9 Best External Speakers For Outdoor Projector in 2022
By Robert Jones · 2021-06-02
Right then, listen up. Setting up an outdoor cinema? If you're relying on that dinky little speaker built into your projector, you might as well just mime the film. Trust me, good sound outdoors is a different kettle of fish entirely.
Right then, listen up. Setting up an outdoor cinema, eh? Lovely jubbly. But if you're relying on that dinky little speaker built into your projector, you might as well just mime the film. Seriously. I've seen – and heard – it all in my twenty-odd years faffing about with speakers, and trust me, good sound outdoors is a different kettle of fish entirely.  *9 Best External Speakers For Outdoor Projector in 2022 — tested in the SpeakersMag workshop.* **Quick Verdict: Don't skimp on sound for your outdoor cinema; it's half the experience, if not more.** ### Why Bother with External Speakers? It's Not Just About Loudness, Mate. Most projectors, bless their cotton socks, come with something resembling a speaker. It's usually about the size of a postage stamp and sounds like a cat being strangled through a tin can. Fine if you're watching a PowerPoint presentation in a silent room, but out in the garden? With the rustling leaves, a neighbour's dog barking, or maybe just the general hum of British life? Forget about it. I've had countless people come to me, scratching their heads, wondering why their "big screen experience" feels a bit… flat. And almost every time, it comes back to the sound. You can have the most stunning 4K image projected onto a massive screen, but if you can't hear the dialogue, or the score sounds like it's coming from a distant transistor radio, you're missing out on at least half the film. Probably more. It's just not immersive. Think about it. When you're in a proper cinema, the sound washes over you, pulls you into the story. That's what we're aiming for, even in your back garden. External speakers don't just make things louder; they make them clearer, richer, and ultimately, far more enjoyable. They bring the film to life, plain and simple. And some projectors, the fancier ones or some of the ultra-portables, don't even bother with built-in speakers at all. They just assume you'll connect something decent. So, yeah, external speakers aren't really optional for a proper outdoor setup; they're essential. ### What I Look For in a Good Outdoor Speaker This isn't like choosing speakers for your living room. There are specific things that become absolutely crucial when you're battling the elements and open space. #### Weather Resistance: Don't Get Caught Out This is number one, a non-negotiable. You're putting these things outside, in the UK. Rain happens. Drizzle happens. Heavy dew happens. You need speakers that can take it. Look for an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. IPX4 is a decent minimum – it means it can handle splashes from any direction. But honestly, I'd aim for IPX5 or higher if your budget allows. That'll stand up to a bit more of a proper downpour without you having a heart attack. I've seen too many otherwise decent speakers ruined because someone thought "a bit of mist" wouldn't hurt them. Trust me, it does. My workshop has a pair of old IPX5 JBLs that have been through absolute hell and back, left outside in all sorts of weather, and they still chug along. Built to last, those were. #### Sound Quality: More Than Just Noise Yeah, it's outdoors, so you're not expecting perfectly flat frequency response and pinpoint imaging. But you still want something that sounds good. Clear dialogue is paramount. If you can't hear what they're saying, what's the point? Good midrange is key for that. Then you want some decent highs that aren't too harsh or sibilant, but cut through the air. And bass… well, a bit of oomph never hurt anyone. You want those explosions and soundtracks to have some weight to them, not sound like someone's tapping a cardboard box. I always run a few tests. Dialogue from something like *The Shawshank Redemption*, then a bit of orchestral madness from *Pirates of the Caribbean*, and finally, something with proper low-end impact like a sci-fi flick – *Dune* or *Blade Runner 2049* are perfect for that. If it can handle those, it's usually a winner. #### Power and Portability: Plugged In or Battery-Powered? This really depends on your setup. Are you running mains power to your outdoor cinema? Or do you need something completely self-contained and battery-powered? Battery-powered speakers are great for convenience – just plonk them down and go. But they often trade off raw power and bass for that portability. Check the battery life too; nothing worse than the speaker dying halfway through the big finale. If you've got mains power available, you can consider larger, more powerful active speakers, or even passive speakers with a separate amplifier. That usually gives you much better sound quality and volume, but it's a bit more faff with cables and extra boxes. For most casual outdoor movie nights, a decent battery-powered active speaker is probably the sweet spot. #### Connectivity: Keep it Simple, Stupid Bluetooth is your best friend here. Most projectors these days have it, and it's just so easy to connect. No messy cables running across the garden for audio. Just pair it up, and you're off. Make sure the speaker has a decent Bluetooth range too, so you're not getting dropouts if you move the projector a bit further away. Some speakers might have an AUX input (3.5mm jack), which is always a good backup, especially if your projector's Bluetooth is a bit flaky or you're connecting an older device. But for convenience, Bluetooth is king. ### My Top Picks for Outdoor Projector Speakers Right, based on what I've personally used, heard, and what's generally available for sensible money in the UK, here are a few options that I reckon are worth a look. I've tried to cover a range, from simple, portable options to something a bit more substantial. #### 1. JBL Charge 5 (or newer iterations) **Verdict:** **A fantastic all-rounder for casual outdoor movie nights.** I've had a few JBL Charges in the workshop over the years, and they just keep getting better. The Charge 5 is IP67 rated, which means it's not just waterproof, it's dustproof too. You could practically dunk it in the paddling pool and it'd still be fine. That's proper peace of mind for British weather. Sound-wise, for its size, it's seriously impressive. JBL knows how to tune a speaker. You get surprisingly good bass – not window-rattling, but enough to give some impact to explosions and music. Dialogue is clear, and it can go pretty loud without distorting too much. Battery life is around 20 hours, which is more than enough for a double feature. The PartyBoost feature is a nice touch if you happen to have another compatible JBL speaker – you can link them up for stereo sound or just more volume across a wider area. I've used this with a couple of Charges dotted around a larger garden, and it makes a real difference to the immersion. * **Who it's for:** Anyone wanting a robust, portable, great-sounding speaker without breaking the bank. Perfect for smaller to medium gardens. Easy to set up and forget. * **Who should skip it:** If you're after truly cinematic, chest-thumping bass and room-filling volume for a huge outdoor space, this might not quite cut it on its own. For that, you'd need multiple units or something bigger. **Pros:** * Excellent IP67 waterproof/dustproof rating. * Punchy, clear sound for its size. * Impressive 20-hour battery life. * PartyBoost for multi-speaker linking. * Relatively compact and easy to move. **Cons:** * Bass, while good for size, won't satisfy serious bass heads. * Not designed for truly massive outdoor spaces on its own. #### 2. Sonos Move 2 **Verdict:** **Premium sound and smart features for the discerning outdoor movie buff, if you don't mind the price tag.** Right, the Sonos Move 2. This is a step up in price, no doubt about it. But you're getting proper Sonos sound, which means excellent clarity, balance, and a really rich soundstage. It's not just for outdoor use, obviously, it's a brilliant smart speaker for indoors too, with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. For outdoor projector use, the Bluetooth connectivity is what you'll be using primarily. The sound is noticeably fuller than something like the JBL Charge, with more articulate bass and a generally more refined presentation. It fills a decent-sized garden with ease. It's got an IP56 rating, so it'll handle splashes and a bit of rain, but I wouldn't leave it out in a monsoon. The automatic Trueplay tuning is a neat trick – it adapts the sound to its environment, which is genuinely useful when you're moving it from indoors to outdoors, or even just placing it in different spots in the garden. Battery life is around 24 hours, so plenty for even the longest movie marathons. * **Who it's for:** Someone who values premium sound quality, already has Sonos gear, or wants a versatile speaker they can use indoors and out. Happy to pay a bit more for that quality. * **Who should skip it:** Budget-conscious buyers. If you're only ever going to use it outdoors occasionally and don't need the smart features, there are cheaper, more weather-resilient options. **Pros:** * Superb, balanced sound quality. * Excellent battery life (up to 24 hours). * Automatic Trueplay tuning for optimal sound anywhere. * Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. * Robust build with IP56 rating. **Cons:** * Expensive. * Heavier than many portable options. #### 3. Anker Soundcore Motion Boom Plus **Verdict:** **Loads of volume and bass for your buck, but maybe not the most refined sound.