Step into a world of auditory bliss. We unveil the nine best Bluetooth speakers under $500. They will elevate your listening experience to new heights.
With a wide range of options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one. But that’s where we come in to help you!
So, sit back, and let’s go over the 9 best Bluetooth speakers under $500.
Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II)
- MORE SOUND ALL AROUND: Engineered to deliver true 360 sound for consistent, uniform coverage from a bluetooth speaker. SoundLink Revolve-plus II plays louder and deeper with longer battery life than SoundLink Revolve II
- IMPROVED BATTERY LIFE: With up to 17 hours from a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, you get more play time than the original SoundLink Revolve-plus speaker. Charging is easy via the Micro-B USB port
- DURABLE PORTABLE SPEAKER: SoundLink Revolve-plus II is dust and water resistant (IP55 rating), so it will stand up to splashes by the pool. Plus, it’s easy to grab and go, with a flexible fabric handle
- BUILT-IN MICROPHONE: Take calls and access your device’s default voice assistant right from the portable speaker. Or connect the speaker to an Amazon Alexa-enabled device, like the Echo Dot, for even more hands-free control of your music
- CONNECTING IS EASY: Voice prompts talk you through pairing your device to this Bluetooth speaker. Multi-connect lets you pair two devices at one time and easily switch between them for complete control of the music
If you’re looking for a portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers true 360° sound and exceptional durability, the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) is the best choice for you. This speaker is engineered to provide consistent and uniform coverage, thanks to its tapered cylindrical shape. Its flexible fabric handle makes it easy to carry around, while its durable aluminum construction ensures worry-free protection. The speaker is water- and dust-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor use.
With a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 17 hours of playtime, you can enjoy your favorite music for extended periods. The speaker also features a built-in microphone for taking calls and accessing voice assistants. Additionally, it can be paired with an Amazon Alexa-enabled device for hands-free control.
Overall, the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) offers impressive sound quality, portability, and longevity, making it a worthwhile investment.
Best For: Those who prioritize portability and durability in a portable Bluetooth speaker.
Pros:
- True 360° sound with balanced audio performance
- Water- and dust-resistant design
- Long battery life of up to 17 hours
Cons:
- Pricy investment
Marshall Emberton II
- SUPERIOR SIGNATURE SOUND: Delivers sound that is rich, clear and loud, like the artist intended. Experience absolute 360° sound with True Stereophonic, a unique form of multi-directional sound from Marshall – where every spot is a sweet spot.
- 30+ HOURS OF PORTABLE PLAYTIME: Offers 30+ hours of portable playtime on a single charge. Its compact size, rugged durability and reliable playtime make it perfect to take with you. When you’re out of battery, Emberton II won’t keep you waiting long – plug in your speaker and return to full battery in 3 hours.
- ROADWORTHY IP67-RATED DESIGN: Tough and resilient, boasting an extremely durable and easy-to-use design that features an IP67 dust- and water-resistance rating. It won’t let rain or dirt get in the way of your music
- PAIR, PLAY, AND BRING THE LOUD: Won’t slow you down with a lengthy set-up – pair, play and let the good times roll. Download the dedicated app if you want to find the right sound with equaliser presets, and to keep your speaker up to date with Over-the-Air (OTA) updates.
- MULTI-SPEAKER SESSION WITH STACKMODE: Powered up with Stack Mode. Amplify your sound with a multi-speaker session by connecting your speaker to other Emberton II speakers. Create a sound as big as your imagination
For those seeking a compact and durable Bluetooth speaker under $500, the Marshall Emberton II Bluetooth speaker stands out with its superior signature sound and 30+ hours of portable playtime. With its roadworthy IP67-rated design, this speaker is both dust- and water-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
The True Stereophonic technology ensures a 360° sound experience, immersing you in your favorite music. The speaker also offers the option to pair it with other Emberton II speakers for a multi-speaker session with stack mode. Weighing only 0.7 kg (1.5 lbs), the Marshall Emberton II is lightweight and easy to carry. Its textured silicone sleeve and solid metal grille give it a stylish and durable look, paying homage to the legacy of rock ‘n’ roll.
Overall, this portable Bluetooth speaker delivers excellent sound quality and long-lasting performance for your music needs.
