Are you looking for a high-quality Bluetooth speaker that is sure to make your music sound even better? With so many options available, what do you look at to decide which speaker to buy?
When buying a Bluetooth speaker, some important features to look for include waterproofing, portability, sound quality, battery life, and signal strength. Additionally, consider your budget and whether you want additional features (such as voice control or an aux input).
In this article, we’ll explore what to look for when buying a Bluetooth speaker so that you can choose the perfect one for your needs. So let’s get started on this sound journey and find out how to pick the ideal Bluetooth speaker!
Battery life
When hunting for a Bluetooth speaker, battery life is a must-know. Traditional models usually last 10 hours on a single charge, but modern ones offer up to 25 hours. Think about how long you’ll use it and what for. Also, check if it supports wireless or standard charging, and if it has extra features like voice commands, Alexa, or Google Assistant. These could lower the battery life.
Sound quality
When picking a Bluetooth speaker, sound quality is vital. Make sure the speaker you choose can provide good sound without distortion or interference. Consider these factors:
- Speaker wattage: A Bluetooth speaker’s wattage affects how loud it can get. Higher wattage = bigger sound. Don’t confuse total output power with RMS power.
- Frequency response: This is measured in Hertz and shows how well a speaker can reproduce high and low frequencies. Higher frequency response = better sound.
- Drivers: Speakers can have one, two, or more drivers. Multiple drivers = more powerful sound with enhanced bass tones. Single drivers usually come in lower price ranges than other models.
Connectivity
When buying a Bluetooth speaker, keep in mind many features! One is: what device will it connect to? Not all are compatible with every device; make sure yours is supported.
Range is another thing to consider. Some allow a limited range, which could limit where you put the speaker. Read the features list and see how far away you can put it without losing sound quality.
Lastly, if you plan to connect multiple devices, get a speaker that supports multiple connections. This saves time and ensures great sound for everyone in the area when they use their device wirelessly with your speaker.
Portability
When buying a Bluetooth speaker, think of the portability you need. Most have chargeable inner batteries, so you can listen without a power source. Some are more portable, with straps to carry and small form-factors. Materials used in building the device affect the portability too. Plastics are lighter than metals.
If you plan to take it outside, look for one with a ruggedized exterior that’s water-, dust-, and shock-resistant. This will ensure that it can handle some bumps or scratches without damaging the internal components.
Features
Bluetooth speakers come in all shapes and sizes. What should you look for when buying one? Sound quality, battery life, portability, and connectivity. Design matters too. Think voice control, waterproofing, and more.
Let’s delve deeper.
Waterproofing
When shopping for a Bluetooth speaker, check for waterproofing. It’s essential for wet conditions. Most speakers come with some level of waterproofing. Some even have an IPX7 rating, which means they can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes and still work. Check the specifications for the correct level for you.
There are also splash-proof models that don’t cost as much.
Voice control
Voice control simplifies your audio experience. You can control your speaker with just words, like Google Home and Amazon Alexa. Other Bluetooth speakers have virtual assistants too. Check for compatibility with your device, e.g. Siri on iPhone or Google Assistant on Android.
Sound quality is important too. High-quality microphones make conversations easy to hear. Some products have audio effects to customize sound. These features are adjustable via the manufacturer’s app or software. Check that any additional services like streaming music or audiobooks will work before you buy.
Multi-room audio
Multi-room audio is becoming more popular with Bluetooth speakers. You can control multiple speakers in different areas of your home, either through an app or voice commands. Each speaker can play a different track or playlist without interruption.
It’s important to know the formats when selecting Multiroom audio products. Some are in-house proprietary systems, while others like Chromecast Audio, Bluetooth and NFC, support open standards over Wi-Fi. This lets multiple manufacturers work together, giving you more flexibility and affordability.
Wireless charging
Wireless charging is a new feature with some Bluetooth speakers. Easily recharge your speaker by placing it on the charging surface. No need to worry about cables or outlets. Just lay your device down and get back to enjoying your speaker in no time.
But, you must remember – wireless chargers need an outlet for power too, so it’s not completely wire-free.
Design
When you purchase a Bluetooth speaker, consider the design. You need a lightweight and portable one with an attractive look. Find a balance between the sound quality, portability, and appearance.
Check the layout; it will tell you how user-friendly the speaker is. Moreover, think about the controls. Can you easily access them?
Size and shape
When shopping for Bluetooth speakers, size and shape matter.
- Portable speakers are small and lightweight with a carrying strap – great for taking out.
- Compact speakers are best for desks or small spaces – some even have rechargeable batteries.
- Larger stereo speakers offer fuller sound quality for bigger rooms or outdoor events.
Design is also important. Look for buttons that are easy to access without taking your eyes off the screen. It will make controlling music and adjusting volume easier while streaming. Check if multiple devices can be connected too. This way you can switch between them quickly and easily. Some Bluetooth speakers offer USB ports so you can access stored media directly.
Material
Bluetooth speakers may use plastic, nylon, aluminium or wood composite as materials. Plastic is often used in budget-friendly options because it’s cheap and lightweight. But it’s not the best for sound quality, or durability. Nylon is durable and is often used with plastic for better sound projection. Aluminium is pricey but has better acoustic qualities and heat resistance. Wooden composite looks stylish and adds extra durability.
Consider the material when choosing your speaker to get the best quality.
Color
Color might be a major factor when you’re buying a Bluetooth speaker. You could go for a bold color such as teal, pink or yellow, or something more subtle like white, beige or grey. If portability is important, look for soft touch material so you can store it away easily.
Technology advances, so brands offer products with improved sound quality, USB ports, and water proof designs for outdoor use. Bluetooth speakers offer great connectivity and remain competitive on the market, making investing wisely possible.
