The best outdoor Bluetooth speakers for your open-air jams

Upgrade your outdoor sound system with one of these top-of-the line Bluetooth speakers.

The best outdoor Bluetooth speakers

by Jack Barrell |
Updated on

The presence of a quality speaker can be a real upgrade to any social or private setting. Picking out one of the best outdoor Bluetooth speakers is a no-brainer if you want to create an ambient atmosphere or set the tone at an outdoor function or get-together. More importantly, a Bluetooth outdoor speaker can be a lifelong investment, serving you for years of parties, gatherings, or warm summer nights spent in the garden.

The purpose of any Bluetooth speaker is to project sound further than your ordinary device can, but it’s not always as simple as loud is better. If you’re a bass junkie, seeking that booming concert experience, then the best Bluetooth speakers for bass will be right up your street. On the other hand, there are Bluetooth speakers that have been designed with sound clarity as the primary intention. These are great speakers for sound quality, they excel at delivering accurate and clear audio, which will compliment a range of music genres.

The best outdoor Bluetooth speakers at a glance:

Best overall: soundcore Boom 2 - View at Amazon
Best Bose: Bose Soundlink Max - View at Amazon
Best Sony: Sony SRS-XE200 - View at John Lewis
Best for bass: Marshall Middleton - View at Amazon

When you’re shopping for a new outdoor Bluetooth speaker, there are some technical specs you should look out for – but don’t worry, it’s nothing too complicated. If waterproofing is a non-negotiable, you’ll want to look out for the IPX rating, the higher the number the more resistant that speaker is. Battery life is understandably a big one, portable speakers range from five hours all the way up to 60 in some instances. The Bluetooth rating, power output, and speaker weight are other important specs to keep in mind too.

The best outdoor Bluetooth speakers of 2024:

Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.

Best overall

soundcore Boom 2soundcore
Price: £129.99
Alternative retailers
Newegg$129.99View offer

The soundcore Boom 2 offers virtually everything you could possibly want from a Bluetooth outdoor speaker, or any Bluetooth speaker for that matter. It’s super lightweight, and it has a clever built-in handle for ease of transportation. You’re getting 24 hours of listening time – yes, that’ll vary depending on the seven gorgeous LED settings you pick, but it’s far from anything detrimental.

The audio delivery of the soundcore Boom 2 is outrageously good. It has no business delivering sound this rich, and bass this deep in such a portable package and with such an attractive price tag, but it does so effortlessly. Listen comfortably with an IPX7 waterproof rating and get this – this thing actually floats too.

It fits the role of travel companion rather nicely too, doubling as a power bank, so you can charge any of your devices wherever the adventure takes you. We see it being a serious summer essential, we'd just love down the line to see it in some more vibrant colours to match those warmer months.

Pros

  • Next level audio clarity and bass delivery, especially outdoors
  • Super lightweight and portable
  • Exceptional 24-hour battery life, fit for adventure

Cons

  • More vibrant colour options would be a hit for some users
Size295.9 x 184.9 x 101 mm
Weight1.7kg
WirelessYes
WaterproofIPX7
Bluetooth5.3
Battery power80W

Best bass

What's The Best / William LobleyWhat's The Best / William Lobley
Price: £49.99
Alternative retailers
Best Buy$249.99View offer
Bloomingdale's$299.99View offer
Newegg$299.99View offer
Nordstrom$299.99View offer

The Marshall Middleton Bluetooth speaker is one of the most robust, powerful, and portable speakers. It delivers exceptional sound quality with impressive bass response and has four high-quality speakers and True Stereophonic technology. Its rugged design and IP67 rating ensure durability against water and dust, making it perfect for outdoor use. Although on the heavier side at 1.8kg, its performance and aesthetic appeal justify the investment.

With a battery life of over 20 hours and quick USB-C charging, the Middleton ensures uninterrupted music on your outdoor adventures. Priced at £269.99, it competes with home speakers but offers the added benefit of portability and premium audio quality.

This was tried and tested by William Austin-Lobley, who has this to say about his experience: "The Marshall Middleton is packing some serious audio heat. With two 3-inch 15W woofers, two 3/5-inch 10W tweeters, and passive radiators, it's the most well-equipped portable Bluetooth speaker I've had my hands on. The Middleton delivers balanced and powerful sound, whether handling delicate acoustic tracks or blasting rambunctious rock. Dance, electronic, and bass-heavy music are also well-served, with every element perfectly finding its place."

