The Best Waterproof Speakers Will Survive Even the Biggest Cannonball Splashes


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When it comes to a rocking pool party, you need to have an excellent waterproof speaker on-hand to deliver the tunes. Built for rugged performance, loud sound, quick-connect features, and of course, armored with water-friendly materials, the best waterproof speakers look good, sound great, last a long time, and will keep your friends and family coming back for more.

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If you’re searching for the best waterproof speaker for summer, then keep scrolling to see the top options we’ve tested. As professional product reviewers, we’ve tested dozens of speakers already in 2023, and we’re confident we’ve collected only the very best waterproof speakers for your consideration.

Bang And Olufsen Beosound A1 2nd Gen Bluetooth Speaker
Bang And Olufsen Beosound A1 2nd Gen Bluetooth Speaker

BEST OVERALL

Bang And Olufsen Beosound A1 2nd Gen Bluetooth Speaker

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Price: $279.00 $249.17

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$279 at B&O

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Best For: Those who work from home during the week and need an auditory escape on weekends.
Why We Chose It: Simple yet so advanced, this is the greatest sounding speaker and most convenient for apartments or home offices.


Full Review: We Threw the Beosound A1 Speaker Into the Pool

Key Specs:

  • Size: 1.83 x 5.2 inches

  • Weight: 1.23 pounds

  • IP rating: IP67

  • Battery Life: Up to 18 hours

The Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 2nd Gen Bluetooth Speaker is one of the most expensive on our list, but we also think it is the best waterproof speaker. Honestly, it changed our idea of what a waterproof speaker is and what it should look like. It is lightweight and round — and fits in the palm of your hand. The pearl-blasted aluminum is sturdy yet stylish, and the waterproof leather strap is great for carrying or hanging on a door handle, shower head or the handlebars of an exercise bike. The IP67 rating means that it is dust-tight, and can be (and has been) fully submerged in water.

Another reason we love this speaker: It has a built-in three microphone array, can be used as a speakerphone while taking video calls on a laptop, and Alexa Voice Assistant lets you issue voice commands

The Beosound A1 2nd Gen speaker provides superb 360-degree sound and up to 18 hours of playtime, connects via Bluetooth 5.1 and has a USB-C connection. On Amazon, color choices are Nordic ice, black anthracite, gray mist and pink — but on the company’s website, you can also choose green, gold-tone and the Berluti edition.

Pros

  • Beautiful yet simple design

  • Can be used as a speakerphone

  • Customizable sound EQ via app

  • 360 degree sound

  • Alexa voice assistant

Cons

  • Super expensive

sonos roam
sonos roam

RUNNER UP

Sonos Roam

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Price: $179.00

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Best For: Those with existing Sonos systems because of the simple sync ability.
Why We Chose It: Sleek design mixed with top notch performance make this an easy fit for the top two best waterproof speakers.


Full Review: The Sonos Roam Is the Perfect Portable Speaker

Key Specs:

  • Size: 3.94 x 0.79 x 1.06 inches

  • Weight: 7.1 ounces

  • IP rating: IP67

  • Battery Life: Up to 10 hours

The Sonos Roam is a SPY favorite, with many of us proclaiming it as the “perfect portable speaker” and the “new gold standard”. While its battery life isn’t as impressive as some of the larger speakers on this list, it packs incredible sound into its compact frame. For summer fun, it’s also IP67 rated, which means it’s both fully water and dustproof.

If you already have Sonos speakers around your home, then this is definitely the best waterproof speaker for your abode. Even if you aren’t a Sonos household, the Sonos Roam has some impressive and unique features. Not only is the Sonos Roam a Bluetooth speaker, but it will also connect automatically to your home’s WiFi, resulting in a better connection and better sound. On top of that, the Roam also uses a special AI-powered microphone and software to automatically analyze the acoustics of the environment and adjust the sound levels accordingly.

The end result? One of the best waterproof speakers in the world, especially if you’re looking for a speaker to keep around the house.

