Portable Speaker Buying Guide

Are you looking for the perfect new portable speaker to take everywhere? From a pool party to a camping trip to an in-basket bicycle ride — bringing a portable speaker along can boost the mood and allow you to share your favourite tunes with those around you. So invest in a brand new speaker today, and take on the role of the friend or family member who brings the music. 

What is a Bluetooth speaker?

A Bluetooth speaker is a wireless speaker that connects via Bluetooth to your device, whether it’s a phone, tablet, or laptop — once connected, you can stream your audio straight from the device to the speaker. This no-strings-attached method is convenient when you want to use your phone simultaneously, or if you’re in an environment where the crowd may want to chip in and add songs to the queue. In addition, a bluetooth speaker is ideal for group settings; not only can anybody jump in and request a song, but the speaker can be moved around and relocated without worrying about attached cords.

How do I choose the right speaker?

As they continue to gain popularity, portable speakers continue to improve in design, technology capabilities, and general quality. As a result, there are endless options on the market, with new designs constantly being released. So naturally, this can be an overwhelming market to jump into. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all when it comes to speakers as people will use their speakers in very different ways, and there are personal factors to consider when choosing the right speaker for your needs. If you are having trouble finding the most suitable speaker, keep reading as we highlight some of the most loved features on the market. The best portable Bluetooth speaker for you will be one you use all the time, so consider the features listed below and your lifestyle to find the perfect fit.

Best Waterproof Portable Speakers

If you spend time by the pool, at the beach, or even want to add music to your shower routine, then a waterproof speaker is likely your best bet.

Waterproof Bluetooth speakers are typically not designed to be submerged in water since this could result in permanent damage. While it is nearly impossible for an electronic speaker to be entirely waterproof, some speakers are designed to withstand a certain amount of water exposure. This is usually determined by a product's Ingress Protection (IP) rating. IP ratings indicate whether a loudspeaker can tolerate dust and water ingress from the outside. IPX4 is the standard rating for water resistance. Any rating above IPX7 can take different levels of submersion.

So, let's put this in terms of use. The majority of speakers are rated IP67. IP67 devices are completely protected from solid objects such as dust or sand. It also means that they have been proven to work for at least 30 minutes when dropped into a body of water between 15cm and 1m in depth.

Is a waterproof Bluetooth speaker right for me?

Aside from pool or beach activities, a waterproof portable speaker is also a good idea for most outdoor activities, as you can’t always predict the weather. At Bing Lee, you’ll also find clip-on waterproof speakers, which can be looped onto your hiking bag or bicycle. If you usually listen to music in or near water or in an outdoor setting, then a waterproof portable speaker might be the best option.

Best Mobile Party Speakers

Music is essential whether you are hosting an intimate gathering, a BBQ, a birthday party, or any other celebration. The best portable speakers for a party have a few necessary components; they can fill the whole space with sound and last hours. 

At Bing Lee, you can find a collection of speakers designed specifically for parties. Undoubtedly, the JBL Partybox speakers are ranked in the top 5 best portable speakers for any party. With a minimum of 6 hours of use without charging, with some of the range lasting much longer, these Partybox speakers are ideal for nights of endless fun. These hip speakers also have a lighting strobe effect that matches your music. Finally, we know how important bass is for party music; these party speakers are among the best portable speakers with bass, with Dual 2.75" tweeters and 8" woofers plus a tuned bass reflex port delivery. Put simply, with this collection of the most powerful portable speakers, you will be able to literally feel the beat.

Best Smart Bluetooth Speakers

Smart Bluetooth speakers take convenience to the next level. Advanced voice recognition allows you to control your music, set alarms, ask about the weather or even search the web through the power of the voice. With popular assistants such as Google and Alexa built-in, you can effortlessly take control of your listening experience. Perfect for entertaining, some speakers sync with each other from across the house to create a unified sound. 

Bing Lee stocks a range of smart speakers, so take your pick and add some intelligence to your home’s surround sound.

Choosing the right speaker depends on how you plan to use it. So whether you’re looking for the perfect speaker for a day at the beach, the hands-free experience of a smart speaker, or something to get a crowd going, Bing Lee can help you.

With a wide range of speakers available, you’ll be sure to find one that suits your needs and budget. If you have any questions about which speaker is best for you, or the functionality of any of our speakers, please reach out to our friendly customer service team, and they will be sure to help you find the best speaker for your needs.