"The Middleton's stereo configuration and True Stereophonic technology create a spacious listening experience, superior to many 360-degree designs. Its build is tough, with an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance – ideal for outdoor use. The controls are intuitive, and the battery life impressive. While its 1.8kg weight may limit portability, the audio performance and refined design make it a standout choice for outdoor speakers in 2024."

You can read his full review here.

Pros

  • Excellent, premium-sounding, with hefty bass
  • Robust build quality with reliable battery life
  • Sleek, luxurious design

Cons

  • Some users may questions its portability
  • Sound
    5.0
  • Usability
    4.5
  • Value
    5.0
  • Overall
    5.0
Size109 x 230 x 95 mm
Weight1.8kg
WirelessYes
WaterproofYes
BluetoothBluetooth 5.1, Aux-in
Battery power20+ hours

Best waterproof

Expert rating:
4.5
LG XBOOM Go XG2Kyle Purves, What's The Best

With an IP67 rating, the LG XBOOM Go XG2 is both incredibly dustproof and waterproof, making it quite the durable little speaker. In fact, it's got military-grade toughness, so you won't need to panic if you drop it or it takes bump. It's compact enough to tie to the outside of your backpack, so it's clear that this is a speaker that thrives outdoors. Just be aware that the battery life isn't amazing.

This speaker was tried and tested by Kyle Purves, who said this regarding how it sounds – "I always pay close attention to how a speaker handles bass. It's not unusual for speakers this size to end up a bit muddy, and larger models tend to handle it a lot better. Thankfully, the XG2 does a great job with bass. Considering the unassuming output power, the boom that comes out from such a small speaker is a pleasant surprise. It's in part thanks to the bass algorithm that LG has used here, which also enables the bass to sound consistently great even at low volumes, further making the XG2 stand above other speakers its size."

You can read their full review here.

Pros

  • Excellent waterproofing
  • Military-grade durability
  • Superb dust protection

Cons

  • A larger battery life would be ideal
  • Performance
    4.5
  • Build
    5.0
  • Features
    4.0
  • Value
    4.0
Drivers1.5-inch woofer, passive radiator
Audio power5W
Battery lifeUp to 10 hours
Charging timeApprox. 4 hours
WaterproofingIP67
Dimensions9.8 x 9.4 x 4.6 cm
Weight0.280 kg

Best budget Anker


Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth SpeakerAmazon
Price: £39.99
Alternative retailers
Walmart$27.99View offer
Newegg$39.99View offer

The Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker boasts exceptional clarity and deep, thumping bass with its advanced audio technology. With a 24-hour battery life, IPX7 waterproof rating, and robust build, it's designed for anywhere life takes you. Experience sound like never before. It's just a pity that this speaker isn't supported by the Anker Soundcore app.

Pros

  • Multiple colours available
  • Excellent value
  • Reputable brand

Cons

  • Not supported by the Anker Soundcore app
Size165.1 x 55.9 x 45.7 mm
Weight357.2g
WirelessYes
WaterproofYes
Bluetooth4.2
Battery power80W

Best Sony

Prepare for crystal-clear sound, powerful bass, and a durable design with the Sony SRS-XE200 Waterproof Bluetooth Portable Speaker. With its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, 16-hour battery life, and easy portability, it's a brilliant audio companion for any adventure. There's said to be a small lack in sound clarity with some music genres, classical being one of them.

Pros

  • Perfect for every occasion
  • High quality, widespread sound
  • 16-hour battery life, ten minutes of charge provide 70 minutes

Cons

  • Lack of clarity in some music genres
Size208 x 90 x 94 mm
Weight800g
WirelessYes
WaterproofYes
Bluetooth5.2
Battery powerUnknown

Best budget Sony

Sony SRS-XB100 Portable Bluetooth SpeakerWhat's The Best / Harvey Isitt
Price: £127.89

Resident audiophile Harvey Isitt tested the Sony SRS-XB100 and found it an absolute steal, especially since it's 24 per cent off on Amazon. This portable speaker offers an elegant design, great sound, deep bass, and up to 16 hours of battery life, making it the perfect at-home or on-the-go companion.

