Student essentials: The best budget-friendly Bluetooth speakers for students

Bluetooth speakers that cut on price, not quality.

JBL GO 3 - Best budget-friendly Bluetooth speakers for students

by Harvey Isitt |
Updated on

As a student, you're well aware of the vital role music plays in our daily lives. From helping you focus to improving your mood and mental health, music is the perfect companion when you're hitting the books, gym, or unwinding after a long day of lectures. That's why finding the best speakers that fit your budget is crucial for leading a better, more productive student life. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly Bluetooth speakers or the best wireless speakers to upgrade your listening experience, having quality audio enhances your every moment.

If you're already at university or planning to go soon, you will likely hear music on or around campus. It could be a group of students practising yoga on the green or an outside study session. It could be a party in a hall, flat. Maybe it's a group of friends playing on the beach or gathered around an instant barbeque. Whatever the scenario, having a Bluetooth speaker on hand can make your student life a whole lot better. And while you may have been urged by an older friend or relative that alcohol and – oddly specific though no less vital – a doorstop are your two must-haves, having a Bluetooth speaker is just as essential.

The best Bluetooth speakers for students at a glance:

Best overall: Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 - View on Amazon
Best low-to-no-budget: Anker Soundcore Mini - View on Amazon
Best compact: JBL GO 3 - View on Amazon
Best premium portable: Marshall Willen - View on Amazon

As you may have noticed, the internet is flooded (and I mean flooded) with Bluetooth speakers, thanks to their immense, seemingly unending popularity. However, it can be overwhelming to choose amidst so many options. From flashy and expensive to the suspiciously cheap, without the proper knowledge, you may end up ripped off and riddled with buyer's remorse. But fear not, for this is where we come in.

Having combed through the market, we shortlisted a few of the best budget Bluetooth speakers, perfect for students from all walks of life. Whether you like a quiet night in or are hoping to host a party, we have got you covered!

Top budget-friendly Bluetooth speakers for students

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

Best overall

The Wonderboom 3 is a superb little speaker with 360 degrees of crisp, loud, far-reaching sound, perfect for any situation.

Its durable design and impressive water and dustproofing make it a great outdoor companion. With a battery life of up to 14 hours, you don't have to worry about being a music-less maestro while hiking with friends or spending a day at the beach.

The speaker also features a nifty "Outdoor" button, which adjusts its sound quality to compensate for the lack of walls it would usually rely on to better distribute sound.

However, it's important to note that the speaker doesn't have a standard USB-C port. Instead, it only features a Mini USB Port, so you need to remember to bring its separate cable while on the go.

Pros

  • Sturdy and compact design
  • IP67 water and dust proof
  • Outdoor mode adjusts sound quality for on-the-go listening

Cons

  • Mini USB port means slower charging times
ConnectionsBluetooth 5.2, Mini USB
Weight420g
Battery Life14 hours
WaterproofingIP67
Dimensions95.3 x 95.3 x 104 mm

Best low-to-no-budget

Anker Soundcore mini, Super-Portable Bluetooth SpeakerAmazon
Price: £24.99
Alternative retailers
Newegg$24.99View offer

This little guy packs a serious punch. Compact and powerful, this supremely portable, astonishingly affordable speaker delivers a strong, reliable sound and bass that is just too good to pass on for only £20.

Despite its tiny size and pinch-yourself price, the Soundcore Mini can provide up to 15 hours of unbroken listening and has a connection range of up to 66 feet.

So, this speaker is a must-have if you're after a productive afternoon or want to unwind over a pint with friends.

Pros

  • Excellent 5W driver for crisp sound and robust bass
  • Lightweight and compact build for easy portability
  • Incredible battery life for prolonged listening

Cons

  • Lacks fast charging
ConnectionsBluetooth, AUX, USB
Weight200g
Battery Life15 hours
WaterproofingNo
Dimensions68.6 x 68.6 x 68.6 mm

Best compact

Expert rating:
4.0
JBL Go 3 ProductAmazon
Price: £36.99
Alternative retailers
B&H Photo Video$29.95View offer
Walmart$36.99View offer
Blain Farm & Fleet$42.49View offer
Newegg$44.99View offer

The JBL GO 3 will surprise you. For such a small design, its sound delivery is huge. Offering a variety of vibrant colours, this sleek little speaker is the perfect summer companion. It is also water and dust-proof, making it ideal for those wanting to bring their tunes to the park, beach, or pool. With its durable build and eye-catching design, it's a great choice for anyone needing a reliable and stylish portable speaker.

