Boost Your Backyard Parties With The Best Outdoor Speakers

There's nothing quite like entertaining your guests outdoors, especially in the warmer months. Outdoor speakers are designed to withstand the elements, whether that's in the form of direct sunlight, high temperatures and humidity. Some models are ideal for tabletop use, whereas others can be mounted on walls or even buried underground for permanent installation.

If you're looking for the best outdoor speakers of 2023, you've come to the right place. This guide will help you choose the optimal model for your outdoor space and break down the key features to look for when making your purchase.

Detailing Our Favorite Outdoor Speakers of 2023

Dual Electronics Outdoor Speakers – Best Overall

List Price: $49.99

We chose the Dual Electronics Outdoor Speakers as the best overall product because of its 4-inch woofers and weather-resistant coating. This combination makes it the ideal set of outdoor speakers available at a low price. The manufacturer also provides a one-year hassle-free labor and parts warranty.

Optimized for a full range of sound and powerful bass, the Dual Electronics Outdoor Speakers feature a three-way component design with 1-inch midrange polypropylene cones and 0.75-inch tweeters. The UV-resistant resin and ABS enclosure help these outdoor speakers withstand all sorts of weather conditions. Moreover, they can be placed on a tabletop or mounted on the wall with the included swivel brackets that offer a 120-degree range of high-fidelity sound.

Kicker Outdoor Speakers – Largest Woofers

List Price: $149.99

If you're looking for a set of outdoor speakers that produce clear sounds over long distances and impressive bass, the Kicker Outdoor Speakers are worth considering. Boasting large 6.5-inch woofers and 2×5-inch compression-loaded horn tweeters, they can effectively generate loud, high-quality sound to fill large outdoor spaces. This product comes in black or white, so you can choose the color that best suits your patio or style.

The Kicker Outdoor Speakers generate 150 watts at peak power with an RMS of 75 watts and feature a UV-resistant resin enclosure and polypropylene construction designed to withstand the elements — and the test of time. The 180-degree mounting hardware ensures easy installation vertically or horizontally and an expansive sound range.

The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty, so you can expect any concerns or issues you may have with the outdoor speakers to be promptly handled.

Polk Audio Outdoor Speakers – Easiest to Mount

List Price: $199.00

The Polk Audio Outdoor Speakers are easy and quick to install. They come with one-click speed-lock mounting brackets that allow you to mount them vertically or horizontally. Their compact design ensures you can install them almost anywhere without cluttering your outdoor space, and the swiveling C-brackets offer a 180-degree turning radius for optimal sound dispersion.

The Polk Audio Outdoor Speakers are built to last and remain 100% rust-free: They are constructed with aluminum grilles and brackets, stainless steel and brass hardware, and an innovative neodymium magnet for better power handling. They also offer high-quality sound thanks to their 4.5-inch mineral-filled polypropylene cone drivers and 0.75-inch anodize aluminum dome tweeters surrounded by butyl rubber.

Additionally, the speakers' steeply angled baffle design is able to deliver full-range sound throughout your backyard.

Pyle Outdoor Speakers – Most Powerful

List Price: $171.99

With an impressive peak power of 300 watts and 6.25-inch long-throw subwoofers, the Pyle Outdoor Speakers are perfect for projecting audio at a loud volume and with impressive bass.

Their high-performance 1-inch dome tweeters and surround stereo technology ensure you'll experience superior sound quality. Moreover, this model is both waterproof and weatherproof thanks to the polypropylene mica cabinet enclosure and rubber surrounds, which also means it can withstand extreme temperatures — from stifling heat to freezing cold.

The Pyle Outdoor Speakers are equipped with Bluetooth capability to stream wirelessly within 30 feet as well as a 3.5mm AUX connector. For added durability, the speaker plugs feature gold plating and a stain-resistant design. Lastly, these outdoor speakers also include mounting brackets and a built-in amplifier complete with digital power.

Bose 251 Outdoor Speakers – Premium Pick

List Price: $398.00

The Bose 251 Outdoor Speakers are the best option if you're looking for the highest-quality outdoor speakers and cost isn't a concern. These 5.25-inch woofers are encased in an innovative and patented multi-chambered chassis that's designed to minimize audio distortion while producing clear, rich sound. The manufacturer takes durability seriously, too: These outdoor speakers are engineered to withstand snow, rain, salt and temperature extremes between -22 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Bose 251 include weather-resistant mounting brackets and are sold in three different packages: Speakers only, speakers with wires and speakers with an amp and wires. If you choose to buy an amplifier and receiver separately, this option is rated from 10 to 200 watts so you can tailor the sound to your needs. While these outdoor speakers are very carefully designed, the main trade-off is their high price tag.

Houl Zallee Outdoor Speaker – Most Portable

List Price: $79.99

The Houl Zallee is a highly portable outdoor speaker you can bring anywhere. This wireless model features a built-in handle for convenient carrying and a Bluetooth 5.0 chip, which allows you to pair this product with most devices. This means you won't have to worry about any pesky cords or installation when you're out and about with your speaker.

With 60 watts of peak power and 40-watt RMS, this speaker still pumps out a well-balanced sound range for clear vocals and powerful bass. Because it uses passive radiators on the front and rear, you won't have to worry about distortion either.

