Music is an entertainment necessity, but not everyone has the budget or space for a stereo system. And with summer weather finally here, a portable speaker makes the perfect beach, lake, pool, backyard, or even room accessory. 

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To help you decide on the best portable speaker that doesn't compromise size for high quality sound you'llwantto blast, we compiled a list that promise lightweight build, full-body bass, and even durability factors at a reasonable price. 

Sonos Roam

Best portable speaker overall

Sonos/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Fantastic sound
• Excellent compatibility
• Auto Trueplay

Cons

• Limited Bluetooth pairing
• No speakerphone

More Details

Sonos Roam tech specs:Volume:80 decibelsWeight:7.1 ouncesBattery life:Up to 10 hoursWaterproof rating:IP67

The Sonos Roam offers excellent performance, along with a durable, lightweight design that makes it perfect to handle. It boasts IP67 waterproofing, too, so you can take it with you to the beach or the pool. The speaker connects via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or USB and is very easy to control, thanks to integrations with Apple AirPlay 2, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. 

You can also use the Sonos app to control your speaker with Trueplay tuning for premium sound. There is even the ability to connect to other Sonos speakers in your home to hear your favorite songs throughout the house. Sonos Roam uses dual Class-H digital amplifiers with a tweeter and midwoofer for well-rounded sound. It has a 10-hour battery, which is shorter than others on our list, but it takes multiple types of chargers when it is time to recharge. 

Also: Sonos Roam SL drops the mic with a$159 price tag and all the portability

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Bumpboxx Flare 8

Best portable speaker for parties

Image: Bumpboxx Pros & Cons Pros

• Crisp sound
• Booming bass
• Fun designs

Cons

• Heavy
• Pricey

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Bumpboxx Flare 6 tech specs:Volume: 118 decibelsWeight:19 poundsBattery life:12 hours Waterproof rating:N/A

Gronk Fitness shares with us the Bumpboxx Flare 8, a powerful, bass-heavy speaker that comes decked out in a fun design. It calls upon the retro design from days of old, offering a boombox-style portable speaker that is perfect for your next party or gathering. You can even personalize your speaker with a choice of six different colors. 

With 200 watts of power, it includes two eight-inch woofers and a three-inch tweeter for full-bodied, unapologetic sound. There are also five EQ settings to choose from, plus Bluetooth connectivity for easy listening. Battery run time is 12 hours for extra listening time. And best of all? It comes Gronk-approved.

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Edifier MP230

Best retro portable speaker

Edifier/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Attractive design
• Excellent stereo sound
• Affordable

Cons

• Not waterproof
• Limited features

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Edifier MP230 tech specs: Volume: 85 dB Weight: 0.85 kgBattery life:10 hoursWaterproof rating:N/A

The Edifier MP230 boasts a 1960s flare, offering an attractive, glossy design using a boutique mesh that is completely at home on your bookshelf or table. Made of wood, the speaker includes a Class-D stereo amplifier with dual full-range drivers and rear passive radiators that create powerful bass and crisp notes through this petite portable speaker. 

Additionally, the model uses 5.0 Bluetooth connectivity with multiple audio inputs to accommodate several devices. Thanks to its 2600 mAh high-capacity lithium-polymer battery, this speaker has one of the longest-running batteries with 16 hours of play time. 

Also: The best Bluetooth speakers

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JBL Clip 4

Best clip-on portable speaker

JBL/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Super affordable
• Compact design
• Waterproof

Cons

• Battery-powered
• High volume playback is average

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JBL Clip 4 tech specs: Volume: 80 decibelsWeight:8.4 ozBattery life:10 hoursWaterproof rating: IP67

The JBL Clip 4 is small enough to clip onto a backpack with an ultra-portable, miniature design that is perfect to take with you on the go. Still, you will likely be surprised by the quality of sound this little speaker produces despite its size, and verified customers verify that the advertised improved bass and low-midrange clarity is impressive -- especially at low volume playback. The Clip 4 particularly differs from its predecessor by employing a redesigned carabiner to provide better, clearer sound that multiple listeners can enjoy with simple wireless streaming using any Bluetooth device. 

The speaker is also IP67 waterproof and dustproof for added longevity, and comes in a variety of colors, too, so you can personalize your speaker to your personal taste. 

Also: The best wireless speakers

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Rocksteady Stadium Subwoofer and Speakers

Best portable speaker splurge

Rocksteady/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Powerful bass
• Built-in subwoofer
• Flexible form factor

Cons

• Additional cost for strap
• No official waterproof rating
• Pricey

More Details

Rocksteady Stadium Subwoofer and Speakers tech specs: Volume:96 decibels  Weight:2.2 lbs  Battery life:18 hoursWaterproof rating:N/A

tested the new Rocksteady Stadium Subwoofer and Speakers, a dual type of speaker that includes a tweeter with a mid-bass driver and bass drums to produce what we think is, incredible sound. AWSM sound tuning is available, as well. This is an entirely flexible unit that allows you to connect multiple speakers at the same time, greatly expanding your listening area. 

Choose from the left or right channel, or simply tune in to both. Offering both Bluetooth and auxiliary support, it's recommended for both indoor and outdoor use, although it is not necessarily a waterproof model. 

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Marshall Emberton II Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Best portable speaker style

Marshall/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Pronounced bass
• Fantastic battery
• Retro design

Cons

• No smart technology
• No custom EQ controls

More Details

Marshall Emberton II Portable Bluetooth Speaker tech specs: Weight:4.2 ouncesBattery life:30 hoursWaterproof rating: IP67

There's no denying that the Marshall Emberton II Portable Bluetooth Speaker has style. It is a mainstay on my dresser, setting the soundtrack to many a beauty routine. True Stereophonic technology means 360