Which Bluetooth speaker to choose in 2023? Our comparison – Numerama, the best portable Bluetooth speakers in 2023

What are the best portable Bluetooth speakers in 2023

Do not rely on appearances: under its air of a small dome easy to slip into a bag and to attach anywhere thanks to its fixed strap, the XB13 of Sony offers a very, very convincing audio rendering. To bluff the audience, the multinational relies on generous bass with extra bass technology, supported by a processor responsible for better disseminating sound. And the illusion works wonderfully: the rendering is fish (the enclosure vibrates a lot, by the way). For better restitution, we can squarely associate two and get a real stereo rendering.

Which Bluetooth speaker to choose in 2023 ? Our comparison

Sonos Move // ​​Source: Sonos

Even if it is not necessarily very beautiful at the moment, a Bluetooth speaker offers lots of arguments when you have to listen to music. You can take a nomadic speaker everywhere with you. What are the best ? Here is our comparison.

Our selection of the best Bluetooth speakers

  • Sonos Move (€ 379): the best at home and in the garden
  • Sony XB13 (€ 47): compact format, top bass
  • Bose soundlink micro (€ 80.74): the ultra nomadic speaker
  • JBL loads 5 (€ 165): a model of autonomy
  • JBL Clip 4 (€ 57.95): a robustness reference

Outside, it is not very beautiful (winter arrives). But should we sulk the Bluetooth speakers, the first function of which is to be able to be transported everywhere ? No. They have become quite essential products for tech enthusiasts.

Sonos, Sony, Jbl, Bose … All the big audio names, or almost, market nomad speakers. They meet different needs. We must also keep in mind that acoustic performance is not the only important criterion here, even if it may seem paradoxical for an audio device. The fact that it is practical to use is indeed strategic as soon as we talk about a nomadic device. Here is our complete comparison, with the best Bluetooth speakers.

The best portable Bluetooth speaker

Sonos Move

Sonos Move // ​​Source: Maxime Claudel for Numerama

Sonos is known for its high -end products, designed for the interior and centered on a closed ecosystem. In 2019, the company decided to leave the house with Sonos Move, its very first portable speaker … and Bluetooth. It is a resolutely high -end product, with a high price. Nevertheless, in terms of versatility, it is difficult to do better. Indoors, the MOVE works as a normal speaker, based on Wi-Fi to access streaming platforms. Outside, we go to Bluetooth (thanks to a dedicated button) to continue enjoying its playlists.

Above all, the MOVE benefits from SONOS know-how in terms of listening quality. To do this, the speaker can bet on the automatic trueplay to adjust constantly to the conditions of use. This technology will not always make a miracle outside but, in a room, it is a real argument. The sound is excellent, with generous bass and beautiful precision in the rest of the spectrum.

Only Move defect ? It is imposing with its three kilograms on the scale (there is an integrated handle to facilitate transport) – the price to pay to benefit from a good sound. Robust, MOVE benefits from IP46 certification making it resistant to humidity, rain, snow, sand, UV and extreme temperatures.

To whom the Sonos Move is intended ? To those who are looking for a good house speaker capable of ensuring in the garden.

The best transportable Bluetooth speakers

Sony XB13

Sony XB13 // Source: Maxime Claudel for Numerama

Do not rely on appearances: under its air of a small dome easy to slip into a bag and to attach anywhere thanks to its fixed strap, the XB13 of Sony offers a very, very convincing audio rendering. To bluff the audience, the multinational relies on generous bass with extra bass technology, supported by a processor responsible for better disseminating sound. And the illusion works wonderfully: the rendering is fish (the enclosure vibrates a lot, by the way). For better restitution, we can squarely associate two and get a real stereo rendering.

Finally, note the hands -free functionality (to answer their calls and/or use a voice assistant, more than comfortable autonomy (16 hours of listening) or IP67 resistance (waterproof and dust).

To whom the Sony XB13 is intended ? To those looking for an ultra compact speaker, who can be hung everywhere. We imagine it without problem attached to the belt of a skateboarder.

Bose SoundLink Micro

Bose soundlink micro // source: Maxime Claudel for Numerama

As its name suggests, the Bose Soundlink Micro is an enclosure … Micro. Not very thick, this speaker is described as extremely robust and waterproof thanks to its silicone rubber shell.

