The Best Bluetooth Speakers for Any Budget

5 February 2025

Bluetooth speakers have come a long way, haven't they? Gone are the days when you had to be tethered to a wall or deal with cables just to enjoy your favorite tunes. Now, with a Bluetooth speaker, you can bring the party anywhere—whether you're chilling at home, hanging at the park, or even dancing in the shower!

But here’s the thing: with so many Bluetooth speakers available these days, it can be tough to find the one that fits both your needs and budget. Some are so cheap you're wondering if they'll break the moment you unbox them, and others are so expensive you think, “Do I really need a speaker this fancy?”

Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this article, we'll dive into the best Bluetooth speakers for any budget, so you can find the perfect one without emptying your wallet or compromising on quality. Whether you're looking for something ultra-affordable, mid-range, or high-end, there's a speaker out there waiting for you.

Why Choose a Bluetooth Speaker?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of which Bluetooth speaker is right for you, let’s talk about why Bluetooth speakers are such a game-changer in the first place.

First off, they’re wireless! You can place them anywhere in the room, toss them in your backpack, or even take them to the beach. No more tripping over cords or trying to figure out if you have the right input. Plus, most Bluetooth speakers are portable and easy to carry around, meaning you can bring your music wherever life takes you.

Oh, and let’s not forget about the sound quality. Over the years, Bluetooth speakers have significantly improved in terms of audio performance. Many models now deliver crisp highs, deep bass, and rich mids, all while being small enough to fit in your hand. Pretty cool, right?

Okay, enough small talk—let’s dive into the best Bluetooth speakers for every budget.

Budget Bluetooth Speakers (Under $50)

If you're looking for something affordable, don't think you have to sacrifice sound quality. There are plenty of budget-friendly Bluetooth speakers that hold their own against pricier models. Here are some of the best options under $50.

1. JBL GO 3

The JBL GO 3 is proof that good things come in small packages. This compact speaker may be small, but it packs a punch. It's water-resistant (IP67), making it perfect for outdoor adventures or even a poolside jam session.

You won’t get booming bass from this little guy, but for its size and price, it delivers surprisingly clear sound. If you’re looking for a speaker that’s super portable and doesn't break the bank, the JBL GO 3 is a solid pick.

Pros: Ultra-portable, water-resistant, affordable
Cons: Limited bass, short battery life (around 5 hours)

2. Anker Soundcore 2

Anker has built a reputation for making reliable, affordable tech, and the Soundcore 2 is no exception. This Bluetooth speaker offers 24 hours of playtime, so you can jam out all day without needing to recharge. Plus, it’s got IPX7 water resistance, meaning it can survive a dunk in the pool or a surprise rain shower.

The sound is well-balanced, with good bass for the price. It’s not going to blow you away, but for under $50, the Soundcore 2 is one of the best options out there.

Pros: Long battery life, water-resistant, good sound
Cons: Bass could be deeper

3. OontZ Angle 3

The OontZ Angle 3 has been a fan-favorite for a reason. It’s one of the most affordable Bluetooth speakers that doesn’t compromise too much on sound quality. The 10-watt speaker delivers surprisingly loud, clear audio, and the triangular design helps direct sound in multiple directions.

It’s also splash-proof, making it a great choice for outdoor use. If you’re really pinching pennies but still want a decent speaker, this one’s for you.

Pros: Very affordable, decent sound, splash-proof
Cons: Battery life is just okay (up to 14 hours), lacks deep bass

Mid-Range Bluetooth Speakers ($50–$150)

If you’re ready to spend a little more for better sound quality and extra features, the mid-range price point offers some excellent choices. These speakers tend to offer better bass, longer battery life, and additional perks like voice assistants or multi-device pairing.

1. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2

The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 is well-known for its 360-degree sound. This little speaker can fill a room—or a backyard—with impressive audio. It’s also waterproof, dustproof, and even floats. Yes, you read that right—it can float in water.

