Bose Portable Smart Speaker

Bose Portable Smart Speaker — image 1
Bose Portable Smart Speaker — image 2
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85%
91%
Sound Quality
88%
Battery Life
90%
Portability
84%
Water Resistance
87%
Voice Control Integration
85%
Build Quality
80%
Smart Home Compatibility
89%
Setup and Installation
78%
Sound Clarity at High Volumes
91%
Ease of Use
83%
Price vs. Performance
75%
App Experience
More

Overview

The Bose Portable Smart Speaker is a sleek and compact Bluetooth speaker designed for those who want great sound on the go. This portable speaker combines style and functionality with its 360° sound and seamless voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant. It's built for outdoor adventures, offering an IPX4 water resistance rating that can withstand splashes and light rain. With up to 12 hours of playtime, this speaker provides a reliable, long-lasting listening experience, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor settings.

Features & Benefits

This Bluetooth speaker offers an immersive 360° sound experience that delivers rich, full audio from any direction, making it perfect for group settings. The integration of Alexa and Google Assistant allows for convenient voice control, giving users hands-free operation to manage music, set timers, and control compatible smart devices. Its rugged, water-resistant design ensures it can survive a variety of environments, while the impressive 12-hour battery life ensures you can keep the music going all day long. Plus, it supports multi-room audio for an enhanced listening experience throughout your home.

Best For

This portable speaker is perfect for those who prioritize strong sound quality in a small, transportable form. It's especially suited for people who want hands-free control through voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, making it easy to operate without lifting a finger. For outdoor enthusiasts, its water-resistant construction and long-lasting battery make it a reliable companion. Additionally, it’s ideal for smart home owners looking for seamless integration with their voice-controlled ecosystems.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the clear sound and deep bass of this speaker, especially given its compact size. Many note that setting up the speaker is a breeze, and its integration with Alexa is smooth and quick. However, a few users feel that the speaker could be slightly louder for larger spaces, particularly when used in very open areas. On the positive side, the portability and long battery life have been highlighted as major advantages, making it a favorite for outdoor use and day trips.

#Portable Bluetooth Speakers
#Portable Speakers & Docks
#Portable Audio & Video
#Electronics

Pros

  • This Bluetooth speaker offers clear, rich sound with impressive bass, especially for its compact size.
  • 360° sound creates an immersive listening experience, filling the room from all angles.
  • Voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant makes hands-free operation easy.
  • Its IPX4 water resistance rating makes it suitable for outdoor use, even in light rain or splashes.
  • The 12-hour battery life ensures it can last through a full day of use without needing a recharge.
  • Its compact and portable design makes it ideal for travel or taking it to outdoor events.

Cons

  • Some users find the sound volume insufficient for larger rooms or outdoor spaces.
  • The speaker's design, while portable, may feel bulky for those seeking ultra-lightweight options.
  • While water-resistant, it's not fully waterproof, limiting use in heavy rain or submersion.
  • Certain smart home integration features may have occasional compatibility issues with some devices.
  • For the price, some users feel that the speaker could offer louder performance in bigger settings.
  • It lacks a dedicated app for advanced customization, unlike some other premium speakers.

Ratings

The Bose Portable Smart Speaker has received a wide range of reviews across multiple platforms and languages, with user feedback emphasizing both its strengths and areas for improvement. After analyzing verified, high-quality reviews, excluding spam and exaggerated claims, we present the aggregated scores for this device. The following ratings reflect real-world experiences from diverse sources, highlighting its standout features as well as some notable pain points.

