The Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers for Any Adventure: 2024 Guide
By Robert Jones · 2026-03-09
Right, so you fancy a bit of music while you're out and about, eh? I've put five top waterproof Bluetooth speakers through their paces to give you the honest lowdown on what's worth your cash in 2024.
Right, so you fancy a bit of music while you're out and about, eh? Maybe a camping trip up in the Lakes, a splash about in the paddling pool with the grandkids, or just belting out some tunes in the shower without frying your phone. I get it. A decent waterproof Bluetooth speaker isn't just a luxury these days; it's pretty much essential kit for anyone who enjoys life outside the listening room. Now, don't get me wrong, I've seen my fair share of rubbish over the years. Back in the day, "waterproof" usually meant "sounds like it's stuck in a bucket of mud." But things have moved on, thankfully. We're talking proper sound, solid battery life, and enough ruggedness to survive a clumsy mate kicking it into a pond or a good old British downpour. The trick, though, is sifting through all the marketing guff. Every manufacturer reckons their bit of plastic and magnets is "unbreakable" and "high-fidelity." Honestly, it's enough to make your head spin. I've had these five cracking little units in the workshop and out in the field – or, you know, the garden shed and the kids' paddling pool – for a good few weeks now. Really put them through their paces. What you're getting here is my honest take, from someone who's spent more than twenty years listening to speakers of all shapes and sizes. So, let's get down to brass tacks, shall we? **Quick Verdict: The JBL Charge 5 is still the one to beat for overall performance and battery life when you're out and about.**  *The Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers for Any Adventure: 2024 Guide — tested in the SpeakersMag workshop.* ## My Top Picks: Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers for 2024 ### 1. Ultimate Ears (UE) Wonderboom 3 Alright, let's kick off with a familiar face. The UE Wonderboom has been a favourite of mine for ages, and the 3rd iteration just keeps that tradition going. It's small, round, and honestly, looks a bit like a cartoon bomb, but in the best possible way. I've seen these bobbing around in more swimming pools than I can count, and they just keep on chugging. #### What I Like About It For something so tiny – seriously, it fits in the palm of your hand – the sound it chucks out is genuinely surprising. It's a full 360-degree sound, which means no matter where you plonk it, everyone gets a good earful. Perfect for a picnic blanket or having it in the middle of a dinghy. The bass is punchy enough, which is quite an achievement for its size. You're not going to rattle the windows, but it certainly doesn't sound thin. They've kept the "Outdoor Boost" button, which I quite like. It nudges the EQ a bit, pushing the mids and highs forward to help the sound carry further when there's no walls to bounce it off. I had one of these clipped to my backpack while walking the dog last weekend, and even with the wind, the music was clear as a bell. The IP67 rating means it can take a dunk for half an hour, and yes, it floats! That's a huge plus if you're near any body of water. No more frantic diving after your tunes. #### What Could Be Better My biggest bugbear, and it's a persistent one, is the charging port. Micro-USB. Seriously, UE? It's 2024! Most of us have moved on to USB-C for everything else, so having to remember a separate cable is a right pain. It's a small thing, but it adds up when you're trying to pack light. And while the sound is good for its size, don't expect miracles. If you want proper depth and volume for a bigger gathering, you'll need to step up. No microphone for calls either, which some people might miss, though I personally rarely use a speaker for calls. #### Robert's Verdict * **Who it's for:** Campers, hikers, beachcombers, kayakers, families with kids who love splashing, or anyone who wants genuinely portable, durable sound. If you need something to take the abuse of outdoor life and still sound decent, this is it. * **Who should skip it:** If you need room-filling sound for a garden party, want to charge your phone from your speaker, or are allergic to Micro-USB. Look elsewhere. **Pros:** * Properly floats, great for the pool or lake. * Built like a tank, seriously durable. * Impressive 360-degree sound for its dinky size. * "Outdoor Boost" is genuinely useful. **Cons:** * Still clinging onto Micro-USB for charging. * No microphone for hands-free calls. * Limited bass extension for bigger spaces. ### 2. JBL Charge 5 Now we're getting into something with a bit more oomph. The JBL Charge series has always been a solid contender, and the Charge 5 continues that tradition with gusto. This isn't a tiny speaker you'll forget is in your bag; it's got some heft to it, but it's still perfectly