However, due to its compact design, it has a limited battery life of up to 5 hours. While this may be perfect for a run or workout, it may not be enough for lengthier activities like hikes or study days. If you’re looking for something that balances fun and functionality in a small package, the JBL GO 3 is worth considering.

This was tried and tested by Chris Duffill, who has this to say about his experience: “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, plus vibration and rain while dangling from my bicycle handlebar. It’s a fun-looking yet tough little speaker that sounds great for its size and is perfect for those on the go.”

Read his full review here.

Pros

  • Sleek design and incredible portability
  • IP67 dust and waterproofing
  • Great sound for something so small

Cons

  • Limited battery life of only 5 hours
  • Design
    4.5
  • Build
    5.0
  • Features
    4.0
  • Value
    4.5
ConnectionsBluetooth, USB-C
Weight209g
Battery Life5 hours
WaterproofingIP67
Dimensions69 x 86 x 40 mm

Best premium portable

Expert rating:
4.5
Marshall WillenWhat's The Best / Ryan Houghton
Price: £92.32
Alternative retailers
Macy's$79.99View offer
Newegg$79.99View offer
Best Buy$87.99View offer
Target$119.99View offer

We think the Marshall Willen is an excellent choice for students seeking an affordable yet powerful Bluetooth speaker. Its ultra-lightweight, compact design makes it perfect for on-the-go use, whether heading to the park or relaxing at home. Priced competitively, it offers impressive sound quality with warm, precise tones that belie its small size. The durable build, featuring a rubber outer coating, ensures it can withstand the rigours of student life.

With a sleek retro aesthetic and user-friendly features like a brass joystick for easy control, the Marshall Willen combines style and functionality. Its robust battery life, lasting up to 16 hours on a single charge, ensures you can enjoy your favourite music all day without interruption.

This was tried and tested by Ryan Houghton, who has this to say about his experience: "I've had the Marshall Willen for some time, and I must admit, I was initially sceptical about its performance given its budget-friendly price. However, I was pleasantly surprised by its phenomenally warm, bassy, yet precise sound. From bass-heavy electronic tracks to detail-rich acoustic pieces, the Willen consistently delivered impressive audio quality that exceeded my expectations."

"While the design is appealing, I found the white model less attractive due to the random rubber-leather lines and bumps on the back. Nevertheless, its exceptional battery life and unique features, like the brass joystick, make it a standout choice for students looking for a reliable and stylish speaker. Despite minor design quirks, the Willen's performance and affordability make it an excellent addition to any student's tech collection."

You can read his full review here.

Pros

  • Excellent build quality and portability
  • Impressive mid-to-high frequencies
  • Great sound, deep bass, and fantastic battery life

Cons

  • Odd design choice on the back side of the speaker
  • Performance
    4.5
  • Build
    4.5
  • Features
    5.0
  • Value
    5.0
ConnectionsBluetooth 5.1
Weight0.31kg
Battery LifeUp to 16 hours
WaterproofingIP67
Dimensions101.6 x 100.5 x 40.4 mm

Best under £100

Expert rating:
5.0
JBL Flip 6What's The Best / Harvey isitt

The JBL Flip 6 is a portable Bluetooth speaker that combines affordability with premium sound quality. It's perfect for students who need a reliable speaker for parties, outdoor adventures, or just chilling in their dorm rooms. With its rugged, waterproof design and powerful audio, the Flip 6 can handle everything from study sessions to impromptu get-togethers. Its compact size makes it easy to carry around, fitting neatly into any backpack.

Despite its small stature, the Flip 6 delivers deep bass and crisp highs, thanks to JBL's innovative design. The speaker's ability to pair with other JBL speakers adds even more value, making it a versatile choice for those who love to share their music with friends.