** Anker has really upped its game with its Soundcore range, and the Motion Boom Plus is a prime example. This thing is designed to be loud, and it delivers. It's got proper passive radiators on the ends, which means you get some surprisingly deep and impactful bass. For action movies, it really does the job. It's IP67 rated, just like the JBL Charge, so weather worries are pretty much non-existent. Battery life is a whopping 20 hours, and it can even charge your phone via USB-A if you're in a pinch. The sound profile is definitely geared towards fun – a bit more V-shaped (boosted bass and treble) than balanced, but that often works well outdoors where sound can get lost. It's bigger and a bit chunkier than the JBL, but it has a handle, which makes it easy to lug about. For the price, the sheer volume and bass you get from this are hard to beat. It's a cracking option if you're on a budget but still want that outdoor rumble. * **Who it's for:** Those on a tighter budget who prioritise volume and bass. Great for lively movie nights or parties where you need to fill a larger space without spending a fortune. * **Who should skip it:** If you're after a neutral, high-fidelity sound experience, this might be a bit too boomy or unrefined for your tastes. If portability is absolutely paramount due to size/weight, there are smaller options. **Pros:** * Excellent volume and bass for the price. * IP67 waterproof and dustproof. * Great 20-hour battery life, with phone charging. * Portable with a built-in handle. * Stereo pairing if you buy two. **Cons:** * Sound can be a bit bass-heavy/less refined for some tastes. * Larger and heavier than some alternatives. #### 4. Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 **Verdict:** **A stylish, robust, 360-degree sound experience that's a solid choice for all-round outdoor use.** Ultimate Ears have been making excellent portable speakers for years, and the MEGABOOM 3 is a testament to that. It's got that distinctive cylindrical design, pushing sound out in all directions, which is fantastic for an outdoor setting where people are sitting all around the speaker. It's built like a tank, with an IP67 rating, meaning it's completely waterproof and dustproof. I've seen these things tumble down hills and still come out singing. Battery life is around 20 hours, which is standard for good quality portables. The sound is lively, with decent bass and clear highs, filling a medium-sized area very effectively. One of the best features is the "Magic Button" on top, which allows you to play, pause, and skip tracks directly from the speaker. You can also pair it with other Boom or MEGABOOM speakers using the 'PartyUp' feature for even bigger sound, which is dead handy for larger gatherings. * **Who it's for:** Anyone wanting a durable, 360-degree sound experience with good battery life and straightforward operation. Ideal for a family setup where the speaker might get a bit of rough and tumble. * **Who should skip it:** If you prefer a more directional sound or need something with extreme bass extension. The cylindrical shape might not be everyone's cup of tea aesthetically. **Pros:** * Robust IP67 waterproof/dustproof design. * 360-degree sound distribution. * Good 20-hour battery life. * 'Magic Button' for easy control. * PartyUp for multi-speaker pairing. **Cons:** * Bass is good, but not as impactful as the Motion Boom Plus. * Can be a bit pricey for the sound output compared to some. #### 5. Tribit StormBox Blast **Verdict:** **If you want to absolutely blast out sound with LED lights and don't mind a bit of bulk, this is your huckleberry.