10 Best Waterproof Speakers | Enjoy the Pool Party or Go on a Longer Hike with a Crispy and Bass Rich Sound from these TOP Speakers | Buyer’s Guide 2022
Want to throw a pool party and stop worrying about your speaker dying at the precise moment when you seem to need it most? Now, you don’t have to worry about those things with an ample amount of waterproof speakers available on the market. But which one is the best? Read on to discover amazing options we’ve gathered in this guide and learn what to look for when shopping. We’ve reviewed the TOP 10 waterproof speakers including details on performance, any typical quirks, and customer response to help you choose the best speaker out there!
- What is a waterproof speaker?
- IPX Waterproof Ratings
- How Do waterproof speakers Work?
- Things to Consider When Buying
- TOP-10 best waterproof speakers
- Best Budget
- Best with Charger
- Best Durability for Outdoor Activities (hiking/camping)
- Best Waterproof Speaker with Sound Quality and Good Bass
- Best Battery
- Waterproof Speaker with Flashlights
What is a waterproof speaker?
So, what is a waterproof speaker exactly? The waterproof speaker is something you can throw in the pool without it biting the dust. If the label says “waterproof” (and there are different kinds of “waterproof”, but more on this later), it means the speaker can survive floating in water for about half an hour. The water-resistant speaker can only survive a splash of water (or maybe two). So, whenever shopping, look for the speaker’s IPX (or IP) rating that categorizes the devices according to their water resistance properties.
IPX Waterproof Ratings
IPX can be anything in between IPX-0 and IPX-8, with 0 being no waterproof at all, and 8 or 7 are those that can be submerged in water for half an hour. This is exactly what you have to look for – an IPX rating of more than 6. But waterproofing is not the only feature you would want to consider when shopping for a speaker; there are obviously other factors, like price, sound quality, design, size, battery life, among others. But before we move on to the search criteria, let’s see how waterproof speakers work.
How do waterproof speakers work
Waterproof speakers work by pairing with the device of your choice through a Bluetooth connection. When you turn on your speaker and the speaker says “pairing”, it means it’s waiting for a Bluetooth connection. Select a connection on your Bluetooth device (smartphone, tablet, etc) and the speaker will say “connected”. You can now play sound on Bluetooth device through the speaker.
Things to consider when buying a waterproof speaker
Now let’s get back to the search criteria that you have to consider before committing to a purchase.
Battery Life
Long battery life, although counterintuitively, must be one of the top priorities that you want for your speaker. Since Bluetooth is a very power-intensive protocol, it will drain your battery pretty quickly when connected to a device.
Strength of the Wireless Connection
Before you choose a speaker, think where you are going to use it, as this will directly affect the signal strength you would want to look for. Bluetooth is not very good at handling longer distances and a person or a wall may easily block the signal, and while wi-fi can support a connection within 150 ft, Bluetooth’s range is less of a catch, being up to 100 ft (which is very rare) and usually covers no more than 30-60 ft.
Audio Quality
Perhaps, the most important feature, especially if you’re a stickler for detail, is a speaker’s sound quality. Unfortunately, the sound is very subjective, and can’t be judged simply by reading the product’s specifications. But if you don’t have an opportunity to field-test the speakers, look for the frequency range in the description, the wider the range the better the ability of a speaker to reproduce sound (say, 100Hz to 20,000Hz). But again, the way a person perceives the sound can vary immensely and hugely depends on your age, personal preferences, the type of music you would want to play, etc.
Design
The design is purely subjective and depends on your personal taste. You may want to look for more contemporary and unconventional design forms or if you’re conservative, choose the classic elegant designs. Don’t worry, there’s a speaker for everyone.
Size & Weight
While you might think that form factor is not your greatest concern, we still advise you closely follow the manufacturer’s description, including product’s dimensions, so you won’t end up with something too huge or too small.
TOP-10 best waterproof speakers
Time to cover the best 10 devices that we found on the market! We’ll cover the best budget version, best high-end speakers, devices suitable for hiking and camping, speakers with a good bass, among other great features!
