The Best Portable Speakers for Music Lovers on the Go

Having the right portable speaker can transform any setting into a lively, music-filled environment. Whether you're planning a beach day, a backyard barbecue, or simply want to enjoy your favorite tunes on the go, choosing the best portable speaker is essential. In this article, we’ll dive into the top portable speakers from renowned brands Sonos, Sony, JBL, and Klipsch. We'll explore features, price point, and overall performance of their top models to help you find the perfect portable speaker for you. Get ready to elevate your audio experience with our guide to the best portable speakers of 2024.

Sony

Sony has always been known as a powerhouse in the audio/video industry. Their ULT Power Sound series is a line of speakers and headphones designed specifically for music lovers who enjoy bass. ULT products come with an 'ULT' button that enhances the bass level when pressed, and some models also include various bass presets. ULT speakers bring dynamic sound and are designed to deliver clear detail and energy, even at high volumes.

The ULT FIELD 7 ($498) is a wireless portable speaker that is ready to party with you for hours on end with its impressive 30 hour battery life, microphone input, guitar amp functionality, and dynamic lighting. You can touch the ULT button to mix up your bass levels: choose ULT1 for deep, low-end tones or ULT2 for a powerful punch. The X-Balanced speaker unit guarantees rich, clear audio at any volume, while the high-efficiency tweeter delivers crisp highs. Completing the sound profile, passive radiators provide powerful, clear bass, making it perfect for any party or outdoor gathering. It’s powerful sound does mean the ULT FIELD 7 is heavier than the standard portable speaker - sitting at around 14 pounds. The ULT FIELD 7 also offers Party Connect allowing you to sync up to 100 compatible speakers at once.

Sony’s ULT FIELD 1 wireless portable speaker is currently their smallest and most affordable option at $128, but have no fear - it still packs a punch. It’s designed to fill any space with immersive sound. Thanks to the ULT FIELD1's Sound Diffusion Processor and side passive radiator, you can experience powerful audio with deep, resonant bass. Its compact size, 12 hour battery life, and waterproof design mean it’s perfect for vacations, camping, or sitting by the lake.

Sony also offers larger party speakers that can take your listening sessions to the next level. Sony’s 25 pound SRS-XP500 ($398) immerses you in rich sound whether you’re at a beach bonfire, backyard barbecue, or hanging out at home. Elevate the party by customizing LED lights that synchronize with the rhythm of your music. The larger SRS-XP700 X-Series is your perfect partner for crafting memorable experiences with impressive sound. Created to enhance any event, this speaker provides a remarkable performance that fills every space with immersive sound. Available for $548 and weighing over 37 pounds, the XP700 delivers clear, rich sound that amplifies every moment. Connect your microphone to make karaoke nights a breeze, or plug in a guitar for endless entertainment options.

Sonos

Sonos offers two portable speaker options that can connect seamlessly to your already existing Sonos system. On both speakers you can control the audio with the Sonos app, your voice, or the intuitive touch controls. Additionally, with the Sonos Move 2 you can connect a turntable or other devices using an auxiliary cable and the Sonos Line-In Adapter.

Sonos Move 2 ($449), which was a recent upgrade from the original Move, has undergone enhancements both internally and externally to provide immersive stereo sound wherever you choose. Whether your interests lie in movies, fishing, or cooking, the Move 2 serves as your perfect audio partner for all of your adventures. Thanks to acoustic updates and increased efficiency, you can dance for up to 24 hours on a single charge. Sonos Roam 2 was also recently updated and upgraded from the first generation Roam. Available for $179, Roam 2 delivers powerful Sonos sound wherever you’d like, with up to 10 hours of playback and USB-C charging. Roam 2 is incredibly portable, measuring just 6.61 x 2.44 x 2.36 inches and weighing under a single pound. Additionally, it is compatible with over 100 streaming services and can be paired with another Roam 2 for an improved stereo sound experience. Despite its compact size, Roam 2 delivers exceptional clarity and bass, with precision-engineered acoustics and automatic Trueplay™ tuning.

JBL

JBL might be one of the most widely-known Bluetooth speaker brands on the market, offering a wide selection of waterproof portable speakers with rechargeable battery options. ListenUp carries around a dozen of JBL’s portable speakers, ranging in price from $149 for the JBL Flip 6 to $2,040 for JBL’s PartyBox Ultimate Portable Party Speaker.

JBL’s Flip 6 ($149) is a popular portable option, as it weighs under 1.5lbs. Delivering impressive sound clarity and volume for its smaller size and weight, the Flip 6 has a durable build, user-friendly setup, and 12 hour battery life. The Charge 5 ($229) is designed for those who crave loud, immersive music and non-stop entertainment. It offers up to 20 hours of playtime and has a IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. At 2.2lbs it’s still very portable, and the Charge 5 can wirelessly connect up to 2 devices so you can blast your music with friends.

Are you ready to really get the party started? Check out the JBL PartyBox On-The-Go Essential with a full synced light show, available for $349. This portable powerhouse delivers a powerful performance with 100 watts of clear JBL Pro Sound, ensuring endless fun with deep bass and dynamic light effects. Take hold of the wireless microphone provided to sing your heart out to your beloved songs, or transform any space into a mini concert by connecting your guitar. The PartyBox comes with a convenient shoulder strap for easy carrying. If you’re looking for something even bigger, the JBL PartyBox 710 can turn any event into an instant party. The PartyBox 710 is 62 lbs of power, delivering an impressive 800 watts of immersive, high performance JBL Original Pro Sound. Experience an energetic light display synchronized to the music beat, offering customizable effects such as strobes, starry night scenes, and club patterns to create the perfect party atmosphere. Like the PartyBox On-the Go, the PartyBox 710 can act as a guitar amp or be used in karaoke mode.

Klipsch

Klipsch offers a variety of portable Bluetooth speakers to suit different sizes and budgets, ensuring you can find the perfect option to fit your needs. These compact speakers feature the iconic Klipsch grill aesthetic, have a small footprint and are perfect for on-the-go sound.

The Austin is the smallest, yet it features a mini full-range driver and dual passive radiators, providing impressive sound with up to 12 hours of battery life for just $99. The Nashville is a step-up speaker, delivering an immersive 360° audio experience with rich, deep bass and clear vocals. Its long-lasting battery life of up to 24 hours ensures the music keeps playing as long as you do. For those seeking powerful sound and a durable design, Klipsch's Detroit is the best choice. Priced at $299, the Detroit offers a 20-hour battery life and customizable sound settings, delivering a premium listening experience wherever you go. With the Klipsch Connect Plus app, you can enjoy Broadcast Mode and sync up to 10+ speakers at once, creating powerful sound that can fill even the largest events.

Finding the ideal portable speaker requires careful consideration of various factors including sound quality, battery life, durability, and price. Each brand—Sonos, Sony, JBL, and Klipsch—offers unique strengths and features that cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize robust bass, a sleek design, or the ability to withstand the elements, our guide has hopefully led you to finding the perfect portable speaker for you. If you still haven't reached a decision on which speaker is right for you, feel free to chat with our support staff or stop by your nearest ListenUp showroom to find the perfect fit.