The 10 Best Outdoor Speakers for Enjoying Your Favorite Tunes Alfresco

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Robb Report may receive an affiliate commission.

Basking under the warm sun can feel euphoric—doubly so when you have music to accompany the moment. A perfectly curated playlist is a critical additive to frolicking outdoors, allowing you to fully enjoy the day with Mick, Freddie, Stevie, Bey, Ariana or Hova. Or maybe you’re hosting a party or poetry gathering. Or maybe you’re planning on giving a speech of some kind. Whatever the scenario, make sure all sounds are clear and audible with the best outdoor speakers.

More from Robb Report

What differentiates indoor and outdoor speakers? Premium indoor speakers are designed to be used in controlled conditions and emphasize clarity and acoustics overall. Outdoor speakers, on the other hand, are meant to be heard in variable conditions. They typically produce better quality sound, the result of higher-end construction and internal parts that yield better vibrations. Additionally, the external frames are built to ward off the elements, so you can leave them out and not worry about Mother Nature spoiling the party.

The best outdoor speakers, essentially, ensure that the good times will continue to roll come rain or shine—and we’ve gathered the 10 of the finest below.


What to Consider Before Buying the Best Outdoor Speakers:

Weather Resistance: This is the big one. Outdoor speakers, above all, need to hold up against the elements. Look to see if the units have any sort of IP rating, which will provide information on how splash-proof (or not) they are. Additional characteristics to consider include temperature ranges that indicate whether a speaker can get damaged in the blazing hot or freezing cold.

Size: This goes without saying, but you’ll need to ensure the speakers you’re purchasing match fit in a given area. If you’re looking to mount them, the anchoring point must be supportive enough to hold the speakers in place without falling. Speakers that are too big might cause structural damage if there’s insufficient support, so you might need to do some testing to figure out how load-bearing the anchor points are in your space.

Design: Looks aren’t always everything, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t important. Some outdoor speakers definitely have a rough-and-ready appearance, white others are sleeker and better suited on a wall mount. It’ll largely come down to your taste.

Special Features: Are you looking for a minimalist setup that just allows you to play music? Or are you looking for something that might pair well with an existing interior audio setup? Most outdoor speakers are bare bones and straightforward, but other units can add value by including features such as Wi-Fi connection or Bluetooth.


Best Overall Outdoor Speakers

OSD AP650 Audio Patio Pro Speakers

At 6.5 inches, the OSD Patio Pro speakers may not seem like much, but they certainly pack some power in a small package. These speakers sound quite strong and cover large spaces with ease. They are also easy to move around, as they can be mounted either vertically or horizontally depending on the area. What’s more, the IPX6 rating means they’re dustproof and weather-resistant, so tuck them under the lip of a roof, so they’re a little more protected during intense rain.

Dimensions: 18.5 x 11 x 14.5 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire.
Mounting Type: Built-in mounting brackets.

Buy Now on Amazon: $195

Buy Now on Houzz: $200


Most Durable Outdoor Speaker

Polk Audio Atrium 4 Outdoor Speakers

Polk’s Audio Atrium 4 outdoor speakers are made to withstand all types of weather. Thanks to the combination of stainless steel and brass on the speaker wire hubs and an aluminum grille and bracket on the exterior, the set can easily withstand heavy rain and other extreme weather conditions. What’s inside the Atrium 4 isn’t a slouch either; the long-throw driver and aluminum tweeter provide rich sounds that fill a space accordingly, so you can keep the tunes rolling.

Dimensions: 7.5 x 6.3 x 9.5 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire. 
Mounting Type: Built-in mounting brackets.

Buy Now on Polk Audio: $169

Buy Now on Amazon: $169


Best Sizable Outdoor Speakers

Klipsch AW-650 Outdoor Speaker

Go big or go home, right? If your party needs to pack a punch, the Klipsch AW-650 outdoor speakers clock in at a staggering 15 by 9.5 inches to help you make your songs resonate outdoors. Complete with a 6.5-inch driver, the speaker’s exterior is treated with UV-protection and weather-resistant coating. Note: You will need an amplifier to power the speaker. But if you’ve got one already or are willing to make that purchase, the AW-650 delivers big sound in a big way.

Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 9.5 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire to amp.
Mounting Type: Built-in mounting brackets.

Buy Now on Klipsch: 659 $320


Best Value Outdoor Speakers

Yamaha NS-AW150W Outdoor Speaker

Yamaha is one of the most trusted names in audio, which mean you can feel good about turning to them for a pair of outdoor speakers. Decently sized at 10.2 x 6.2 x 54, the set emits a clear sound, allowing your favorite songs to be heard in crisp detail. This is thanks to the half-inch tweeter and five-inch woofer. However, the speakers are only water-resistant instead of waterproof, so you’ll need to tuck them under an awning or inside a screened-in porch to protect them better.

Dimensions: 10.2 x 6.2 x 5.4 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire to amp.
Mounting Type: Built-in mounting brackets.

Buy Now on Amazon: $106


Most Reliable Outdoor Speakers

Sonos Move Speakers

In addition to sounding great, part of the appeal of a Sonos speaker is how easy it is to use and link with other devices—more so if you’ve already invested in the brand’s sound system. The Sonos Move is a battery-powered smart speaker with an IP56 rating and shock-absorbent design that can tackle humidity, rain, snow, sun and extreme temps with ease, all while providing superior sound and super-easy connectivity. Again, getting a pair of Moves may not be the best idea if you don’t already have a Sonos system, but if you want to stay within the architecture, the Move is a slam dunk.

Dimensions: 9.44 x 6.29 x 4.96 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wireless.
Mounting Type: Wall hook sold separately.

