This piece was first published on Mashable aimed at a U.S. audience and has been customized for readers in the UK.

Streaming music straight from your smartphone’s speakers does a disservice to your beloved tracks. Despite the progress in smartphone technology, achieving high-quality sound is still a hurdle for numerous brands. For the best audio experience from your phone or smart device, you generally have two primary choices: excellent headphones or an exceptional Bluetooth speaker.

If you enjoy a communal listening experience or simply dislike wearing headphones, portable Bluetooth speakers are a progressively impressive option. While wired speakers used to set the benchmark for audiophiles, Bluetooth technology has vastly improved. Their real appeal lies in their ease of use, enabling you to listen to music almost anywhere.

Nowadays, there is a wide selection of high-quality portable Bluetooth speakers available. They are ideal for picnics, holidays, hotel stays, poolside relaxation, or even just moving your music from one room to another at home. But how do you determine which one is the right fit? What distinguishes a great Bluetooth speaker from a subpar one? Here’s a brief guide to assist you in making an informed decision, along with a list of the finest Bluetooth speakers on the market right now.

How good is the sound quality of a Bluetooth speaker?

It’s as good as you require it to be. Begin by considering: Will your usage primarily involve music, podcasts, or a combination of both? This will help you ascertain the level of audio quality you need, whether it’s surround sound, Dolby Atmos, or traditional stereo. Not every speaker provides the same sound quality, so understanding what kind of listening experience you desire before making a purchase is vital. Typically, smaller speakers are more portable, but they might not deliver the sound depth that larger models can offer.

How many speakers do you need?

Quality is always more important than quantity. Two high-quality speakers will outperform several average ones. However, having too many speakers can unnecessarily clutter your environment. For most music enthusiasts, two speakers are optimal, as music is generally recorded for a stereo configuration with left and right channels. Many of the options listed below can connect with additional speakers for a stereo experience. Nevertheless, if space is limited, one excellent speaker will be sufficient.

What smart features do Bluetooth speakers offer?

As with most technology, you typically get what you pay for. Budget-friendly Bluetooth speakers are excellent for playing upbeat tracks, but higher-end models frequently include advanced functionalities such as voice assistants, EQ settings, app controls, and other smart features. Think about whether you want your speaker to work within a broader smart home ecosystem. Several of the choices mentioned below come with smart capabilities like Alexa compatibility.

Are portable speakers waterproof?

While having a waterproof speaker isn’t absolutely necessary, it’s a feature that merits consideration. Many portable speakers are engineered to be waterproof or water-resistant, making them perfect for poolside gatherings, outdoor parties, or any scenario where you might encounter splashes or spills. If given the choice, opting for a waterproof model is a clever decision to safeguard your investment from unintentional harm.

What is the best portable Bluetooth speaker?

If you’re not an audiophile and simply want to enhance your listening experience beyond your smartphone’s internal speaker, don’t overthink it. Whether you value deep bass, crystal-clear mids, or just portability, a speaker matching your needs is available. To simplify your choice, we’ve assembled a selection of standout portable Bluetooth speakers from leading brands. Whether you’re on a budget or ready to treat yourself, there’s something here for everyone.

Check out the best portable Bluetooth speakers to consider in 2025.