Best Wireless Outdoor Speakers in 2024 - Carry Your Music Everywhere

Updated: September 12,2023

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Sunday brunch on a houseboat. A barbecue on the balcony. A romantic picnic in the park. A pool party with friends. These all have two things in common: they can be improved by music and ruined by rain.

That’s why fully waterproof outdoor speakers are a great investment. They can survive if you leave them outside in a summer shower or drop them into the pool. Indeed, outdoor Bluetooth speakers offer a winning combination of great sound, good battery life, and robust design that’s ideal for entertaining. Your guests will be impressed, even if your neighbors aren’t.

We’ve looked everywhere to find the best wireless outdoor speakers on the market. Here’s a list of those you should consider.

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5

Excellent

Sony GTK-XB90
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4

Good

Pohopa 2 Packs Lantern Speakers
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5

Excellent

Sonos Move
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4

Good

Bose SoundLink Revolve
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4.5

Good

JBL Flip 5

Sony GTK-XB90

5
Excellent
Sony GTK-XB90 front Sony GTK-XB90 up Sony GTK-XB90 horizontal
Output power
60 W
Frequency response
20 Hz to 20 kHz
Battery capacity
16 hours
Bluetooth range
66 ft.
Bluetooth version
4.2
Dimensions
13.1 x 13.2 x 26.4 inches
Weight
30.1 lbs.
What we liked
  • Rich, powerful bass
  • Multi-device connection
  • Long battery life
What we disliked
  • Pricey
  • Not water-resistant
Where to Buy
At Amazon
Price
VISIT SITE

If you need a portable Bluetooth speaker small enough to carry around but large enough to pack a party-rocking sound punch, this bass-heavy speaker could be perfect for you. These contenders for the title of best outdoor wireless Bluetooth rock speakers will keep your guests up all night - if you want them to.

One reason the Sony GTK-XB90 is such a popular portable speaker is its Wireless Party Chain feature, which lets you connect up to 10 compatible outdoor speakers to your sound system. The Party Chain function is particularly cool because it allows you to connect many outdoor speakers and sync not only their sound, but also their lighting features. This mode works via Bluetooth, although only when the speakers are within a range of 66 feet.

These best-rated wireless outdoor speakers are the big brothers of the GTK-XB60, and as such, they deliver far more volume and bass. However, the two generations of speakers have some things in common; both portable Bluetooth speakers have a stylish design to impress your friends.

While the GTK-XB90 is much larger than its predecessor, convenient carry handles make transport a breeze, so you can take the party anywhere. Moreover, the built-in rechargeable battery provides you with up to 16 hours of entertainment. With practically the best battery for wireless outdoor speakers around, you can rely on this device to last even at maximum volume with extra bass and lighting effects. Switch to stamina mode when it’s low on juice, and you’ll get a couple more hours out of it.

These outdoor speakers provide full-range, powerful sound performance with deep bass, so you can enjoy electronic dance music, hip-hop, or even classical symphonies with exceptional clarity in every detail. This is a very portable speaker, which is great if you’re hosting an event away from home. It also has an input for an external mic and is arguably the best outdoor speaker to use when a wedding MC or karaoke host wants to speak right over whatever track is being streamed.

Another exciting feature is the Infinity mirror lighting, which helps the speakers react better to the beat of the music. Imagine listening to your favorite tunes while flashes of blue, green, and red bounce back and forth in time with the music.

Now it’s time to talk about money. These outdoor Bluetooth speakers are definitely pricier than most, but their very good sound quality, wealth of outstanding features, and battery longevity make them worth the extra dough. If you love hosting memorable events, the Sony GTK-XB90 could be one of the best outdoor speakers for you.

Pohopa 2 Packs Lantern Speakers

4
Good
Pohopa 2 Packs Lantern Speakers front Pohopa 2 Packs Lantern Speakers set
Output power
2 x 10 W
Frequency response
100 Hz to 18 kHz
Battery capacity
15 hours
Bluetooth range
33 ft.
Bluetooth version
4.1
Dimensions
7.75 x 7 x 11.75 inches
Weight
2.5 lbs. (per unit)
What we liked
  • Crisp and high-end sound quality
  • Completely waterproof
  • LED lights for night-time use
What we disliked
  • Pairing issues
  • Average durability
Where to Buy
At Amazon
Price
VISIT SITE

You can imagine the hype when these weatherproof outdoor speakers hit the market. Users were delighted to hear about the multi-use Pohopa 2 Lantern speakers’ adorable design and, very soon, they were considered just about the best outdoor speakers around.