From the moment the device is powered on, users are greeted with a chime that's as premium in sound as the speaker is in build quality. The speaker features five sleekly labelled, user-friendly buttons for power, Bluetooth pairing, mic/calling, and volume control. In terms of performance, it offers everything you need in a speaker the size of a tennis ball.

Its durable IP67 certification allows for safe use during outdoor adventures. The multi-way strap makes it easy to attach to your backpack, ensuring its safety and your peace of mind. The speaker also offers hands-free calling, making it an excellent option for improving video call quality with its built-in mic and echo-cancelling technology.

The USB-C to A charging cable provided is a convenient bonus should you not have a compatible connection. Sony also offers a dedicated Music Centre app for wireless device management, including streaming, device pairing, and multiroom speaker grouping.

Pros

  • 16 hours listening time
  • Super portable
  • Solid value for money

Cons

  • Sound quality won’t blow you away
Size74 x 92 x 74 mm
Weight274g
WirelessYes
WaterproofYes
BluetoothYes
Battery power5W, 16 hours

Best compact portable

Tribit StormBox Micro 2What's The Best / Olivia Sheed

Rrp: £79.99

Price: £59.99

The Tribit StormBox Micro 2 is an ultraportable Bluetooth speaker designed for outdoor adventures. We think this speaker is a must-have for anyone looking for powerful sound in a compact form. With the ability to pair multiple speakers for stereo or party mode, the StormBox Micro 2 packs a surprising punch for its size. It boasts an IP67 rating, making it waterproof and dustproof – ideal for hiking, camping, or poolside use. Additionally, it doubles as a power bank, providing extra convenience for those on the go.

Weighing slightly more than expected, this speaker feels sturdy rather than cumbersome. Its fabric cover and minimalist button interface make it visually appealing, while the included strap ensures easy attachment to bikes or backpacks. The speaker's impressive volume and deep bass, enhanced by Tribit's X-Bass technology and passive radiators, make it a standout choice for outdoor activities.

This was tried and tested by Olivia Sheed, who has this to say about her experience: "When I picked up the StormBox Micro 2, I immediately noticed how sturdy it felt. It's not too heavy, but definitely feels well-made. Setting it up to connect to my devices was easy, and I was really impressed with how loud it could get. At one point, I even placed it in another room and, after closing the door, I could still comfortably hear it. The buttons are easy to use, and the sound quality is awesome for a speaker this size."

"I did notice that while the bass sounded deep, the higher-pitched sounds occasionally lacked clarity, especially when I turned up the volume. However, I made some adjustments using the Tribit app, which helped a lot. I also love that it's waterproof and durable, so it was great in the garden and on the go. The fact that it doubles as a power bank for charging your phone is a really cool extra feature. Whether I attach it to my bike or use it in the shower, this speaker really impressed me in every way."

You can read her full review here.

Pros

  • Impressive bass for portable package
  • Compact portability
  • Doubles as a power bank

Cons

  • Should be adjusted before using via the app
  • Build
    5.0
  • Sound
    4.0
  • Features
    4.5
  • Value
    5.0
Size42.7 x 99.1 x 42.7 mm
Weight456g
WirelessYes
WaterproofYes
BluetoothYes
Battery power12 hours

Best for parties

The Sony MHCV73D High Power Bluetooth Party Speaker transforms any space, outdoor or indoor, into a dynamic venue with rich sound and booming bass. Featuring built-in party lights, karaoke modes, and DJ effects, it connects seamlessly via Bluetooth, ensuring an unforgettable audio experience for any event.

Pros

  • Super powerful speaker jet bass booster
  • Handy remote control included
  • Awesome LED light up feature

Cons

  • Some of the panel covers can be tricky to open up
Size921 x 428 x 37 mm
Weight21.2kg
WirelessNo
WaterproofYes
BluetoothYes
Battery powerUnknown

Best boom

Expert rating:
5.0
Anker Soundcore Boom 2 PlusWhat's The Best / Jack Barrell
Price: £249.99

The Soundcore Boom 2 Plus takes outdoor sound to new heights. At £199.99, this speaker offers nearly double the output of its predecessor, making it one of the most powerful Bluetooth speakers in its class. It retains the rugged, portable design of the Boom 2 but with enhanced sound capabilities, perfect for any outdoor setting, from busy parks to cosy back gardens. The Boom 2 Plus also features a dynamic light show and an improved BassUp function, delivering impactful bass and clear sound across all music genres.

