Written by Aqil Nasri
Gone are the days of carrying huge boomboxes and speakers just to have a sound device that’s capable of playing your favourite tunes with your friends and family. Portable Bluetooth speakers are the in-thing now, and they are definitely here to stay.
The technology has come some distance too, as this generation’s portable Bluetooth speakers are now more versatile, rugged, without sacrificing portability, and works seamlessly with anything that can connect with it.
As such, I’ve listed 5 portable Bluetooth speakers that I consider to be the best in its department, in terms of sound and in terms of portability. Note that the ranking order is random for each number.
JBL GO 2 (RM179.00)
Let’s start the list off with my go-to portable Bluetooth speaker for most outdoor occasions.
While the JBL GO 2 may not have the longest battery life (5 hours) and it doesn’t really have all that much bass, it makes up for it in terms of its portability, size, colour choice, and its fully waterproof design. It’s also one of the least expensive in JBL’s line-up of Bluetooth speakers, but yet somehow I feel like it still brings the most bang for your buck.
With volume controls, a pause/play button, a dedicated Bluetooth button for pairing, a 3.5mm audio input for those wanting wires to connect with the speaker, and a Micro-USB charging port, this little devil of a speaker contains everything that you’ll need from a small portable Bluetooth speaker. It’s not cumbersome to carry and you can fit it into most small pockets or bags. Plus, the sound quality is surprisingly really good for its size.
This little speaker is definitely appealing entry-level portable Bluetooth speakers.
Sony SRS-XB12 (RM199.00)
This speaker definitely belongs in the “ones to get” list, especially if you’re trying to find a portable Bluetooth speaker at an affordable price.
The SRS-XB12 is small and compact yet it somehow still manages to pack a powerful audio performance for its size. Powerful sounding bass manages to keep your heart pumping wherever you may go, indoors or outdoors. You’ll also get colourful LED lights with it, which is always a plus. Also, the speaker is fully waterproof as well, tossing all your worries away when it comes to pool and beach parties.
However, certain downsides such as the volume dipping whenever it’s low on battery may cause small nuisances for users, but that’s nothing when you consider the many benefits that the speaker brings to you.
Bose Soundlink Micro (RM349.20)
Besides being a legitimate good sounding speaker, the Bose Soundlink Micro also has a stretchy silicone strap on its back so you can stick to your backpack strap when you’re on the move.
This speaker might be the same size as the previous two speakers, but the sound quality sounds way better compared to the two of them. Why you may ask? Well, thanks to an extra passive radiator next to the main driver, it manages to pump out consistently amazing audio while providing high-quality sounding bass at the same time.
And it manages to do all of this while being waterproof and maintaining a rugged design.
However, battery life only lasts for 6 hours, so don’t expect all-day usage out of this speaker.
UE Boom 3 (RM530.38)
If you’re looking for a portable Bluetooth speaker that’s matching in fun, convenience, and amazing sound quality at the same time, then look no further than the UE Boom 3.
This speaker puts out some of the most pleasant, balanced sounds for its size. Coming in multiple colours as well, users get to choose their favourite colour in an effort to match it with their overall colour range. It’s also waterproof, so don’t worry about accidentally dropping these speakers in the pool. Also, you can pair the speakers with not one, not two, not three, but with over 150 speakers and create the ultimate surround sound experience. I mean, wow 150? You can cater to a whole concert with that insane number of speakers.
But, the best thing of all is in its battery life, as it’s able to last for 15 hours on a single charge. You can literally use the speaker all day long without worrying about its battery life. Also, it has a 30-meter Bluetooth range, enabling users to connect with it even if they’re in a whole other room.
Marshall Woburn II Bluetooth (RM1547.03)
Okay so this last speaker on the list may be a bit of an overkill when it comes to pricing, but it absolutely justifies it with its overall sound quality.
The excellent audio performance coupled with powerful bass depth and solid clarity in the highs will leave you wondering why you didn’t buy this speaker sooner. It has two 1” tweeters and dual 5.25” subwoofers which are individually powered by class D amps, bringing the total power to 110 watts. Also, it has an In-app EQ and adjustable bass and treble knobs. Plus, it has an awesome overall design, reminiscing to amps that the Marshall brand is known for.
However, certain downsides such as no included audio cables or accessories may be a bit of a bummer to some people.