Pros

  • Excellent sound quality

  • Connect via WiFi or Bluetooth

  • Can charge wirelessly

  • AI-powered algorithm adapts music to the acoustics of any space

Cons

  • No 3.5mm audio input

  • So-so bass levels

Ultimate Ears (UE) Megaboom 3
Ultimate Ears (UE) Megaboom 3

BRONZE MEDAL

Ultimate Ears (UE) Megaboom 3

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Price: $199.99 $185.47

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$200 at best buy

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Best For: Those who decide they want music from across the room and don’t want to get up.
Why We Chose It: When paired with the UE app, controlling this device is so easy. With waterproofing, it was hard to keep this out of the top two.


Read More: The Best Pool Floats for 2022

Key Specs:

  • Size: 8.8 x 3.4 inches

  • Weight: 2 pounds

  • IP rating: IP67

  • Battery Life: Up to 20 hours

It was a photo finish between the Beosound A1 2nd Gen, the Sonos Roam and the Ultimate Ears (also known as UE) Megaboom 3 Speaker as the overall best waterproof speaker. There’s so much to love about this speaker, and, as you can guess by the title, the bass is loud and clear (with no distortion).

In addition to 360-degree sound, we love not having to fumble with a lot of buttons. There’s one “magic button” that is used to play, pause and skip tracks. The speaker is rated IP67 and can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes — and it even floats. That’s in addition to being dust-, sand- and drop-proof.

Downloading the Boom and Megaboom App provides access to the equalizer and allows you to turn on remote power and set up playlists. With a battery life of up to 20 hours, we didn’t have to recharge often. The speaker uses Bluetooth, and we appreciated the ability of connecting up to two devices at one time. It has a micro USB connection and is available in several beautiful colors, including lagoon blue, sunset red and night black (and, on the Ultimate Ears website, ultraviolet purple).

Pros

  • Easy controls

  • Plenty of bass

  • Pairs with other UE Boom speakers

  • EQ via App

Cons

  • No handle or carrying strap

JBL Charge 5
JBL Charge 5

BEST POWER BANK

JBL Charge 5

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Price: $179.95 $139.95

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$140 at walmart

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Best For: This is a fantastic camping speaker with the built in power bank for charging up aside from the speaker function.
Why We Chose It: JBL has a great reputation for resilience and whether poolside or on the side of a creek in the woods, it will stand up to the elements.


Read More: The Best Wireless Soundbars

Key Specs:

  • Size: 8.7 x 3.76 x 3.67 inches

  • Weight: 2.11 pounds

  • IP rating: IP67

  • Battery Life: Up to 20 hours

JBL makes many types of portable speakers, and it was hard choosing between the JBL Flip 6 Waterproof Speaker and the JBL Charge 5 Waterproof Speaker. However, the Charge 5 prevailed as the best waterproof speaker between the two. It’s one of our favorite models, and we love that it has a built-in power bank, so we can charge our phones with it. The speaker continues the tradition of being rugged (it has an IP67 rating) and delivers the great sound that we’ve come to expect from JBL.

The PartyBoost function lets us pair two JBL speakers. Another feature we like: the grooves underneath keep the speaker from rolling all over the place. The speaker provides 20 hours of playtime and uses Bluetooth 5.1, and a USB-C connector. It’s available in black, blue, camouflage, red, gray, and teal.

Pros

  • Built-in power bank

  • Sounds great

  • Rugged

  • Grooves keep speaker in place

Cons

  • No handle or carrying strap

JBL Flip 6
JBL Flip 6

BEST BASS

JBL Flip 6

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Price: $129.95 $99.95

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$100 at walmart

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Best For: Adding as much thump and thud to your poolside-listening experience as possible.
Why We Chose It: JBL has made a nice name for themselves in the wireless audio marketplace, and the Flip 6 is a fantastic example of how much low-end a well-made, bite-sized speaker can achieve.


Full Review: JBL Flip 6

Key specs: 

  • Size: 7 x 2.6 x 2.8 inches

  • Weight: 1.21 pounds

  • IP67 rating: IP67

  • Comes in eight different colors

When you need your waterproof speaker to sound like it’s best friends with an unseen subwoofer, you’re going to have your work cut out for you. Fortunately, JBL knows that there are all kinds of listeners, and most of us want supreme bass, even if we don’t want the thud all the time. To that end, we now have the almighty JBL Flip 6, and we’re huge fans all-around.

