Music possesses the ability to unite people, particularly when immersed in the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, camping with friends, or simply unwinding on your patio, enhancing the experience with a high-quality outdoor speaker system can elevate it to new heights. While it’s possible to use any wireless Bluetooth speaker both indoors and outdoors, opting for one explicitly engineered to withstand the elements (or an accidental plunge into the pool) can significantly enhance your enjoyment.
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, our team of analysts and engineers has been rigorously testing and reviewing audio equipment for decades, spanning soundbars, smart speakers, and wireless earbuds. In our quest to identify the top outdoor speakers available, we started by considering models and brands that have excelled in our previous assessments, coupled with those receiving acclaim through positive online reviews. Our evaluation criteria encompassed sound quality, durability, design, user-friendliness, and connectivity options.
Whether you’re in search of a floating portable speaker for your upcoming boat trip or a permanently installed outdoor speaker system for your backyard, rest assured, we have you covered.
Sonos Architectural Outdoor Speaker
For a permanent outdoor sound system with exceptional audio quality, we recommend considering these wired speakers from Sonos.
Designed to endure with an IP (Ingress Protection) rating of IP66, these speakers are resilient against dust and robust water jets, making them capable of withstanding unexpected downpours. Rachel Rothman, the chief technologist at the Good Housekeeping Institute, applauds the Sonos ecosystem for its “next-level audio capabilities and seamless integration across the home.” Notably, a single Sonos amp can power up to six speakers, allowing you to expand your sound system gradually. With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can effortlessly stream music from your preferred apps and utilize voice control.
It’s essential to note that these speakers require mounting and the additional purchase of an amp. For optimal performance, we recommend professional wired installation to set up your sound system and connect the speaker to the amp (Sonos recommends using 16ga or larger wire, rated for outdoor use). While this setup entails an initial investment, the higher premium ensures superior quality, durability, and longevity.
| Rechargeable battery | None |
|---|---|
| Wireless | Yes (but requires wired installation) |
| Mounting required | Yes |
| IP rating | IP66 |
| Dimensions | 7.51″ x 12.93″ x 7.86″ |
Anker Soundcore 3
For a cost-effective choice in portable outdoor speakers, the Anker option stands out as an excellent value. With an IPX7 rating, it’s waterproof, allowing you to bring it into the shower or use it by the pool without any concerns.
What makes it noteworthy is not only its robust sound, courtesy of dual drivers and enhanced bass, but also its impressive claimed 24-hour battery life. This makes it ideal for day trips to the beach or lake. Online reviewers consistently highlight its excellent sound quality and express appreciation for its lightweight design, weighing just over 13 ounces.
| Rechargeable battery | Yes (24 hours) |
|---|---|
| Wireless | Yes (Bluetooth) |
| Mounting required | No |
| IP rating | IPX7 |
| Dimensions | 6.85″ x 2.36″ x 2.24″ |
Pohopa Wireless Lantern Bluetooth Speaker
Firstly, the lantern-shaped Bluetooth speakers we adore not only function as outdoor speakers but also double as stylish patio decorations, blending seamlessly into the outdoor environment. Their built-in LED lights further contribute to creating a captivating atmosphere during nighttime use.
While they may not match the high-fidelity sound of Bose or Sonos speakers, the fact that they come as a pair allows for a surround sound effect. This feature enhances the audio experience, making them a fitting choice for outdoor gatherings where ambient music is desired without the hassle of intricate wiring. In summary, these dual speakers provide excellent value for money.
| Rechargeable battery | Yes (12 hours) |
|---|---|
| Wireless | Yes (Bluetooth) |
| Mounting required | No |
| IP rating | IPX5 |
| Dimensions | 7.87″ x 7.09″ x 11.42″ |
Sonos Move
If you desire the distinct and rich sound signature of Sonos without the need for wired installation, this stylish portable speaker stands out as an excellent choice. It boasts a downward-firing tweeter for capturing higher frequency sounds, a mid-woofer handling mid-range frequencies, and two amplifiers to ensure a premium audio experience.
Connectivity to the Move is flexible, offering both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi options. When connected to a network, you have the option to create a stereo pair by pairing two Sonos speakers, delivering an enhanced sound experience. The speaker also features convenient voice control capabilities.
Elliott Lopez, the director of audio-visual services at Hearst, Good Housekeeping’s parent company, commends the Move for its user-friendly setup and the ability to make sound adjustments in the app. Although the Move includes a built-in handle for portability, it’s not as compact for travel as some other options. For those prioritizing ease of transportation, Lopez recommends the Sonos Roam with its lightweight and compact design.
Additionally, with an IP56 rating, the Move is resilient enough to withstand occasional tumbles, light rain, and exposure to humidity. However, caution is advised against submersion, as it’s not recommended for use underwater.
| Rechargeable battery | Yes (11 hours) |
|---|---|
| Wireless | Yes (Bluetooth and WiFi) |
| Mounting required | No |
| IP rating | IP56 |
| Dimensions | 9.44″ x 6.29″ x 4.96″ |
JBL Charge 5
If you’re in search of an outdoor speaker that you can confidently bring to the beach or pool without worrying about water damage, the JBL Charge 5 is an excellent choice.
Available in various vibrant colors, this 2.1-pound speaker combines rugged durability with exceptional portability. Our tests revealed loud and clear audio quality, making it a standout performer. With an impressive claimed battery life of 20 hours, it also features a built-in power bank, allowing you to charge your phone on the go. The PartyBoost mode is another notable feature, enabling you to pair multiple JBL speakers for an immersive experience when it’s time to host a party.
| Rechargeable battery | Yes (20 hours) |
|---|---|
| Wireless | Yes (Bluetooth) |
| Mounting required | No |
| IP rating | IP67 |
| Dimensions | 8.7″ x 3.67″ x 3.76″ |
How we test outdoor speakers
Our team of engineers and analysts has rigorously tested over three dozen outdoor speakers in recent years, focusing on the following criteria during our evaluations:
✔️ Ease of Use: We assess the simplicity of setting up each speaker, as well as the ease of pairing and controlling music playback through the device and associated app, if applicable. Voice assistant commands, battery life, and special features like built-in microphones are also considered. Additionally, we measure the physical footprint and weight of each speaker to evaluate its portability. For wired speakers, we take into account the ease of installation.
✔️ Audio Quality: Our tests involve listening to a diverse selection of songs across various genres, ranging from rock with heavy bass to classical piano music. We conduct frequency sweeps using YouTube videos with a spectrum of frequencies, measuring what registers at 50dB to comprehensively evaluate sound quality.
✔️ Weather Resistance and Durability: Our experts verify IP ratings and conduct additional in-lab evaluations to confirm and validate water resistance. For speakers claiming to be waterproof or weather-resistant, we perform water-resistance tests based on IP ratings, including water submersion tests, rain tests, and water-repellency tests. Additionally, we subject outdoor speakers to multiple drops to ensure they remain durable enough to function properly.