Here's what Olivia Sheed said when reviewing: "I've used several Bluetooth speakers over the years, but the JBL Flip 6 surprised me with its performance. Setting it up was a breeze, and it quickly connected to my Samsung S21+, allowing me to dive right into my playlist. I compared it side-by-side with my older Bose SoundLink Mini, and the Flip 6 held its own, delivering impressive sound quality that rivalled a speaker twice its size."

"The bass, in particular, was a standout feature. I tested it with various genres, including bass-heavy tracks, and the Flip 6 handled them without distortion. The durable, waterproof build also made it an excellent shower companion, ensuring it could withstand some splashes without issue. For students who need a dependable and portable speaker, the JBL Flip 6 is an excellent choice."

You can check out her full review here.

Pros

  • Powerful bass
  • Great dynamic range and performs well at all volumes
  • Portable size and weight

Cons

  • Lacks the power bank included in the JBL Charge 5
  • Design
    5.0
  • Build
    5.0
  • Features
    4.5
  • Value
    5.0
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Bluetooth
Weight550g
Battery Life12 hours
WaterproofingIP67, does not float
Dimensions178 x 68 x 72 mm

Best all-rounder

Sony SRS-XB100 Portable Bluetooth SpeakerWhat's The Best / Harvey Isitt
Price: £121.00

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

  • Durable IP67-certified design for travelling
  • Lightweight and portable, with an adaptable multi-way strap
  • Hands-free calling and Echo cancelling technology

Cons

  • Volume not suitable for larger gatherings
ConnectionsBluetooth, USB-C
Weight274g
Battery Life16 hours
WaterproofingIP67
Dimensions74 x 92 x 74 mm

Best smart

The perfect addition to your dorm room or student house, the Echo Dot offers clear, vibrant and reliable sound. With voice assistant Alexa, you don't have to worry about the hassle of opening up Spotify to select or change your playlist.

With smart assistance, start your request with a simple "Alexa" and instantly access your music, audiobooks and other audio content. Whether you're in the mood for a study playlist or need a burning question answered, Alexa has you covered. Alexa's ability to set timers makes the Echo Dot a great kitchen addition to any student household.

Despite its deceptively sleek design, there is, in fact, a touch response pad on the top of the device. You can tap this to pause a song, end a call, or snooze alarms. But ensure the latter temptation doesn't make you late for class!

Pros

  • Alexa compatible for hands-free ease of use
  • Sleek, aesthetic design to upgrade your space
  • Offers device pairing for multi-room setup

Cons

  • Requires AC power, so lacks portability
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Bluetooth
Weight340g
Battery LifeN/A
WaterproofingNo
Dimensions100 x 100 x 89 mm

Best outdoor

Look no further than the W-KING Bluetooth speaker for those wanting to elevate their outdoor gatherings. With its exceptional sound quality, robust waterproofing, and a whopping 40-hour battery life, this speaker reigns supreme when it comes to practicality.

It's a must-have for camping trips and those wanting to take their parties to the beach and through the night. Likewise, it's equipped with a built-in power bank, a handy feature for topping up your device's charge on the go.

Pros

  • Full sound and huge bass for larger gatherings outdoors
  • Incredible 40-hour battery life for those partying through the weekend
  • Power Bank to charge other devices

Cons

  • Sound quality suffers somewhat at lower volumes
ConnectionsBluetooth 5.0, AUX, USB-C
Weight2410g
Battery Life40 hours
WaterproofingIPX6
Dimensions320 x 120 x 120 mm

Bestfor parties

Anker Soundcore Motion Boom Portable Bluetooth SpeakerAmazon

Rrp: £109.99

Price: £99.99
Alternative retailers
Walmart$99.99View offer
Newegg$99.99View offer

If you’re more likely to host a house party than spend a quiet night (got to pack as much in before exams come around), this is the best budget speaker for you.

This top-rated speaker from Soundcore is a powerhouse, delivering high-quality sound for up to 24 hours of nonstop listening. Its clear highs and booming bass are seriously impressive, even if the mid-tones can sometimes be overshadowed (expected at this price range).

However, for those looking to fine-tune their tunes, the speaker comes with an official Soundcore App that allows users to switch between EQ modes, including Soundcore Signature (for casual listening) and Voice mode (to highlight vocals).