Durability
When thinking about a Bluetooth speaker’s toughness, look at the quality of its construction, protection against elements, and materials used. The best Bluetooth speakers have an IP (Ingress Protection) rating which safeguards against water, dust, and sand particles.
The first number in the IP rating states how much protection from solid objects such as dust or sand particles – the higher the number, the better the seal. The second number shows protection from water – likewise, the higher the better. For example, an IPX5 rating means the speaker is resistant to most water jets and splashing from all angles without damage – great for days at the beach!
Look for features that can make a speaker more resilient, like a solid chassis, weatherproof seals around ports or joints (such as USB-C charging ports which become more common), and sturdier base stands – ideal if you put your speakers close to the record player and don’t want them to fall when bumped!
Price
Price is key when selecting a Bluetooth speaker. Peaks and valleys in prices exist, from very low to very high. Think about what you need and also your budget. Keep in mind that pricier models usually have better sound and longer-lasting battery life.
Budget
Budget is vital when buying a Bluetooth speaker, yet there are other factors to think about. Remember, cost often relates to sound quality and how long the battery lasts. Cheaper versions normally don’t measure up to the more expensive ones.
Plus, ask yourself why you are buying a speaker. Do you need something that can take a few knocks? That will likely cost more for sturdier models with decent dust and water protection. But, if portability matters most – such as when camping – then lighter models without water resistance might do the job.
Ultimately, your spending power determines what you get from a Bluetooth speaker. However, many options are available if you prioritize certain features.
Value
“You get what you pay for” is a saying that applies to Bluetooth speakers. Lower-cost ones usually don’t have impressive sound or features. However, there are lots of models at various prices that have great sound and many features.
High-end speakers have better audio components and acoustic designs. That makes a big difference in sound, so they’re great for audiophiles. They usually have lots of extras too.
Affordable speakers don’t mean lower quality. There are plenty of mid-priced ones with great sound and build. When looking at speakers, focus on features, specs, and price – to see if it meets your needs.
Warranty
When buying a Bluetooth speaker, investigate the warranty coverage. Most makers offer warranties for production flaws and other things like drops, moisture damage etc. Generally, these warranties last 1-3 years. Read the details to know what type of protection you will have.
Check return and exchange policies too. In case you don’t like the item, many stores give a specific number of days to return it. Knowing this in advance helps make sure you get the right product.
Reviews
Reviews are key when it comes to buying Bluetooth speakers. They help you understand what it’s like to use the product. And, they give you an idea of how well it works and what sound quality you can expect.
Let’s look at what type of reviews you should read before buying a Bluetooth speaker:
Read customer reviews
Customer reviews of Bluetooth speakers are a great way to know which products are reported to have the best performance and features. Remember, people are more likely to write negative reviews than positive ones. Many websites sort reviews before displaying them, so read beyond the top ones for more insight.
Look for sound quality and volume levels in customer reviews. These are subjective; two people may disagree on what is good or bad. Your preference could differ from others’ when it comes to bass level, mid-range clarity, and treble sparkle.
Read reviews from current owners to find your ideal Bluetooth speaker!
Compare features and prices
When shopping for a Bluetooth speaker, it’s essential to compare features and prices. Look out for specs such as wattage, audio drivers, range, and battery life. For example, a 5-watt speaker won’t be as loud as a 10-watt one. Also, check whether it’s compatible with your digital devices, such as phones and tablets.
To get the best deal, check out product reviews on various online sites. And don’t forget promo codes or coupons – they can help you save! Free shipping and extended warranties may also be available. So, with careful comparison shopping, you’ll find the perfect Bluetooth speaker for your needs at the best price.
Test the speaker in-person (if possible)
To find the perfect Bluetooth speaker, test different models in-person. This way you’ll get a better sense of the sound, and how loud it gets. Listening in-store may not be accurate due to the space and acoustics. Testing at home gives you a more precise idea of what it will sound like once set up.
When testing, make sure any EQ settings are turned off or tuned correctly. This will give you the true sound of the speaker. Try the same song across each model to compare. Listen for loudness and clarity at max volume. Also check for distortion or dropouts with bass tones. Lastly, pay attention to the extras like auxiliary ports and water resistance. Make sure they suit your needs.
Final thoughts
When shopping for a Bluetooth speaker, it’s important to consider the features, specs, and price. Read customer reviews to understand what sound quality you can expect.
Compare prices and features of different models to find the best deal. And if possible, test the speaker in-person to get a better sense of its sound. With these tips, you’ll be able to find the perfect Bluetooth speaker for your needs!
Can a Bluetooth speaker also function as a smart speaker?
Yes, a Bluetooth speaker can also function as a smart speaker. With the advancement of smart speaker technology overview, many Bluetooth speakers now come equipped with smart features like voice control, virtual assistants, and the ability to connect to other smart devices. This allows them to perform similar functions as dedicated smart speakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What type of sound quality should I look for when buying a Bluetooth speaker?
A1. The sound quality of a Bluetooth speaker is dependent on the type of speaker and the features it has. Look for speakers with features such as bass and treble controls, sound enhancement technology, and noise cancellation. Additionally, look for a speaker with good wattage and a frequency response range of at least 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
Q2. What features should I consider when buying a Bluetooth speaker?
A2. When buying a Bluetooth speaker, consider features such as wireless range, battery life, and voice control. Additionally, look for speakers that are waterproof and dustproof to ensure they last longer. Finally, check for compatibility with your device and any other third-party apps that may be available.
Q3. How much should I expect to pay for a good Bluetooth speaker?
A3. The cost of a Bluetooth speaker will depend on the features and quality of the speaker. Generally, good quality Bluetooth speakers can range anywhere from $50 to $200 or more. Shop around to find the best deal for the features you need.