Built for the outdoors yet suitable for any setting, the Boom 2 Plus impresses with its ability to effortlessly handle various musical ranges. Its user-friendly design, including a dedicated light show button, makes it a versatile addition to your audio arsenal.

This was tried and tested by Jack Barrell, who has this to say about their experience: "I tested the Boom 2 Plus over three weeks in various environments and was thoroughly impressed. The sound quality is exceptional, whether listening to bass-heavy tracks or more subtle, introspective music. The speaker’s increased size and power make a significant difference, and the light show feature adds a fun, visual element to any gathering."

"One minor drawback is the inability to check the battery percentage via Bluetooth on an iPhone, but this is a small issue in an otherwise outstanding product. The Boom 2 Plus is easy to carry, thanks to the shoulder strap, and its sleek design makes it look as good as it sounds. If you’re looking for a powerful, portable speaker, the Boom 2 Plus is an excellent choice."

You can read his full review here.

Pros

  • Unbelievably powerful outdoor speaker
  • Sleek, ultra-modern design
  • Robust and transportable via shoulder strap

Cons

  • No easy way of checking the remaining battery charge
  • Build
    5.0
  • Sound
    5.0
  • Features
    4.5
  • Value
    4.5
Size442 x 228 x 151 mm
Weight3.8kg
WirelessNo
WaterproofIPX7
BluetoothYes
Battery power140W

Best mini

JBL Go 3 ProductChris Duffil - What's the Best

The JBL Go 3 is a compact yet powerful Bluetooth speaker with a vibrant design and robust build. Perfect for students on the go, it features oversized tactile controls, a fully waterproof and dust-proof exterior, and impressive sound quality for its size. Available in eight eye-catching colors, it effortlessly combines functionality and style.

Designed for durability, the JBL Go 3 is ideal for outdoor activities and adventures. Its practical features include orange rubber grips for stability on slippery surfaces and a rope loop for easy carrying. Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity makes it reliable for use in various environments, making it a top choice for budget-conscious students.

This was tried and tested by Chris Duffill, who has this to say about his experience: "I chose the green version of the JBL Go 3, and its bold colours immediately impressed me. The controls are easy to use, even when the speaker is in my pocket or hanging from the loop. The controls, ports, and grips layout are well thought out, enhancing the overall usability. Although the battery status light placement is inconvenient, the power and Bluetooth buttons are well-positioned to prevent accidental presses."

"I'm Happy to report that this delivers on all fronts. It's not going to shake the room (or even the desk), but it might just vibrate the odd jelly bean off the shelf at maximum volume. All in all, I found this to be a sweet-sounding trooper of a speaker. It survived drops, total water immersion, vibration, and rain while dangling from my bicycle handlebar. This durable and fun little speaker is a great choice for students looking for a reliable and stylish Bluetooth speaker."

"You can read his full review here.

Pros

  • Extremely portable
  • So may colours available
  • Small but mighty

Cons

  • Five hours battery life won’t be enough for some
  • Design
    4.5
  • Build
    5.0
  • Features
    4.0
  • Value
    4.5
Size87.5 x 75 x 41.3 mm
Weight209g
WirelessYes
WaterproofIP67 waterproof and dustproof
Bluetooth5.1
Battery power4.2W RMS

Best value

Tribit StormBox 2David Ker / What's The Best
Price: £69.99

We think the Tribit StormBox 2 stands out in the budget Bluetooth speaker market. Compact yet powerful, this speaker offers 34W output from its dual drivers, creating impressive sound quality for its size. The durable build, featuring a houndstooth-like fabric and sturdy plastic, ensures it can handle various environments, while the IPX7 rating means it's water-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor use. With up to 24 hours of playtime and the latest Bluetooth 5.3, the StormBox 2 is an excellent choice for a reliable, portable, long-lasting speaker.