There is a strap to be able to attach it easily (to the handlebars of a bicycle, for example). We will not hesitate to install it under a shower, to push the song without receiving external judgments. Bose sound is a bit flat, but it is the manufacturer’s signature that offers to personalize the settings in a dedicated application (there is even a evening mode). Only problem ? Autonomy, given for six short hours.

To whom the soundlink microphone is intended ? To those looking for a very flat speaker.

The best evening Bluetooth speaker

JBL in charge 5

JBL loads 5 // Source: Maxime Claudel for Numerama

8 p.m.: This is the autonomy announced by JBL for its nomadic speaker Charge 5. Relatively imposing and cylindrical shape, it is therefore able to hold several evenings without any problem. You no longer have battery on your smartphone ? Do not panic: it can also act as PowerBank thanks to its USB port. Charge 5 is also equipped with the JBL Partyboost feature, which allows you to connect several speakers together to animate, let’s say, a rave party.

Far from being the most portable of the nomadic speakers, the load 5 imposes by its level of finish. Materials breathe quality while IP67 certification guarantees appreciable seal (30 minutes a meter deep). The dimensions of the device (more than 20 centimeters long) allow music pieces to express themselves better. JBL provides a pro signature and, attentive, it is quickly understood that the manufacturer targets the frenzied evenings. As proof, we can emphasize the presence of two bass radiators, whose vibrations can be appreciated by looking at the slices of the enclosure. In the ear, load 5 is very dynamic.

To whom the JBL is intended for 5 ? To those who move a lot and do not always have the opportunity to recharge their device regularly.

The Bluetooth speaker that can take everything

JBL Clip 4

JBL Clip 4 // Source: Maxime Claudel for Numerama

The JBL Clip 4 is defined as an ultra portable speaker. It could almost slip it into a pocket if its thickness did not betray it (just over 4.5 centimeters). It takes the form of a reinforced square, surmounted by a carabiner so that it can be easily hung it. JBL even thought of the non -slip surface on the back so that it does not move when it is placed flat.

We will never be afraid to bring down this clip 4, nor to make him live trials a little more extreme. As proof, it is waterproof (IP67). In the shower, at the pool, hanging on a hiking bag, at the top of a sand castle … Nothing is impossible with this clip 4. Given its format, do not expect a qualitative sound on the other hand.

To whom the JBL Clip 4 is intended ? To those who dare risky adventures and seek an enclosure that will follow them everywhere without weakening.

The criteria to take into account before choosing your nomadic speaker

What is a nomadic enclosure ?

A nomadic speaker is an enclosure that does not need to be constantly powered to operate. It can therefore be transported everywhere, thanks to an integrated battery (to recharge when it is empty). She communicates with the reading device thanks to Bluetooth.

Should we be demanding with sound ?

It may seem paradoxical not to pass the quality of listening first when you buy an enclosure. But it would be neglecting the portable format, which requires certain compromises at this level. This is even more true for small speakers, which will be able to lack power. The practical aspect compensates. Especially since the sound will always be better than that produced by the speakers of your phone.

Why is IP certification important ?

The main argument of a nomadic enclosure is to be able to take it everywhere with you. This is why manufacturers often highlight the IP (protection index) certification, which provides information on water, dust and other external particles. Naturally, the higher the value of the protection index, the better.

Is the sector adapter provided with the Bluetooth speaker ?

Generally, no. But that of your smartphone should do the trick. Just be careful to pay the USB standard. Today’s speakers are USB-C but the cable provided is often USB-C to classic USB, which can be incompatible with certain recent adapters.

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What are the best portable Bluetooth speakers in 2023 ?

The portable Bluetooth speaker, perfect for extra use, is the ideal accessory to enjoy your music where you want without carrying headphones or headphones. Here is our comparison of the best Bluetooth speakers of the moment.

The top 3 of the best Bluetooth speakers in 2023

JBL Clip 4

  • Compact and practical with its carabiner
  • His powerful, balanced
  • Good autonomy for its size
  • Non -deactivable ignition sound

JBL in charge 5

  • Flexible sound
  • Solid and waterproof
  • 24 -hour autonomy
  • Unable to use it for calls

Marshall Middleton

  • A balanced sound whatever the volume
  • Solid, waterproof, autonomous.
  • Inverted USB load Power Delivery
  • A slightly high price

If it has not fundamentally evolved for a long time, the Bluetooth speaker remains an extremely useful tech accessory. Compact, wireless and operating on battery, it has become essential for many people. Whether to enjoy music in your garden, at the beach, in the shower, or listen to a podcast, the Bluetooth speakers are nomads and accompany you everywhere (especially on vacation) in particular if they are waterproof or resistant to splashes. They can also be used to enjoy better audio quality on a laptop or a video projector.

