Portable speakers are ideal for anyone looking for a multi-use speaker. They're easy to carry when travelling or spending time outdoors - on a picnic, for example - but are equally as useful for listening to music around the house.The speakers allow you to access your music, or listen to audiobooks and podcasts, from any Bluetooth- or wireless-enabled device, such as a phone, tablet or laptop.
What to look for in a wireless speaker
Portability can be a winner for many buyers, but some speakers are more versatile than others. Nifty speakers like the UE Roll 2 are light and portable. However, if you want a quality wireless home sound system you might want to look for a set of Sonos.
Battery life is also an important for a portable speaker. Cheaper Bluetooth speakers may last ten hours or less, but pricier models can have seriously long-lasting battery.
Other factors to consider include connectivity - checking you have the right ports and connections like Bluetooth; waterproofing if you want to take your speakers on holiday or to a festival, and voice control.
The best Bluetooth speakers
1. UE Boom 2
These larger Ultimate Ears speakers offer 360-degree sound and enhanced battery life compared to its little brother the UE Roll. Coming in at seven inches tall, the UE Boom 2 is small and portable and has the water resistance and drop proofing that make it a perfect holiday or festival companion.
The UE Boom 2 sounds brilliant and has become the go-to choice for portable music on the go. You can find them for under £100 on most online sellers.
Battery life is also impressive, clocking in at close to 15 hours with a two-and-a-half hour charge time. You can also pair up to eight devices via Bluetooth with two sources connected simultaneously if you want to collaborate on your playlist.
2. Sumvision Psyc Monic
One of the best-rated budget speakers, the Sumvision Psyc Monic combines small size with a mighty punch, delivering great audio quality for such a diminutive device. It is a little heavy, somewhat reducing the selling point of portability.With a brushed aluminium design and dual 10-watt drivers powering its subwoofer, this Bluetooth speaker stands out from many other low-cost speakers. At around seven hours of playback time it has enough battery life to keep ticking over on a day out. For under £40 it's a great deal on a simple little speaker.
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3. UE Wonderboom
If you want something stylish and portable that delivers a brilliant sound, the UE Wonderboom is a tiny Bluetooth speaker that can be carried around with a finger or clipped onto a bag. It is also waterproof up to one metre, meaning you can take it to the poolside or beach and not worry about damage.
Battery life is around 10 hours and it has punchy little speakers, and it boasts an effective Bluetooth range of up to 100 metres. It's durable and can be paired up with other UE speakers for a surround sound experience. Plus you can pick up a two-pack for just over £100.
4. JBL Charge 3
JBL's Charge 3 speaker is another top portable Bluetooth device. With 360-degree audio it offers great sound. The battery is so good on this portable speaker you can plug in your phone and charge from it.It comes in a range of fun colours and is waterproof even when submerged. Unlike some speakers at this price it also offers a touch-activated speaker phone, and you can connect multiple JBL speakers to create a surround sound experience.
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