This speaker is ideal for anyone who wants something rugged and portable but with sound quality that’s a step up from the budget options.

Pros: Great 360-degree sound, waterproof, rugged
Cons: No app support, no speakerphone function

2. JBL Flip 5

The JBL Flip 5 is one of the most popular Bluetooth speakers in the mid-range category, and for good reason. It delivers powerful sound with good bass, even at higher volumes. With 12 hours of battery life and IPX7 water resistance, the Flip 5 is great for both indoor and outdoor use.

It doesn’t come with a microphone for calls, and it doesn’t have voice assistant support, but if you’re just looking for a speaker that sounds great, the Flip 5 should be on your list.

Pros: Excellent sound quality, water-resistant, durable
Cons: No voice assistant or speakerphone, no aux input

3. Sony SRS-XB33

If you love bass, you’re going to love the Sony SRS-XB33. This speaker features Sony's "Extra Bass" feature, which makes it ideal for bass-heavy genres like hip-hop or EDM. It also has an IP67 rating, meaning it’s dustproof and waterproof.

Plus, the light show feature adds a fun, visual element to your music. You can sync the lights to the beat, which is perfect for parties. Oh, and did I mention the 24-hour battery life?

Pros: Deep bass, long battery life, waterproof
Cons: Bulky, light show may not be for everyone

High-End Bluetooth Speakers ($150 and Up)

If you’re an audiophile or just someone who wants the best of the best, high-end Bluetooth speakers are where it’s at. These speakers offer top-notch sound quality, premium features, and often, a sleek design that makes them stand out from the crowd.

1. Bose SoundLink Revolve+ II

Bose has long been a trusted name in audio, and the SoundLink Revolve+ II is no exception. This speaker delivers 360-degree sound, meaning you’ll get great audio no matter where you’re standing. And in typical Bose fashion, the sound quality is superb, with clear highs, rich mids, and deep bass.

It’s also water-resistant (IP55) and has a handle for easy carrying, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. Plus, the battery life lasts up to 17 hours, so you won’t have to worry about constantly recharging it.

Pros: Superb sound quality, 360-degree sound, portable
Cons: Expensive, not fully waterproof

2. Sonos Move

The Sonos Move is basically the Rolls-Royce of Bluetooth speakers. It’s not just a Bluetooth speaker—it’s also a smart speaker with Wi-Fi, voice control (Alexa and Google Assistant), and multi-room audio support.

The sound quality is nothing short of amazing, with deep bass, crisp highs, and a well-balanced midrange. Plus, it’s weather-resistant, so you can use it indoors or outdoors. The only downside? It’s heavy and on the expensive side.

Pros: Incredible sound, smart speaker functionality, durable
Cons: Pricey, heavy for a portable speaker

3. Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen)

If you’re looking for something ultra-premium, the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 is a small but mighty option. It features a sleek, minimalist design and delivers sound that’s bigger than its size suggests. The speaker also supports Alexa voice control, making it a smart speaker, too.

The Beosound A1 is water-resistant (IP67) and has up to 18 hours of battery life, so you can take it with you on the go. It’s a bit on the expensive side, but if style and sound quality are your top priorities, it’s worth the splurge.

Pros: Premium design, excellent sound, smart speaker
Cons: Expensive, no multi-room audio

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the best Bluetooth speaker for you depends on what you’re looking for and how much you’re willing to spend. Whether you're on a tight budget or ready to splurge, there’s a Bluetooth speaker out there that will fit your needs.

For those on a budget, the JBL GO 3 or Anker Soundcore 2 are great options. If you’re looking for something mid-tier, the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 or JBL Flip 5 will give you excellent sound quality without breaking the bank. And for those who want the absolute best, it’s hard to go wrong with the Sonos Move or Bose SoundLink Revolve+ II.

So go ahead, pick the one that suits your style, and get ready to bring the music with you wherever you go!