maart 19, 2021 13 min lezen

The best waterproof speakers today not only offer adequate protection from water, they also provide great sound quality and come packed with other features such as dust & drop-proof protection, accurate base & balance, wireless charging, and many more convenient features.

If you miss your favorite playlist whilst on the beach, garden, or paddle boarding on a lake, then this article is for you.

Our expert reviewers have rounded up the best waterproof speakers available to buy right now to suit all budgets.

What are the best waterproof speakers? 

It’s easy to become overwhelmed and blinded by specs and features when looking to purchase waterproof speakers. Almost all of them sound appealing, but like anything in the technology world, some are better than others.

To make things easier, we have listed below are recommendations for certain categories, and we will elaborate on these throughout the article.

GILI’s Top Picks: The Best Waterproof Speaker Overall

Best Overall
Waterproof bluetooth speaker for paddle boards
GILI Sports Bluetooth Speaker

With its high-impact audio performance and 100% waterproof quality, this GILI Sports Bluetooth speaker is the best pick for your SUP and other aquatic adventures. Considering its top-notch caliber, you’ll be surprised at how budget-friendly it can be!

Why we like it:

  • Built-in memory enables it to store music offline
  • Can be fully submerged up to 6ft for a continuous underwater play
  • Shock/Dust/Sandproof
  • Dual speaker pairing (link 2 speakers for a portable surround sound)
  • 33 ft of Bluetooth connectivity
  • Mounts directly to your SUP mount

What we don't like:

  • We wish it came in more colors
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Best Portable
Ultimate Ears Wonderboom waterproof speaker
UE Wonderboom 2

The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 is by far one of the best waterproof Bluetooth speakers available. Choose your favorite color combination from the stylish range and bring the party to life.

Why we like it:

  • Fantastic bass and outdoor boost feature iconic of Ultimate Ears
  • A surprisingly big 360 degrees of sound
  • Fully dustproof and waterproof
  • It offers a 100 ft Bluetooth connectivity to your mobile device

What we don't like:

  • On/Off sound is unnecessarily loud
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Best Value
Anker Soundcore Flare waterproof speaker
Anker Soundcore Flare

The Anker Soundcore Flare is something a little bit different than the rest. Bring a touch of class to the party with the light show, great sound quality, and relax in the knowledge that the speaker has full waterproof IPx7 rated protection.

Why we like it:

  • 360 degree sound
  • Advanced IPX7 waterproof design allowing full water submersion
  • Variable light settings to customize the light show to the tunes
  • USB-C charging in just 3.5 hours

What we don't like:

  • It does not have an AUX port, only Bluetooth
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Best For Parties
JBL Charge 4 waterproof speaker
JBL Charge 4

The JBL Charge 4 is one of the most loved Bluetooth speakers going. This speaker is durable and consistent while also being fully waterproof. Connect and pair with other JBL speakers for the best poolside parties.

Why we like it:

  • Super stylish design and a rainbow of colors options
  • Long-life battery 
  • Durable outer fabric and rugged rubber protective edges
  • Connect and pair with other JBL Charge speakers for an enhanced audio experience

What we don't like:

  • Struggles with producing high-quality sound at high volume
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Best Budget Waterproof Speakers

Best Mid-Range Waterproof Speakers

Best Premium Waterproof Speakers

Waterproof vs Water-Resistant Speakers

The level of waterproof and water-resistant is the main feature we focused on for each speaker. The waterproof rating is measured in terms of IPX Rating (Ingress Protection), with IPX0 being no protection and IPX8 being fully waterproof under 1+ meter submersion.

Waterproof by definition means the device can be submerged in water (within reason) with no effect. Water cannot enter the speaker, giving you ultimate protection.

Water-resistant is the lowest level of water protection but still effective in saving your device. Coated and designed to make it difficult for water to get inside, water-resistant speakers can typically withstand light rain showers and are often described as ‘splashproof’.

When deciding which speaker to buy, we recommend you think about the purpose of your speaker and the chances of it falling into water. If you’re planning on cruising with tunes on your inflatable SUP then a fully waterproof speaker is the best choice for you. However, if your speaker is staying on dry land then a water-resistant option will serve you well.

Other Key Features for Waterproof Speakers

Features of Waterproof Speakers

Along with water protection, you need to consider certain features including battery life, size, and pricing before making a decision.

Battery Life

Nothing ruins a long hike or camping adventure like a dead battery. Typically speaking, the more money you spend on a speaker, the better the battery. However, this doesn’t mean the budget devices won’t perform well. 