It’s portable, lightweight, IP67 rated, and touts up to 14 hours of playtime, but perhaps the best part of JBL’s mini-champ is its low-end capabilities. It’s frankly surprising how much bass this little speaker pumps out, and if you’re in need of even more rumble, you can tap into PartyBoost, which allows you to link the Flip 6 up to another JBL-compatible speaker for bigger and better sound-staging.

Pros

  • Great sound and lots of bass

  • Portable and lightweight

  • PartyBoost allows for multiple JBL speakers to be linked together

  • Up to 14 hours of battery life

Cons

  • A little expensive

  • No headphone jack

marshall emberton ii bluetooth speaker
marshall emberton ii bluetooth speaker

MOST ICONIC

Marshall Emberton II

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Price: $169.99

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$170 at B&H

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Best For: Powerful sound from a rock-solid speaker that looks and feels like a guitar amplifier. 
Why We Chose It: The original Emberton was one of our favorite Bluetooth speakers of all time, and the sequel product brings some amazing upgrades to the fold.


Read More: The Best Electric Guitars for Beginners

Key Specs:

  • Size: 2.75 x 6.25 x 2.75 inches

  • Weight: 0.26 pounds

  • IP67 rating: IP67

  • Stack Mode for multi-speaker pairing

We loved the hard-hitting performance of the original Marshall Emberton Speaker, but the developers have gone back to the drawing board, and here we are with the tweaked and evolved sequel to the waterproof speaker made by the folks who probably made your guitar amp: the Marshall Emberton II.

Every Bluetooth speaker-maker has a huge feat to tackle from the get-go: Creating a speaker that can fill as much available audio real estate as possible, while working with a relatively small chassis. Marshall more than delivers on this end with its awesome True Stereophonic feature, which calibrates sound to project in an immersive 360-degree fashion, giving you highs and lows from every conceivable angle. And we totally dig the fact that this speaker is IP67 rated, making it close to waterproof and ensuring the Emberton II will come back from every drop and ding you put it through.

We also love Stack Mode, a pair-and-share feature that lets you group multiple Emberton II speakers together for an unbelievable rock-concert-like experience.

Pros

  • Awesome space-filling sound

  • Super-cool design

  • Immersive 360-degree sound-staging

  • Stack Mode allows you to link multiple Emberton II speakers

  • Up to 30 hours of battery life

Cons

  • Expensive

  • Sound quality could be a little better

Bose Portable Smart Speaker
Bose Portable Smart Speaker

MOST VERSATILE SPEAKER

Bose Portable Smart Speaker

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Price: $399.00 $319.00

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$320 at Target

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Best For: Serious sound fans who are looking for both indoor and outdoor consistent sound.
Why We Chose It: We came for the flexible handle, but stayed for the Bose quality sound.


Full Review: Bose Portable Smart Speaker

Key Specs:

  • Size: 7.54 x 4.69 x 4.09 inches

  • Weight: 2.34 pounds

  • IP rating: IPX4

  • Battery Life: Up to 12 hours, 24 in standby mode

The Bose Portable Smart Speaker is water-resistant as opposed to waterproof. It has an IPX4 rating and can withstand sprays and splashes, and even bumps and drops. This was the first portable speaker (circa summer 2020) that we felt comfortable using around any type of water, and we appreciated the ability to use the Bose Music App for step-by-step instructions on how to set it up and pair with other Bose speakers.

SPY’s Tech Editor, John Velasco, was surprised by its incredible sound quality for a speaker of its size. “Bose knocks it out of the park in terms of sound quality,” explained Velasco in his review. “If you love listening to music, your ears will certainly appreciate the rich and vibrant tones the Bose portable smart speaker is able to achieve.”

It also has a flexible handle for easy transport, and a microphone array to use it as a voice-controlled speaker with Alexa to make phone calls or play various music services like Spotify. And since it’s a Bose and provides 360 degrees of the level of sound expected of Bose, we also enjoyed using the speaker indoors. It supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi and has a USB-C connection. The two color choices are triple black and luxe silver.