This was tried and tested by David Ker, who has this to say about his experience: "The StormBox 2 offers a significant improvement over its predecessor with more power, longer battery life, and the convenience of app control. Using the Tribit app, I could easily switch between EQ presets and control the XBass feature, which noticeably enhanced the bass. The passive radiators added a visually engaging element as they vibrated with the music, delivering a clear and powerful sound despite the speaker's compact size."

"Weighing just 580g, the StormBox 2 is easy to carry and fits comfortably in a backpack. The built-in mic for calls is a nice bonus, though not the clearest option available. The only downsides are the lack of recycled materials and limited colour options, but these are minor issues compared to the speaker's overall performance and value."

For more insights, check out his full review here.

Pros

  • Impressive battery life
  • Great power for its price
  • Supports both AUX and Bluetooth connections

Cons

  • Bass takes priority over vocals
  • Sound
    4.0
  • Usability
    4.0
  • Value
    5.0
  • Overall
    4.0
Size180 x 69 x 69 mm
Weight580g
WirelessYes
WaterproofYes
Bluetooth5.3
Battery life24 hours (at 60 per cent volume with XBass off)

Best mid-priced

The fairly priced JBL Charge 5 Bluetooth Speaker delivers powerful, high-quality sound with deep bass and clear highs. You're getting a long-lasting battery offering 20 hours of listening time, waterproof design, and party-boost capability, it's ideal for outdoor use. Charge your devices on the go with its built-in power bank.

Pros

  • Decent value for money
  • 20 hours of play time
  • Reputable speaker brand

Cons

  • No buttons on the speaker for skipping songs
Size96.5 x 223 x 94 mm
Weight980g
WirelessYes
WaterproofYes
Bluetooth5.1
Battery power40W

Best for practicality

The W-KING Bluetooth Speaker is as durable and practical an outdoor speaker as they come. It offers exceptional sound quality with powerful bass and crystal-clear highs. Boasting a long battery life, waterproof design, and robust construction, it's perfect for any adventure. Seamlessly connect to your devices for an uninterrupted audio experience wherever you go. You can even charge your devices with the built-in power bank.

Pros

  • Whopping 40-hour listening time
  • Can charge other devices
  • Super durable, designed for adventures

Cons

  • Doesn’t perform as well at low volumes
Size320 x 120 x 120 mm
Weight2.41kg
WirelessYes
WaterproofYes
Bluetooth5.0
Battery power50W

Best for adventurers

Expert rating:
4.0
Ultimate Ears EverboomWhat's The Best / David Ker

We think the Ultimate Ears Everboom is a standout choice for bass enthusiasts looking for a portable Bluetooth speaker. This speaker delivers immersive 360-degree sound in a robust, adventure-ready design. Waterproof, dust-proof, and floatable, the Everboom is built to withstand the elements and can easily be carried with its provided carabiner. With a wireless range of 55 meters and a battery life of 20 hours, it’s perfect for long outings.

The Everboom also features easy-to-use controls, including power, Bluetooth, and playback buttons. Its compatibility with the UE Boom app allows for personalized sound settings and a unique 'megaphone' feature to project your voice through the speaker.

This was tried and tested by David Ker, who has this to say about his experience: "One of my worries when spending on tech is the risk that I pose to my new gadget. Intrepid, fallible, clumsy – however critically I choose to label myself, the fact remains that once a piece of kit is out of its box, it's at the mercy of me and the elements. The Everboom does a fantastic job at quelling those concerns. Robust and resilient, it can take a tumble and remain unscathed. In this respect, it follows in the footsteps of its Boom forebears, all current versions of which have an IP67 rating (a measure of dust and water resistance). Not only that, but should it fall in the drink, it'll happily bob there for up to four hours or stay a meter deep for 30 minutes."

"This is all indicative of the pitch which Ultimate Ears is making with its most-recent offering: buy this if you want a speaker to take into the great outdoors. Indeed, this accounts for the choice of name – whatever, wherever, whenever, is the claim. In shape, it closely resembles the Epicboom, if on a smaller scale. Again, this is with portability in mind. It stands about the height of an average paperback and is light enough to carry with ease, helped by its rounded sides. I appreciated the balanced and exciting sound and found the improved Boom app to be an invaluable tool."

