Costco Bluetooth Speaker Roundup: Which Models to Buy and Skip

With a vast selection of Bluetooth speakers available, choosing the right one can be challenging. Costco offers a convenient platform with a rating system to assist shoppers differentiate between quality products and those to avoid. Beyond the ratings, Costco’s generous return policy provides added peace of mind. This guide highlights Bluetooth speakers recommended for purchase and those to skip, based on Costco customer reviews and expert opinions.

Buy: Igloo KoolTunes Bluetooth Speaker Cooler

The highest-rated product at Costco isn’t from a traditional audio brand, but from Igloo. The Igloo KoolTunes Bluetooth Speaker Cooler, priced at $99.99, currently boasts a 4.7-star average rating from over 50 reviews. This Playmate-style cooler holds 14 quarts and features built-in twin speakers connectable via Bluetooth. It’s IP56 rated for water and dust resistance, with a battery life of up to 10 hours.

Costco shoppers appreciate the novelty and battery life of the Igloo KoolTunes. Mashable confirms the speaker can get quite loud with solid audio quality, though proper speaker aiming is needed for optimal sound. Gear Patrol notes its capacity for a full day’s worth of drinks.

Buy: JBL PartyBox 120 Portable Party Speaker

For outdoor parties, the JBL PartyBox 120 Portable Party Speaker is a strong contender. Available at Costco for $449.99, it holds a 4.6-star average rating from over 100 reviews. This speaker features an adaptive lightshow controllable through the JBL app and a 12-hour battery life. It includes a wireless microphone with a 6-hour battery life, dual mic/guitar inputs, and a foldable handle for portability.

Costco shoppers praise the JBL PartyBox 120’s loud volume, strong bass, and smartphone control. Its portable design makes it suitable for various locations. Outer Audio highlights its multiple connection ports and replaceable battery. Stereo Guide notes the upgraded app features, battery, and carry handle as improvements over the JBL PartyBox 110.

Buy: Soundcore Boom V2 Bluetooth Speaker

The Soundcore Boom V2 Bluetooth Speaker, with a 4.5-star average from 40 reviews, is another recommended purchase at $99.99. It delivers a maximum output of 80W with a built-in subwoofer for 2.1-channel surround sound. It’s IPX7 waterproof, floats, and features synchronized light shows. It can also function as a power bank.

Costco customers appreciate the Soundcore Boom V2’s volume, bass, and portability. CNET highlights its impressive sound, USB charging port, and battery life. Laptop Mag calls it “astoundingly powerful” and praises its LED lights.

Buy: JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi SE Portable Waterproof Speaker

The JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi SE Portable Waterproof Speaker, available at Costco for $139.99, is a rugged speaker with a durable body, IP68 waterproof/dustproof rating, and a 20-hour battery life. It also functions as a power bank, streams music via Wi-Fi, and is compatible with the JBL One app for EQ customization.

Due to limited Costco reviews, the recommendation is based on What Hi-Fi’s 5/5 star rating and SoundGuys’ 8/10 score. What Hi-Fi praises its improved audio, soundstage, and dustproofing. Sound Guys acknowledges its bulky design but is impressed by its audio quality and Bluetooth multipoint capabilities.

Buy: Bose SoundLink Flex SE Gen 2 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

The Bose SoundLink Flex SE Gen 2 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker ($139.99) is extremely portable with an IP67 waterproof/dustproof rating and a 12-hour battery life. It’s compatible with the Bose app for EQ adjustments and supports stereo sound with paired speakers.

Recommendations come from Android Police’s 8.5/10 score and TechRadar’s 4/5 star rating. Android Police notes a minor shortcut button issue but praises its sound quality, durability, and ease of use. TechRadar describes its design as sleek and stylish, highlighting its impressive audio for its size.

Skip: Soundcore Select 4 Head Bluetooth Speaker

The Soundcore Select 4 Go Bluetooth Speaker is affordable, with a two-speaker bundle available for $39.99. It offers up to 20 hours of playback and an IP67 water/dustproof rating. Though, it only receives a 3.6-star average from over 20 Costco reviews.

Although customers appreciate its size and price, complaints include difficulty connecting to devices, short range, and disappointing sound quality. Rtings.com notes it’s best for podcasts and acceptable for music due to its lack of bass. SoundGuys recommends it for tight budgets but questions its durability.

Skip: Marshall Kilburn II Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Despite the Marshall name, the Marshall Kilburn II Portable Bluetooth Speaker ($149.97) receives a skip recommendation. It features retro analog controls, a 20-hour battery life, and a rugged exterior. However, it has limited Costco reviews.

PCMag gave it a 3.5/5 rating, while Stereo Guide scored it at 76%. PCMag notes better options exist at similar or lower prices with higher water resistance. Stereo Guide finds it lacking in functionality despite its pleasant sound and excellent workmanship.

How We Chose These Bluetooth Speakers to Buy and Skip

All featured Bluetooth speakers are available on Costco’s website. Recommendations are based on average Costco shopper scores (with at least 20 reviews) or scores from reputable websites when fewer reviews are available. Speakers with 4/5 stars or higher receive a “buy” recommendation, while those rated lower receive a “skip” recommendation. This guide combines Costco feedback, specifications, and professional reviews to aid in your purchase decision. All prices, ratings, and reviews are accurate as of today’s date.