Pros

  • Superb audio

  • Microphone

  • Bluetooth and WiFi

  • Voice control

  • Syncs to other Bose devices

Cons

  • Not waterproof

  • Most expensive speaker on list

Tribit Stormbox Pro Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Tribit Stormbox Pro Portable Bluetooth Speaker

BEST SMALL PORTABLE SPEAKER

Tribit Stormbox Pro Portable Bluetooth Speaker

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Price: $119.99

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$120 at Walmart

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Best For: Wanderlusters who enjoy a musical display wherever they roam.
Why We Chose It: The size is perfect for stuffing in a backpack or duffel for quick trips without taking up too much space.


Read More: The Best Bluetooth Speakers

Key Specs:

  • Size: 7.08 x 3.78 inches

  • Weight: 2.15 pounds

  • IP rating: IP67

  • Battery Life: Up to 24 hours

You have to admit that the StormBox is the coolest-sounding speaker on the list, and it lives up to its name. Tribit is known for punching above its weight, which is why this compact sound box made our list of the best waterproof speakers for your consideration.

It has an IP67 rating, so it’s fully waterproof, and the flexible strap makes it easy to transport. The speaker, which has a 24-hour battery life, also provides 360-degree stereo sound. The built-in powerbank can be used to charge our phones, and the speaker (which uses Bluetooth 5.0 and has a USB-C input and USB-A output) can be paired with another Tribit speaker as well. The speaker also has a microphone for phone calls.

Pros

  • Built-in powerbank

  • Deep bass

  • Flexible handle

  • Multi-point connection

  • Microphone

Cons

  • No app for EQ

Anker Soundcore Motion Plus Portable Waterproof Speaker
Anker Soundcore Motion Plus Portable Waterproof Speaker

BEST CUSTOMIZABLE EQ

Anker Soundcore Motion Plus Portable Waterproof Speaker

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Price: $110.99

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$109 at soundcore

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Best For: Audiophiles who enjoy getting precision sound in any kind of situation.
Why We Chose It: The price here is fantastic for this extremely versatile speaker.


Read More: The Best Noise Canceling Headphones

Key Specs:

  • Size: 10.1 x 3.1 x 3.2 inches

  • Weight:2.31 pounds

  • IP rating: IPX7

  • Battery Life: Up to 12 hours

Anker’s Soundcore Motion+ Speaker is one of the most popular portable Bluetooth speakers on Amazon, and we can see why. It’s ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, and the speaker provides hi-res audio that doesn’t skimp on the bass. And for the price, the bass is quite impressive.

SPY contributor, Terri Williams, enjoyed the ability to use the Soundcore App to adjust the treble, bass and other settings. The speaker has an IPX7 rating and a battery life of 12 hours. It uses Bluetooth 5.0 and connects via USB-C. There’s also an option to pair two Motion+ speakers. The Motion+ is available in black, blue and red.

Pros

  • Customizable EQ

  • Great sound

  • Can pair 2 speakers

Cons

  • No handle or carrying strap

Anker Soundcore Flare 2 Bluetooth Speaker
Anker Soundcore Flare 2 Bluetooth Speaker

BEST LIGHT SHOW

Anker Soundcore Flare 2 Bluetooth Speaker

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Price: $79.00 $62.99

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$76 at walmart

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Best For: Those who enjoy a little ambient lighting when listening to music or lighting up the night outside.
Why We Chose It: We liked that it had lighting on both the top and bottom of the speaker with the ability to pair with more speakers for more lighting.


Read More: The Best LED Light Strips

Key Specs:

  • Size: 3.50 x 3.50 x 6.31 inches

  • Weight: 1.29 pounds

  • IP rating: IPX7

  • Battery Life: Up to 12 hours

This may be the best waterproof speaker for raves, if you’re into that sort of thing. The Anker Soundcore Flare 2 Bluetooth Speaker is so much fun because of its light effects. With LED lights on the top and bottom of the speaker, you can create a light show using the Soundcore app with the 24 rainbow LEDs flashing to the beat of the music. And we’ve found it mesmerizes both kids and adults.

