Groove To Your Favorite Music With The Best Speakers

From parties to casual get-togethers, music has an irreplaceable place in people's hearts. But while a mobile phone may be enough to listen to your favorite tunes by yourself, these devices don't cover enough distance to share that with others in large spaces. That's where speakers — innovative devices that convert electrical signals into sound and play music loudly — come into play.

A speaker can improve the entertainment factor at any gathering, but to get the most out of your investment, you'll have to get one with high-quality components. To ensure you're putting your money in the right place, we have put together a buying guide that includes a list of the top speakers of 2023. Read on to learn about the different types of speakers and get tips on how to maintain these devices.

The Best Speakers of 2023

JBL FLIP 5 Speaker – Best Overall

The JBL FLIP 5 Speaker is a top-notch device with wireless functionality, so you don't have to worry about fitting this speaker in a single space. Because of its compact, lightweight design, you can carry it around while traveling outdoors and take your favorite music wherever you go.

The device comes in a sizable kit, which includes a long round-shaped speaker, a safety sheet, an instruction manual and a warranty card. By wrapping the safety sheet on your speaker, you can keep it protected from humidity and dust while enjoying music outdoors. Moreover, it's not difficult to operate this speaker: you just connect it to your mobile phone via Bluetooth and play the song of your choice.

The excellent build quality of the speaker and its waterproof body, which prevents moisture from damaging its components, also account for the model's popularity — as does its exceptional battery runtime. Bluetooth speakers usually don't last more than four to five hours, but the JBL FLIP 5 can run for 12 hours on a single charge. Lastly, this speaker's party boost feature allows you to connect two similar models with a single device.

Bose SoundLink Color II Speaker – Most Durable

The Bose SoundLink Color II Speaker is tiny in size, but its extensive functionality makes it one of our top choices. The device's external structure is sturdy enough to last several years and protects the inner components, like bass drivers, from external particles. This means your speaker will stay protected from harmful elements, whether it's dust or water.

On top of its excellent functionality, the Bose SoundLink Color II has a wireless range of almost 30 feet, which lets you operate it from a considerable distance. It also features a built-in mic — a unique highlight amongst all our picks — so you can attend personal or professional calls with a clear and crisp sound output. You can even take calls through the device's voice prompts feature.

The speaker's lithium-ion battery is powerful enough to run for almost eight hours on a single charge, making it a solid choice for all-nighters. In addition, it features a party mode that lets you connect your mobile phone to two speakers from this brand simultaneously — the combined sound output can definitely set the mood for showing off your dancing skills.

Logitech Z207 Speakers – Most Versatile

 

The Logitech Z207 Speakers are ideal if you're searching for the most versatile speakers. They come in a pair, and you can connect them to the music source in two ways. These speakers are also connected to a computer through the same port.

One of the Logitech Z207's most interesting features is that it allows you to switch audio devices without disconnecting and reconnecting. You can simply pause the music on one device and play it on another, making sure you're always enjoying your favorite music. The sound output of these devices is also high: both have individual drivers that deliver high-quality performance without any distortion.

Besides these active components, you can also find a passive radiator in this speaker to support bass extension. Moreover, the device's  3.5-millimeter port is easily one of this speaker's best features, as it lets you connect headphones to listen to your tunes privately. The speaker also supports quick, easy pairing of devices and sound volume adjustment.

Thanks to the Logitech Z207's durable body, you can use it outdoors stress free. You can also install these speakers in your home theater. With a jack, you can easily connect it to your television or computer and enjoy your movie nights with crisp sound quality.

Edifier Bookshelf Speakers – Most Elegant

The Edifier Bookshelf Speakers are top-notch in terms of external structure and internal components. They're made of heavy-duty MDF material with a classic wood finish, which is highly durable and will prevent external particles from damaging the system. Its luxurious appearance partly owes to this construction, as well.

The connectivity of these speakers is highly versatile, and you can connect two devices simultaneously thanks to its flexible 3.5 millimeter and RCA output ports. Operating these speakers is also straightforward. You won't have to go through any extra plugging and switching: simply connect them via AUX cable and put on your favorite song.

You can adjust the bass volume through a control located on the main speaker's side, but you'll also get a remote control to conveniently adjust it from a distance. Unfortunately, the devices are not Bluetooth-compatible, so opting for another wireless speaker would be better for outdoor use. The silk tweeter also ensures high-quality sound with proper high and low frequencies.

Although the Edifier Bookshelf Speakers require some extra space considering their size, their unique design and powerful components are well worth the investment. They are sure to complement your home theater or computer setup.

Anker Soundcore Speaker – Ideal Bass Quality

The Anker Soundcore Speaker's bass quality is sure to impress, regardless of volume. The device is built on the latest BassUp technology, which can perfectly catch and reproduce low frequencies thanks to a digital signal processing component, which makes this unique functionality possible. The stereo sound quality of the speaker is perfect for large gatherings, while the high-sensitivity drivers ensure powerful performance and distortion-free sound output.