Best For: Those looking for a compact and durable Bluetooth speaker with superior sound quality and long battery life.
Pros:
- Superior signature sound with True Stereophonic technology
- 30+ hours of portable playtime on a single charge
- Dust- and water-resistant with an IP67 rating
Cons:
- Stereo sound positioning may require optimal speaker placement
Sonos Roam
- Enjoy up to 10 hours of astonishing sound with this portable speaker. Stream music and more over WiFi at home and listen on the go with Bluetooth. Easily control the sound with the Sonos app, your voice, and Apple AirPlay 2.
With its waterproof and durable design, the Sonos Roam is the ideal choice for those who want a portable Bluetooth speaker that can withstand outdoor use. This speaker offers automatic Trueplay tuning for clear and balanced sound, ensuring that you can enjoy your music with excellent sound quality. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around wherever you go.
The Sonos Roam seamlessly integrates with other Sonos speakers via WiFi, allowing you to create a multiroom sound system for a more immersive listening experience. It also supports Airplay and Bluetooth connectivity without any issues, giving you versatile control options.
The battery life of up to 10 hours is good, although some users wish it lasted longer. Overall, the Sonos Roam delivers impressive sound quality and functionality in a portable and convenient design.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and music lovers who want a portable speaker with excellent sound quality and versatile control options.
Pros:
- Waterproof and durable design, suitable for outdoor use.
- Automatic Trueplay tuning for clear and balanced sound.
- Seamless integration with other Sonos speakers for a multiroom sound system.
Cons:
- Battery life could be longer.
Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3
- SOUND: MEGABOOM features powerfully loud, clear, and immersive 360° sound with deep thundering bass you can feel. All carefully balanced so you can hear every note.Mounting Type: Tabletop.Waterproof : Yes
- MAGIC BUTTON: The all-new Magic Button on MEGABOOM 3 allows you to play, pause and skip tracks directly on the speaker. Just push for convenient control of any streaming music.
- FABRIC: MEGABOOM 3 is covered in a two-tone fabric that’s tough and beautiful. Engineered for extreme performance and colored two ways, it comes to life in a range of drool-worthy iridescent themes.
- POWER UP: Charge MEGABOOM 3 wirelessly with POWER UP charging dock–sold separately–so you can grab-and-go, fully charged, to your next musical adventure.
- WATERPROOF: MEGABOOM 3 is designed to get seriously wet and keep on booming. Featuring a ridiculous IP67 water and dustproof rating, it can be totally submerged in water for up to 30-minutes. Plus, it floats too.
The Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 stands out as a top choice among Bluetooth speakers under $500 due to its powerful, immersive 360° sound and durable design.
With its deep bass and 360° sound, this speaker delivers an exceptional audio experience that fills the entire room. Its two-tone fabric design not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also makes it durable and able to withstand rugged adventures.
The MEGABOOM 3 is waterproof and dustproof with an IP67 rating, and it has been built tough and passed rigorous durability tests. It even floats in water and can be fully submerged for up to 30 minutes.
With the Magic Button, you have convenient control over your music playback, including playing, pausing, and skipping tracks. The 20-hour battery life ensures that the party keeps going, and you can easily wirelessly charge it with the POWER UP charging dock (sold separately).
Customers have praised the MEGABOOM 3 for its powerful sound and durability, comparing it favorably to other brands like Bose. It’s highly recommended for outdoor adventures and music enthusiasts.
For those who prefer a slightly more portable option, the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 is worth considering.
Best For: Outdoor adventurers and music enthusiasts looking for a durable and powerful Bluetooth speaker.
Pros:
- Powerful, immersive 360° sound with deep bass.
- Waterproof and dustproof with an IP67 rating.
- 20-hour battery life.
Cons:
- Wireless charging requires purchasing the POWER UP charging dock separately.
Sonos Move 2
- - The new acoustic architecture replaces Move's single tweeter with two, unlocking a higher-fidelity stereo soundstage with crisp vocals and detailed instruments. With deep, dynamic bass powered by the precision-tuned woofer, you'll feel the emotional charge of a live performance.
