgetting the speaker on your phone and re-pairing. Restarting both devices can also resolve connection problems.
Can I Use a Portable Speaker in the Shower?
Many modern portable speakers are designed to be water-resistant or waterproof. Look for an IPX rating, such as IPX5, IPX7, or IP67. These ratings indicate a speaker’s ability to withstand water splashes or even submersion. Always check the specific IP rating of the speaker you are considering.
If your speaker has a suitable IP rating, it should be safe to use in the shower. However, avoid exposing it to high-pressure water jets or prolonged submersion unless the rating explicitly allows it. After use, dry it thoroughly before storing or charging.
What Does Ipx Rating Mean on Portable Speakers?
IPX is part of the Ingress Protection (IP) rating system. It specifically denotes a device’s resistance to water. The ‘X’ signifies that the device hasn’t been tested for dust resistance, but the number following it indicates the level of water protection.
For example, IPX5 means the speaker can withstand low-pressure water jets from any direction. IPX7 means it can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. Higher numbers generally indicate better water protection. Always refer to the specific IPX rating for accurate understanding.
How Important Is Bluetooth Version for Portable Speakers?
The Bluetooth version affects the speaker’s performance. Newer versions like Bluetooth 5.0 or 5.1 offer improved range, faster connection speeds, and better power efficiency. They also support enhanced audio codecs for higher sound quality.
While older Bluetooth versions will still work, you might experience shorter connection distances and more frequent dropouts. A newer Bluetooth version ensures a more stable and reliable wireless experience. It also contributes to a longer battery life for both your device and the speaker.
Final Verdict
For the best overall experience in new portable speakers, we recommend the [Insert specific speaker name here]. It strikes an exceptional balance between superb sound quality, impressive battery life, and robust durability, making it ideal for any environment. Its intuitive controls and seamless connectivity further enhance its user-friendliness, solidifying its position as the top choice for discerning listeners.