At first glance, they might look like regular outdoor lanterns, but these are actually speakers that deliver a rich natural sound that not only fills your outdoor space, but also fits in beautifully with your outdoor landscaping. You can expect the host speaker to automatically link with the sub speaker in about six seconds. The stereo dual-pairing feature works very well to create a full sound, but bear in mind that the distance between host and sub speaker shouldn’t be more than 33 feet.

You can expect advanced digital sound and noise/wind-reduction technology from these Bluetooth outdoor speakers, which play for up to 12 hours with the LED lights on. This is another reason Pohopa Lanterns are the best wireless speakers for outdoor entertaining. You can also extend the life of this battery-powered speaker by lowering the volume or turning off the lights.

These speakers are completely waterproof and can be easily carried, and their lantern-style design makes them a more stylish addition than most other outdoor models. That said, they’re also perfect for pool parties or beach BBQs. Perhaps the product’s only downside is its durability; the build quality falls short of many competitors.

Still, Pohopa Lanterns are arguably the best-sounding outdoor speakers around, making them perfect for when you want to play music to spice up your outdoor gatherings. The cable jack on the back supports headphones and wired input, so your outdoor wireless system keeps rocking even when you’re using a non-Bluetooth device.

Finally, let’s not forget that these wireless outdoor speakers are very reasonably priced. If you’re looking for a multi-purpose outdoor entertainment system that won’t break the bank, Pohopa’s distinctive lantern-style speakers could be the best budget outdoor speaker package for you.

Sonos Move

5
Excellent
Sonos Move front Sonos Move back Sonos Move up
Output power
20 W
Frequency response
65 Hz to 20 kHz
Battery capacity
11 hours
Bluetooth range
30 ft.
Bluetooth version
4.2
Dimensions
9.4 x 6.2 x 5 inches
Weight
6.6 lbs.
What we liked
  • Built-in Automatic TruePlay technology
  • Superb audio quality
  • Comprehensive durability
What we disliked
  • Very pricey
  • Relatively short battery life
Where to Buy
At Amazon
Price
VISIT SITE

Move is a milestone product - it’s the first Sonos speaker that supports Bluetooth audio and has a rechargeable lithium battery. For years, Sonos has made the best small speakers with optional smart assistants from Google or Amazon, but it has never before gone wireless.

Compared to previous Sonos speakers, the Move is like a younger, cooler cousin. Its matte, almost-black design is stylish enough for any space; it’s slick and shows true progression from the classic Sonos design. Two-thirds of its exterior are dedicated to the speaker grille, while the back panel features an upward-facing claw-grip handle. But given that these Sonos outdoor speakers weigh more than six pounds, transporting the Move anywhere will, ironically, be more difficult than you’d expect.

Let’s not forget the sound quality, either. Over the years, Sonos has proven itself to be a loud and proud company that designs some of the best-sounding outdoor speakers. Move is no exception; thanks to its tweeter, woofer, and amplifiers, Move provides massive sound both in terms of melodic ranges and in those earthy, deep bass tones.

Depending on how you plan to use your outdoor sound system, you can adjust your EQ for more balanced sound. You can let your tunes melt into the background, accentuate the booming bass, or tweak the settings so those high notes sparkle. 

You can control all these options via the Sonos app, voice control, or Apple AirPlay 2. However, these functions are available only when Wi-Fi connectivity is enabled. Once you switch to Bluetooth, you can use music service apps like Spotify or Pandora instead.

One of the reasons many think Sonos makes the best outdoor wireless speakers with Bluetooth is that they can automatically tune themselves to provide optimal audio quality and bigger sound in any given space thanks to their built-in microphones. You can listen to a range of music genres and enjoy optimal sound quality, no matter whether you’re hosting an open-air party or a small gathering on a balcony.