Best Budget
LEZII Portable IP67 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
If you want to enjoy music in your car, then the Bluetooth speaker from LEZII might be a good choice, considering its affordability
This is a tiny Bluetooth speaker but with a relatively impressive sound for its size. It supports multiple play modes, can connect to any smartphone device, supports TF card, and has an FM radio function. The device operates on 4.1 version of Bluetooth, meaning it’s compatible with most Bluetooth modern devices.
Key Features:
Size: 3.5 inches x 3.5 inches
Weight: 11.6 ounces
Playtime: 12 hours
Wireless range: 33 ft
Most of the customers were outstandingly and surprisingly pleased with the device, saying it was a bargain, nice looking, modern and clear, very simple and easy to use. There’s only one negative review to date with a customer saying he obviously received a faulty product and had to return it. But these things happen all the time, with even the most expensive devices, so there’s nothing to worry about, there’s a warranty, good customer service, and buyer’s guarantees.
Vtin: Check the current price
Shockproof and Waterproof Bluetooth Wireless - mini speaker with volume control
This beast, although not a good-looking, has a 33-ft wireless range, which is a pretty standard range, operates on Bluetooth 4.0, which pairs instantly with any other Bluetooth-supported device. The waterproof rating is solid, being IP 67, which means you can listen to it in a shower or bring the device to the beach. The item’s quite small so can easily be tucked into a pocket for handsfree convenience.
Key Features:
Size: 3.4 x 3.4 x 1.8 inches
Weight: 4.6 ounces
Playtime: 12 hours
Wireless range: 33 ft
IP 67
Customer response was generally positive, however, there were a few complaining customers saying the audio quality suffered, the pairing was a pain, the buttons didn’t properly work, among other things. So while the item is sold by MIFA and you can surely count on the company’s customer service, returns, and guarantees, this device is of an average quality at best.
MIFA: Check the current price
SoundBot SB510 HD Water Resistant with Built-in Mic, Control Buttons, and Suction Cup
This device by SoundBot is yet another mini-speaker that’s affordably priced. Its wireless range is up to 33 ft, it has dedicated control buttons and can take calls handsfree. While it’s not waterproof (IPX being less than 6), and plays half as less time as its previous counterparts, this item is still worth considering especially if you intend to use in the shower as it comes with a convenient suction cup.
Key Features:
Size: 12 x 8 x 6 inches
Weight: 5.6 ounces
Playtime: 6 hours
Wireless range: 33 ft
IPX 4
The reviews are mixed at best, though, with customers mostly complaining about the short battery life (someone even said it didn’t last more half an hour).
SoundBot: Check the current price
Best with Charger
Alpatronix Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker - NFC Stereo with 8000mAh Power Bank and Built-in Mic
This device looks pretty solid and a little bigger (and certainly heavier) than the previous devices we covered. This portable wireless Bluetooth speaker also comes with a built-in microphone for handsfree calling. And while the manufacturer claims that the device is waterproof, its IPX rating is less than 6, meaning it’s water-resistant at best. Perhaps, the greatest advantage of this speaker is a built-in power bank with 8000mAh heavy duty rechargeable battery that you can use to recharge your phone. The NFC technology ensures an instant and easy pairing with any Bluetooth-enabled device.
Key Features:
Size: 12.6 x 4.6 x 4.7 inches
Weight: 4 pounds
Playtime: 10 hours
Wireless range: 33 ft
IPX 5
Okay, this speaker is easy to recommend, judging by the overwhelmingly positive response it received from the reviewers, who mostly praised the quality for the price.
Alpatronix: Check the current price
Best durability for outdoor activities (hiking/camping)
APIE Portable Wireless Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker
This is an authentic waterproof speaker with an IPX rating being 6. Despite its somewhat military design, it looks very solid and impressive. It operates on Bluetooth 4.1 which makes it quickly pair with any device. Its rechargeable battery (2200mAh) guarantees a 10-hour consecutive playtime. There’s also a built-in mic, handsfree calling, and volume control options.
