The best Bluetooth speaker for good vibes wherever you go

Skip to: How we test the best Bluetooth speakers 2024 | How to choose a Bluetooth speaker

Our shopping editors are well-versed in the benefits of using an outdoor Bluetooth speaker for garden parties, hiking sessions and anything else you can think of when you're away from a plug socket, so rest assured we've suggested only the best models that we've physically listened to. We've selected the best across a range of price points, testing out sonic performance, smart connectivity and voice controls, and durability in all weather to assess which is best for you.

We like simplicity as much as anyone, but let’s face it: choosing your ideal Bluetooth speaker needs a bit more consideration than simply picking the best-looking one you can afford.

You need to think about what you want your new speaker to do, for starters. A portable speaker is going to be taken all over the place, in all sorts of conditions – so build quality, durability and robust materials are all key factors. Most Bluetooth speakers, broadly speaking, have water- and dust-proofing - so check out the IP rating. ‘IPX4’ means the speaker can handle splashes without problems and should be fine in a brief downpour while you take your party indoors, but if you’re after something a bit more rugged then consider IPX7 a minimum rating against moisture, dust and (because it’s always a possibility) booze splashes.

Your speaker is in danger from more than just the elements, of course. Accidents will happen - so you should probably consider robust plastic or, even better, some rubberisation to help offset the odd bump or scrape. But this needs to be balanced against the need for ultimate portability - so your speaker needs to be light enough, too.

And then think about battery life. If you don’t think you’ll take your speaker any further than the bottom of the garden, its stamina is unlikely to be an issue - but if you want to take it on a hiking or camping break, you need to know it’s got the power to last for the duration.

The technical aspect needs to be considered, too. Even if you’re not comfortable with the language of the electronics industry - and after all, who’s got time or inclination to learn the ins and outs of aptX, or passive mode radiators, or stereo pairing? - you’ll need to establish what you require and what you can happily ignore. For instance, you should avoid older USB port standards – if the speaker you have in mind charges using anything except USB-C, give it a wide berth. And if you want a bit of voice control, there are speakers out there ready to deal with Alexa, or Google Assistant, or Siri - but not every speaker is capable of listening to what you want.

Sound quality, though, has to be the most important aspect of any new speaker. Even if you don’t know your transient response from your dynamic headroom, we guarantee you know what you like when you hear it… and don’t forget that when your speaker is out and about, all the boundaries disappear - so be sure your speaker has the power to make itself heard in the great outdoors.

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Shop GQ's pick of the best portable Bluetooth speakers 2024…