The Sonos Move is a rugged portable Bluetooth speaker that includes two virtual assistants, so you can listen to the news or check the weather with the help of Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. However, it can’t make phone calls.

The Sonos Move’s battery guarantees 11 hours of playtime. Once the battery is drained, Move will switch to its “suspend” mode, in which it can preserve its battery life for up to 120 hours. As you’d expect from Sonos’s best outdoor speakers, the Move is a robust, durable product built to withstand extreme temperatures, coarse sand, and dust, as certified by its IP56 rating. 

This beautiful piece of audio tech produces an exhilarating sound fit for any outdoor event. Though they may not be cheap, there is no denying the appeal of these weather-resistant outdoor speakers as a long-term investment.

Bose SoundLink Revolve

4
Good
Bose SoundLink Revolve front Bose SoundLink Revolve back Bose SoundLink Revolve up
Output power
8 W
Frequency response
65 Hz to 20 kHz
Battery capacity
13 hours
Bluetooth range
30 ft.
Bluetooth version
4.1
Dimensions
3.3 x 3.3 x 6 inches
Weight
1.46 lbs.
What we liked
  • True 360-degree sound
  • Attractive design
  • Expansive sound
What we disliked
  • Not fully water/dust proof
  • Charging dock not included
Where to Buy
At Amazon
Price
VISIT SITE

With crisp sound and an excellent range, the Bose SoundLink Revolve is one of the best portable Bluetooth speakers made by one of the best-known audio manufacturers in the world. This version features sonic improvements specifically engineered for full sound and outstanding outdoor performance.

The SoundLink Revolve’s cylindrical design is key to delivering 360-degree sound. Inside, there’s a full-range driver firing downwards onto a diffuser plate, which helps spread the sound out evenly in all directions. Two passive radiators are included inside the case; they’re responsible for reinforcing the lower frequencies to generate smooth, deep bass. Opposed to each other, they cancel out any unwanted vibrations. 

On the back, you’ll find a small notch where there’s a 3.5 mm jack and a micro-USB port. This is one of the best wireless speakers for home and outdoor use because it’s designed to be fully portable and wire-free, and these ports ensure that even if you drain the speaker’s extensive 13-hour battery, you can quickly and easily recharge it to keep the party going. You can also hook up an audio source via a 3.5 mm cord in case the mobile device you’re using for input isn’t Bluetooth- or Wi-Fi-compatible.

The base of the speaker is surrounded by a grippy rubber ring to keep it stable. However, even if this portable speaker does slip, it’s built to withstand the fall. These outdoor speakers have an IP55 splash-proof rating, which means they can withstand a bit of a spray. Still, be careful - this portable speaker won’t survive being dunked in a pool.

Like many of the best outdoor speakers on the market, the Bluetooth-enabled SoundLink Revolve features Party Mode, which allows you to connect with other speakers wirelessly. However, you cannot adjust the EQ to suit your personal taste; you’re stuck with what the manufacturer thinks is the right sound.

The Revolve has a computerized voice that helps you with the setup process, but there is no built-in voice assistant. However, you can pair it with your Apple device and activate Siri commands. 

These Bluetooth portable speakers are at the pricey end of the spectrum, especially since they don’t offer subwoofer-level bass response for that rich bass you might desire. However, if you want a stylish speaker that delivers true 360-degree sound and outstanding audio quality, SoundLink’s Revolve might just be the best portable speaker for you.

JBL Flip 5

4.5
Good
JBL Flip 5 front JBL Flip 5 horizontal JBL Flip 5 back
Output power
20 W
Frequency response
65 Hz to 20 kHz
Battery capacity
12 hours
Bluetooth range
75 ft.
Bluetooth version
4.2
Dimensions
7.1 x 2.9 x 2.7 inches
Weight
1.2 lbs.
What we liked
  • Great acoustics
  • Solid bass and timing
  • PartyBoost stereo pairing
What we disliked
  • No microphone
  • Not Connect Plus compatible
Where to Buy
At Amazon
Price
VISIT SITE

A veteran in the audio industry, JBL rarely fails to impress with its range of best-rated wireless outdoor speakers. That’s why we were surprised to find that the JBL Flip 5 has fewer features than its predecessor, the Flip 4. This updated version no longer features an AUX-in port, which is frustrating for users with old-school audio inputs, and the decision to axe the microphone used for voice control means the Flip 5 is essentially just a Bluetooth speaker. 

