Best Bluetooth Speakers Cheap and High-Quality

If you are looking for the best Bluetooth speakers cheap (under 150 dollars), here is the updated top of the best budget Bluetooth speakers of this year, with models to take to the beach, to use in the shower, or in the bedroom as well as anywhere you can use.

Portable speakers are the hot technological object of the moment and thanks to the great competition in the sector, even in the economic price range you can find models with completely satisfactory performance.

The Bluetooth speakers cheap are compact, comfortable to use, and are good for any situation to play music directly from the smartphone and have a better volume (and audio quality) than the internal speakers of the mobile phone.

If the budget is less than $150, the Bluetooth speaker sector offers a truly extensive range of models, among which it is sometimes difficult to make a decision.

Here we have selected models for sound quality and performance, to satisfy anyone looking for a quality, low-cost wireless speaker.

You will also find waterproof models, to take to the pool or to the sea, on outdoor, rugged, and shower trips, for all needs and up to a very low price range even under 20 dollars.

Here is the top of the best cheap Bluetooth speakers to buy this year.

What is the best Bluetooth speaker?

The good thing about going through all those low-end speakers was that I learned those little details that make a model really worthwhile. For example, if you are looking for an underwater Bluetooth speaker for the pool or going to the beach, look for high resistance to the elements, such as IP67. There are many brands that make these types of speakers.

I also recommend you evaluate if you need additional functions such as WiFi, a Bluetooth speaker with radio, apps to use from your phone, or compatibility with the aptX codec that exponentially improves sound quality.

Let’s look at the best in our comparison list:

1. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2: Best budget waterproof Bluetooth speaker
2. Anker Soundcore Flare: The Bluetooth speaker for pool parties
3. Doss SoundBox Pro: The most versatile inexpensive Bluetooth speaker of all
4. Sony SRS-XB12: Small and powerful EXTRA BASS speaker
5. Sony SRS-XB13: The Extra Bass mini Bluetooth speaker
6. Anker SoundCore 2: The inexpensive Bluetooth speaker with perfect portability
7. Tribit XSound Go: The affordable waterproof wireless speaker
8. W-KING D9: The affordable 60W Bluetooth speaker for outdoor use
9. JBL GO 3: The ultra-compact budget waterproof Bluetooth speaker
10. EWA A106: A very light and waterproof mini Bluetooth speaker
11. Amazon Echo Dot: The affordable Bluetooth speaker with Alexa smart assistant for the home
12. Ortizan X10: Bluetooth speaker with atmospheric LED lights

• High volume

To find a model with the high volume that you are looking for so much, you must buy a model with high voltage for the power it can produce, as well as the largest possible size. It should also have good insulation to avoid losing sound through the openings.

• With NFC technology

A wireless speaker with Bluetooth is great, but if it also includes NFC it is better. So the pairing with both Android and iPhone will be easier to do and much more stable, which means a plus for sound quality.

• Bluetooth aptX streaming

It is recommended to have the aptX codec, which allows the speaker to better process the information of each audio track, discarding the data that does not affect the quality and exploiting to the maximum those that do matter. To see it in numbers, aptX plays music at 354 kbps, with a fixed compression rate of 4.1.

• Good battery

A Bluetooth speaker has to offer between 6 and 10 hours of continuous operation, especially in high-end portable models that consume more power. In those cases, the battery has to have even more capacity, measured in mAh.

• App compatibility

There are good and cheap Bluetooth speakers that come with downloadable applications with which you access a variety of convenient functions. For example, several people can play their songs, as if they were a playlist. You can also customize settings like the equalizer.

• Is it rechargeable?

It will always be more convenient to recharge the speaker using the USB cable than with an AC adapter. Although large battery models do not always allow this. Some models can even be used as power banks to recharge your smartphone.

• DSP

One very convenient feature is DSP technology, which allows speakers to match sound waves to space where they are located. Of course, the cheapest models do not usually include it.

• Mounting and accessories

Some models are made only to leave on a table and, at most, they only have a handle for transport. However, others include mounts for bikes, for the bag when going camping, excursions, to the beach or even to go fishing.

• Microphone and use for calls

There are speakers that come with a microphone so you can take calls with ease. You can even use them to have videoconferences or speakerphone calls with excellent sound quality.

• Stereo functions

Some portable Bluetooth speakers can be joined together to create a high-quality stereo sound image. For example, one speaker plays the left image, while the other plays the right. This is how you create a music system with stereo sound.