Its IPX7 floatability and waterproofing also make it a reliable outdoor addition that will survive the bumps and splashes of outdoor adventuring.

Pros

  • Impressive 24-hour battery life for extended listening
  • Uses latest Bluetooth 5.0 technology for ultra-reliable connection
  • Waterproof and floatable if dropped into water

Cons

  • Sound quality is less than ideal at lower volumes
ConnectionsBluetooth 5.3, USB-C
Weight1980g
Battery Life24 hours
WaterproofingIPX7
Dimensions346 x 148 x 200 mm

Best luxury

Expert rating:
4.5
Sonos One 2nd Gen Wireless Smart SpeakerArgos

Those aware of Sonos may wonder why it's so low on the list. First, it's a top ten, so all ten are expert-approved, but considering this article is for those on a student budget, spending £200 on a speaker may blow it. However, for those able or willing to pay more and want a speaker for their dorm or home listening, the Sonos One is a must.

The Sonos One (Gen 2) smart speaker is a sleek addition to their incredible array of speakers, with Alexa built-in. Its weighty build and premium quality make it a perfect addition to any space. With a quick setup and an excellent companion app, it offers unmatched ease of use.

The sound quality is phenomenal, with a balanced yet vast soundstage. Its TruePlay features allow it to adjust the sound distribution to suit your space's specific acoustics – it really does make a difference.

Other than the bass breaking when taken to the max volumes – something, given its almost deafening volume capabilities, will be a rarity for users – it's difficult to fault this magnificent piece of kit.

Pros

  • Stylish design with deep bass and impressive soundstage
  • TruePlay feature for precise room tuning
  • Alexa and companion app for ease of use

Cons

  • Bass distortion at maximum volume
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Bluetooth
Weight185g
Battery LifeN/A
WaterproofingNo
Dimensions162 x 120 x 120 mm

Best budget battery

Expert rating:
4.5
Tribit XSound GOWhat's The Best / Chris Duffill
Price: £169.99

At under £50, the Tribit XSound GO offers impressive sound quality, especially bass. The speaker features a robust waterproof design for splashes and submersion. With a full day of playback on a single charge, it's perfect for long listening sessions. Its compact, soundbar-like design and weight of around 370g make it highly portable without sacrificing durability or performance.
The Tribit XSound Go also boasts excellent connectivity and a comfortable Bluetooth range. The raised tactile buttons allow for easy control, though they can be hard to see in low light. Additional features include a 3.5mm aux-in and stereo pairing capabilities, enabling you to enhance your listening experience by pairing two speakers for better stereo separation.

This was tried and tested by Chris Duffill, who has this to say about his experience: "For my money, the Tribit XSound Go is up there with the best speakers a relatively small amount of money can buy. I've taken this on picnics, into the garden in the rain, and in the shower. It's powerful enough to cut through the sound of a power shower with ease. The bass response is way beyond what I expected for the size of the XSound Go and the highs and mids pop."

"Even at the highest volume, the speaker was never unlistenable, just a little rough around the edges. It's survived submersion, drops onto concrete, and even a cup of tea. Battery life is excellent, providing a full day of listening after a 4-hour charge. The rubberized exterior is prone to marks and fingerprints, but that's a small price to pay for such a small yet powerful waterproof speaker. If you want a great balance between power and true portability with an amazing bass response, the Tribit XSound Go is a superstar."

You can read his full review here.

Pros

  • Far-reaching audio with impressive bass
  • Long-lasting battery with reasonable charge time
  • Durable design, with IPX7-rated waterproofing

Cons

  • Black buttons hard to see in low light
ConnectionsBluetooth, 3.5mm aux-in
Weight370g
Battery LifeUp to 24 hours
WaterproofingIPX7
Dimensions56 x 59 x 170 mm

Best versatile

Expert rating:
5.0
Anker Soundcore Motion X500What's The Best / Kyle Purves
Price: £169.99

The Soundcore Motion X500 is an impressive addition to Anker's lineup, combining portability with high-quality audio. This Hi-Res certified Bluetooth speaker offers rich spatial audio that enhances any listening experience, available in Black Deluxe, Pink Punch, and Glitzy Blue. Its compact, lightweight design and IPX7 waterproof rating make it perfect for indoor and outdoor use.