You can read his full review here.

Pros

  • Immersive 360-degree sound
  • User-friendly and robust
  • Quick to charge and long battery life

Cons

  • Design and colourways will not be for all
  • Sound
    4.0
  • Usability
    4.5
  • Value for money
    3.5
  • Overall
    4.0
DriversTwo 2.23 x 2.21 in (56.6x 56.2 mm) active full range transducers and two 49.4x87mm passive radiators
Audio power84 dBC (normal) and 85dBC (outdoor) in the anechoic chamber 3
ConnectivityFor audio playback: smartphones, tablets and other devices that support Bluetooth
Battery life20 hours
Charging timeApproximately one and a half hours
WaterproofYes
Dimensions110mm (L) x 85mm (W) x 205mm (H)
Weight960g
IP ratingIP67

Best budget outdoor speaker for bass

Expert rating:
5.0
Soundcore BOOM 2Jack Barrell/WTB
Price: £129.99
Alternative retailers
Newegg$129.99View offer

The Soundcore Boom 2 speaker stands out as a top pick for those who love outdoor audio experiences. It delivers robust bass, clear sound, and long-lasting battery life, making it ideal for both outdoor and indoor use. With its sturdy design, beat-sync LED lights, and waterproof features, the Soundcore Boom 2 is both a reliable and entertaining companion for any adventure.

Jack Barrell tested the Soundcore Boom 2 and shared his experience:

“I was amazed by the Soundcore Boom 2 speaker’s performance right from the start,” says Jack Barrell. “The sound quality is exceptional, offering crisp highs and deep, powerful bass. The Bluetooth connection is seamless, with a range that easily covers most areas in my home.”

“During my time with the Soundcore Boom 2 speaker, I found it to be consistently reliable. The battery life surpassed my expectations, lasting through extended listening sessions without needing a recharge. Additionally, the design is a significant advantage; it looks great in any setting and is built to withstand regular use. I’d highly recommend this speaker to anyone seeking high-quality sound and convenience.”

Read our Soundcore BOOM 2 review to discover more.

Pros

  • Powerful bass and audio
  • Strong, robust design
  • Ideal for budget buyers

Cons

  • Takes a long time to charge
  • Build:
    5.0
  • Design:
    5.0
  • Performance:
    5.0
  • Value:
    5.0
Drivers:50W racetrack subwoofer and 2 x 15W tweeters
Audio power:80W max (boosted from 60W with BassUp™ 2.0)
Connectivity:Bluetooth 5.3
Battery life:Up to 24 hours
Charging time:Approximately 5 hours via USB Type-C
Waterproofing:IPX7 rating (waterproof and floatable)
Dimensions:185 x 297 x 101 mm (H x W x D)
Weight:1.67 kg

FAQs

Are outdoor speakers waterproof?

Yes, if a speaker is advertised as an outdoor speaker, then it'll typically be waterproof to a certain extent. When buying an outdoor speaker, you need to keep an eye out for its waterproof rating. This is called the IPX rating, and anything between IPX4 and IPX7 is ideal. IPX4 speakers can take light splashes of water, but speakers with IPX7 can be submerged in water for up to half an hour.

How do Bluetooth speakers work?

Modern Bluetooth speakers are simple to operate. As long as you have a Bluetooth compatible device like a smartphone, tablet, or computer, you'll be able to connect - this is done through a process called pairing. You activate the pairing function on the speaker, typically by pressing or holding a button. Now, simply go onto the device you wish to connect, bring up the Bluetooth settings and your speaker should pop up as an option to connect to.

How much are Bluetooth speakers?

What's great about the market for Bluetooth speakers, is just how diverse it is. No matter your budget, you can get your hands on a quality model from a quality brand. Perhaps you're looking for the best budget Bluetooth speaker, you'll find it - the same goes for more high-end products too. At What's the Best, we've found Bluetooth speakers as cheap as £15, and as expensive as £1000.

Jack Barrell is a Tech and Fitness Writer for What’s the Best. He is invested in all things entertainment and keeps well up to date with the latest sports and exercise trends too. On his off days Jack can usually be found doing one of two things; lifting heavy weights – or watching his favourite Star Wars for the thousandth time.

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