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:
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.
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.
When choosing a Bluetooth speaker for outdoor use, check its IP rating rather than relying on vague terms such as ‘water-resistant’ or ‘rugged’.
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.
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.
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.
Two speakers, magnetic attachment and the option to pair multiple speakers, according to the manufacturer.
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.
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.
Stated power of 80 W, high-resolution audio up to 24 bits/96 kHz and a design made for tabletop use.
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.
The IP66 rating is clearly stated. It protects against dust and water jets, but doesn’t mean the speaker can be submerged.
34 W RMS, up to 9 hours of listening time claimed, stereo pairing and ambient lighting with several effects.
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.
USB-C and AUX inputs complement Bluetooth 5.3, giving you the freedom to choose the connection that best suits your computer or phone.
Stated output of 66 W RMS, LDAC support, digital processing and supplied angled aluminium stands.
We’ve put together a comprehensive selection, updated in real time, of products that meet these demanding criteria while complying with European safety regulations.
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.
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.
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.