With three drivers, the Motion X500 delivers powerful, clear sound that fills any space. Its various EQ modes, including bass boost and dynamic mode, allow you to customize your audio experience. This mid-budget speaker is a versatile choice for students seeking reliable, high-quality sound.

This was tried and tested by Kyle Purves, who has this to say about their experience: "Its trio of drivers ensures volume and clarity, making it a great speaker for music. Its impressive sound projection and spatial audio are particularly notable."

"I appreciated the different EQ modes, especially the dynamic mode, which seemed perfectly tuned to my preferences. The X500 isn't just for music – it enhanced my experience watching videos and playing games, too. The 12-hour battery life was sufficient for my needs, and I found it charged faster than advertised. Its sturdy, waterproof build makes it ideal for indoor and outdoor use, proving it's a fantastic option for students looking for a dependable speaker."

You can read their full review here.

Pros

  • Fantastic audio projection and potential volume
  • Reliable battery life with easy charge time
  • Alexa and companion app for ease of use

Cons

  • Bass distortion at maximum volume
ConnectionsWi-Fi, Bluetooth
Weight185g
Battery LifeN/A
WaterproofingNo
Dimensions162 x 120 x 120 mm

Best value

Expert rating:
4.5
Tribit StormBox 2What's The Best / David Ker
Price: £69.99

The Tribit StormBox 2 is a small, powerful Bluetooth speaker perfect for students on a budget. Standing 18cm tall and weighing around 580g, it delivers 34W of power through its two drivers and features passive radiators that enhance bass. The device supports up to 24 hours of playtime and offers a durable design with water resistance rated at IPX7. It's compatible with the Tribit app, providing EQ presets and the ability to pair with another speaker for a stereo experience. At an RRP of £63, it's a great value option for those seeking high-quality sound on the go.

This was tried and tested by David Ker, who has this to say about their experience: "The sound quality is remarkable for its size, producing clear and loud audio with powerful bass. Its 34W output and 24-hour battery life are standout features, making it ideal for long study sessions or weekend trips. Despite its small size, it's robust and portable, fitting easily in a backpack.

However, there are a few drawbacks. The fabric strap, while useful, can be a bit awkward, and the lack of recycled materials is a missed opportunity for sustainability. The speaker performs well for music but isn't the best for audiobooks or podcasts due to the sound profile. Nonetheless, for students looking for an affordable, high-quality Bluetooth speaker, the StormBox 2 is a solid choice."

You can read her full review here.

Pros

  • Exceptional power and battery life for price
  • User-friendly interface
  • Connectivity options include AUX and Bluetooth 5.3

Cons

  • Bass can sometimes overshadow vocals
  • Build
    5.0
  • Sound
    4.0
  • Features
    4.5
  • Value
    5.0
Dimensions‎ 180 x 69 x 69 mm
Weight580g
Battery Life24 hours
WirelessYes
WaterproofingIPX7
ConnectionsBluetooth 5.3, USB-C

Best portable

Expert rating:
4.5
Tribit StormBox Micro 2What's The Best / Olivia Sheed

Rrp: £79.99

Price: £59.99

We think the Tribit StormBox Micro 2 is a fantastic choice for students looking for an affordable and portable Bluetooth speaker. This compact speaker delivers impressive sound quality, particularly volume and bass, making it ideal for parties or just filling a dorm room with music. Its rugged design includes a sturdy strap for easy attachment to bikes or backpacks, and it also doubles as a power bank, adding to its practicality for students on the go.

The StormBox Micro 2 is also waterproof with an IP67 rating, so it's perfect for outdoor adventures or even in the shower. Its compatibility with the Tribit app allows for customised EQ settings, ensuring you get the best possible sound experience.

This was tried and tested by Olivia Sheed, who has this to say about her experience: "After a month of daily use, I can confidently say that the StormBox Micro 2 won't be fading into obscurity anytime soon. It's surprisingly hefty, which lends a sense of sturdiness rather than feeling bulky. Pairing was a breeze, and I was genuinely amazed by the volume it could reach for such a small device."

