For some reason, it uses the older Bluetooth 4.2 instead of 5.0, but I didn't have any problems with connectivity.īose says it can fill a living room with sound. While Bose's SoundLink Micro also delivers impressive sound for its tiny size, this speaker is bigger, weighing just over a pound (0.45 kg) and measuring 7.9 inches wide, 2.1 inches deep and 3.6 inches high (20 by 5.3 by 9.1cm), so the Flex sounds significantly better than the Micro. The Flex also floats and Bose says it can survive drops and bumps, with a soft silicone back and powder-coated steel grille that "won't peel or flake and is resistant to corrosion and UV light." It's also equipped with Bose's PositionIQ technology to automatically detect the speaker's orientation and deliver optimized sound based on whether it's upright, hanging or flat on its back.
Available in three colors - black, white smoke and stone blue (pictured) - the speaker is IP67 dust- and waterproof, and rated for 12 hours of battery life at moderate volume levels. But it mostly lives up to the hype and is arguably the best-sounding wireless speaker for its relatively compact size. When it launched, Bose made some bold claims about its new SoundLink Flex Bluetooth speaker, particularly its bass performance.
MINI JBL SPEAKER PORTABLE
All of the portable speakers below are solid options, but certain features vary, so keep in mind which aspects are most important to you, whether it's battery life, sound quality or budget, so you can find the best portable Bluetooth speaker for your individual needs. If you're looking for the best portable Bluetooth speakers out there right now, read on. We're also highlighting the models that produce great sound for their compact size, have solid battery life and don't cost too much. This buyer's guide offers a look at our current favorites, with a focus on small and lightweight portable speakers that are well suited for travel and still have excellent sound output.
MINI JBL SPEAKER UPDATE
We continue to review mini Bluetooth speakers at a steady clip here at CNET, so we update this list fairly frequently. But for their compact size, many models manage to exceed expectations when it comes to sound quality. True, when it comes to smaller portable Bluetooth speakers - I call them mini or micro speakers, depending on how small they are - there are some limitations to their sound usually they can only output just so much bass and volume. Prices have come down a bit too, so you're getting more for your money. In fact, several models are fully waterproof and a few can even float. Luckily, wireless Bluetooth speakers have improved with time, and now offer better sound, longer battery life, increased Bluetooth range, more reliable connectivity and increased durability, particularly when it comes to water resistance. Portable speakers offer flexibility and convenience, but the best portable Bluetooth speaker won't compromise on sound quality just because of size. Not only can you stream your tunes from a phone, tablet or computer, but some of the best Bluetooth speakers also have built-in microphones so you can use them as a speakerphone for calls or meetings.
Aside from a good pair of headphones, a portable Bluetooth speaker is the best way to hear music whenever and wherever you are.