Experience high-fidelity stereo sound and deep, dynamic bass with the Sonos Move 2, making it the ideal choice for those seeking Bluetooth speakers under $500.
The Sonos Move 2 features a new acoustic architecture with two tweeters, delivering higher-fidelity stereo sound that will impress even the most discerning audiophiles. Its precision-tuned woofer ensures powerful and immersive bass that will bring your music to life.
With automatic Trueplay tuning, the Sonos Move 2 optimizes the sound in any environment, ensuring exceptional audio quality no matter where you are. Plus, with up to 24 hours of playback on a single charge, you can enjoy your music all day long.
The Sonos Move 2 also offers durability and protection with its shock-absorbent materials and IP56 rating. Its built-in handle makes it easy to carry, while the wireless charging base provides convenient charging options. Upgrade your audio experience with the Sonos Move 2 (Black).
Best For: Audiophiles and music enthusiasts who want high-fidelity stereo sound and deep, dynamic bass in a portable Bluetooth speaker.
Pros:
- New acoustic architecture with two tweeters for higher-fidelity stereo sound
- Deep, dynamic bass powered by precision-tuned woofer
- Automatic Trueplay tuning for optimized sound in any environment
Cons:
- Erratic setup and long update process
JBL Charge 5
- Bold JBL Original Pro Sound: The JBL Charge 5 has an optimized long excursion driver, a separate tweeter, and dual JBL bass radiators, all delivering impressively rich and clear audio. Get that big room sound even when outdoors.
- 20 hours of playtime: The fun doesn't have to stop. Packed with an incredible 20 hours of battery life, JBL Charge 5 lets you party all day and into the night.
- IP67 waterproof and dustproof: To the pool. To the park. JBL Charge 5 is IP67 waterproof and dustproof, so you can bring your speaker anywhere.
- Crank up the fun with PartyBoost: PartyBoost allows you to pair two JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers together for stereo sound or link multiple JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers to truly pump up your party.
- Power up with the built-in powerbank: Don't put the party on pause. A built-in powerbank lets you charge your devices without taking a break from the tunes.
For those seeking a powerful and durable portable speaker, the JBL Charge 5 is the best choice under $500. With its JBL Pro Sound, optimized long-excursion driver, separate tweeter, and dual JBL bass radiators, this speaker delivers impressive sound quality with rich, full-bodied audio and deep bass.
It’s also rated IP67 waterproof and dustproof, making it perfect for outdoor use and surviving in wet conditions. The JBL Charge 5 has a long battery life of up to 20 hours and even doubles as a power bank, allowing you to charge your devices on the go.
The PartyBoost feature allows for stereo pairing or linking multiple speakers, enhancing the sound experience. With its sleek design and new colors inspired by street fashion trends, the JBL Charge 5 isn’t only powerful but also visually appealing.
Best For:
Outdoor enthusiasts and music lovers who want a powerful and durable portable speaker with impressive sound quality and long battery life.
Pros:
- Waterproof and dustproof design, perfect for outdoor use
- Impressive sound quality with rich, full-bodied audio and deep bass
- Long battery life of up to 20 hours and doubles as a power bank for charging devices
Cons:
- Not as portable as some other speakers in the market
JBL Xtreme 3
- POWERFUL JBL ORIGINAL PRO SOUND: Four drivers and two JBL Bass Radiators effortlessly deliver dynamic, immersive sound with deep bass and plenty of detail. You'll get lost in the music wherever you are.
- PORTABLE DESIGN: The included carrying strap with built-in bottle opener makes it easy to bring your speaker wherever you go.
- 15 HOURS OF PLAYTIME: The fun doesn't have to stop. Packed with an incredible 15 hours of battery life, JBL Xtreme 3 lets you party all day and into the night.
- WIRELESS BLUETOOTH STREAMING: Wirelessly stream music from your phone, tablet, or any other Bluetooth-enabled device.
- IP67 WATERPROOF AND DUSTPROOF: To the pool. To the park. In the shower. JBL Xtreme 3 is fully waterproof and dustproof, so you can bring your speaker anywhere.
With its powerful JBL Original Pro Sound, long battery life, and durable, waterproof design, the JBL Xtreme 3 is the ideal choice for music enthusiasts looking for a high-quality speaker under $500.