"I was particularly impressed with its bass performance, which is enhanced by Tribit's X-Bass technology. However, I did notice some weaknesses in the higher frequencies at higher volumes, which required some adjustment via the Tribit app. Despite this, the speaker's overall sound quality, portability, and extra features like the power bank and waterproof rating make it a standout choice for students who need a reliable, versatile speaker that fits their budget."

You can read her full review here.

Pros

  • Lightweight and super-portable with handlebar mount
  • Quick and easy connectivity with Bluetooth 5.3
  • Impressive bass for such a small speaker

Cons

  • Battery life could be a bit better
  • Build
    5.0
  • Sound
    4.0
  • Features
    4.5
  • Value
    5.0
Dimensions‎ 42.7 x 99.1 x 42.7 mm
Weight456g
Battery Life10 hours
WirelessYes
WaterproofingIP67
ConnectionsBluetooth 5.3, USB-C

Best waterproof

Expert rating:
4.5
Small speaker, big sound: Soundcore Motion 100 reviewWhat's The Best / Kyle Purves
Price: £59.99
Alternative retailers
Newegg$69.99View offer
Walmart$94.82View offer

The Soundcore Motion 100 is a compact, portable Bluetooth speaker perfect for students on the go. We think this budget-friendly speaker delivers impressive sound quality and durability in a small package. With its IPX7 waterproof rating, the Motion 100 is an excellent choice for outdoor activities or as a reliable shower speaker. Its 20W output ensures powerful audio, while the lightweight design makes it easy to carry anywhere.

Despite its size, the Motion 100 offers 12 hours of battery life, so you won't need to worry about frequent recharging. This versatile speaker also includes a bass boost mode and customizable EQ settings through the Soundcore app, allowing you to tailor the audio experience to your preferences. At under £60, the Motion 100 provides excellent value without compromising performance.

This was tried and tested by Kyle Purves, who has this to say about their experience: "I've tested many Soundcore speakers and really liked the Motion 100. It's small and easy to carry around. It works well for playing music, delivering clear and powerful audio. It's also waterproof for shower use and durable enough for outdoor activities. I was impressed by how well the Bluetooth connection held up, even when I was far away from the speaker. And the battery lasts a long time, which is perfect for everyday use."

"The bass boost feature didn't always work well with every genre of music, but overall, I was happy with how the speaker performed, especially considering its price. I liked that I could adjust the sound to fit my preferences, and it's a great option for students who want a versatile Bluetooth speaker that's affordable and reliable."

You can read their full review here.

Pros

  • Great IPX7 waterproofing for using in the shower
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Consistently rich audio performance

Cons

  • Lesser bass than other Soundcore speakers
  • Performance
    4.0
  • Build
    5.0
  • Features
    4.0
  • Value
    5.0
Dimensions66 x 200 x 88 mm
Weight689g
Battery Life12 hours
WirelessYes
WaterproofingIPX7
ConnectionsBluetooth, USB

Best submerisble

The Creative Audio MUVO Play is the go-to speaker for those expecting to be around water. Whether in the shower, bath, by a pool or at the beach, you can rest assured that its impressive IPX7 waterproofing means it can withstand complete submersion. It can last in up to 1 metre of water for up to 30 minutes.

While its bass could be better, this speaker packs a punch when it comes to volume. It also offers stereo pairing for those wanting to ramp up their experience with multiple devices; however, actually pairing the devices can be less than easy.

Pros

  • Incredible IPX7 waterproofing for using in the shower or by the pool
  • Reliable connections for ease of use
  • Lightweight design for easy backpack portability

Cons

  • Underwhelming bass
Dimensions800 x 800 x 1100 mm
Weight360g
Battery Life10 hours
WirelessYes
WaterproofingIPX7
ConnectionsBluetooth, USB, Aux

How to choose the best Bluetooth speaker for you

Portability

When it comes to portability, you should consider whether taking your tunes outside is for you. Whether for a hike, beach trip, barbeque with friends, portability should be your highest priority. Factors that usually determine this include size, weight, build quality, durability, water and dust resistance, and battery life.