• Climatic resistance

Most of this equipment can be used both indoors and outdoors, so you should check its IP protection degree. There are models that work well even in swimming pools, while others are ideal for sites with sand or dirt.

• Wifi

WiFi connectivity means that the device will offer you a sound quality even higher than aptX, plus you can play music from your NAS box. Likewise, if you allow cable connections, it is worth considering. Remember that WiFi speakers are more expensive.

• Volume control

One way to know if a Bluetooth speaker is of quality is to try listening to soft songs and see how it does it. Bad models tend to have low quality when we turn down the volume a lot.

• Sound quality

Many people focus only on loud sound but neglect what matters most: sound quality. When it’s at its peak, the audio should sound good, clear, and without distortion. And when the volume is lowered, it must also maintain the same level of quality.

• Treble and bass

The quality of the audio is also determined by the handling of the bass and treble. Although some people focus only on the bass for hip hop or dance music, the treble is also critical. Is that, if either of the two fails, the end result will be low-quality music.

• Bluetooth connection

Have you ever had a speaker that cuts out all the time or with constant sound glitches? It may be because the signal receptor is not very good. Your speaker should be able to maintain a stable, reliable, and strong connection that sounds good even if you go to the garage or backyard.

• Size

Choosing the size of your speakers is not just a matter of portability or aesthetics. It also affects the sound quality, as larger horns are capable of producing larger waves and, therefore, of greater volume, range, and quality. Sure, a loudspeaker with large horns won’t be that compact but you can always find the perfect balance between portability and better audio quality.

• Bluetooth version

In addition to having a quality receiver, another fundamental factor in having a strong and stable connection is having an updated version of Bluetooth. The ideal would be to buy a model with version 4 or higher, since, the higher that number, the wider the operating range and the stronger the connection.

Related: Best Buy Wireless Speakers

 

1. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2

Best budget waterproof Bluetooth speaker

The best inexpensive Bluetooth speaker is the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2. The first version was already incredibly capable and met with the positive opinion of the overwhelming majority of users. The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 offers a 30% increase in autonomy and an even higher sound volume. Among the powerful and cheap Bluetooth speakers, this is the one we prefer for several reasons.

As simple and intuitive as the previous model, this wireless speaker offers only three buttons: the usual two giants + and – placed on the outer shell (trademark of Ultimate Ears), and in addition, we now find a button under the base to activate the Outdoor Boost function.

Behind the device, we find the micro USB connector covered by a waterproof door. The whole body of the Bluetooth case is completely resistant to water, sand, and dust. You can take it with you to the pool, to the sea, to the beach and you will have no problems.

When you activate it to listen to music outdoors, especially with the Outdoor Boost function, you will be stunned by the amount of volume offered, it seems impossible that such a small speaker is able to produce such a large sound. The only difference with a mini HiFi is the lower ability to generate a credible stereo image.

We point out that if you activate the Outdoor Boost the sound quality will suffer a decrease, but we are convinced that this is not a problem for most, on the other hand, those who buy a mini Bluetooth speaker for the beach will certainly not be looking for audiophile quality.

At half the price of the Bose Soundlink Revolve, if you are looking for a waterproof Bluetooth speaker to scramble for all occasions and listen to your favorite songs while sunbathing, there is no better buy in the price range under 100 dollars.

Related: The Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Pros:

• IP67 waterproof
• Exceptional autonomy
• Unbeatable value for money

Cons:

• Low stereo image

 

2. Anker Soundcore Flare

The Bluetooth speaker for pool parties

Another excellent, powerful and economical Bluetooth speaker is the Soundcore Flare, which for build quality and multimedia functions is a real marvel, and which does not have much to envy to its more expensive competitors.

We recommend this inexpensive Bluetooth speaker for pool party lovers and as a garden speaker. This model is specifically made to be placed on an outdoor surface, or by the pool, to listen to our favorite music with a lot of Bass Up.

The shape is similar to that of the Bose SoundLink Revolve Mini, the fabric texture is reminiscent of the Wonderboom and the LED lights give a lively color, pleasant to use in the evening. You can set the light in pulsating mode to the beat of the music, or to a breathing pattern.

Excellent the app to set the equalization and activate the Bass Up mode, the latter to have an emphasis on low frequencies. Turn up the volume to the maximum and you will notice some distortion, better to keep the level below 100% to have a satisfactory sound performance.

When fully charged, the Bluetooth speaker lasts up to a maximum of 12 hours in autonomy. Compared to the Wonderboom, it is slightly less suitable to be carried around during a picnic, because it is a bit bulkier in shape and size.