** Okay, so the Tribit StormBox Blast. This one's a bit of a beast, both in size and sound. If you're aiming for a proper party atmosphere with your outdoor cinema, this is definitely one to consider. It's unapologetically loud, with deep, resonant bass that'll have the neighbours complaining – if you let it. It's IPX7 waterproof, so no worries if the heavens open up. Battery life is stated at 30 hours, which is incredible, though obviously that'll drop if you're running it at full whack with the flashing LED lights going (yes, it has those, for extra party vibes!). The XBass feature really kicks in the low end, perfect for action films. The sound profile is definitely skewed towards a powerful, exciting presentation rather than neutrality. It's big, it's bold, and it commands attention. It's quite large and heavy, so it's not something you'll be casually chucking in a backpack, but it does have a sturdy handle. * **Who it's for:** Someone who wants maximum volume and bass for outdoor movies, especially if they also use the speaker for parties. Doesn't mind a larger, heavier unit. * **Who should skip it:** Those who want a more compact, subtle speaker. If you value absolute sound fidelity over sheer power, there are more refined options, but they won't be as loud at this price. **Pros:** * Phenomenal volume and deep bass. * Excellent 30-hour battery life. * IPX7 waterproof rating. * Dynamic LED lights (if you like that sort of thing). * Can charge other devices. **Cons:** * Quite large and heavy. * Sound can be a bit overwhelming for some, not subtle. #### 6. Marshall Emberton II **Verdict:** **A stylish, compact option with surprisingly rich sound, perfect for smaller, more intimate outdoor screenings.** Now, for something a bit different. The Marshall Emberton II. If you appreciate a bit of classic rock'n'roll aesthetic with your sound, this is a belter. It's much smaller than most of the others on this list, but don't let that fool you about its sound. Marshall really knows how to squeeze some decent audio out of a small package. It gives you that distinctive Marshall sound – warm, rich, and surprisingly punchy for its size. It's a 360-degree speaker, too, so it fills a smaller space nicely. It's IP67 rated, so it's completely waterproof and dustproof, meaning you can leave it out without a worry. Battery life is fantastic, up to 30 hours, which is class-leading for its size. It's not going to fill a massive garden with earth-shattering bass, but for a more intimate backyard movie night, or just to boost the projector's sound for a couple of people, it's superb. And it looks the part too. You can also stack multiple Emberton IIs together for a bigger sound using the 'Stack Mode'. * **Who it's for:** Those who prioritise style, portability, and excellent sound quality in a compact form factor. Ideal for smaller gardens or personal listening close to the screen. * **Who should skip it:** If you need massive volume for a large audience or seriously deep bass for action films. The price is also a bit steep for its size compared to some rivals. **Pros:** * Compact and highly portable. * Premium, stylish Marshall design. * Excellent 30-hour battery life. * IP67 waterproof and dustproof. * Rich, warm 360-degree sound. **Cons:** * Not as loud or bassy as larger options. * Higher price for its size. #### 7. JBL Boombox 3 **Verdict:** **The daddy of portable outdoor sound, if you've got the budget and want to shake the foundations.** If the JBL Charge 5 is the sensible choice, the Boombox 3 is its big, burly brother who's just come back from the gym. This thing is an absolute monster for portable sound. If you want serious volume, serious bass, and to truly recreate a cinema-like experience in a large garden, this is where you start looking. It's IP67 rated, so it's fully waterproof and dustproof, ready for anything. The sound is just immense. You get proper sub-bass that you can feel, clear vocals, and highs that sparkle. It'll easily fill a huge garden with sound, and then some. Battery life is a respectable 24 hours, and it can charge other devices via USB. The price tag is hefty, no two ways about it. But for that money, you're getting one of the best, most powerful portable speakers on the market. It's got a robust handle, but it's a heavy beast, so it's not something you'll be carrying far without purpose. I've used these for larger outdoor events, and they never disappoint. * **Who it's for:** Those with a generous budget who demand the absolute best portable sound for large outdoor spaces, serious bass, and maximum impact. You want to feel the movie, not just hear it. * **Who should skip it:** If you're on a budget, or if you only need sound for a small garden. It's overkill for most casual users, and its size might be prohibitive for some. **Pros:** * Incredible volume and deep, impactful bass. * IP67 waterproof and dustproof. * Excellent 24-hour battery life and power bank function. * Premium, robust build quality. * Perfect for large outdoor areas. **Cons:** * Very expensive. * Large and heavy, less portable than smaller options. #### 8. OontZ Angle 3 Ultra **Verdict:** **A surprisingly good budget option that punches above its weight for basic sound reinforcement.