affordable Alternatives to the Bose SoundLink Flex

Bose’s SoundLink Flex Bluetooth speaker is a popular choice,typically selling for around $150.However, several excellent alternatives offer comparable features at a lower price point.

anker Soundcore Motion 300: Anker’s answer to the Bose, the Soundcore Motion 300,is roughly the same size but lists for only $80. While not quite matching the Bose in sound quality, it delivers extraordinary audio for it’s size. It’s IPX7 waterproof, offers up to 13 hours of playtime, adn supports Sony’s LDAC audio codec for high-quality wireless streaming. It can be positioned flat or propped up.

Tribit Stormbox Flow: Another Bose SoundLink Flex alternative, the Tribit StormBox Flow, also costs around $80. It may slightly outperform the Motion 300 in bass, but the Anker speaker has a more appealing design. Like the Bose and Anker, it can lie flat, and supports pairing two speakers for stereo sound.It boasts an IP67 rating (dust and waterproof) and an impressive 30 hours of battery life.

Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals: Marshall, JBL, and Sony Options

Marshall Middleton: With Marshall recently releasing the Middleton in 2025, the original Middleton speaker is being discounted. It isn’t exactly compact, but it also isn’t so beefy that you get a workout carrying it around.Weighing 4 pounds (1.8kg), it’s bigger than Marshall’s Emberton speaker and smaller and more portable than its Kilburn II speaker. Any way you look at it, it sounds very good for its size and puts out a surprising amount of quality bass while offering good treble detail and natural-sounding mids (where vocals live). I also liked that it has equalizer controls on the speaker itself and is fully waterproof and dustproof with an IP67 rating.

JBL Clip 4: JBL has released the newer Clip 5, which features slightly better sound and a new carabiner design. But the clip 4 is still a very good micro Bluetooth speaker and can be had at a discount.

Sony SRS-XB100: Sony’s smallest Bluetooth speaker was once again modestly upgraded in 2023, with a new Bluetooth chipset, slightly improved sound and speakerphone performance. This portable Bluetooth speaker is both dust- and waterproof with an IP67 certification and, like its predecessor (the SRS-XB13), it’s rated for 16 hours of battery life at moderate volume levels and charges via USB-C. Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 with support for the AAC and SBC audio codecs, the speaker plays bigger than you’d think for its small size, with some punch to its bass. It’s pretty impressive for a mini mono speaker.

JBL Flip 6: As JBL has launched the newer Flip 7, which has improved sound and a little better battery life, the Flip 6 is being discounted. While it doesn’t sound as good as its successor, the Flip 6 is still a good Bluetooth speaker that offers good sound quality in a rugged design (it’s IP67 waterproof and dust-resistant) — and it doesn’t look much different from the Flip 7.

JBL Charge 5: I still like the Charge 5, which also comes in a more expensive WiFi version, but JBL has released the improved Charge 6. Having mentioned that, with that newer model available, we’re seeing some nice discounts on the older Charge 5. At the right price,it’s a great option.

Anker Motion Boom: Anker’s more expensive Soundcore Motion Boom Plus (see above) is a significant sound upgrade over the original Motion Boom but this model remains a very good mini boom box for the money. Equipped with a handle and weighing a little over 4 pounds, the speaker reminds me of one of those giant flashlights or “floating lanterns” that were in vogue about 30 years ago.For the record, the Motion Boom actually does float and is fully waterproof with an IPX7 rating. Find out more in our full Anker motion Boom review.

UE Hyperboom: Ultimate Ears’ Boom Bluetooth speakers come in a few different sizes, but none of them are as big as the Hyperboom. A supersize wireless speaker that tips the scales at a hefty 13 pounds, the Hyperboom makes the ue megaboom 3 look unquestionably puny. It’s not cheap, but its sound quality is better than a lot of the jumbo portable speakers on the market right now. Read our full review of the UE Hyperboom.

marshall want: Marshall’s little mono Willen speaker is similar to Bose’s SoundLink Micro and other micro speakers like the tribit StormBox Micro 2. Also like those speakers, it has an integrated strap on its base so you can clip it onto a backpack or even to your bike’s handlebars. Its 2-inch full-range driver and two passive radiators put out more sound than you’d think it would for its tiny size, and it offers decent clarity and also just enough bass to avoid sounding tinny (you can choose from three preset sound modes).

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The Best Portable Bluetooth Speakers of 2024

Looking for the perfect soundtrack to your adventures? A portable Bluetooth speaker is a must-have. But with so many options available, finding the right one can be overwhelming. We’ve tested dozens of speakers to bring you this guide to the best portable Bluetooth speakers of 2024, covering a range of budgets and features.

Top Picks

JBL Flip 6

The JBL Flip 6 consistently ranks as a top choice. It delivers impressive sound quality for its size,boasts a rugged design,and is fully waterproof (IP67). It’s a great all-around speaker for both indoor and outdoor use. Expect around 12 hours of battery life.

UE Boom 3

The UE Boom 3 is known for its 360-degree sound and durable build. It’s waterproof, dustproof, and even floats! The boom 3 offers a balanced sound profile and can be paired with other UE speakers for a more immersive experience. Battery life is approximately 15 hours.

Bang & Olufsen beosound Explore

The Bang & Olufsen Beosound Explore is a little overpriced for the sound quality it delivers, but the Beosound Explore is a very good little speaker that has a sleek, eye-catching design, is fully waterproof and dustproof (IP67 rating), and offers excellent battery life, with up to 27 hours of music listening at moderate volume levels.

Monoprice Soundstage3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker with Subwoofer

The Monoprice Soundstage3 offers a surprising amount of bass for its price point. It’s a solid option if you prioritize low-end frequencies and want a speaker that can fill a room with sound. It’s not as rugged as some other options, but it provides excellent value.

What to Consider when Choosing a Portable Bluetooth speaker

Several factors should influence your decision:

• Sound Quality: consider the clarity, bass response, and overall