To help you see more clearly in the plethoric offer, we have gathered here Our favorite Bluetooth speakers (not to be confused with the connected speakers which remain connected to the mains). If your search is a question of budget, we also have a selection of the best cheap Bluetooth speakers.

For larger models appropriate at the party, we advise you to read our selection of the best Bluetooth sound speakers.

You have decided to renew your equipment or your audio accessories ? Also discover our other specialized guides:

  • The best bars of his
  • The best wireless helmets
  • The best Bluetooth headphones
  • Bone conduction helmets

JBL loads 5 The best Bluetooth portable speaker

JBL in charge 5

  • Flexible sound
  • Solid and waterproof
  • 24 -hour autonomy
  • Unable to use it for calls

The manufacturer JBL has launched its new portable Bluetooth speaker. Charge 5 succeeds a fourth version by making some modifications in particular in its manufacture. However, in an external appearance, the product retains its cylinder design with the same Kvadrat tissue with thick mesh. It is certified IP67 and will therefore fear neither splashes, sand or dust.

Test JBL Load 5

In terms of sound quality, the JBL loads 5 is illustrated by a two -way acoustic solution. Construction offers you an authoritarian signature and a very detailed restitution. If the serious and the mediums are good, the real strong point of the enclosure is the management of the treble. These are fluid and soft. With the dedicated jbl portable application, you even have access to an equalizer.

The enclosure is elegant, powerful and above all enduring. Indeed, it offers beautiful autonomy over 24 hours in full. The only element that prevents it from being a really perfect product is the absence of a microphone on its structure.

Consult our JBL Test Test Charge 5 to learn more about it. But overall, you can go there with your eyes closed, this is one of the Bluetooth speakers that we will most readily recommend.

Where to buy the
JBL in charge 5 at the best price ?
149 € discover the offer
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JBL has also declined its charge 5 with a new Wi-Fi model. If its design remains unchanged, it wins compatibility with Audio Airplay, Chromecast and Spotify Connect Streaming Protocols. A new transducer even allows him to have better finesse of restitution. However, you will have to pay 100 euros more to offer it to you … to see if these additional features are useful to you. You can consult the JBL Load 5 Wi-Fi test for more details.

Where to buy the
JBL loads 5 Wi-Fi at the best price ?
249 € discover the offer

In addition, if you are looking for an equivalent product, but which resists everything, We recommend it JBL XTREME 3. With her browning tunes, she takes up the cylindrical shape of the load 5, but with a more solid coating. A transport strap is also integrated with any stressful solidity. It will be ideal for a bit sporty getaway.

Where to buy the
JBL XTREME 3 at the best price ?
239 € discover the offer
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Marshall Middleton the premium and retro enclosure

Marshall Middleton

  • A balanced sound whatever the volume
  • Solid, waterproof, autonomous.
  • Inverted USB load Power Delivery
  • A slightly high price

Marshall wins on the stage of the “big” Bluetooth speakers. Middleton offers an astonishing quality sound, 360 degrees. With exemplary finishes, it clearly stands out for ability to disseminate a powerful and clear sound in all directions.

Marshall Middleton test

At first glance, it presents a very assertive look, almost similar to a Marshall amplifier, in miniature, with this metal grid at the front. The retro touch hits the bull’s eye. The coating is of excellent quality, the wrist strap very practical, as well as the golden joystick button which allows you to navigate. It recharges via a USB-C port, which, thanks to the Power Delivery, will also be able to charge a phone. Particularly robust and well constructed, it is certified IP67 and therefore perfectly waterproof.

The audio partition is flawless. The enclosure delivers a perfect sound, deep bass, a well -defined medium and energetic treble. The sound is perfectly balanced and this at any volume of listening, which is rare for an enclosure of this size.

If the promised autonomy is 20 hours, to reach it it will not be necessary to exceed 30 % volume – which is enough in most situations.

If you want an all-terrain speaker with the ideally balanced sound imprint, and the price is not a concern for you, the Middleton will be ideal. To decide, you can read the full test of this Marshall speaker.