One of the most impressive features of this product is its battery life — the speaker can run for almost 24 hours on a single full charge. Furthermore, there's no compromise on the sound quality even if you use this speaker at a low charge.

The Anker Soundcore is well suited for outdoor use, including when you're at the pool or beachside. Thanks to its water-proof-rated body, you don't have to worry about moisture's damaging effects.

Another top-notch aspect of the speaker is its Bluetooth 5.0 support, which quickly pairs with your device of choice and ensures a strong connection unless it is out of its wireless range, which is an area of about 66 feet. The speaker is also lightweight and compact, so it's easy to carry around wherever you go and doesn't take up much space — an excellent choice to carry in your luggage if you take this speaker while traveling.

Klipsch R-41M Speakers – Easily Mountable

The Klipsch R-41M Speakers are one of the most flexible speakers within their price range. Although they're not too large, the audio output of these speakers is still top-notch, which makes it all the easier to incorporate them into your mid-sized home theater.

These devices come with modern Tractrix technology, which ensures less reverb and filtering to deliver clear and crisp sound. Their powerful performance is a result of their aluminum tweeter, an essential component of music systems that prevents distortion and maintains the sound's resolution and details, like different ranges of frequencies.

Besides the exceptional technology, the build quality and exterior of the Klipsch R-41M speakers are noteworthy. They're protected by magnetic grilles to prevent dust and moisture from damaging the internal parts. This material is also scratch-resistant, keeping the speakers' appearance intact for years.

Dual Electronics LU43PB Speakers – Best Value

The Dual Electronics LU43PB Speakers are an affordable two-in-one device that you can use indoors and outdoors, thanks to their build quality. The speakers are covered with a weather-resistant material that keeps humidity, dust and other similar elements away. Besides water and dust, the thick coating can also prevent sunlight from overheating the components.

The sleek design of these speakers makes it convenient to place them anywhere to enjoy your favorite music. Unlike other speakers, you can also mount them on a wall frame to save space inside your home. They come with swivel brackets to ensure the wall mounting process is quick and effortless, meaning you may not require professional help to install them.

The Dual Electronics LU43PB speakers offer an extensive distance with a sound fidelity of 120 degrees. Few speakers come with a woofer that complements their bass, but these are an exception, as they boast a 4-inch woofer that delivers powerful bass and disperses the music accurately in wide spaces.

Speakers: A Buying Guide

Factors To Consider Before Buying A Speaker

Size

A speaker's size often dictates the types of environment you'll be using it. For example, a medium-sized speaker would be adequate for a home theater, but if you want to carry it around while traveling, the speaker must be compact for easy storage and deployment. Its weight should also be on the lighter side to support portability in such a scenario.

Ports

Although this factor isn't as important, you should always check a speaker's ports before buying one. A charging port will always be present in the case of Bluetooth speakers, but it'd be best to have a complimentary 3.5-millimeter jack port to avoid any last-minute embarrassments if there are any problems with the device's Bluetooth connection.

Battery Life

This factor doesn't come into play if you're buying a corded speaker, as you can run it for several hours via an outlet, whereas wireless Bluetooth speakers need batteries to function. In the latter case, you should ensure that your device's battery's life is at least 10 to 12 hours when fully charged. Otherwise, frequent recharging will spoil time that could otherwise be spent enjoying your music.

Resistance To The Elements

Speakers for home use are generally safe from outside particles, like dirt and water, that can potentially damage the music system. In the case of Bluetooth speakers, you must be extra careful, as you may frequently use them outdoors or by the beach.

For outdoor speakers, always look for models of excellent build quality that can resist these hazards to keep your speaker in top condition for a prolonged period. Many speakers contain metal or magnetic grilles to prevent these outside elements from reaching internal components.

Smart Features

Speakers with innovative smart technology can offer excellent value for your money. For example, if your speaker has a voice command feature, you can easily play your favorite music while doing chores. Some speakers also have a built-in mic that lets you attend personal or conference calls. However, it's better to skip these features if your budget is tight, as you can find simple-yet-effective speakers at more reasonable prices.

Tips To Maintain Your Speaker's Longevity

Follow the tips below to ensure your speaker proves to be a long-term investment.

• Taking your portable speakers outdoors may expose them to dust and dirt. Although you might not think about this too much, constant contact with foreign particles can damage your music system. It's better to cover your speaker in a protective case to keep dust from harming its components.
• Regularly clean your speaker(s). You can use a soft fiber cloth to clean dust from the speaker's outer surface. Many people make a big mistake by spraying cleaners directly on the device, which can easily damage its components. Instead, dampen your cloth with a cleaner and then wipe down the speaker.
• When setting up a home theater, you shouldn't place speakers near the window, where they are more exposed to sunlight. This might lead them to overheat, especially if your model is smaller. Protect your speaker from heat sources as much as possible to prevent it from burning out.
• It might sound unusual, but a speaker also needs proper ventilation. You must ensure adequate airflow around Bluetooth speaker(s), especially smaller ones.

