10 Best Mini Speakers 2026 in the United States

The JBL Flip 5 is a compact and portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers strong sound quality with its 20-watt stereo output, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It stands out for its impressive 12-hour battery life, allowing you to enjoy music for an extended period without worrying about frequent recharging. Connectivity is straightforward and reliable through Bluetooth, and the speaker supports pairing multiple units via the PartyBoost feature, which is great for boosting sound at parties. Its IPX7 waterproof rating means you can confidently use it near water, such as at pools or beaches, without damage.

The speaker is lightweight and small enough to easily carry around, fitting well in backpacks or beach bags. On the downside, it lacks some advanced features like a built-in microphone for calls or voice assistant support, which might be a drawback if you want an all-in-one device. Also, the charging time is on the longer side, roughly equal to its playtime, which means you need to plan ahead for charging. While it doesn’t have an aux input, its Bluetooth connection is stable within about 33 feet.

If you want a durable, portable speaker with quality sound and waterproof capabilities primarily for music playback, the JBL Flip 5 is a fitting choice.

The JBL Go 4 is a compact and lightweight mini-speaker that impresses with surprisingly good sound for its size, delivering clear audio with a punchy bass that’s great for casual listening. Its 3-watt output and stereo sound option, especially when paired with another JBL Go 4, enhance the listening experience beyond what you might expect from such a small device. Battery life is solid, offering about 7 hours of playtime on a single charge, and with the Playtime Boost feature, you can squeeze in up to 2 extra hours, making it convenient for outings without frequent charging.

Connectivity is simple and reliable through Bluetooth, with an effective range of around 10 meters, and it supports connecting multiple Auracast-enabled speakers for bigger sound parties. One of its strongest points is durability—rated IP67, the speaker is both waterproof and dustproof, so it handles outdoor conditions like pool parties or beach trips confidently. Its size and weight make it extremely portable; it easily fits in a bag or even a pocket. Additionally, the JBL Go 4 incorporates recycled materials in its build, which is a nice touch for environmentally conscious users.

On the downside, the speaker’s volume and bass, while good for its size, won’t satisfy users looking for deep bass or very loud sound for large spaces. The single power level means it lacks volume controls on the device itself, relying on your connected device for adjustments. Also, it doesn’t have features like a built-in microphone or voice assistant, which some other mini-speakers offer. For those seeking a straightforward, rugged, and very portable speaker with decent sound and long battery life for outdoor use, the JBL Go 4 is a fitting choice.

The Bang & Olufsen Beosound A5 is a stylish and portable Bluetooth speaker designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Its compact size and elegant wooden handle make it easy to carry around, and it includes a robust build with a blend of oak and aluminum for added durability. Weighing 8.2 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for its category, though not the lightest option available.

The 360° sound feature ensures that music is evenly distributed in all directions, making it great for social gatherings. With a maximum output power of 280 watts, it delivers powerful and clear audio quality that can fill a room or outdoor space effectively. The speaker offers a versatile connectivity suite, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Airplay, and Chromecast, which allows for seamless integration with various devices and the creation of multi-room audio setups through the Mozart platform.

The 12-hour battery life, while decent, might be limiting for extended outdoor use, and the 3-hour charging time could be considered lengthy by some users. The absence of waterproofing means it should be kept away from water, limiting its use in certain outdoor environments. Additionally, it's priced at a premium, which might not suit budget-conscious consumers. If you're looking for a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and versatile portable speaker that delivers excellent sound and connectivity, the Beosound A5 is a strong contender.