** For those who are truly skint but still need something better than the projector's built-in speaker, the OontZ Angle 3 Ultra is a bit of a dark horse. It's tiny, triangular, and surprisingly capable for its price point. It's not going to win any awards for earth-shattering bass, but it delivers clear dialogue and a decent boost in overall volume. It's IPX7 rated, so it's fully waterproof, which is excellent at this price. Battery life is around 20 hours, which again, for the money, is brilliant. You can even pair two of them together for stereo sound, which definitely helps to widen the soundstage for a movie. Don't expect miracles. It's not going to sound like a Sonos or a big JBL. But for under fifty quid, it's a vast improvement over built-in speakers and makes dialogue much easier to follow. Perfect for a small, casual setup where cost is the main concern. * **Who it's for:** Extreme budget-conscious buyers who need a basic, waterproof speaker that's better than nothing. Ideal for small, intimate screenings. * **Who should skip it:** Anyone who demands decent bass, high volume, or a rich, full sound. It's an entry-level option, and its limitations are clear when compared to more expensive units. **Pros:** * Very affordable. * IPX7 waterproof. * Good 20-hour battery life. * Stereo pairing option. * Extremely compact and portable. **Cons:** * Limited bass response. * Not very loud; only suitable for small areas. * Sound quality is basic compared to rivals. #### 9. Passive Outdoor Speakers (e.g., Polk Audio Atrium 4 or Klipsch AW-400) **Verdict:** **For a permanent, high-quality installation, these offer the best outdoor sound, but require an amplifier.** This is a different league altogether. If you're planning a semi-permanent outdoor cinema setup, or want truly fantastic sound that can be left outside year-round, then dedicated passive outdoor speakers are the way to go. Brands like Polk, Klipsch, Yamaha, and Monitor Audio make some cracking weather-resistant options. These speakers are built to last, often with robust, UV-resistant casings and marine-grade components. They're designed to be mounted (usually to a wall or under eaves) and then wired back to an amplifier indoors, or a dedicated outdoor amplifier. The sound quality from these can be exceptional, offering a level of detail, clarity, and bass that most portable Bluetooth speakers simply can't match. Of course, this means more faff. You need an amplifier (which can be a budget stereo amp or a multi-zone receiver), speaker cable, and you need to run power. It's a proper installation. But the payoff is a truly high-fidelity outdoor cinema experience. I've set up countless pairs of these over the years, and when done right, they absolutely sing. The Polk Atrium 4s, for example, are brilliant value for money for their sound quality. * **Who it's for:** Serious outdoor cinema enthusiasts willing to invest in a permanent or semi-permanent setup. Those who prioritise the absolute best sound quality and don't mind the extra installation work and equipment. * **Who should skip it:** Anyone who wants a simple, portable, battery-powered solution. Not for casual, temporary setups. Requires an amplifier and cabling. **Pros:** * Superior sound quality and volume. * Designed for permanent outdoor installation and extreme weather. * Durable, long-lasting components. * Can be part of a larger multi-zone audio system. **Cons:** * Requires a separate amplifier. * Not portable; requires installation and cabling. * Higher overall cost due to additional equipment. ### Comparison Table | Feature | JBL Charge 5 | Sonos Move 2 | Anker Soundcore Motion Boom Plus | UE MEGABOOM 3 | Tribit StormBox Blast | Marshall Emberton II | JBL Boombox 3 | OontZ Angle 3 Ultra | Passive Outdoor Speakers (e.g., Polk Atrium 4) | | :------------------ | :----------------------- | :----------------------- | :------------------------------- | :---------------------- | :----------------------- | :----------------------- | :----------------------- | :----------------------- | :--------------------------------------------- | | **Price (approx.)