For the rest, you can also mistreat it and throw it in the pool, this Bluetooth speaker is also waterproof and certainly does not need to be treated delicately. For the price range and the features offered, it is certainly at the top of the list, and the expense is certainly not high.

Pros:

• Exceptional value for money
• Waterproof
• Effective smartphone app

Cons:

• Poorly defined audio at high volumes

3. Doss SoundBox Pro

The most versatile inexpensive Bluetooth speaker of all

Among the best cheap Bluetooth speakers for around $50, The Doss SoundBox Pro perfectly combines design, portability, and sound quality.

Great for filling a medium-sized room, thanks to the output power of 20W, and if you want to buy two you can put them in Bluetooth coupled and double the power to 40W, an extremely inviting option given the low-end price.

The connection with the smartphone takes place via the latest generation Bluetooth 4.2 technology, stable and safe, to avoid interruptions in signal transmission.

The shape of the speaker is perhaps the strong point of the Doss system because the integrated speakers are placed side by side to offer a stereo image that is certainly more credible than the UE Wonderboom, and this too is totally waterproof.

The battery lasts for about 12 hours of listening and is rechargeable via USB. The case design also includes a colored light placed around the front grille, giving a neon light atmosphere that we really like. It is also made of a very soft-touch material, pleasant to hold and carry around while listening to music. The design and build quality are certainly appreciable aspects.

For those who prefer a physical connection rather than wireless Bluetooth, here it is convenient to have a speaker that also accepts the auxiliary connection via 3.5 mm cable, this makes it very versatile and better than other models.

To add another element to the now indisputable versatility of this Bluetooth speaker, there is also the possibility of inserting a TF card to listen to music files, an option that will be less popular than others, but it doesn’t hurt to have.

Pros:

• Many options in connectivity and listening sources
• Undoubtedly the superior sound quality
• Excellent build quality

Cons:

• The sound quality is not exciting

4. Sony SRS-XB12

Small and powerful EXTRA BASS speaker

The Sony SRS-XB12 is a waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker, suitable for outdoor use. It is equipped with a single 46mm driver, with a frequency range from 20 to 20,000 Hz, an aux input for cable connection, and a micro USB input for charging.

Sony says that this device lasts 16 hours of autonomy on a single charge, but this only comes true when you use the speaker at 50% of the audio power. At higher power, the runtime is around 7 hours, which is still very good for such a small and portable speaker. One thing to keep in mind is that when the speaker reaches 20% battery, the volume is automatically set to 50% in economy mode.

The Sony SRS-XB12 is part of the EXTRA BASS Series, so expect a little more bass than similar Bluetooth speakers in the same price range.

For those who want to buy two, in this case, you can use the two devices in combination, to obtain stereo sound, connected to the same sound source in Bluetooth.

Pros:

• Waterproof
• Good power

Cons:

• 50% volume on battery 20%

5. Sony SRS-XB13

The Extra Bass mini Bluetooth speaker

Among the best Bluetooth speakers under 50 dollars, we recommend the Sony SRS-XB13, a wireless speaker from Sony’s Extra Bass Bluetooth series. The speaker is smaller than a can and at this size, the Extra Bass category is a bit tight on it, but we must admit that compared to its competitors this small speaker has a bit of an advantage in bass reproduction.

The build quality is good, waterproof, therefore resistant not only to splashes and humidity but also to a complete immersion in water for a maximum time of 30 minutes.

The sound quality is satisfactory, as is the volume: we find ourselves having to leave it halfway, especially when we play very dynamic tracks. If it is turned up to the maximum, we will have a better chance of hearing some occasional annoying distortion.

Convenient is the presence of a cord to hang the case from the shower or the clothesline in the open air. The ring at the end can also be used as a support when we want to arrange the diffuser horizontally. There is also the possibility of connecting two Sony SRS-XB13 Bluetooth speakers together to obtain stereo sound, which is absent if only one speaker is used.

Those looking for a cheap and good quality Sony speaker will hardly be disappointed with this model. We easily include it among the best cheap Bluetooth speakers and recommend it especially to those who love a full-bodied sound in the low frequencies.

Pros:

• Excellent volume in relation to the size
• 16 hours of autonomy
• Waterproof

Cons:

• Not very accurate at high volume
• Charging that takes 4 hours

6. Anker SoundCore 2

The inexpensive Bluetooth speaker with perfect portability

The best cheap Bluetooth speaker under 29 dollars is the Anker SoundCore 2, which offers an excellent 24-hour battery life, a rugged shell resistant to both shocks and water (not waterproof), and better sound than the speakers of our smartphone. Ideal for those who want to carry it around for the whole day, and we see it as particularly suitable for outings in the mountains.

