10 Best Bluetooth Speakers 2025 in the United States

The Bang & Olufsen Beosound A9 (5th Generation) is a high-end Bluetooth speaker designed to deliver powerful sound and an iconic aesthetic. With seven effective drivers, it offers rich, room-filling sound which can be optimized for any space through its Active Room Compensation feature. This means it scans the room and adjusts the sound accordingly, ensuring you get the best audio experience wherever you place it.

The design is elegant and visually appealing, making it a stylish addition to any living space. Connectivity options are robust, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, and multiroom streaming capabilities, allowing you to connect multiple speakers easily. The Bang & Olufsen app provides further customization with sound profiles and settings adjustments.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The Beosound A9 is a floor-standing speaker and quite heavy, at 32.4 pounds, which affects its portability. It also lacks water resistance, limiting its use to indoor environments. Additionally, it is powered by a cord, so you will always need an electrical outlet nearby. Battery life is not applicable due to its corded nature. It's best suited for those looking for a premium speaker for home audio or small events, with a focus on sound quality and design over portability and ruggedness.

The JBL Charge 6 is a solid choice for anyone who wants a portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers strong, clear sound with impressive bass thanks to its AI Sound Boost technology. It offers up to 28 hours of playtime, which is excellent for long outings or parties, and recharges fully in about 3 hours. Its IP68 rating means it’s waterproof and dustproof, and it can survive a one-meter drop, making it reliable for outdoor use.

Weighing around 2.18 pounds and including a removable handle strap, it strikes a good balance between portability and ruggedness. The speaker supports stereo pairing with another Charge 6 or compatible JBL devices via Auracast, expanding the sound coverage for larger spaces. Connectivity is straightforward with Bluetooth and USB options, although it doesn’t include a USB-C cable, so you’ll need your own. The built-in power bank is a handy extra for charging your devices on the go.

At 45 watts, its sound output is loud enough for parties or casual gaming, and the 2.0 stereo setup provides a decent sound stage for its size. While it’s a bit on the heavier side compared to ultra-compact speakers, its durability and sound quality justify this trade-off. This speaker suits users who want a versatile, reliable outdoor companion with long battery life and strong sound, rather than just a tiny pocket speaker.

The JBL FLIP 5 is a portable Bluetooth speaker that excels in delivering premium sound quality with its stereo audio output and 20-watt maximum power. If you enjoy rich and clear sound, this speaker is a solid choice. With a 12-hour battery life, it offers a good amount of playback time, making it suitable for day trips or small gatherings without needing frequent recharging.

The speaker's IPX7 waterproof rating is a significant plus, allowing it to be submerged in water without damage, which is ideal for beach or poolside use. It's compact and lightweight, enhancing its portability, so you can easily carry it around in your bag. The wireless Bluetooth streaming feature ensures simple connectivity with various devices, and the option to pair multiple speakers with PartyBoost adds a fun element for social situations, creating a more immersive sound experience.

Despite these strengths, the FLIP 5 lacks some additional features like a built-in microphone for hands-free calls or voice assistant integration, which might be a drawback for some users. Its performance, especially in sound quality and durability, makes it a reliable choice for those seeking a robust portable speaker.