Where to buy the
Marshall Middleton at the best price ?
299 € discover the offer
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JBL Clip 4 The enclosure at a very low price

JBL Clip 4

  • Compact and practical with its carabiner
  • His powerful, balanced
  • Good autonomy for its size
  • Non -deactivable ignition sound

Let’s say it straight away, the JBL Clip 4 is an excellent value for money if you are looking for a very compact Bluetooth speaker that holds in your hand. With its pocket format and very practical carabiner, it slips and clings everywhere. We find the coating mesh dear to JBL as well as a typical sound signature of the brand.

JBL Test Clip 4

Despite her mini template, she manages to deliver a powerful sound, even if it should not be expected on the bass. It is however very effective on the rendering of voices, and will be able to pay tribute to any musical style. Overall, its sound quality impresses for its size.

Like its JBL cousins, it is waterproof for dust and water (IP67). Unlike its more imposing sisters, it is not, however, compatible with the portable jbl app and it will therefore not be necessary to count it to connect it to other speakers via the Party Boost mode. On the point of autonomy, it will hold about 9 hours, which is satisfactory. However, count for recharging, a little slow (2h45)…

In short, an excellent product at a very interesting price, not to mention that it often benefits from discounts. Many colors are also offered. Find our test of the JBL Clip 4 to learn more.

Where to buy the
JBL Clip 4 at the best price ?
49 € discover the offer
49 € discover the offer
64 € discover the offer
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Bose soundlink flex quality bose

Bose SoundLink Flex

  • The “IQ position”
  • Its beautiful construction
  • A balanced sound
  • An imperfect embedded microphone

The arrival of an enclosure from Bose is always to be taken into account. SoundLink Flex offers a marginal format on the market that can be placed on the back for vertical sound. Its silicone base allows you to place the speaker anywhere without the slightest problem.

In terms of daily use, it has at least IP 67 sealing certification to protect it from the assaults of water. In terms of connectors, a single USB-C port dedicated to product recharge is set up. In the wireless version, Bluetooth is also present to operate optimally.

To do this, the dedicated Bose Connect mobile application meets the main needs of the owner. It is thus possible to manage the current musical reading without however needing to use the streaming software requested.

It is above all the quality of the sound delivered which must be taken into account, and here, bose hits. In this case, the manufacturer adopts a sound signature capable of adapting to the positioning of the portable enclosure. The on -board sensor using positioniq technology in order to adapt the treble and the bass.

A final word on autonomy. The bose incorporates a 3000 mAh battery capable of offering a correct 12 -hour autonomy, depending on your use. Recharge for its part takes four hours in full. Our full soundlink test will give you more information.

Where to buy the
Bose SoundLink Flex at the best price ?
177 € discover the offer
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169 € discover the offer
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Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 The excellent value for money

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3

  • Its compact construction
  • A powerful sound
  • Waterproof
  • A micro USB port

To succeed the Wonderboom 2, the Ultimate Ears brand proceeded by retouching small. The new Bluetooth speaker corrects the defects of the previous generation and retains its strengths. Starting with a compact design with impeccable manufacturing quality. The speaker is always waterproof with buttons to manage volume and tension.

In terms of autonomy, it turns out that the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 Sign of pretty progress. During our test, we were able to measure an endurance of 14 hours. The only regret concerns connection. The speaker only has a microousb port and therefore ignores USB-C. Full load of the device requires a total duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes.

As with the previous model, the Wonderboom 3 is distinguished by nomadic use. Thanks to the strap, it can be transported everywhere. It can be placed anywhere without lacking stability. The connection is made of Bluetooth, whether for an iPhone or an Android smartphone. On the other hand, you will not be able to make a call with the connected speaker since it does not have any microphone.

The overall audio quality is good, despite the small size of the speaker. There are four active transducers who are put in place on the enclosure. But the main addition of the Wonderboom 3 is 360 degree sound. No matter how long we have experienced it, the sound is delivered in the same way, regardless of the meaning of the enclosure and the place where we are. Be careful, however, the “external” mode of the Wonderboom offers mediocre sound. We advise you not to activate it.

Its atypical format and the power delivered make this small nomadic wireless speaker one of the best possible investments. Its price below 100 euros makes it one of the most attractive devices of the moment, that we highly recommend you. Our full test of the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 is available on Frandroid To learn more.

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