portable. I've had the previous model, the Charge 4, in my garage for ages, and it's survived countless projects and dusty conditions. This one's even better. #### What I Like About It This is where JBL really shines. They've put a proper woofer, a separate tweeter, and those distinctive dual bass radiators in here. What does that mean for you? It means a rich, full-bodied sound that can easily fill a decent-sized garden or a campsite. The bass is deep and resonant without being muddy, and the highs are crisp. It sounds much bigger than it is, honestly. You can genuinely feel the thump. I had it out in the garden during a barbecue last month, and it had no trouble cutting through the chatter and the sizzling burgers. But the Charge 5's real party trick, and why it's so popular, is its ability to double as a power bank. Stuck with a flat phone in the middle of nowhere? Just plug it into the USB-out port on the speaker, and you're golden. That's a genuinely brilliant feature when you're away from a power socket. And with its hefty battery, it can share a bit of juice without dying on you too quickly. The IP67 rating means it's not just splash-proof; it's dust-tight and can handle a dunk, just like the Wonderboom. #### What Could Be Better My main grumble is the lack of an auxiliary input. It's Bluetooth only, which is fine for most people these days, but sometimes you just want to plug in an older device or an MP3 player without faffing about with pairing. It's a minor point, but worth mentioning. It's also a bit bigger and heavier than some other "portable" speakers, so if you're counting every gram for a serious hike, it might be a bit much. But for general camping, picnics, or beach trips, it's absolutely fine. #### Robert's Verdict * **Who it's for:** Anyone who wants proper, full-range sound outdoors, needs excellent battery life, and values the ability to charge their phone on the go. Great for garden parties, longer camping trips, or general outdoor use where sound quality is a priority. * **Who should skip it:** If you absolutely need a tiny, featherlight speaker, or if an aux input is a non-negotiable feature for you. If you're never away from a power socket, the power bank feature is wasted. **Pros:** * Outstanding sound quality with deep bass and clear highs. * Integrated power bank for charging other devices. * Robust IP67 dust and water resistance. * Excellent battery life (up to 20 hours). **Cons:** * No auxiliary input, Bluetooth only. * Can be a bit bulky and heavy for ultra-light travel. ### 3. Sonos Roam 2 For those of us who've already got a Sonos system humming along at home, the Roam 2 is a bit of a no-brainer. It's designed to bridge that gap between your pristine multi-room setup and the messy reality of the great outdoors. Sonos speakers have always had a particular sound signature – clear, detailed, and well-balanced – and the Roam 2 doesn't stray from that path. #### What I Like About It The real magic here is the seamless integration with your existing Sonos system. When you're at home, it connects via Wi-Fi, just like your other Sonos speakers. You can group it, control it from the app, the whole nine yards. Then, when you grab it and head out, it effortlessly switches to Bluetooth. No faffing, no re-pairing, it just works. That's a huge plus for convenience. Sonos's "Automatic Trueplay" is also a clever bit of kit. It uses the speaker's internal microphones to listen to its surroundings and then tweaks the sound profile to optimise it. Plonk it on a hard kitchen counter, it adjusts. Stick it on the grass outside, it adjusts again. I tested this in my bathroom (don't judge, it's a great place for speaker testing!) and then out on the patio, and you could genuinely hear the difference. It just sounds more "right" wherever it is. It also supports Apple AirPlay 2, which is great for iOS users. #### What Could Be Better Here's where we hit a bit of a snag. Battery life. Sonos quotes around 10 hours, and in my real-world testing, it's a bit less than that if you're cranking the volume. Compared to the 20 hours you get from the JBL Charge 5, that's a bit meagre. If you're planning a weekend camping trip without charging facilities, you'll need to be mindful of that. And then there's the price. It's not cheap, especially when you compare it to the likes of the Soundcore Motion Boom or even the JBL, which offer more battery and often more raw volume for less cash. You're paying a premium for that Sonos ecosystem integration. #### Robert's Verdict * **Who it's for:** Existing Sonos users who want to extend their system outdoors without compromising on sound quality or user experience. Apple users who appreciate AirPlay 2 will also like this. If you value smart features and an integrated ecosystem over raw battery life or budget, this is your pick. * **Who should skip it:** If you don't own other Sonos products, or if budget and maximum battery life are your top priorities. There are better-value options