Battery Life

Battery life is crucial when choosing a speaker, especially for outdoor use. If you're going to the beach for an instant barbeque with mates, you'll need at least six to eight hours of battery life. For hikers, you don't want to be three hours in when your music cuts out!

And yet, even if it lasts the duration of your hike, party, or beach trip, it might not be enough. You don’t want to risk pausing your plans while your speaker charges. So, in addition to battery life, it’s advisable to consider the speaker’s estimated recharge times and whether buying a fast-track charger is an option.

Water and dust resistance

For those who want to take their music to a place where electronics are less likely to behave – the beach or pool, let’s say – water and dust resistance is a necessity. Such resistance prevents water and dust particulates from entering and damaging the components inside your speaker.

You may have come across speakers with “IP” in their names. IP, or Ingress Protection, tells users whether a product is protected against water and particulates.

Budget-friendly Bluetooth speaker for students being splashed with water
IP, or Ingress Protection, indicates if a product is water and dust resistant ©Unsplash/Phuc H.

Can’t afford the speaker you want?

After relying on your parents to handle everything when it comes to money, transitioning to university life can be difficult. Unless you've previously had a part-time job, managing your expenses on a less-than-slim budget can be a struggle at the best of times.

If you've decided to get a Bluetooth speaker but can't afford the one you want, consider splitting the cost with your flatmates, especially if you plan on living with them for the duration of your studies. You'll get at least thee years of enjoyment out of it before deciding who gets to keep it when you're nearing the end of your final year (a situation all students face).

For those that can't decide, advertising your second-hand items on your university's Facebook page (an excellent place for selling and passing on used textbooks, etc.), Facebook Marketplace, and other alternative sites is always a good solution.

FAQs

Are cheap Bluetooth speakers worth it?

Many people have a common and understandable belief that the higher the price, the higher the quality. And yes, quality often correlates with price. However, that doesn’t mean you need to hand over your wallet to get a Bluetooth speaker. Yes, some phenomenal extortionately priced Bluetooth speakers are on the market, but some seriously incredible, affordable options will meet and exceed your expectations.

What’s the best Bluetooth speaker brand?

For those after more budget-friendly Bluetooth speakers, brands such as JBL, Ultimate Ears, and Anchor offer some great speakers that, despite their size, can pack a punch and offer an excellent battery life. For those willing to spend more, some great brands for the mid-to-higher range include Sonos and Bang & Olufsen.

A budget-friendly JBL Bluetooth speaker for students
©Pexels/Jovan Curayag

What Bluetooth speaker should I buy?

When it comes to buying a Bluetooth speaker, as clichéd as it sounds, it genuinely does depend on your situation and budget. Generally, the main factor you should consider is where you will primarily use your speaker. If you’re a homebody looking for a companion while you cook or unwind, there are some great wireless speakers for home. Whereas, if you bring your tunes outdoors and into environments typically unsuitable for electronics, portable outdoor speakers are the way to go.

Where is it best to put a Bluetooth speaker?

Not to underestimate, the placement of a Bluetooth speaker can make all the difference in sound quality. It’s good practice to place your speaker near a wall to allow the device to bounce the sound more effectively around your space.

Where can I find the best deals on Bluetooth speakers?

If you're after student deals, apps such as UNIDAYS and Student Beans are must-haves for any purchase.

Another smart move is to look out for "buy now, pay later" service providers which allow you to make a purchase and defer the payment to a later date at no extra cost. Klarna offers you the option to either "pay in full" (either now or in 30 days) or "pay over time". If you choose the latter, Klarna will split the price into three smaller monthly instalments. This can be a real lifesaver and safety net, especially if you're waiting for your pay slip or that tenner you lent to your mate.

However, depending on your need for your product, you should consider delaying your purchase until the Prime spring sales, pre-school July to September window, or Black Friday deals.

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Read more about why you should trust us.

Harvey Isitt is a Tech Writer and Reviewer for What's the Best. Harvey writes reviews, buyers and how-to guides, and listicles on a broad range of topics.

Besides writing, Harvey is an avid camera, turntable, and speaker enthusiast with a somewhat unhealthy obsession with movies. He is also a keen runner, cyclist, hiker, and swimmer.

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