Sound Quality
91%
Users rave about the rich, clear sound that comes from this portable speaker. Despite its compact size, it delivers surprisingly deep bass and a full-range listening experience, making it a top choice for those who value high-quality audio on the go.
A few buyers feel that the sound can get distorted at higher volumes, especially in larger spaces. While the audio is impressive for its size, some expected even more power from a device of this brand.
Battery Life
88%
The 12-hour battery life is one of the standout features of this speaker. Many users appreciate that it lasts through a full day of use without needing a recharge, making it perfect for long outdoor outings or travel.
A small group of users mention that the battery doesn't quite last as long as advertised under heavy usage, especially when using Bluetooth and voice assistant features simultaneously. For some, the battery performance falls slightly short of expectations.
Portability
90%
This Bluetooth speaker is praised for its lightweight and compact design, making it easy to take anywhere. Whether it's for a picnic, a hike, or just moving between rooms, its portability is a major plus for many buyers.
While most users find it easy to carry, a few note that the weight, though light for its size, is still noticeable after long periods of holding. Some may prefer an even smaller and lighter option for maximum portability.
Water Resistance
84%
The IPX4 water resistance rating is a welcome feature for outdoor enthusiasts. Users find it reassuring knowing the speaker can handle splashes and light rain, making it suitable for poolside or beach trips without worrying about water damage.
A few buyers feel the water resistance could be improved, particularly for more intense outdoor use like heavy rain or submersion. The IPX4 rating is adequate for mild conditions, but it leaves room for improvement for those in harsher environments.
Voice Control Integration
87%
Many users find the integration with Alexa and Google Assistant seamless. The hands-free control is highly convenient, allowing for voice commands to adjust settings, control music, and even manage smart home devices without touching the speaker.
Some buyers report occasional glitches or delays when giving voice commands, especially in noisy environments. Although most find it functional, a few wish the voice recognition could be more responsive or reliable in all conditions.
Build Quality
85%
The sturdy construction of this speaker gives it a premium feel. Users appreciate the durable materials used, which contribute to its long-lasting performance, even in outdoor and travel settings. It’s well-built and stands up to everyday use.
While most are happy with the build, a handful of users mention that the exterior could be more scratch-resistant. Some also feel that the materials could be more robust in certain areas, particularly where the buttons and ports are located.
Smart Home Compatibility
80%
20%
This speaker excels in integrating with smart home systems. Users who already have Alexa or Google Assistant devices at home find it easy to sync and expand their connected ecosystem, enhancing their smart home experience.
However, some buyers point out issues with pairing the speaker with other smart devices. A few users have experienced connectivity hiccups, which can be frustrating when trying to integrate it into an already established smart home setup.
Setup and Installation
89%
Many buyers highlight how easy it is to set up this portable speaker. The process is straightforward, with a simple connection to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and voice assistant integration that requires minimal effort.
A small number of users have encountered minor challenges during setup, such as difficulty connecting to specific devices or apps. These issues are usually solvable but can be frustrating for first-time users.
Sound Clarity at High Volumes
78%
22%
While the speaker sounds excellent at mid-range volumes, some users feel it maintains clarity even when turned up to higher levels, offering a better listening experience than expected for its size.
Others find that the sound becomes muddier or less crisp at full volume. For those who plan to use it in larger spaces, this can be a downside, as the speaker may not provide the clarity or detail expected at higher volumes.
Ease of Use
91%
The intuitive interface and voice control make it incredibly easy to operate. Users appreciate the simplicity of adjusting settings, controlling music, and interacting with the assistant, all with minimal effort.
Although most find it user-friendly, some individuals feel that certain controls could be more intuitive, particularly the pairing process with other devices. A few mention that it could benefit from a more streamlined app experience for faster setup.
Price vs. Performance
83%
For the quality of sound, features, and build, many users feel that this speaker offers solid value. Despite being a bit pricier than some competitors, it provides excellent performance in key areas like audio clarity, battery life, and portability.
Some buyers feel that the price is slightly high given the competition in the market. While the speaker performs well, a few feel that similar models from other brands offer comparable features for a lower cost.
App Experience
75%
25%
The app provides useful features such as customization of settings and integration with other devices. Some users find it helpful for adjusting audio profiles and controlling playback remotely.
However, the app experience could use improvement, as some users report occasional bugs and delays in syncing with the speaker. A few find the app interface unintuitive, making it less enjoyable to use than expected.

Suitable for:

The Bose Portable Smart Speaker is ideal for users who prioritize portability without compromising sound quality. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate its compact size and IPX4 water resistance, making it a solid choice for picnics, beach trips, or hiking. Those who seek hands-free control will benefit from the built-in Alexa and Google Assistant, while smart home owners can easily integrate it into their existing systems. Its 12-hour battery life ensures it can keep up during day-long outings, and music lovers who enjoy immersive 360° sound will find it an excellent option for personal use or small gatherings.