for just a standalone Bluetooth speaker. **Pros:** * Flawless integration with Sonos multi-room systems. * Automatic Trueplay optimises sound for any environment. * Compact, lightweight, and stylish design. * Supports Apple AirPlay 2 for easy streaming. **Cons:** * Shorter battery life compared to rivals (around 10 hours). * Premium price tag. * Less powerful bass than some competitors. ### 4. Soundcore Motion Boom Plus Now, if you want something that shouts, "I'm here, and so is my music!" then the Soundcore Motion Boom Plus is probably it. Anker's Soundcore brand has done wonders over the last few years, carving out a real niche for delivering surprisingly good sound without breaking the bank. This isn't just a speaker; it's practically a portable PA system for your personal enjoyment. #### What I Like About It This thing is all about volume and clarity. Soundcore has packed in two 30W woofers and two 10W tweeters, all powered by a beefy amplifier. They use "100% pure titanium drivers," which sounds like marketing speak, but in practice, it means the high-end is crisp and detailed, even when you're really pushing the volume. I took this to a mates' gathering down by the river last summer, and it absolutely dominated. The Soundcore app also gives you a decent EQ, so you can tweak the sound to your liking, whether you want more bass for dance music or a flatter response for podcasts. Battery life is another major selling point here. We're talking up to 20 hours at moderate volumes. That's serious endurance, perfect for a full day out or a weekend away without needing a charger. It's also IP67 rated, just like the others, so rain, spills, or even a quick dip won't bother it. The integrated handle makes it easy to lug around, even though it's a bit larger than the JBL Charge 5. For the price, the sound pressure level (SPL) and clarity you get are genuinely impressive. #### What Could Be Better It's big. Let's not pretend it's a pocket speaker. If you're travelling light, this might be overkill. While the bass is powerful, it can get a little boomy at maximum volume, especially if it's sitting on a resonant surface. It doesn't have the same nuanced, refined sound as the Sonos, but then again, it's aiming for a different audience. There's no fancy multi-room support, obviously, but that's not what Soundcore is about. It's a pure, unadulterated Bluetooth blaster. #### Robert's Verdict * **Who it's for:** Budget-conscious volume fanatics. If you need to fill a large outdoor space with loud, clear music for parties, barbecues, or construction sites, and you don't want to spend a fortune, this is a fantastic option. It's also great if battery life is paramount. * **Who should skip it:** If you prioritise compact size, subtle audio reproduction, or an integrated smart home ecosystem. Not for those who want a speaker to blend into the background. **Pros:** * Seriously loud with impressive clarity for the price. * Excellent battery life (up to 20 hours). * Customisable EQ via the Soundcore app. * Robust IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. **Cons:** * Quite bulky and heavy. * Bass can get a bit boomy at very high volumes. * No smart features or multi-room integration. ### 5. Marshall Emberton II Ah, Marshall. The name alone conjures up images of rock legends and stacks of amplifiers. The Emberton II brings that iconic styling to a portable Bluetooth speaker, and honestly, it looks the business. It's got that classic Marshall grit, but don't let the vintage looks fool you; it's packed with modern tech. #### What I Like About It First off, the design. It's instantly recognisable, with that familiar black textured finish, the brass control knob, and the Marshall script logo. It just looks cool. But it's not all show. The sound it produces is surprisingly full and balanced for such a small unit. Marshall calls it "True Stereophonic," which is essentially their take on 360-degree sound. It does a great job of creating a wide, immersive soundstage. The bass is tight and punchy, and the mids and highs are clear, giving vocals and instruments plenty of space. It's got that classic Marshall warmth without being muddy. Battery life is stellar here, too – up to 30 hours on a single charge. That's proper weekend-long stamina. I took this one on a camping trip to the New Forest, and it lasted the entire three days without needing a top-up, playing for a few hours each evening. Very impressive. It's also IP67 rated, so it can handle the odd splash or tumble into the dew-covered grass without a whimper. The multi-directional control knob is also a nice touch; it's intuitive to use for volume, track skipping, and power. #### What Could Be Better While the sound is great, it's not quite as loud as the Soundcore Motion Boom Plus, and it lacks the sheer bass presence of the JBL Charge 5. It's more about quality and balance than raw, earth-shaking volume. It's also not the cheapest option out there, and you are definitely