The speaker, which provides 360-degree sound with booming bass, is also rated IPX7 and has a 12-hour playtime. It uses Bluetooth and connects via USB-C, and there’s an option to pair it with other Flare 2 speakers.

Pros

  • LED lights on top and bottom

  • Lights sync to music

  • Impressive bass

  • Lightweight

  • Uses Soundcore App

Cons

  • No handle or carrying strap

Bang & Olufsen Beosound Explore Speaker
Bang & Olufsen Beosound Explore Speaker

BEST DESIGN

Bang & Olufsen Beosound Explore Speaker

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Price: $199.00 $186.89

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$199 at B&H

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Best For: Design nerds or anybody looking for a musical travel companion that attaches easily to their gear.
Why We Chose It: It’s the best waterproof speaker we found considering completeness given the small size.


Full Review: Bang & Olufsen Explore Is Worthy of Your Next Pool Party

Key Specs:

  • Size: 3.1 x 4.9 x 3.1 inches

  • Weight: 1.4 pounds

  • IP rating: IP67

  • Battery Life: Up to 27 hours

The Bang & Olufsen Beosound Explore is slightly bigger than the size of a 12-ounce soda and has a weatherproof strap on the back that makes it easy to carry. There’s also a carabiner clip that makes it easy to attach the speaker to our backpacks.

We love the speaker’s modern, beautiful design because it’s both rugged and stylish and has physical controls, which are more suitable for outdoor use. It has an IP67 rating, so if it gets dusty or dirty, a quick brush or rinse will have it like new again. The speaker is also sand-proof and scratch-resistant.

It has a ridiculously-long 27-hour battery life. “The battery life is also impressive,” detailed SPY contributor Erin Lawrence. She also praised its sound performance. “The sound of the Explore is excellent and quite well balanced, with no lean to either the high or low end,” Lawrence said in her review.

The true 360-degree sound includes impressive bass, and the Bang & Olufsen App allows you to adjust settings and customize the sound. The Beosound Explore uses Bluetooth 5.2 and connects via USB-C to USB-A cable. It’s available in black anthracite, gray mist, chestnut, green and navy. Though the design here is small, it’s very much a complete speaker, which earned it a spot in our best waterproof speakers lineup — well deserved.

Pros

  • Beautiful design

  • Impressive sound

  • Includes carabiner

  • Scratch-resistant

  • Long battery life

Cons

  • No speakerphone like the Beosound A1 2nd Gen

Polk Audio Atrium 5 Outdoor Speakers
Polk Audio Atrium 5 Outdoor Speakers

BEST SPEAKERS TO MOUNT

Polk Audio Atrium 5 Outdoor Speakers

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Price: $299.00 $269.00

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$299 at crutchfield

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Best For: Homeowners with a deck or patio who like to entertain and want to make sound a fixture.
Why We Chose It: The mounting feature is incredibly easy to use and they’re beastly when it comes to weather resistance.


Read More: The Best Computer Speakers

Key Specs:

  • Size: 10.31 x 6.75 x 7.75 inches

  • Weight: 4.6 pounds

  • IP rating: N/A

  • Battery Life: N/A

If you’re looking for the best waterproof speakers to mount on the patio or by the pool, look on further. This pair of Polk Audio Atrium 5 Outdoor Speakers can be posted up vertically or horizontally, and uses one-click speed lock mounting brackets.

The speakers are designed to be all-weather outdoor speakers. This means that they can withstand extreme temperatures, heavy rain, UV and even salt. The speakers don’t have an IP rating because they have an industrial environmental endurance rating (ASTM D5894-UV Salt Fog, Mil Standard 810 Immersion, Mil-Std 883 Method 1009.8 for salt and corrosion).

The speakers have an aluminum grille and bracket and use stainless steel and brass hardware designed to resist rust. And without being bulky and heavy, they produce loud, clear audio and powerful bass. In addition, the speakers have built-in stability feet, which allow them to be placed on a shelf or other flat surface.