The JBL Xtreme 3 features four drivers and two JBL Bass Radiators, ensuring an impressive sound experience with deep bass and clear vocals. Its portable design, complete with a carrying strap and built-in bottle opener, makes it convenient to take on the go.
With a battery life of up to 15 hours, you can enjoy your favorite tunes for extended periods without worrying about running out of power. Additionally, the speaker is IP67 waterproof and dustproof, allowing you to use it in various environments without any concerns.
Overall, the JBL Xtreme 3 delivers exceptional sound quality, durability, and portability, making it a top choice for music lovers.
Best For: Music enthusiasts looking for a portable and durable Bluetooth speaker with powerful sound quality.
Pros:
- Impressive sound quality with deep bass and clear vocals
- Long-lasting battery life of up to 15 hours
- IP67 waterproof and dustproof for use in various environments
Cons:
- Some units may have a loose audio jack issue
JBL Flip 6
- Engineered to deliver crystal clear, powerful JBL Pro sound: The Flip 6 has a racetrack-shaped woofer that delivers exceptional low frequencies and midrange, a separate tweeter for crisp, clear high-frequencies, and dual passive radiators for deep bass.
- PORTABLE DESIGN:The Flip 6 portable Bluetooth speaker 6 is big-sounding, yet easy to carry speaker so you can take it anywhere.
- IP67 WATERPROOF AND DUSTPROOF: To the pool. To the park. JBL Flip 6 portable Bluetooth speaker is IP67 waterproof and dustproof, so you can bring your speaker anywhere.
- 12 HOURS OF PLAYTIME: Don't sweat the small stuff like charging your battery. JBL Flip 6 portable Bluetooth speaker gives you up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge.
- WIRELESS BLUETOOTH STREAMING: Wirelessly connect up to 2 smartphones or tablets to the speaker and take turns enjoying JBL Original Pro sound.
The JBL Flip 6 is an ideal choice for those seeking powerful sound and deep bass in a portable speaker under $500. With its 2-way speaker system and racetrack-shaped woofer, this speaker delivers loud, crystal clear, and powerful sound. The separate tweeter produces crisp and clear high frequencies, while the optimized dual passive radiators ensure deep bass.
Not only does the Flip 6 offer exceptional sound quality, but it’s also IPX7 waterproof and dustproof, making it perfect for outdoor use. You can enjoy your favorite tunes by the pool or at the beach without worrying about water or dust damage. With a battery life of up to 12 hours, this speaker will keep the music going all day long.
Additionally, the JBL PartyBoost feature allows for multiple speaker pairing, creating a more immersive sound experience. The Flip 6’s bold design can be positioned vertically or horizontally to fit your preference.
Overall, customers praise the volume and sound quality of the JBL Flip 6, making it a top choice for portable Bluetooth speakers.
Best For: Those who want a portable Bluetooth speaker with powerful sound and deep bass for outdoor use.
Pros:
- Loud, crystal clear, and powerful sound
- IPX7 waterproof and dustproof
- Long battery life of up to 12 hours
Cons:
- Occasional crackling sounds
Marshall Acton II
- Acton II may be compact, but its sound is nothing short of large. It delivers a well balanced, powerful audio experience, yet can fit in the tiniest of spaces
- Bluetooth 5.0 provides a superior wireless sound at a range of up to 30 feet while maintaining connectivity. Use your Bluetooth enabled smartphone, tablet or computer to stream music directly to your speaker with no wires required.
- This speaker combines contemporary technology with iconic Marshall design to deliver hard-hitting sound while retaining a classic look. You’ll want to proudly display this speaker in any room
- Fine-tune your music to meet your requirements. Just use the Marshall Bluetooth app or the analog controls on your speaker’s top panel to perfect your sound according to the room you’re in
- There are more ways to connect than just Bluetooth 5.0. Plug in with the 3.5 mm input for an analog listening experience
Ideal for music lovers seeking powerful sound in a compact package, the Marshall Acton II Bluetooth Speaker – Black delivers impressive audio quality with its iconic design and advanced technology.