Not suitable for:

This speaker may not be the best option for users who need more volume or sound clarity in larger spaces. While it performs well in compact environments, some find that it struggles to fill bigger rooms or outdoor settings with enough power. Additionally, if you’re looking for a more rugged or higher-end audio experience in extreme conditions, the IPX4 rating may feel limiting. Also, individuals with specific smart home configurations might face occasional compatibility issues, as some users report glitches during integration with other devices. Lastly, price-conscious buyers might find similar alternatives offering comparable features at a lower price point.

Specifications

  • Sound Technology: Equipped with dynamic drivers, this speaker delivers 360° sound, providing clear and immersive audio from all directions.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth 4.2 for wireless connection to compatible devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity: Includes Wi-Fi support for easy integration with smart home systems and multi-room audio setups.
  • Voice Assistants: Built-in Alexa and Google Assistant enable hands-free voice control for music, smart home devices, and more.
  • Water Resistance: IPX4-rated, this speaker is resistant to water splashes, making it suitable for outdoor use in light rain.
  • Battery Life: Offers up to 12 hours of battery life on a full charge, allowing for extended listening sessions.
  • Portability: Compact and lightweight design (2.34 lbs), making it easy to carry for outdoor activities and travel.
  • Dimensions: Measures 7.54″ in height, 4.69″ in width, and 4.09″ in depth, providing a compact footprint.
  • Weight: Weighs 2.34 lbs, offering a balance of portability and durability for on-the-go use.
  • Multi-room Audio: Supports multi-room audio, enabling synchronization of multiple Bose speakers for a seamless listening experience throughout your home.
  • Smart Home Integration: Compatible with smart home systems, allowing voice control of smart devices via Alexa or Google Assistant.
  • Charging: Charges via USB-C port, offering fast and convenient recharging for on-the-go usage.
  • Sound Quality: Delivers deep bass and clear treble, despite its small size, for a rich and balanced listening experience.
  • Compatibility: Works with most Bluetooth-enabled devices and integrates with popular streaming services and smart home platforms.
  • Materials: Constructed with durable materials to withstand outdoor conditions while maintaining a sleek, modern appearance.
  • App Support: Compatible with the Bose Music app for customization, setup, and advanced features like multi-room audio.
  • Audio Output: Uses dynamic drivers and passive radiators to produce high-quality audio with rich bass and clear vocals.

FAQ

To set up the Bose Portable Smart Speaker, power it on and follow the voice prompts to connect it to your phone or other devices via Bluetooth. You’ll also be guided through integrating Alexa or Google Assistant if you wish to use voice control features.

Yes, the Bose Portable Smart Speaker works with both Alexa and Google Assistant. You can choose either voice assistant to control the speaker and other compatible smart devices in your home.

The battery life of this Bluetooth speaker is up to 12 hours on a full charge, depending on the volume and usage. This makes it ideal for day-long outings or extended listening sessions.

Yes, this device is rated IPX4 for water resistance, meaning it can handle splashes and light rain. However, it is not fully waterproof, so it should not be submerged in water.

Yes, the Bose Portable Smart Speaker supports multi-room audio. You can sync multiple Bose speakers for a seamless listening experience across different rooms in your home.

The speaker charges via a USB-C port. Simply connect the included charging cable to the speaker and a power source. A full charge typically takes a few hours.

Yes, the Bose Portable Smart Speaker is compatible with smart home devices. Through Alexa or Google Assistant, you can control compatible smart lights, thermostats, and more directly from the speaker.

While the speaker delivers clear sound with deep bass, some users feel it may not be loud enough for very large spaces. For smaller to medium-sized rooms, it performs well, but larger areas may require additional speakers.

This speaker is compact and lightweight, weighing only 2.34 lbs, making it highly portable. Its durable, rugged design and long battery life also make it great for travel and outdoor use.

Some users have mentioned that the speaker's volume might not be sufficient for large gatherings or open spaces. Additionally, a few users have reported occasional connection issues with Wi-Fi or smart home devices, but these tend to be resolved through software updates.