Top tips to preserve your speaker’s battery: 

  • Don’t overcharge 
  • Don’t drop your device
  • Keep out of direct sunlight 

Size / Weight

Size may seem trivial but it could be a swaying factor depending on where you want to take your speaker. 

If you’re planning to hike and tackle intense trails, then it is best to go for a lightweight speaker. This way you can tuck it inside your knapsack or even clip it on the side without weighing you down. 

However, a larger and more heavy-duty speaker may be more desirable if you’re looking for premium sound quality and bringing in the party. 

Price

Your budget will determine what type of speaker you choose. 

You can find decent waterproof portable speakers under $70 if you’re on a tight budget. We recommend the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2.

However, if you’re after one of the best speakers available, and money is no issue, check out the Bose SoundLink Revolve for hours of battery life and premium sound quality.

Best Waterproof Speakers on a Budget - Under $69

Altec Lansing Mini H20V

This Mini portable speaker from Altec packs a lot of punch in such a compact device. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to take their music with them while on the go. Simply clip it to your belt or dry bag and crack on.

ONYX Movement Dynamic Paddle Board Life Jacket

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery: 6 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IP67
  • Weight: 0.25 lbs
  • Size: 4.10 x 1.10 x 2.10 inches

What we love:

  • Impressive wireless range of up to 30 feet
  • Good waterproof rating and floats making it perfect for pools and water-based activity
  • Great portability 
  • Inexpensive

What we don't love:

  • Cheaply made, which shows in the lack of durability 
  • Basic sound quality

While not the most ‘durable,’ this speaker is excellent value for money and performs quite well considering the sub $20 price tag.

Tribit Stormbox Micro

Small but mighty describes the Tribit Stormbox Micro. The micro size makes this unique, and. with the mounting strap included, it’s ready to join you on any adventure.

Tribit Stormbox Micro Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery: 8 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IP67
  • Weight: 1.3 lbs
  • Size: 3.87 x 3.87 x 1.37inch

What we love:

  • Powerful sound quality and deep bass technology
  • Fully waterproof and dustproof
  • Includes a tear-resistant silicone strap to attach to handlebars or backpacks
  • 100-ft Bluetooth range

What we don't love:

  • Customers reviews report that battery life decreases significantly over time

The fabric-covered exterior can handle the elements and dust, making it ideal for saltwater adventures.

Tribit XSound Go

Another good waterproof speaker from Tribit. The XSound Go gives excellent sound quality and hours of playback.

Tribit XSound Go Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery: 24 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX7
  • Weight: 0.8 lbs
  • Size: 6.70 x 2.20 x 2.30 inches

What we love:

  • Bluetooth 5.0 technology 
  • Completely waterproof making it an ideal all-weather companion
  • Sleek and stylish design
  • Lithium battery provides 24-hours of battery life

What we don't love:

  • Struggles with high volume

Get a great bang for your buck with this model, and bring life, beats, and style to your parties.

Anker Soundcore Flare

The Anker Soundcore Flare is something a little bit different than the rest. Bring a touch of class to the party with the light show, great sound quality, and relax in the knowledge that the speaker has full waterproof IPx7 rated protection.

Anker Soundcore Flare Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 12 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX7
  • Weight: 1.3 lbs
  • Size: 3.50 x 3.50 x 6.31 inches

What we love:

  • 360 degree sound
  • Advanced IPX7 waterproof design allowing full water submersion
  • Variable light settings to customize the light show to the tunes
  • USB-C charging in just 3.5 hours

What we don't love:

  • Does not have an AUX port, only Bluetooth

This speaker has so much to offer for the price and will meet all your expectations.

Braven Stryde 360

Another great portable Bluetooth speaker if you’re after something different from the rest. Choose between three color variations and enjoy great audio wherever you go.

Braven Stryde 360 Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 12 hours 
  • Waterproof Rating: IP67
  • Weight: 0.9 lbs
  • Size: 7.80 x 3.50 x 3.50 inches

What we love:

  • 100% waterproof and dustproof
  • Good bass with high volume
  • Three color options 
  • Voice command control

What we don't love:

  • Durability is not the best if being used every day

All in all, the Braven Stryde 360 is a solid choice and easy to use with its unique voice control feature.

Cambridge SoundWorks OontZ Angle 3

The OontZ Angle 3 is a top model to choose from if you want a simple and cheap portable Bluetooth speaker. This speaker performs to a good standard and will meet all expectations, regardless of the cheap price tag.