Buy Now on Sonos: $399


Best Designed Outdoor Speakers

Bowers & Wilkins AM-1 Outdoor Speaker

Bowers & Wilkins’s audio products always have strikingly elegant designs, and the AM-1 is no exception. With the ability to mount the set of speakers either vertically or horizontally, the AM-1 is sealed entirely, which allows for better protection from the elements. Additionally, the one-plug mounting system is quick and easy to install and provides 220-degree rotation so you can position the speaker best for your setup. But that simple, all-in-one design makes these speakers a real hit—just like the audio at your next party.

Dimensions: 12.25 x 7 x 8.25 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wireless.
Mounting Type: Built-in wall mount.

Buy Now on Bowers & Wilkins:


Best Concert-Level Outdoor Speakers

Soundboks 3 Outdoor Speaker

Looking just to get one outdoor speaker and call it a day? The Soundboks 3 is a massive (both in weight and size) unit that could substitute a PA system at a bar. With a rechargeable, 40-hour battery and a concert-level decibel volume, you may drive your neighbors insane with how loud it can get. The Soundboks 3 is also dent-proof and water-proof, making it so you can play music anytime, anywhere without worrying about the elements getting in the way.

Dimensions: 31.5 x 19.69 x 15.75 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wireless.
Mounting Type: None.

Buy Now on Amazon:

Buy Now on Soundbooks:


Most Hassle-Free Outdoor Speakers

Bose 251 Outdoor Speakers

Bose automatically conveys a certain level of craftsmanship, so rest assured the 251 outdoor speakers are more than a compelling set. A heavy-duty composite casing makes them strong enough to handle both heat and cold swings, while the water-resistant metal will protect them against rain. The simple mount also allows the 251 to angle slightly downward, not unlike speakers you’d see in a movie theater or mounted in the ceiling at a concert. Plus, they’re super easy to set up, so you won’t need to take too much time away from lounging outside.

Dimensions: 4.49 x 5.98 x 12.4 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire.
Mounting Type: Wall mounts.

Buy Now on Bose: $398

Buy Now on Amazon: $398


Best Budget Outdoor Speakers

Dual Electronics LU43PB Outdoor Speakers

If you’re in the market to outfit a massive outdoor space with several budget-friendly options, the Dual Electronics LU43PB speakers are a fantastic budget option. The high-performance units provide quality sound through an amplifier, and the speakers include a four-inch woofer. Also, the swivel brackets allow for versatility in mounting and positioning, while the all-weather coating ensures you’ll be able to use the speakers in any environment.

Dimensions: 8.25 x 5.25 x 5.25 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire.
Mounting Type: Wall mounts.

Buy Now on Amazon: $50


Best Outdoor Soundbar

Samsung HW-LST70T Terrace Outdoor Soundbar

Don’t want to go with individual speakers? Then Samsung’s Terrace soundbar is the way to go, which is part of the brand’s Terrace product line made for outdoor entertaining. With Dolby sound included in the unit, the Terrace’s quality is the best of the best. It can also be mounted easily underneath your television set with ease. Last but not least, the IP55 rating helps with weather resistance against water and dust. Additional features include distortion cancelation, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming and adaptive sound.

Dimensions: 48 x 5.5 x 2.1 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Mounting Type: Wall mounts.

Buy Now on HSN: $1,200

Buy Now on Best Buy: $1,200

Robb Report stands for luxury without compromise, and is synonymous around the world with the best of the best. For over 40 years, our magazine has helped discerning readers find products that meet those exacting standards. We\'re proud to continue that tradition by recommending the very best cookware, technology, home goods and other life essentials to meet your needs.

1. Definitive Technology Outdoor Speaker

In addition to featuring all-weather protection, these speakers produce the kind of high-fidelity, surround sound-quality audio that will impress even the pickiest of audiophiles. You can also mount and place them any way you like around your patio or pool area. One thing to note: Each speaker is sold by itself, not as a set.

Definitive Technology Outdoor Speaker
Definitive Technology Outdoor Speaker

Definitive Technology Outdoor Speaker

Buy Now

2. Bose Environmental Outdoor Speakers

Bose is a trusted name in the audio world—and for good reason. The American outfit’s gear is designed to bring you high-quality sound no matter the setting. This hardwearing set of speakers has been engineered to withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -40 degrees Fahrenheit all the way up to 158 degrees Farrenheit. The design features a glass-filled cabinet and speaker cone that provides year-long protection against snow and rain. It also features precisely positioned drivers and will deliver balanced stereo audio in any outdoor area. The speakers can be mounted either horizontally or vertically and feature a black colorway to help them blend into the environment.

Bose Outdoor Speakers
Bose Outdoor Speakers

Bose Environmental Outdoor Speakers

Buy Now

3. Dual Electronics High-Performance Outdoor Speakers

Set Dual's bookshelf-style speakers up in your backyard and you’ll be able to hear your favorite tunes no matter how much wind or ambient chatter there is. They’re also easy to set up and feature swivel brackets so you can make sure sound is being directed exactly where you want it to be. The company also sells a Bluetooth amplifier if you’re looking for a little more oomph.

Dual Electronics Three-Way High Performance Outdoor Speakers
Dual Electronics Three-Way High Performance Outdoor Speakers

Dual Electronics High-Performance Outdoor Speakers

Buy Now

4. Polk Audio Atrium 5 Outdoor Speakers

Like the best outdoor speakers, Polk Audio’s pair was designed with the variable conditions in mind. These speakers feature a five-inch driver that will produce a loud and clear sound that can cut through background noise. They feature a speed-lock mounting bracket that makes installing the speakers, either standing up or on their side, a breeze.

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

Polk Audio Atrium 5 Outdoor Speakers

Buy Now

Click here to see more up-to-date holiday deals!

Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.