Joybuy Insights

Bluetooth speakers: how to choose the right model for your needs

A Bluetooth speaker can fill your living room with music, keep you company during a day working from home, enhance a video session or come along on an outdoor trip. The trouble is, technical specifications and marketing claims don’t always make it easy to compare models.

Before you place your order, keep these three common pitfalls in mind:

  • Confusing power with sound quality: a high wattage figure doesn’t guarantee balanced sound. Speaker design, digital processing and the size of the room all play a part too.
  • Reading too much into a water-resistance rating: IPX6 and IP67 offer different levels of protection. An IPX6 speaker can withstand water jets, but isn’t designed to be submerged.
  • Taking the stated battery life at face value: it varies depending on volume, lighting, connection type and which features are in use. At high volume, even a speaker advertised as long-lasting may run out of charge much sooner.

What to check before you buy

1. Power and audio configuration

W RMS is usually a more useful power rating than peak power, which is often measured over a very short period. A powerful Bluetooth speaker designed to fill a large room or provide music for a party won’t necessarily suit the same needs as a model for your desk.

For listening to music near a computer, a few watts may be more than enough. To fill a living room or patio, higher power and a passive radiator can give the bass more depth. Some models with two separate drivers can also create a stereo Bluetooth speaker setup or work as a wireless stereo pair.

If you’re a keen listener who appreciates fine detail, look out for digital processing, high-resolution audio certification or support for a codec such as LDAC. Just make sure your phone or tablet supports these features too.

2. Connectivity and how you’ll use it

Bluetooth 5.0, 5.3 or 5.4 can provide a stable connection, but range still depends on the layout of your home, walls and other obstacles. With a computer, a USB-C, auxiliary or USB input can be useful to avoid audio lag or to enjoy a wired connection.

A Bluetooth PC speaker also needs to fit on your desk. A compact model can tuck neatly beneath a monitor, while a tabletop Hi-Fi speaker needs a little space around it to deliver the best sound.

Some models let you connect two devices at once, pair two speakers or create a true stereo pair. These features can come in handy in a household where everyone wants to listen to their own content.

3. Water protection and battery life

When choosing a Bluetooth speaker for outdoor use, check its IP rating rather than relying on vague terms such as ‘water-resistant’ or ‘rugged’.

  • IPX6: protection against powerful water jets, but no guaranteed protection against immersion.
  • IP66: protection against dust and water jets.
  • IP67: protection against dust and temporary immersion in the conditions specified by the standard.

Make sure the charging port cover is properly closed before the speaker comes into contact with water. Also check the port type, charging time and battery life at a volume close to the level you’ll actually use.

Our picks for different listeners

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
Kodak Soundbrix Bluetooth Speakers, 2-Pack, Orange

Kodak Soundbrix Bluetooth Speakers, 2-Pack, Orange

Why this is a good fit: This two-speaker set makes it easy to get started with wireless audio, whether you’re at home or heading out for the day. The magnetic design lets you join the speakers together or use them separately.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The product listing states 5 W RMS per speaker and says they can be used indoors or outdoors. That gives you a clear idea of what to expect, without mistaking them for Bluetooth speakers designed to fill a large party venue.

Main benefit and key features

Two speakers, magnetic attachment and the option to pair multiple speakers, according to the manufacturer.

Recommended for : Premium audio enthusiasts
Edifier S300 Hi-Fi Tabletop Speaker

Edifier S300 Hi-Fi Tabletop Speaker

Why this is a good fit: This tabletop model is designed for listeners looking for detailed sound, a choice of connection options and a permanent setup in the living room or home office.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The product listing details its Bluetooth 5.4, LDAC, USB-C, AUX and AirPlay 2 connections, so you can check compatibility with your devices before you buy.

Main benefit and key features

Stated power of 80 W, high-resolution audio up to 24 bits/96 kHz and a design made for tabletop use.

Recommended for : Specialist uses and frequent listeners
Edifier ES60 Bluetooth Speaker

Edifier ES60 Bluetooth Speaker

Why this is a good fit: The ES60 is for anyone who regularly moves between home, the patio, the beach and get-togethers, and wants a speaker that’s easy to carry and protected against dust and water.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The IP66 rating is clearly stated. It protects against dust and water jets, but doesn’t mean the speaker can be submerged.

Main benefit and key features

34 W RMS, up to 9 hours of listening time claimed, stereo pairing and ambient lighting with several effects.

Recommended for : Working from home and the office
Edifier M60 Multimedia Speaker Bluetooth 5.3

Edifier M60 Bluetooth 5.3 Multimedia Speakers

Why this is a good fit: This compact pair fits neatly on a desk for listening to music, gaming or watching videos. Depending on your audio source, you can switch between Bluetooth and a wired connection.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

USB-C and AUX inputs complement Bluetooth 5.3, giving you the freedom to choose the connection that best suits your computer or phone.

Main benefit and key features

Stated output of 66 W RMS, LDAC support, digital processing and supplied angled aluminium stands.

Looking for more options ?

We’ve put together a comprehensive selection, updated in real time, of products that meet these demanding criteria while complying with European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about Bluetooth speakers

How do you connect a Bluetooth speaker to a phone or computer ?

Switch on the speaker, enable Bluetooth on your phone or computer, then select the product name from the list of available devices. With a computer, a USB-C or AUX connection may be a better option if you notice audio lag and the speaker offers one.

How long should a wireless speaker last ?

It depends on the battery, how often you use the speaker, exposure to heat and the number of charging cycles. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or plugged in all the time in a hot environment. If it’s water-resistant, check the port covers and casing regularly for signs of wear.

Can a waterproof Bluetooth speaker be submerged ?

Not necessarily. An IPX6 speaker can withstand water jets, while an IP67 model is protected against temporary immersion in the conditions specified by the standard. Always check the instructions and close the covers securely before exposing the speaker to water.