With Bluetooth 5.0 technology, you can wirelessly stream your favorite music from up to 30 feet away. The speaker combines contemporary technology with the classic Marshall design, featuring analog controls and a 3.5mm input for additional connectivity options.
It also has multi-host functionality, allowing you to easily switch between different devices. The Acton II produces well-balanced, powerful sound with its dual tweeters and subwoofer, offering crystal clear audio with punchy bass that doesn’t overpower the highs and mids.
Despite its compact size, the speaker delivers a powerful and impressive sound, making it perfect for small rooms or taking on the go. Customers highly praise the Acton II for its design, sound quality, and ease of use.
Best For: Music lovers seeking powerful sound in a compact package.
Pros:
- Compact size with powerful sound
- Iconic Marshall design
- Bluetooth 5.0 technology for wireless streaming
Cons:
- Outdated app (not necessary for using the speaker)
Factors to Consider When Choosing Bluetooth Speakers Under $500
Sound Quality Features
Consider the sound quality features when choosing Bluetooth speakers under $500 to ensure an exceptional audio experience.
These speakers offer a range of sound quality features that enhance the overall audio performance. With balanced audio performance, punchy bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, you can enjoy exceptional sound even at high volumes.
Party Mode and Stereo Mode allow you to link multiple speakers, creating an immersive experience and enhancing the overall sound performance.
The speakers also provide true 360° sound with consistent coverage, delivering a rich and full-bodied audio experience. Some speakers even feature proprietary tuning technologies like Trueplay tuning and Magic Button for optimized and convenient sound control.
Additionally, these speakers can be integrated into multi-room sound systems with compatible devices, expanding the audio coverage and providing versatile control options.
Durability and Portability
To ensure a durable and portable Bluetooth speaker under $500, prioritize the material and design for outdoor use and travel. Look for speakers that are made with rugged materials like rubber or metal, which can withstand accidental drops and impacts.
Additionally, consider speakers with a compact and lightweight design, making them easy to carry around. Features like handles or straps can further enhance portability.
Waterproof and dustproof speakers with high IPX ratings are also worth considering, as they can handle exposure to water and dust without getting damaged.
Make sure to check user feedback on durability, portability, and ease of use to get a better understanding of the speaker’s real-world performance.
Battery Life and Charging
If you’re looking for a durable and portable Bluetooth speaker under $500, now let’s turn our attention to the important factors to consider when it comes to battery life and charging.
Battery life is a crucial aspect to consider, as it can range from 10 to 30+ hours depending on the model. This allows for extended playtime on a single charge, ensuring you can enjoy your music without interruption.
Additionally, it’s essential to consider the charging options available. Most speakers offer USB-C, Micro-B USB, or wireless charging, providing flexibility for recharging the speaker. Some models even come with a separate charging cradle for added convenience.
Keep in mind the charging time required, which can vary from 3 to 24 hours, ensuring you can plan for uninterrupted usage.
With these considerations in mind, you can find a Bluetooth speaker with the battery life and charging options that suit your needs.
Connectivity Options
When choosing Bluetooth speakers under $500, it’s important to explore the range of connectivity options available to ensure compatibility with your devices. Consider options like Bluetooth, WiFi, and auxiliary inputs to connect to different devices seamlessly.
Look for speakers that offer multiroom sound system integration, allowing you to create a consistent audio experience across different rooms. Check for voice assistant compatibility and control options, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay, for convenient hands-free operation.
Additionally, consider speakers with wireless charging capabilities or long-lasting battery life for enhanced portability and uninterrupted use. It’s also worth ensuring that the speaker supports advanced features like Trueplay tuning, which optimizes sound quality in any environment.
Integration With Other Devices
Consider how well the Bluetooth speakers under $500 integrate with other devices to enhance your audio experience.
When choosing a Bluetooth speaker, it’s important to ensure that it can seamlessly connect and work with your other devices. Look for speakers that have multiple connectivity options, such as Bluetooth, AUX, or USB ports, to ensure compatibility with various devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, or even gaming consoles.
Additionally, check if the speaker supports popular streaming services like Spotify or Apple Music, as this allows you to easily play your favorite songs directly from your streaming account. Some speakers also come with voice control features, like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, which enable you to control your speaker hands-free.