The look is not too flashy, indeed very simple. On the top, we have buttons for Bluetooth connection, on-off and volume control, the build quality is very good. We like the feel and find it particularly comfortable to use.

It also gives the impression, when held in your hand, that it is waterproof, but beware that this model is not completely sealed, and offers resistance equal to the IPX5 standard, which means that it can be wet, but not submerged.

The dimensions, while larger than other models such as the UE Wonderboom, are still portable. It measures 165mm x 54mm x 45mm and is convenient to slip into your hiking bag or backpack.

The power output isn’t bad, but we have to admit that other models are capable of higher volumes and more bass presence. We would therefore not recommend it for those who want to use it for outdoor parties and listen to loud music, it is more suitable for company music while walking or preparing a picnic.

Pros:

• Waterproof
• Autonomy 24 hours
• Low bass

Cons:

• Low output power especially for outdoors

7. Tribit XSound Go

The affordable waterproof wireless speaker

The Tribit XSound Go is our first choice as the best waterproof budget Bluetooth speaker under $ 50. It offers IPX7 waterproof level protection and is capable of generating sound with a fairly wide stereo image. We recommend it for use in the pool, on the beach and for having fun with friends.

If you want a cheap Bluetooth speaker that sounds good, lasts a long time, and can be taken anywhere, this model is at the top of your options list. You won’t have to worry about ruining it or throwing it in the water, and it’s portable in size to easily fit into your backpack or bag.

On the front, we find a grille with the Tribit logo to hide the drivers. On the top, there are buttons for power on, Bluetooth connection, playback, and volume. Beautiful large and easy to press, in all respects the outer shell is well built and pleasant to the touch.

On the back, there is a small rubber door to hide the micro USB connection and 3.5mm mini-jack input. It’s nice to find this option too, in case you don’t want to use the Bluetooth functionality. Too bad you don’t have a USB-C, the micro USB is a bit older and some of us won’t be able to use the same cable we use to charge our smartphones. The string at the end of the speaker is convenient for tying it to your arm or hanging it in the shower.

The sound is generally good, we find it very present in the medium-high frequencies, but do not expect great things in the bass sector, on the other hand for such an inexpensive mini speaker we do not want to expect too much. However, it has obtained the positive opinion of the vast majority of users, and with good reason, because the popularity of this Bluetooth speaker is well deserved.

Pros:

• Cassa Bluetooth waterproof IPX7
• The pretty good sound image
• Excellent battery life

Cons:

• At high volumes, the sound becomes thinner

8. W-KING D9

The affordable 60W Bluetooth speaker for outdoor use

W-KING D9 is the perfect solution for those looking for a cheap but powerful Bluetooth speaker enough to be used outside, during a party, or for a barbecue in the garden.

Compared to the other speakers described so far, we have a design that is very reminiscent of an old portable stereo: sturdy, square, with a handle for easy transport.

The most striking feature is the 60W of power; this speaker will have no problem making itself heard outdoors or in large and noisy environments. The audio quality is average for this price range: the fidelity of the sound is not exceptional, but on the other hand this is certainly not a device designed for Hi-Fi lovers.

It is water-resistant (IPX6 certification), so it is absolutely not afraid of any splash or accidental dip if it is used to listen to music by the sea or by the pool.

The capacious 12000aAh battery allows music playback for 40 hours. Charging takes place via the USB-C port. Furthermore, thanks to the power bank function, W-KING D9 can also be used to recharge mobile phones or other devices; great if you are away from home and the battery of the smartphone that is playing the music is about to abandon us.

As for connectivity, we have a Bluetooth 5.0 interface, in addition to NFC (compatible only with Android devices), to pair any type of device quickly and easily. However, there are micro USB, AUX ports, and a slot for micro SD cards.

Pros:

• Really powerful
• Ideal for outdoor use
• Works as a power bank

Cons:

• Some distortion at maximum volume
• Sound uninspiring

9. JBL GO 3

The ultra-compact budget waterproof Bluetooth speaker

The JBL GO 3 is a Bluetooth speaker that has been able to amaze a lot with its output power and its audio quality, despite its small size. It is in fact an ultra-compact speaker that measures 87.5 × 75 × 41.3 mm, practically a pocket device.

Another attractive feature is the IP67 certification of the speaker (resistance to water and dust), which can survive a dip in the water without problems. If you are looking for a waterproof Bluetooth speaker to use for listening to music even outdoors, perhaps by the sea or by the pool, this speaker could be for you.