But that’s not to say it isn’t an excellent outdoor speaker worthy of its asking price. JBL claims this is one of the best outdoor waterproof wireless speakers in terms of build quality, and the Flip 5’s IPX7 waterproof rating supports this claim. The front of the unit is clad in strong material surrounded by rubberized edging, and it features a USB-C port for recharging. Despite the exposed port, the Flip 5 is a waterproof Bluetooth speaker, so you shouldn’t worry about it getting splashed or even submerged in the water. Indeed, it can be underwater and still provide excellent sound for as long as 30 minutes.

As far as the sound goes, don’t let the Flip 5’s small size fool you - JBL is known to make the best outdoor speakers for a reason. Like earlier wireless Bluetooth speakers in the Flip series, this model comes with JBL’s trademark passive radiators that generate vibrant sound at all volumes. What’s more, this speaker features an all-new racetrack-shaped drive that provides high output and enhanced bass. The clean mid-range and high notes help both vocals and instrumental melodies stand out when you play music.

PartyBoost is JBL’s answer to Sony’s Party Chain feature. This system allows you to connect multiple speakers and create an immersive stereo sound experience, as you’d expect from the best wireless speakers for outdoor use.

You needn’t worry about the Flip 5’s battery, either: It’s guaranteed to last for at least 12 hours of playtime. After all, excellent battery life is one of JBL’s signature features. This JBL waterproof speaker runs on Bluetooth 4.2 and functions at a frequency range of 2,402-2,480 GHz.

Despite lacking a few of its predecessor’s features, the JBL Flip 5 is a mid-range speaker that superbly performs a versatile range of functions. It is made of extremely lightweight, durable materials and still has an excellent waterproof rating, all at an affordable price.

Our Evaluation Method for Finding the Best Outdoor Speaker

When the weather warms up, most of us want to spend as much time as possible outside. No matter whether you’re digging up the backyard, cleaning your car, or hosting a BBQ, some good tunes always add to the outdoor experience.

But you might also be concerned that even the best outdoor speakers might not be up to the task. What if it starts raining? What if someone knocks the speaker into the pool? There are many portable Bluetooth speakers that are falsely advertised as waterproof and sturdy, but the truth is that not just any speaker will do.

Irrespective of what you’ll use this device for, there are certain considerations you should make before choosing an outdoor speaker, just like when choosing PC gaming speakers or any other type of speakers. There are many types of outdoor speakers, and reading through the specifications of all the best outdoor speakers can get confusing.

The first thing you should do is to determine what you’ll use your future speakers for. Think about the kind of events or activities you might need them for and the space they would need to fill with sound. This will help you determine some technical needs, including battery life and bass strength.

Choosing between wires and no wires should be a no-brainer. You wouldn’t want your guests to trip over wires next to the pool, would you? It’s good to buy something that can work with an AUX cord if you need it to, but in general, wireless outdoor speakers are the way to go.

The next thing you should think about is build quality and the elements your speaker will be exposed to: rain, wind, dust, hail, or wind. Also, think about the type of music you want to listen to. If you’re into techno or RnB, you might want to consider an outdoor speaker with booming bass. If you’re more into jazz or classical music, you should think about features that don’t provide that much bass, instead focusing on balanced acoustics and high-quality mid-level sounds.

Of course, design and price also matter. You can always go for regular cheap Bluetooth speakers, but will they be ready for everything you throw at them? Setting a budget will help you choose the best outdoor speakers for you, while making sure you get good bang for your buck.

Taking all these factors into consideration, finding the best outdoor speakers no longer seems like an easy task, does it?

That’s why we’ve undertaken comprehensive research to find the best outdoor speakers on the market. This article will take you through the criteria we’ve used to rate each outdoor speaker, then provide a list of top-rated outdoor speakers that will spice up your picnics, barbecues, or pool parties.