Key Features:
Size: 7.3 x 2.8 x 4.6 inches
Weight: 11.5 ounces
Playtime: 10 hours
Wireless range: 33 ft
IPX 6
Testers have wonderful things to say about the speaker, noticing its powerful bass, durability, and crystal clear sound quality. However, those who were less cheerful often complained about the buttons, which were not easy to operate and worked somewhat intermittently. But overall, considering the quality for the money the gadget is worth recommending.
APIE: Check the current price
Best waterproof speaker with Sound Quality and good bass
JBL Charge 3 JBLCHARGE3BLKAM Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker - top notch, high-end
Okay, this speaker is exactly what my husband’s getting for Christmas. In my subjective opinion, this speaker is the best and it’s worth its every penny. With this beast, you can connect up to 3 devices and play them in turns. How cool is that?
With the powerful 22.2Wh lithium-ion polymer battery you can expect a playtime for up to 20 hours and use it to charge your smartphones or tablets via USB. This device can be submerged in water (IPX 7), so you don’t have to worry about accidental splashes of water or heavy rain. You can also take calls from this speaker handsfree, or build your own sound system by connecting multiple JBL speakers to amplify the experience.
Key Features:
Size: 9.1 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches
Weight: 1.8 pounds
Playtime: 20 hours
Wireless range: 33 ft
IPX 7
Overall, this speaker is very easy to recommend, it’s totally worth its money. And in case you have problems with it, the warranty covers 5 years.
Ultimate Ears UE ROLL 2 Wireless Portable Bluetooth Speaker Waterproof
The device from Ultimate Ears is another solid product that’s worth looking into. It’s waterproof (IPX 7) and can be immersed in water for up to 30 minutes. It’s much lighter and smaller than JBL, but perhaps this is the exact size you’re looking for. What’s really cool about the Ultimate Ears is that you can connect up to two source devices at the same time and pair it up with up to 8 Bluetooth enabled devices, so you can have quite a party, really. It says it covers 65 ft, which is better than its competitors. Just as JBL it has a lithium-ion battery which lasts less than JBL’s (about 9 hours), but UE is also priced more affordably than JBL
Key Features:
Size: 5.3 x 1.6 x 5.3 inches
Weight: 11.7 ounces
Playtime: 9 hours
Wireless range: 65 ft
IPX 7
Ultimate Ears: Check the current price
Best Battery
Tribit XSound Go Bluetooth Speakers - 24 Hour Playtime, 66 ft Bluetooth Range & Built-in Mic
This powerful speaker from Tritbit is the best value for the money. It’s waterproof (IPX 7) and has an incredible 24-hour playtime! Operates on an advanced Bluetooth 4.2 and has a wireless range of 66 ft. Beats by far the JBL so far both money-wise and technologically. It pairs with any device and will work especially beautifully with iPhone.
Key Features:
Size: 6.7 x 2.2 x 2.3 inches
Weight: 13.4 ounces
Playtime: 25 hours
Wireless range: 66 ft
IPX 7
The customers are super impressed with the sound quality and the battery life. Those who have left negative reviews said that the device wouldn’t pair with more than one device at a time (unlike JBL), and was not very good for rock music. Unless you like rock, this device is your best bet.
Tribit: Check the current price
Waterproof speaker with flashlights
DOSS Wireless Portable Bluetooth Speakers with Echo dot
This bizarre-looking speaker is not for the light-hearted. It looks manly and rugged, but also very durable and solid. Perhaps, an ideal option if you like to hike or bike around. This is a very powerful speaker, by the way, with an impressive volume by 2x10W drivers and dual passive subwoofers. It operates on 4.0 Bluetooth which ensures almost instant pairing with the device of your choice. Works marvelously with iPhone, Samsung, or tablet. IPX6 means it’s waterproof and dust-resistant. In case you like to travel at night, there’s an LED flashlight to guide you through. There are actually 5 light modes, with an SOS distress button for an emergency. The battery lasts up to 10 hours. The travelers were extremely pleased with the speaker, with a handful of detractors saying that JBL was still better.