While you shouldn't leave the Houl Zallee Outdoor Speaker outside permanently, it is rigorously tested to meet IPX7 waterproof standards, meaning it can handle being submerged in 3.3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes. It's also impact resistant due to its ultra-durable ABS and metal construction. This option does require re-charging but offers up to 32 hours of playtime on a single charge. As a bonus feature, if you need to take a call, the built-in microphone allows you to do so without picking up your phone.

Finding Your Next Outdoor Speakers: A Buyer's Guide

Outdoor parties can get boring fast if the entertainment options aren't engaging. That's where outdoor speakers come in.

The market for these devices isn't easy to navigate, but our team already did the work for you. From interpreting amplifier power ratings to evaluating speaker durability, we covered all the bases. By the time you finish reading our buyer's guide, you'll be ready to buy the ideal speakers for your outdoor space.

Things To Consider Before Buying An Outdoor Speaker

Woofers

A woofer's diameter directly correlates to the low-end frequencies it can produce. The larger the diameter, the lower the frequency. Low-end frequencies provide the oomph in your music that you feel in your chest.

If you like loud bass, you should carefully consider the diameter of your woofers. A good rule of thumb is to look for woofers at least 4 inches in diameter, but between 6 and 9 inches is even better if you want impressive sound quality.

ABS Enclosure

ABS, or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, is a durable plastic often used in outdoor speaker enclosures. One of the main benefits of using ABS is that it's resistant to weathering and UV damage, meaning your speakers can better withstand the elements. This material has high surface hardness and good chemical resistance.

ABS is also impact-resistant to help protect your speakers from bumps and drops. Choosing an outdoor speaker with an ABS enclosure is wise if you want a product that will last for years.

Additional Buying Tips

Included Hardware

Most outdoor speakers are made of weather-resistant materials that can stand up to the weather, rain or shine.

Stainless steel and brass are two of the best materials for outdoor hardware. Both of these metals are durable and resistant to corrosion; as a result, they will not rust or deteriorate over time, even in harsh conditions. Stainless steel and brass hardware also have a sleek, modern look that can enhance the aesthetics of any outdoor space. Just keep in mind that brass is susceptible to stress cracking.

Powerful Bass

Many people don't think about bass when shopping for outdoor speakers. But if you're playing music outdoors, you should look for a speaker with a powerful bass response.

First, the bass provides music with its foundation and anchor, so the music will sound thin and tinny without a strong bass. Second, it helps fill up outdoor spaces, bringing music to life and making it sound fuller and richer. You can get a good idea of an outdoor speaker's bass response by going through some customer testimonials on its product page.

Maintaining Your Outdoor Speakers

Despite being more durable than indoor alternatives, outdoor speakers that are directly exposed to the elements can still become damaged over time. You can help extend their longevity by giving them proper care and regular maintenance. Here are a few tips to help you keep your outdoor speakers in good condition for longer:

• Place your speakers under an awning or another type of shelter. This will protect them from direct sunlight and rain.
• If you live in a cold area, covering your outdoor speakers with plastic bags or containers can offer extra protection from snow. It's also a good idea to avoid using them during freezing weather as the internal hardware could be brittle and more easily breakable.
• Clean your speakers regularly with a soft cloth. Be sure to remove any dirt or debris that might have accumulated on the speaker grille. For particularly tough dirt, you can use dishwashing liquid or other mild cleaners.

Storing Your Outdoor Speakers

Storing your outdoor speakers during the winter may not be necessary, depending on where you live or how weather-resistant they are. If you're concerned about how they'll hold up against the cold or intense snowstorms, here are a few steps to ensure they're still working once the weather warms up.

• Store your speakers in a dry, protected space — this is especially important if you live in an area with harsh winters. A shed or garage would be ideal, for example.
• Place your speakers out of reach if you have pets or small children.
• Store your speakers in their original packaging. This will help to keep them dust- and moisture-free.
• Fourth, if you plan to stash your speakers for an extended period, consider investing in a dehumidifier. This will help keep the air around your speakers dry and prevent the growth of mold and mildew inside their net.

People Also Ask

How much do outdoor speakers cost?

Outdoor speakers are available at various price points, depending on the size, brand and features. Smaller, less expensive options can be found for around $100, while higher-end models can cost several thousand dollars. When choosing outdoor speakers, you should prioritize their sound quality and weather resistance over their price.

Should I get a pair of outdoor speakers?

Outdoor speakers are a great way to enjoy music while outdoors, and they're also handy for parties and other events. They're usually more durable than indoor speakers, so you can get the most out of your money.

There are many different types, sizes and styles of outdoor speakers, so there is likely a set that is the ideal fit for your space and needs.

What differentiates outdoor speakers from indoor units?

Outdoor speakers are designed to withstand the elements and provide high-quality audio in an open environment. Indoor units are not as weather resistant and aren't as powerful, but they can still offer good-quality audio in smaller spaces.

If you're looking for great sound quality in your backyard or patio, outdoor speakers are the way to go. Indoor speakers might be a better option if you're looking for something that will offer the right kind of bass at a low price point in an enclosed area.

Should I consider a UV-resistant resin for outdoor speakers?

UV-resistant resins are a must-have for outdoor speakers because they protect the speaker from the sun's harsh rays, which can cause the speaker to deteriorate and eventually break down. These coatings help prolong the speakers' life and keep them looking like new for longer.

How long do outdoor speakers last?

Your outdoor speakers should last for three to five years with proper care. These devices are designed to withstand UV rays, moisture and other elements. But to extend the lifespan of your speakers, you should maintain them properly and store them during the off-season when not in use.