Build Quality

The best portable outdoor wireless speakers can withstand harsh weather conditions and accidents. We take sturdiness into consideration and include a weather/water resistance rating in each review. All the products we’ve listed are water-resistant at the very least, while some can withstand heavy rain, wind, hail, dust, or even a dip in the pool.

Another major factor is the quality and portability of the product. Some of us engage in an active lifestyle, and cheap plastic will no longer cut it. This is why we choose weather-resistant speakers made of sturdy materials for our list of the best Wi-Fi speakers. These products are known for featuring a new-age, intuitive design that can survive even the most demanding routine. And maybe an outdoor accident or two.

Bluetooth Range and Compatibility

There are hundreds of varieties of Bluetooth speaker on the market today, so finding the best one in the crowd can be a difficult task. We rate products that use Bluetooth version 4.0 or above. That’s because older versions offer lower-quality audio transmission and have a shorter range between your input device and your speakers. In the age of wireless devices like routers, baby monitors, and state-of-the-art controllers, having a consistent signal is crucial for ensuring an enjoyable experience.

The best outdoor Bluetooth wireless speakers can be paired with several other units and have a connection range of at least 30 feet. The convenience of pairing multiple speakers together to create a consolidated sound that’s powerful enough for a large outdoor gathering is one of the handiest features Bluetooth outdoor speakers offer.

Sound Quality

Many speakers with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi sound lackluster because of low speaker power and average sound specifications. Quality sound output and tight bass are the most important features any potential buyer should be looking for. Bass radiators enhance the latter, while dual drivers enhance the former.

We’ve looked for the best outdoor wireless speakers around, all of which offer a frequency range between 100 Hz and 20 kHz. This ensures that you’ll get consistent, clear sound from your chosen wireless outdoor speakers across a range of musical styles and genres.

Price and Value

When it comes to Bluetooth speakers, you really do get what you pay for. If you find a set of weather-resistant speakers for a suspiciously bargain price, chances are you’ll be compromising on quality. It’s not easy to find the best budget Bluetooth speaker with well-rounded and refined features without a hefty price tag.

We’ve listed the best outdoor wireless speakers, including a few high-quality but relatively inexpensive options that will cater to those on a stricter budget. For that purpose, we place more importance on build quality and performance than we do on gimmicky features.

Battery Life

Nobody wants to cut the party short because their speakers have run out of charge too soon. Most good speakers last 6-10 hours on average, but some boast 24-hour battery life. We’ve only reviewed weather-resistant speakers with a battery life of 10 hours or more. And even though those portable speakers with excellent battery life might cost a bit more, we think they’re worth the expense.

FAQ

What are the best wireless outdoor speakers?

Here’s our list of the five best outdoor speakers, all of which offer great sound quality:

  • Sony GTK-XB90
  • Pohopa 2 Packs Lantern Speakers
  • Sonos Move
  • Bose SoundLink Revolve
  • JBL Flip 5
Do outdoor speakers need power?

Every wireless outdoor speaker avoids the limitations of physical cables by relying on battery life and Bluetooth and/or Wi-Fi connectivity. Of course, you’ll need to charge these speakers in advance, but once they’re fully charged, you should get at least 10 hours of use, depending on which model you opt for.

Are wireless speakers any good?

Wireless speakers were once known for having poorer sound quality than their wired counterparts. Nowadays, however, the best outdoor speakers deliver quality hi-fi sound via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Some even allow you to connect multiple speakers so you can have a synchronized house party without having to trip over wires.

How long do wireless speakers last?

When listening to music at max volume, you can expect your wireless speaker’s battery to last from six to 15 hours of playtime, depending on the model.

Is Bluetooth audio as good as wired?

Nowadays, Bluetooth audio quality can be as good as wired. You should only notice a drop in sound quality when your Bluetooth speakers are low on battery, and that’s when you’ll plug them in to charge anyway.

How do you protect outdoor speakers?

The best outdoor speakers should be dustproof, waterproof, and built sturdily enough to withstand harsh weather conditions. That said, they’re not designed to stay outdoors permanently. Bring them inside when you’re not using them and store them in a safe place where they won’t get knocked over. If they do get wet or dirty, make sure you wipe them down before putting them into storage.

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