Pros

  • Can be placed vertically or horizontally

  • Easy to attach or detach

  • Withstands extreme temperatures

  • Reasonably priced

Cons

  • Not a lot of features

Anker Soundcore Motion Boom Outdoor Speaker with Titanium Drivers, BassUp Technology, IPX7 Waterproof, 24H Playtime, Soundcore App, Built-in Handle, Portable Bluetooth Speaker for Outdoors, Camping
Anker Soundcore Motion Boom Outdoor Speaker with Titanium Drivers, BassUp Technology, IPX7 Waterproof, 24H Playtime, Soundcore App, Built-in Handle, Portable Bluetooth Speaker for Outdoors, Camping

BEST LARGE PORTABLE

Anker Soundcore Motion Boom Plus Speaker

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Price: $179.99

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$179 at soundcore

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Best For: People who have gatherings or parties with a l with a large space to fill up with sound.
Why We Chose It: The bass alone makes you feel like you’re in a night club and can keep the party going for up to 20 hours, but that’d be exhausting.


Read More: The Best Pool Vacuums

Key Specs:

  • Size: 15.31 x 5.51 x 7.7 inches

  • Weight: 5.29 pounds

  • IP rating: IP67

  • Battery Life: Up to 20 hours

If you plan to take the party wherever you go, the Soundcore Motion Boom Plus Speaker can certainly make you the designated DJ. It’s a whopping 15.31 inches long and heavy for a portable waterproof speaker at 5.29 lbs. But fortunately, it has both a handle and a strong shoulder strap, so transporting it is not a problem.

The sound is what we’ve come to expect from Soundcore’s Boom speakers: It really can power a party and has enough bass to keep everyone dancing. And since the speaker has an IP67 rating, that party can be at a pool, on the beach or in the rain. The battery lasts up to 20 hours, and compatible Soundcore speakers can be paired wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.3. There’s also a 3.5mm Aux input and a USB-C port.

Pros

  • Plenty of bass

  • Built-in handle

  • Shoulder straps

  • Soundcore App for customization

  • Uses Bluetooth 5.3

Cons

  • Somewhat expensive

SONY SRS-XB23 Wireless Portable Speaker
SONY SRS-XB23 Wireless Portable Speaker

BEST RUSTPROOF AND SHOCKPROOF

SONY SRS-XB23 Wireless Portable Speaker

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Price: $108.00

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$82 at walmart

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Best For: Those who are prone to spills, falling and generally messing up their stuff.
Why We Chose It: It’s both good looking and a tank at the same time. Try to mess it up, we dare you.


Read More: The Best Outdoor Security Cameras

Key Specs:

  • Size: 9.09 x 4.06 inches

  • Weight: 1.26 pounds

  • IP rating: IP67

  • Battery Life: 12 hours

The Sony SRS-XB23 is one of the toughest waterproof speakers on the market, bar-none. It has an IP67 rating, and is both waterproof and salt-water resistant so it is impervious to rust. It’s also dustproof and even shockproof, so it can endure bumps and knocks. One of our favorite features is (or was) the ability to use it vertically or horizontally, and the removable strap makes it easy to carry.

Battery life is 12 hours, and the speaker uses Bluetooth and has a USB-C port. It can also connect with compatible speakers and the Sony Music Center App provides additional functionality. Plus, the speakerphone provides hands-free calls. The speaker is available in light blue, black, coral red, olive green and taupe. Consider this, not only the best waterproof speaker, but the best foolproof speaker as well.

Pros

  • Great sound

  • Speakerphone

  • Rustproof

  • Removable strap

  • Sony App

Cons

  • Doesn’t charge smartphone like some other Sony models


Waterproof vs. Water Resistant

When shopping for waterproof speakers that can hang out by the poolside with you, you’re going to come across terms like “waterproof” and “water resistant” fairly often. And to make matters a bit more confusing, these marketing keywords aren’t exactly interchangeable. Allow us to clear things up for you.

“Waterproof” means that whatever speaker (or any other water-friendly item you may want to buy) is completely protected from any and all forms of water. In terms of speakers, these are the models that you could literally dunk in the chlorinated pool-water and they would still operate as if chilling on land (think the UE Wonderboom 3). So whether you’re contending with heavy rain or want a speaker around for your next splash-tastic event, a waterproof speaker is 100% invulnerable to liquid.