The generous range of colors available is a plus to give vent to personal tastes. The design is also pleasant: the control buttons (power, Bluetooth connectivity, volume, and multifunction button) are positioned on the top and on the side of the speaker.

The recharging of the internal battery, which unfortunately only lasts 5 hours, takes place via the USB-C port located on the side of the speaker.

The sound produced by the JBL GO 3 is quite good. As already mentioned, given the compact dimensions we are amazed by how much power it can bring out. Even when the volume is turned up, the quality remains more than good, without unpleasant distortions.

Too bad for the absence of a microphone, which makes this speaker unsuitable for those who want a device for making phone calls.

It is not the Bluetooth speaker that we recommend to those who have to throw a party with friends but to listen to music at home or outdoors, and as a travel companion, it offers a truly enviable value for money.

Related: Best Outdoor Speakers

Pros:

• Very small
• Amazing audio quality
• IP67 certification

Cons:

• Limited autonomy
• No microphone

10. EWA A106

A very light and waterproof mini Bluetooth speaker

EWA A106 is a portable speaker recommended for those who need an inexpensive speaker that can be easily taken anywhere, thanks to its ultra-compact design and weight of only 177 grams.

The build quality is excellent, the speaker has a very resistant metal body. The design is clean and modern, including a carabiner to easily attach it to a backpack or carry bag. A protective case is included in the package.

The speaker has an output power of 3W and has an autonomy of about 6 hours, which however will go down if you keep the volume at maximum. However, recharging takes place quickly: half an hour of charging allows you to get two more hours of battery life.

The sound, in proportion to the size, is acceptable. Do not expect exceptional bass, but for listening in the room it fully satisfies, both for sound quality and output power.

EWA A106 is also a waterproof case; the IP67 certification makes it possible to use it in the shower as Shower Speaker, in the pool or at the sea, without fear of splashes or accidental falls into the water.

Pros:

• Ultra-light and compact
• IP67 certification

Cons:

• Only fair sound quality
• Battery life is not great

11. Amazon Echo Dot

The affordable Bluetooth speaker with Alexa smart assistant for the home

Amazon Echo Dot is the smart speaker to put at home to have access to the Alexa voice assistant. It can be used both to play music via Bluetooth to other wireless speakers around the house, or as a normal Bluetooth speaker to play music directly on the Dot from your mobile phone.

It is suitable for those who are looking for a cheap NON-portable Bluetooth speaker, to be placed in the kitchen, living room, or any area where you want to have access to the smart speaker, as well as to listen to music directly from its internal audio system.

In that department, the updated third-generation design includes an improvement in the driver, the sound is now emitted from the side membrane, instead of emitted from the plastic top. This plays to the advantage of better sound quality and greater sound expansion throughout the room.

There are two connections, one for the current, the other to connect an external audio source via mini-jack cable, a backup option for those who do not want to use the Bluetooth function.

With the same features, dimensions, and price range, the sound quality of the Echo Dot is superior to its rival Google Home Mini, even if the latter is capable of higher volumes.

Pros:

• Voice assistant function
• Sound quality and wide diffusion throughout the room

Cons:

• It is not a portable device

12. Ortizan X10

Bluetooth speaker with atmospheric LED lights

Among the best portable speakers for cheap, Ortizan X10 stands out for its particular design that includes colored LED lights. This waterproof Bluetooth speaker is perfect for enjoying our favorite music while in the shower.

Easy to operate, just turn on the device and select the Ortizan X10 device on the smartphone, in order to immediately use the speaker to play music from your mobile device. The five buttons are used for power on, track change, volume adjustment, equalizer setting, playback, and answer to incoming calls.

This waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker allows you to answer the mobile phone, by pressing the dedicated button you can simply start the call and answer the phone. Truly smart and well-thought-out feature.

The battery life is excellent, even reaching 30-40 hours depending on use. Charging takes place via the USB-C port, which is located under a waterproof rubber flap. The same door also hides an AUX port and a micro SD slot.

From a model like this we do not expect anything extraordinary in terms of audio quality, there is no need to expect big things in this department. The sound is not bad, although turning up the volume too much distortion and croaking are just around the corner. But at home, perhaps in the shower, Ortizan X10 is a speaker that is unlikely to make us regret buying a more expensive model.

Pros:

• Hands-free function for smartphone calls
• Waterproof

Cons:

• Distorted sound at high volume

Bluetooth speakers: the best options that FM radio has

Photo: amazon.com