Types Of Speakers

Generally speaking, you can buy from four different types of speakers. Let's go over them briefly:

Loudspeakers

Loudspeakers are large, traditional speakers typically sold in pairs and designed to be placed on the ground. This type of speaker is usually found at large gatherings because they produce a higher amplitude sound. Since their sound output is greater, they can easily fill larger areas. Although loudspeakers are quite big, their installation process is straightforward, and it's safe to say you probably won't need any professional help to make them work.

Subwoofers

This is a loudspeaker type that can produce low-frequency sounds. For example, a subwoofer lets you enjoy your favorite song's soft rumbling bass sound. It can also catch guitar notes and reproduce them effectively. You will need a subwoofer to listen to music in a wide frequency range, as standard loudspeakers aren't built to produce lower frequencies.

In-Wall speakers

If your house has little space to accommodate a speaker, you can opt for an in-wall speaker. These are fitted inside a frame on your wall without destroying your home's interior. Moreover, there are no compromises on the sound quality of such speakers — even though they're out of sight, the sound output is generally top-notch and worth your money.

Outdoor Speakers

To hit the floor at a beachside party, you'll need an outdoor speaker. These are often designed with excellent build quality to ensure the speaker can bear harsh environmental conditions. Such speakers usually have a metal covering for extra protection from humidity, dust and sunlight.

Wired Vs. Bluetooth Speakers

The foremost factor in comparing wired and Bluetooth speakers is the size. Wired speakers are usually bigger, so their sound output is also quite expansive. On the other hand, with a small-sized Bluetooth speaker, the sound is restricted to a much smaller area. Additionally, Bluetooth speakers generally run on a battery, while you can run wired speakers at any time by connecting them to a power outlet.

Manufacturers typically put in a lot of effort to give wireless speakers a fashionable touch. Meanwhile, they tend to focus on delivering high-quality performance first and foremost when designing wired speakers.

The type of speaker that best suits you will depend on your preferences, although your budget and motive can highly influence your choice. For example, a Bluetooth device could be a perfect match if you can afford an expensive speaker and want it for outdoor use. Similarly, a wired speaker would be ideal for a home theater where maximum sound quality is necessary to fully enjoy and immerse yourself.

People Also Ask

How much does a good speaker cost on average?

If you want to buy a speaker for small gatherings or just to listen to your favorite songs, the ideal price range is from $40 to $100. The higher your budget, the higher quality of a product you can get. But this is not a universal fact, as a speaker's brand also matters.

It's also necessary to ensure that a speaker's components are high-quality. For example, a cheaper system will be unable to catch higher notes, which can cause distortions in the sound output.

Do speakers face mechanical issues with time?

Speakers naturally face mechanical issues as time passes. Multiple factors could lead to this occurrence. For example, a speaker's electrical parts might get damaged by receiving high-frequency signals for a prolonged period. Environmental factors like dust can also reduce the lifespan of a speaker, as can electrical mishaps like power surges.

How to know if my speakers are damaged?

If any of your speaker's components are damaged, the first thing that will be affected is the device's sound quality. You will notice a buzzing or scratching sound at intervals, and it will also be unable to catch the right notes. In this case, the speaker will attempt to produce the sound repeatedly to catch the frequency.

Another sign of a damaged speaker is that it will produce no sound. It also may be time to diagnose your speaker if it starts heating up too quickly. In this case, there might be something wrong with the system. Problems like these are easier and cheaper to fix if detected earlier, saving you from having to replace the entire speaker or system.

Are Bluetooth speakers worth the money?

Although Bluetooth speakers are small, their features can be impressive. They are one of the most adaptable sound systems you can own. A Bluetooth speaker can fulfill all your requirements for high-quality music without taking up much space while being easy to operate and portable. Moreover, Bluetooth speakers are compatible with almost every device, including Apple and Android.

Can I leave my speakers on for a prolonged period, even if they are not being used?

It's not a good idea to keep your speakers on while you are not using them, as doing so can reduce their lifespan. A constant supply of power can wear out its components, like the amplifier, through overheating. There is also a higher chance of a power surge damaging the entire system if it's kept on for a prolonged duration.

Can I connect two Bluetooth speakers simultaneously?

It depends. You can run the same music on two speakers to get maximum sound output if your device supports the dual audio function. After pairing the Bluetooth speakers with your device, you must activate Dual Audio. Then, you'll be able to connect two speakers on Android and iOS devices. For iOS, you can connect them through the Control Center.