Key Features:
Size: 6.5 x 2.4 x 4.4 inches
Weight: 1.5 pounds
Playtime: 10 hours
Wireless range: 33 ft
IPX 6
DOSS: Check the current price
Outdoor Speakers Portable Bluetooth - Bicycle Speaker with 4000mAh Power Bank
This speaker looks a little bit like JBL by design but is no way waterproof; it can, however, survive a couple of water splashes. It also supports FM Radio and TF Card music playback and comes with a rechargeable 4000mAh battery which handles up to 24 hours of play time (by TF card play) and 6 hours on a single charge for Bluetooth function. It has an LED flashlight (with 3 settings) which can provide up to 36 hours of continuous lighting. Can be a good option if you ride a bike, as it can be easily mounted with mounting brackets that are included for the price.
Key Features:
Size: 6.1 x 2 x 2 inches
Weight: 9.1 ounces
Playtime: 6 hours
Wireless range: 33 ft
IPX n\a
Overall customers have good things to say about the speaker, with few bikers complaining that the Bluetooth didn’t stay connected very well especially with going over bumps.
Zealot: Check the current price
FAQ
How can I make the speaker battery last longer?
Lower the volume of the speaker, it will affect its life greatly.
What if my phone does not have Bluetooth?
Your phone has Bluetooth. But if you don’t know how to switch it on, go to the nearest Apple (or Samsung, etc) store and ask them to show how to work with it.
How to pair Bluetooth speaker?
There’s a connect button on the speaker. As soon as you turn on your phone’s Bluetooth and press the button on your speaker, you’ll see a notification on your device that asks you if you want to pair your device with the speaker. Click yes.
How to charge a waterproof speaker?
Plug the charger in, simple as that!
What is a wireless range of the speakers?
Usually around 33 ft. Some of the advanced are 66 ft.
Does it float?
Some of them yes, but mostly they don’t. JBL BoomBox will definitely float, though.
Will the speaker work in cold weather?
Yes, it will. However, the colder the weather, the less battery life you can expect.
Comparative chart of Waterproof Speakers
| Product | Features |
| LEZII | Size: 3.5 inches x 3.5 inches Weight: 11.6 ounces Playtime: 12 hours Wireless range: 33 ft |
| MIFA | Size: 3.4 x 3.4 x 1.8 inches Weight: 4.6 ounces Playtime: 12 hours Wireless range: 33 ft IP 67 |
| SoundBot | Size: 12 x 8 x 6 inches Weight: 5.6 ounces Playtime: 6 hours Wireless range: 33 ft IPX 4 |
| Alpatronix | Size: 12.6 x 4.6 x 4.7 inches Weight: 4.3 pounds Playtime: 10 hours Wireless range: 33 ft IPX 5 |
| APIE | Size: 7.3 x 2.8 x 4.6 inches Weight: 11.5 ounces Playtime: 10 hours Wireless range: 33 ft IPX 6 |
| JBL | Size: 9.1 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches Weight: 1.8 pounds Playtime: 20 hours Wireless range: 33 ft IPX 7 |
| Ultimate Ears | Size: 5.3 x 1.6 x 5.3 inches Weight: 11.7 ounces Playtime: 9 hours Wireless range: 65 ft IPX 7 |
| Tribit | Size: 6.7 x 2.2 x 2.3 inches Weight: 13.4 ounces Playtime: 25 hours Wireless range: 66 ft IPX 7 |
| DOSS | Size: 6.5 x 2.4 x 4.4 inches Weight: 1.5 pounds Playtime: 10 hours Wireless range: 33 ft IPX 6 |
| Zealot | Size: 6.1 x 2 x 2 inches Weight: 9.1 ounces Playtime: 6 hours Wireless range: 33 ft IPX n\a |
Conclusion
Having covered the best waterproof speakers on the market, we can safely say that JBL Charge 3 and Tribit XSound Go are the best available options on the market in 2018. However, other options we’ve covered are also worth shopping for! We hope you appreciate the amount of time and effort we’ve put into this review! Until next time!