“Water resistant” on the other hand is not so invulnerable. When you see the word “resistant,” it’s a good idea to take a closer look at exactly how much water your speaker of choice can handle, because the term means that while the device can withstand some forms of liquid for certain periods of time, it’s not designed to hold back the floodgates forever. Fortunately, if you’re looking into speakers for your pool/patio space, a majority of these products will be armored to the teeth against H20, with “waterproof” typically winning over “water resistant.”


What You Should Look For in Waterproof Speakers

When trying to decide between waterproof speakers, there are several important factors to consider. In addition to our own testing experience, we consulted with Carl Prouty, a technologist at Abt Electronics in Glenview, Illinois, to determine the most important features. Depending on your budget, you may consider cost to be the primary driver in your decision. However, consider these other factors when shopping for the best waterproof speaker for you.

IP Rating

When shopping for a waterproof or water-resistant speaker, it needs to have a high IP (ingress protection) rating. “The higher the IP rating, the more resistant to water and dust it will be, so you’re looking for something like IP67 rated,” Prouty says. So, what do these numbers mean?

The first number is the dust protection rating. A rating of 5 means the speaker is dust-protected, and a 6 means that it is dust-tight. “The second number relates to water resistance, and on a scale of 1 to 8, an 8 means it is the most water-resistant,” he says.

However, most consumer products top out at 7, which is protection against temporary immersion in water. And depending on your usage, you may not need an 8-level. For example, a 6 provides protection from a powerful water jet, a 5 provides protection from water jets (as long as it’s not “powerful), and a 4 rating protects against splashing water. An X rating means there’s no information available.

Bang Olufsen, A1, 2nd Gen, review, Best Waterproof Speakers
Bang Olufsen, A1, 2nd Gen, review, Best Waterproof Speakers

And here’s something else to keep in mind as you’re considering water and dust protection. According to Sony, all of the speaker’s ports and covers should be completely closed to protect against water and dust. Also, Sony notes that dropping the speaker or subjecting it to mechanical shock could deteriorate waterproof and dust-proof performance.

Battery Life

The waterproof speaker’s battery life is another consideration. “If you’re not near a power source, you’ll need to make sure the speaker’s battery will last long enough for your needs,” Prouty says. You’ll also notice that we list battery life as “up to,” since actual battery life will depend on how loud the music is — and when you pump up the volume, you’re draining the battery quicker than if you played music at a lower volume.

Size

Size is one of the most important considerations. “But it’s also important to remember, the bigger the battery, the larger the speaker, so you may need to reprioritize the importance of those categories,” Prouty says. Smaller speakers take up less space, making them easy to toss into your laptop bags or backpacks. On the other hand, some of the larger speakers have shoulder straps and while these speakers are bulky, the strap does make them easier to carry.

Bose Portable Smart Speaker Review, Best Waterproof Speakers
Bose Portable Smart Speaker Review, Best Waterproof Speakers

Extra Features

Depending on your preferences, extra features may be a determining factor. “Some waterproof speakers offer the ability to charge a device off the speaker’s internal battery,” Prouty says. “Some can be paired with a second speaker to create a stereo pair. Some will only work with Bluetooth, while others will also work with Wi-Fi.”

Sound

Sound quality is perhaps most important feature to consider, and Prouty warns that not all speakers are created equal. “The larger the speaker, the larger the drivers, which often translates into better sound,” he says. “But if you have the option to hear them in person, it’s always a good idea since what sounds good to one person doesn’t always sound the same to the next individual.”

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SPY connects you with the latest top-rated products in tech, style, grooming, fitness and home essentials. Our expert team of editors and product reviewers have researched and vetted over 100,000+ products to bring you only those worth your money. Our job is to do the research for you so you can spend time enjoying your purchase rather than shopping for it. Most importantly: We never recommend a product or service we wouldn’t buy ourselves.

1. Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1

The Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 is lightweight and round — it fits in the palm of your hand. The pearl-blasted aluminum shell is sturdy yet stylish, and you can carry it by the waterproof leather strap. The IP67 rating means that it is dust-tight, and it can be fully submerged in water. Another reason we love this speaker: It has a built-in three microphone array, can be used as a speakerphone while taking video calls on a laptop, and Alexa Voice Assistant lets you issue voice commands.

Pros: Provides superb 360-degree sound and up to 18 hours of playtime.

Cons: Small speakers have their limitations in terms of sound.

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 2nd Gen Bluetooth Speaker
Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 2nd Gen Bluetooth Speaker

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1

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2. Sonos Roam

If you already have Sonos speakers around your home, then this is definitely the best waterproof speaker for your abode. Regardless, the Sonos Roam has some impressive features. Not only is it a Bluetooth speaker, but it will also connect automatically to your home's WiFi, resulting in a better connection and better sound. On top of that, the Roam also uses a special AI-powered microphone and software to automatically analyze the acoustics of the environment and adjust the sound levels accordingly. The Roam's battery life isn't as impressive as other speakers on this list, but it packs incredible sound into its compact frame.

Pros: Excellent sound quality, connects via WiFi or Bluetooth, can charge wirelessly; AI-powered algorithm adapts music to the acoustics of any space.

Cons: No 3.5mm audio input; so-so bass levels.

sonos roam waterproof bluetooth speaker
sonos roam waterproof bluetooth speaker

Sonos Roam

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3. Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth

Initially established as a brand with a focus on charging cables and power banks, Anker has branched out into audio gear, such as this great portable speaker. It has a 24-hour battery life, which is impressive considering its small size. It's IPX7 waterproof, meaning if it takes a dip, it'll be fine. The BassUp technology is designed to enhance the bass response.

Pros: Compact size and long battery life. IPX7 waterproof. Can be paired with another Anker speaker for a stereo experience.

Cons: Not as powerful sound as some other options.

waterproof speaker
waterproof speaker

Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth

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4. Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3

When choosing between the Sonos Roam, UE Megaboom 3 and Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1, it came down to a photo finish. The Megaboom 3 holds its own among these other elite waterproof speakers, and it's absolutely worth an invite to your next pool party. There’s so much to love about this speaker, and, as you can guess by the title, the bass is loud, clear and distortion-free. We also loved the 360-degree sound and easy 1-button controls, not to mention the fact that it floats.

Pros: Easy controls, plenty of bass, and pairs with other UE Boom speakers

Cons: No handle or carrying strap.

Ultimate Ears (UE) Megaboom 3 Waterproof Speaker
Ultimate Ears (UE) Megaboom 3 Waterproof Speaker

Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3

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5. JBL Charge 5 - Portable Bluetooth Speaker

JBL makes a lot of portable speakers, and it was hard choosing between the JBL Flip 6 Waterproof Speaker and the JBL Charge 5 Waterproof Speaker. However, the Charge 5 is one of our favorite models, and we love that it has a built-in power bank for charging phones. The speaker continues the tradition of being rugged (it has an IP67 rating) and delivers the great sound that we expect from JBL Hidden grooves on the bottom keep this speaker from rolling all over the place, and we found the Bluetooth connection to be reliable and clear.

Pros: Built-in power bank, great sound and durable design; Grooves keep speaker in place.

Cons: No handle or carrying strap.

JBL Charge 5 Waterproof Speaker
JBL Charge 5 Waterproof Speaker

JBL Charge 5 - Portable Bluetooth Speaker

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6. JBL CLIP 3

It's hard to rival the JBL Clip 3 in terms of portability. The tiny speaker can fit right in the palm of your hand, and the convenient carabiner clip can be attached to your belt loop or backpack. That makes it a great option for hikes or outdoor adventures. And if you end up taking a dip? The JBL Clip 3 is IPX7 waterproof. Best of all, the Clip 3 comes in a ton of different colors to suit your taste.

Pros: Super compact size. Integrated carabiner clip makes it easy to take on the go. Available in different colors.

Cons: Sound quality can be harsh at higher levels.

waterproof speaker
waterproof speaker

JBL CLIP 3

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