10 Best Wireless Speakers 2025 in the United States

The Bang & Olufsen Beosound A9 (5th Gen) is a premium wireless speaker designed primarily for home use rather than on-the-go listening. It delivers powerful, room-filling sound through seven drivers and offers an innovative Active Room Compensation feature that automatically adjusts audio based on where the speaker is placed, ensuring optimized sound quality. With a robust 1500-watt output and support for stereo, surround sound, and custom modes, it’s well-suited for those who value rich and immersive music experiences.

Connectivity options are solid, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, and multiroom capabilities via the Bang & Olufsen app, allowing you to link multiple speakers and control sound profiles easily. However, as a corded electric speaker weighing over 30 pounds and measuring quite large, it’s not very portable and best suited for a fixed spot in your home.

Although it does not have a built-in battery and needs to be plugged in, it compensates with smart features such as customizable sound settings, timers, and alarms through its dedicated app. The design is iconic and stylish, making it a standout piece of home audio equipment. Crafted from high-quality materials like aluminum, wood, and fabric, it lacks water resistance and is not ideal for outdoor use. Pricing is on the higher end, reflecting its luxury positioning and advanced features. This model is a strong choice for those prioritizing exceptional sound quality, smart multiroom support, and striking design over portability or outdoor usability.

The Anker Soundcore 2 is a solid choice for a portable Bluetooth speaker that performs well both outdoors and indoors. Its 12W stereo sound delivers clear audio with surprisingly strong bass, thanks to Anker’s BassUp technology and dual drivers. This makes it suitable for casual listening at home, small gatherings, or outdoor activities like camping and beach trips. One of its standout features is the IPX7 waterproof rating, meaning it can handle splashes and even brief submersion, which is great for use near water without worry.

Battery life is impressive, offering up to 24 hours of continuous playtime on a single charge, so it can last all day on trips or extended use. The speaker pairs easily via Bluetooth 5, and you can wirelessly connect two Soundcore 2 units for stereo sound, adding flexibility for better audio coverage. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry around, fitting well in backpacks or even large pockets. While it doesn’t have advanced smart features like voice assistants, it covers all basics with simple physical controls. The charging time is about 3 hours, which is reasonable for its battery capacity.

Considering its price point, this speaker provides great value, especially for those who prioritize durability and portability without needing high-end extras. For users seeking very high-fidelity sound or smart home integration, pricier options might be more suitable. The Soundcore 2 is ideal for those looking for dependable, waterproof, and long-lasting wireless audio in a budget-friendly package.

The Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker is designed for those who prioritize deep bass and big sound, making it an excellent choice for outdoor parties and gatherings. With an IP67 rating, it is waterproof and dustproof, adding to its durability and making it suitable for any environment, including beaches and camping trips. The speaker boasts up to 20 hours of battery life, ensuring your music can play all day without interruptions.

Connectivity options include Bluetooth with a range of 30 feet, a USB-C port for charging other devices, and a built-in 3.5mm AUX input for wired connections. This flexibility allows you to play music from various sources, including MP3 players and turntables. The portability is enhanced by a soft removable climbing rope handle, making it easy to carry around. Additionally, the Bose app allows for personalized EQ settings, adding a smart feature for those who like to customize their listening experience.

However, the speaker is relatively heavy at 4.89 pounds, which might be a drawback for some users looking for ultra-lightweight options. The price point could also be a consideration, as Bose products typically come at a premium. In summary, the Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker is a robust, feature-rich option for anyone looking for high-quality sound and durability in a portable speaker.