** | £130-£150 | £400-£450 | £90-£120 | £150-£180 | £180-£220 | £130-£150 | £400-£450 | £30-£50 | £150-£300 per pair (plus amp) | | **Sound Quality** | Very Good (for size) | Excellent | Good (Loud & Bass-heavy) | Good (360°) | Very Good (Loud & Deep Bass) | Very Good (Rich, warm) | Outstanding (Powerful) | Basic (Clear dialogue) | Excellent (Hi-Fi, dependent on amp) | | **Volume** | Medium-High | High | Very High | High | Extremely High | Medium | Extreme | Low-Medium | Very High (dependent on amp) | | **Bass Impact** | Good | Very Good | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Good | Exceptional | Limited | Excellent (dependent on size/amp) | | **Battery Life** | 20 hours | 24 hours | 20 hours | 20 hours | 30 hours | 30 hours | 24 hours | 20 hours | N/A (Mains powered via amp) | | **Weather Rating** | IP67 | IP56 | IP67 | IP67 | IPX7 | IP67 | IP67 | IPX7 | IPX4-IP67 (model dependent) | | **Portability** | Very High | Medium | High | Very High | Medium | Very High | Low-Medium | Very High | Low (Permanent install) | | **Key Features** | PartyBoost, Power Bank | Wi-Fi, Trueplay, Smart | XBass, Power Bank | 360°, PartyUp | XBass, LED Lights, Power Bank | Stack Mode, 360°, Iconic Design | PartyBoost, Power Bank, Stereo | Stereo Pairing | Permanent Install, Robust Build | ### FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered #### Q: Can I just use my existing hi-fi speakers outside? A: You could, but I really wouldn't recommend it for long. Most indoor speakers aren't built for the elements. The cones can degrade with humidity, the cabinets can warp with temperature changes, and direct rain is a death sentence. You'd constantly be moving them in and out, which is a faff. Stick to proper outdoor-rated speakers for anything more than a one-off sunny afternoon. #### Q: How many speakers do I actually need for an outdoor cinema? A: For most folks, a single decent portable speaker will do the job for dialogue and general sound. If you want a more immersive, stereo experience, then a pair of speakers (connected via TWS – True Wireless Stereo – or PartyBoost/PartyUp features) makes a huge difference. For a very large garden or a full-on party vibe, multiple linked speakers or a dedicated passive setup is best. #### Q: Where should I place the speakers for the best sound? A: This is crucial. Don't just put them next to the projector. Ideally, you want the sound coming from near the screen, or even just behind it if possible. This helps sync the sound to the image. Placing them to the left and right of the screen, aimed at your viewing area, will give you the best stereo separation. Elevate them a bit too, if you can, to get the sound over any obstacles and out to your audience. Ground level often gets muffled. #### Q: What about the projector fan noise? Won't that interfere? A: Good question. Projector fans can definitely be a nuisance. A decent external speaker, turned up to a sensible volume, should easily overpower most fan noise. If your projector is particularly loud, try to place it a bit further away from your seating area, or even enclose it in a sound-dampening box (making sure it has plenty of ventilation, mind!). The speakers I've recommended here can generally cut through common fan noise without much bother. #### Q: Are those multi-speaker systems for garden lighting also good for projector sound? A: Some garden lighting systems now integrate speakers, but they're usually designed for background music rather than the dynamic range and clarity needed for movies. They tend to be low power and often don't have the bass extension required for explosions and movie soundtracks. You *can* use them, but don't expect a cinematic experience. Fine for subtle background ambience, but not for a proper movie night. ### Final Word Look, chucking a sheet up and pointing a projector at it is all well and good for a laugh. But if you want a *proper* outdoor cinema experience, something that truly pulls you into the film, you absolutely, unequivocally need to sort out your sound. It's not just about how loud it is; it's about clarity, impact, and immersion. It's about making those film moments *feel* real, even when you're under the stars. My advice? Work out your budget, consider how permanent or portable you need it to be, and then pick one of these. You'll be amazed at the difference a decent speaker makes. It's the upgrade you didn't know you desperately needed. Trust me, your outdoor movie nights will thank you for it. Now, go on, get out there and enjoy a proper flick!