Cambridge SoundWorks OontZ Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 14 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX5 water-resistant
  • Weight: 0.5 lbs
  • Size: 5.30 x 2.80 x 2.60 inches

What we love:

  • 100 feet wireless connection with other OontZ speakers for 360 subversive audio 
  • Lightweight and ultra portable
  • Rich and powerful bass 
  • AUX and Micro USB connection ports 

What we don't love:

  • Only splashproof at IP rating 5

As long as you aren’t planning on taking it underwater then this is as good a choice as any for a waterproof speaker.

Best Mid-Range Waterproof Speakers - Between $70 and $199

GILI Sports Bluetooth Speaker

With its high-impact audio performance and 100% waterproof quality, this GILI Sports Bluetooth speaker is the best pick for your SUP and other aquatic adventures. Considering its top-notch caliber, you’ll be surprised at how budget-friendly it can be!

Waterproof bluetooth speaker for paddle boards

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 8 hrs
  • Waterproof Rating: IP68
  • Weight: 1.64lbs
  • Size: 4.2 x 4.1 x 5.5 in

What we love:

  • Built-in memory enables it to store music offline
  • Can be fully submerged up to 6ft for a continuous underwater play
  • Shock/Dust/Sandproof
  • Dual speaker pairing (link 2 speakers for a portable surround sound)
  • 33 ft of Bluetooth connectivity
  • Mounts directly to your SUP mount

What we don't love:

  • We wish it came in more colors

If you’re looking for a neat, extremely portable speaker, then this one is perfect for you!

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2

The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 is by far one of the best waterproof bluetooth speakers available. Choose your favorite color combination from the stylish range and bring the party to life.

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 13 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IP67
  • Weight: 0.9 lbs
  • Size: 3.68 x 3.68 x 4.02 inches

What we love:

  • Fantastic bass and outdoor boost feature iconic of Ultimate Ears
  • A surprisingly big 360 degree sound
  • Fully dustproof and waterproof
  • Offers a 100 ft bluetooth connectivity to your mobile device

What we don't love:

  • On/off sound is unnecessarily loud

The latest model of the UE Wonderboom is phenomenal. It’s no wonder it's so popular and in our top pick selection.

JBL Charge 4

The JBL Charge 4 is one of the most loved bluetooth speakers going.This speaker is durable and consistent, while also being fully waterproof. Connect and pair with other JBL speakers for the best poolside parties.

JBL Charge 4 Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 20 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX7
  • Weight: 2.1 lbs
  • Size: 3.50 x 8.50 x 3.40 inches

What we love:

  • Super stylish design and a rainbow of colors options
  • Long life battery 
  • Durable outer fabric and rugged rubber protective edges
  • Connect and pair with other JBL Charge speakers for enhanced audio experience

What we don't love:

  • Struggles with producing high-quality sound at high volume

We love this mid-range waterproof speaker. You get great value for money and are guaranteed good sound with plenty of bass (Just don’t have it too high).

Ultimate Ears Blast

Another great wireless speaker from UE with the best IP67 rating and premium sound quality. We like this speaker because it’s cracking value for the price, however better quality speakers are available.

Ultimate Ears Blast Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 12 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IP67
  • Weight: 0.7 lbs
  • Size: 2.68 x 7.40 x 7.40 inches

What we love:

  • Loud, true, and clear audio 
  • Voice controlled and Wi Fi connected to Amazon Alexa and other smart devices
  • Can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes
  • Rugged charge station dock

What we don't love:

  • Battery appears to age quickly 

If voice control and wireless design is key to you, then the UE Blast is a good choice for you.

JBL Flip 5

As far as bluetooth speakers go, the JBL Flip 5 is our favorite overall. There’s a lot to like about this product. Excellent audio, tough, durable, and the ability to last you a long time makes this a firm favorite of ours.

JBL Flip 5 Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 12 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX7
  • Weight: 1.2 lbs
  • Size: 7.10 x 2.70 x 2.90 inches

What we love:

  • 11 distinct and vibrant colors to pick from
  • Party boost function allows connection with other JBL speakers for surround sound
  • Tough and durable 
  • Premium sound quality

What we don't love:

  • USB-C connection exposed without a cover, however this does not affect waterproof rating

The JBL Flip 5 is a fantastic deal and a safe choice for quality and reliability. Trust us when we say this one is well worth the buy.

Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3

This Ultimate Ears Boom 3 is a mega device and ready for whatever life throws at it. Rugged and durable without being too big is what sets this speaker apart.

Ultimate Ears Megaboom Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 20 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IP67
  • Weight: 1.5 lbs
  • Size: 3.2 x 3.2 x 8.75 inches

What we love:

  • 150 ft wireless bluetooth range
  • Built to last with heavy-duty and robust materials
  • Floats in water
  • Compact size but no compromise on sound

What we don't love:

  • Bass is rather disappointing

Despite the disappointing bass, we still think this is a great mid-range wireless speaker that is well worth the price.