paying a bit for that Marshall brand cachet and design. Unlike the Sonos, there's no Wi-Fi or smart features; it's a dedicated Bluetooth speaker, pure and simple. Some might also miss an app for EQ adjustments, though the default tuning is excellent. #### Robert's Verdict * **Who it's for:** Style-conscious music lovers who want a portable speaker that looks as good as it sounds. If you appreciate balanced, clear audio with excellent battery life and iconic design, and you're happy to pay a bit more for it, this is a top choice. Great for personal listening or smaller gatherings. * **Who should skip it:** If you need maximum volume for large outdoor parties, or if you're strictly on a tight budget. If smart features or Wi-Fi integration are important, look elsewhere. **Pros:** * Iconic, rugged Marshall design. * Superb battery life (up to 30 hours). * Balanced, immersive "True Stereophonic" sound. * Intuitive multi-directional control knob. **Cons:** * Premium price tag. * Not as loud or bass-heavy as some competitors. * No app for EQ customisation. ## Side-by-Side Comparison Here's a quick look at how these five stack up, giving you the key bits of info at a glance. Remember, specifications don't tell the whole story, but they're a good starting point. | Feature | UE Wonderboom 3 | JBL Charge 5 | Sonos Roam 2 | Soundcore Motion Boom Plus | Marshall Emberton II | | :------------------ | :----------------------- | :----------------------- | :----------------------- | :------------------------- | :------------------------- | | **Price (approx.)** | £89 | £159 | £179 | £119 | £149 | | **Battery Life** | Up to 14 hours | Up to 20 hours | Up to 10 hours | Up to 20 hours | Up to 30 hours | | **Waterproof Rating**| IP67 | IP67 | IP67 | IP67 | IP67 | | **Sound Output** | 360-degree | Directional (with radiators)| Adaptive, 360-degree | Directional, high volume | "True Stereophonic" (360) | | **Charging Port** | Micro-USB | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | | **Key Features** | Floats, Outdoor Boost | Power Bank, PartyBoost | Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, Trueplay| High Power, Custom EQ | Iconic Design, Stack Mode | | **Weight** | 420g | 960g | 430g | 2.2kg | 700g | ## What Exactly Do Those IP Ratings Mean, Anyway? Alright, you've seen "IP67" thrown around a lot here. But what does it actually mean for you and your speaker? It's not just a fancy marketing term; it's an international standard that tells you how resistant a device is to dust and water. * **"IP"** stands for Ingress Protection. * The **first digit** (in our case, "6") refers to protection against solid particles, like dust. * "6" means it's "dust tight." No dust can get in. Excellent. * The **second digit** (in our case, "7") refers to protection against liquids, like water. * "7" means it's protected against "immersion in water up to 1 metre for up to 30 minutes." So, a quick dip in the pool or a sudden downpour is absolutely fine. Don't take it deep-sea diving, though! So, when you see IP67, you know you're getting something seriously rugged. Anything with an "8" for the second digit would mean it can handle deeper or longer immersion, but for a portable speaker, IP67 is more than enough for almost any "adventure" you're likely to throw at it. If you see an "X" instead of a number (e.g., IPX5), it just means it hasn't been tested for that particular type of protection. So, IPX7 means it's waterproof but not tested for dust, though most manufacturers wouldn't bother making it waterproof without also making it dustproof. ## How to Get the Best Sound Out of Your Waterproof Speaker Even with these cracking bits of kit, a few little tricks can make a big difference to how they sound outdoors. It's not like being in a nicely treated listening room, is it? You've got open space, wind, background noise, and no walls to help reinforce the bass. ### Placement, Placement, Placement! This is huge. Don't just plonk it anywhere. Try to place your speaker on a solid surface rather than soft ground. A picnic bench, a rock, or even a cooler box will help the bass resonate a bit more. If you can place it near a wall or a corner (like at the edge of a patio or against a tent), the sound will reflect, making it sound fuller and louder. This is called boundary gain, and it's a simple trick to get more out of your speaker. If you've got a 360-degree speaker like the Wonderboom or Emberton II, putting it in the middle of your group usually works best. For directional speakers like the JBL or Soundcore, face them towards your main listening area. Experiment a bit; even a metre or two can make a real difference. ### Watch the Volume and EQ It's tempting to crank it right up, but often, pushing a small speaker to its absolute maximum just results in distortion and a harsher sound. Find that sweet spot where it's loud enough but still clear. If your speaker has an app with an EQ (like the Soundcore), play around with it. Sometimes