Ultimate Ears Megablast

This Megablast model from UE has a lot to offer and is well worth considering to buy. The price is reasonable, and the quality is one of the best in the mid-range region.

Ultimate Ears Megablast Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: up to 16 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IP67
  • Weight: 2.6 lbs
  • Size: 3.50 x 3.50 x 9.40 inches

What we love:

  • Pairs up with Amazon Alexa 
  • Virtually indestructible and can withstand being in the water for up to 1.5 hours
  • 360 degree rich sound quality
  • 100m connection range for Wi-Fi and 45m on Bluetooth

What we don't love:

  • Can only connect with other UE Megablast devices
  • Not a UE Boom speaker

We love the toughness and hardcore build of this speaker. It’s ready for whatever life throws at it.

Best Premium Waterproof Speakers - Over $200

JBL Xtreme 2

Money not holding you back? Then splurge on the phenomenal JBL Xtreme 2 speaker. It’s hard to find a flaw in this speaker as the quality and performance are seriously top-notch.

Ultimate Ears Megablast Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 15 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX7
  • Weight: 5.3 lbs
  • Size: 7.90 x 12.10 x 18.10 inches

What we love:

  • Dual powered, providing superior crisp and clear sound quality
  • Highest rated protection 
  • Stream via Bluetooth or 3 5mm port connection
  • Portable with convenient carry handle

What we don't love:

  • It costs a lot of money

If money is no issue, then this is one of the best speakers you can buy.

Bose SoundLink Revolve

Bose produces some of the best sound systems on the market, and it won’t surprise many that the SoundLink Revolve is featured on our list.

Bose SoundLink Revolve Waterproof Speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 12 hrs
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX4
  • Weight: 1.5 lbs
  • Size: 3.30 x 3.30 x 6.00 inches

What we love:

  • Offers connection through Bose SimpleSync Technology
  • 360 degree sound performance
  • Sleek and stylish design perfect for any home
  • Splashproof ready for life’s unexpected surprises

What we don't love:

  • Only water-resistant, so not the best for outdoor adventures

This system is perfect for anyone looking to bring superior sound clarity into their homes. However, it’s not the best choice for outdoor adventures.

JBL Boombox

This JBL Boombox speaker has earned the title of the modern-day ‘courtside-boombox’. It looks like a classic and performs with the ear-catching crispness that JBL is best known for.

JBL Boombox Waterproof speaker

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Battery Life: 24 hours
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX7
  • Weight: 2.4 lbs
  • Size: 20.55 x 9.53 x 13.39 inches

What we love:

  • Ultimate playtime allowance
  • Can connect to two smartphones 
  • Rugged enough to be the center of any party 
  • Hard-hitting bass

What we don't love:

  • Expensive

This Boombox from JBL is impressive and will be the envy of everyone, whether you are at the beach, at home, or at a pop-up tailgate party.

FAQ'S

🏆 Which speakers are waterproof?

Speakers with an IP rating of 5 or higher are fully waterproof. Anything below this is just water-resistant/splashproof.


👍 What is the loudest waterproof speaker?

The loudest waterproof speaker is the JBL Boombox. This Bluetooth speaker features the crisp sound quality that the JBL brand is best known for. It’s perfectly capable of bringing life to the party, no matter where the venue is.

Anker’s Soundcore Flare is another excellent option for a loud waterproof speaker for those on a lower budget.


🏝️ What is the best waterproof Bluetooth speaker to buy?

The best waterproof Bluetooth speaker to buy depends on your budget. We recommend the Anker Soundcore Flare for those on a budget, the UE Mega Boom 3 as a mid-range choice, and the JBL Boombox is the premium option.


📦 What is the best waterproof shower speaker?

Any of the speakers listed in the mid-range or budget category, with IPX7 rating, will be perfect as a shower speaker. We recommend the Altec Lansing Mini H20V as you can use the clip to hang the speaker from the shower.


❓ Can you put an indoor speaker outside?

Yes, you can put an indoor speaker outside. Just be sure to check the IPX rating before allowing the elements to get to the speaker. You should also keep every speaker out of direct sunlight, even if it’s an outdoor model.


👍 What's a good wattage for outdoor speakers?

AFor most people, 50 watts will be sufficient for a good outdoor speaker.


❓ How many outdoor speakers do I need?

One good outdoor speaker should be enough for a pool or garden party. If the event is much bigger, look to pair up a couple of the UE or JBL models for the full sound experience.

Abi Leach
Abi Leach


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