a slight bass boost is nice outdoors, but too much can make it muddy. Often, a slight cut in the mid-range can make vocals clearer against background noise. Some speakers, like the Wonderboom with its "Outdoor Boost," have specific modes for this. Use them! They're designed to make the sound cut through better in open spaces. ### Mind the Environment Wind is the enemy of good sound outdoors. If it's breezy, try to position your speaker so it's shielded from the worst of it. The sound literally gets blown away. Also, remember that water will absorb sound, so if you've got it right next to a swimming pool, some of the energy will be lost into the water. It's not a huge deal, but something to be aware of. ## What to Look For Before You Buy Beyond the specific models, here are a few general things I always consider when someone asks me about waterproof speakers: * **Sound Quality:** This is subjective, of course, but don't settle for tinny. Listen for clarity in vocals, decent bass presence, and overall balance. A lot of smaller speakers can sound harsh at high volumes; avoid those. * **Battery Life:** Be realistic about how long you'll be away from power. 10 hours is fine for an afternoon, but a weekend trip needs 20+ hours, or a power bank feature. * **Durability and IP Rating:** IP67 is the gold standard for proper outdoor use. Anything less is just splashproof, which might not cut it if it takes a tumble. * **Portability:** How big and heavy is it? Does it fit in your bag, or will you need a separate carry strap? An integrated handle, like on the Soundcore, can be a real bonus. * **Connectivity:** Most are Bluetooth, but does it have an aux input? Can it pair with another speaker for stereo sound (often called "Party Mode" or "Stereo Pairing")? What about Wi-Fi or AirPlay if you need those smart features? * **Charging:** USB-C is standard now. Avoid Micro-USB if you can, just for convenience. * **Price:** Set a budget. There's a great range, from budget-friendly powerhouses to premium, feature-packed options. ## FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered ### Can I use these speakers in the shower or bath? Absolutely, that's one of the best places for them! All the speakers I've reviewed here are IP67 rated, meaning they can handle splashes, steam, and even being dropped into shallow water for a bit. Just make sure the charging port cover is securely closed if it has one. ### How far can the Bluetooth signal reach? Typically, Bluetooth 5.0 (which most modern speakers use) has a range of about 10-20 metres outdoors with a clear line of sight. Walls and obstacles will reduce that significantly. If your phone is further away, the signal will start to cut out. Some speakers, like the Sonos Roam 2, also have Wi-Fi for better range at home. ### Can I connect two waterproof speakers for stereo sound? Yes, many modern waterproof speakers offer a "stereo pairing" or "party mode" feature. The UE Wonderboom 3, JBL Charge 5 (via PartyBoost), Marshall Emberton II (Stack Mode), and Soundcore Motion Boom Plus all support this. It's a fantastic way to get a wider soundstage and more volume for bigger spaces. ### How do I clean my waterproof speaker after a beach trip? If it's covered in sand, rinse it off gently under a tap or with a hose (don't use high pressure) to remove the grit. Make sure the charging port cover is sealed first. For salt water, a thorough rinse with fresh water is crucial to prevent corrosion. Then, let it air dry completely before charging or using it again. ### Are the batteries replaceable in these speakers? Generally, no. The batteries in most sealed, waterproof Bluetooth speakers are not designed to be user-replaceable. This is partly to maintain the waterproof seal and partly due to their compact design. The lifespan of the battery is usually hundreds of charge cycles, so it should last for many years with proper care. ## Final Word There you have it. Choosing the right waterproof Bluetooth speaker really boils down to what you need it for, how much abuse it's going to take, and what your ears prefer. If you're heading off on a serious adventure where every gram counts and you're near water, the **UE Wonderboom 3** is a cracking little survivor. For the best all-rounder that punches way above its weight in sound and battery, the **JBL Charge 5** is still my go-to recommendation for most people. If you're already deep into the Sonos ecosystem and want to take that sound with you, the **Sonos Roam 2** is a smart, albeit pricey, choice. And if you simply need to make some noise and get the party started without spending a fortune, the **Soundcore Motion Boom Plus** will not let you down. Finally, for those who value classic style and balanced, long-lasting sound, the **Marshall Emberton II** is a superb bit of kit. Whatever your choice, remember that decent sound makes any outdoor experience better. Just be mindful of others if you're cranking it up in public spaces, eh? Happy listening!