Bluetooth speakers are an endlessly versatile gadget that should be included in everyone's arsenal of everyday tech. They can be used as a mess-free PC speaker with no cable management to worry about, or pulled out during special occasions such as parties or gatherings where music can be easily shared. Additionally, Bluetooth speakers can also be utilized during work or while doing manual labor as a way to help pass the time and make the experience more enjoyable.
Whatever its intended use may be, Bluetooth speakers offer a wide range of uses without sacrificing audio quality. Bluetooth speakers may have once been a piece of tech that was expensive and out of the equation for the average person, but that is no longer the case.
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Over the last several years, Bluetooth speakers have become increasingly affordable, with endless options available under $100 or even $50. Game ZXC takes a look at some of the highest rated, affordable Bluetooth speakers available and presents the most attractive options to use for gaming,watching movies or TV, or listening to music or podcasts.
The Best Bluetooth Speakers Under $100
Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker
When it comes to high-quality and portable listening that doesn't cost a fortune, the Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speakers hits the target. This lightweight speaker can be carried in one hand, and offers quality stereo sound and an in-built tuned signal processor that analyzes frequencies to tune bass in real time. This Bluetooth speaker is fully waterproof, and has a long, 24-hour battery life and a Bluetooth 5.0 connection of up to 66ft of any Bluetooth compatible device.
- Bluetooth Connectivity?
- Yes
- Input Type
- Bluetooth
- Dimensions
- 6.5" x 2.1" x 1.9"
- Brand
- Anker
- Power
- 6W
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Colors
- Black, Blue, Red
- Battery
- 24 hours
- Waterproof Rating
- IPX5
- Waterproof Design
- Long 24-hour Battery Life
- Under $30
- Bass Is Unimpressive Compared To High-End Speakers
- Connectivity Issues
The Anker Soundcore is a well reputed budget Bluetooth speaker that is often featured on Game ZXC's list of the Best Budget PC Speakers. The Anker Soundcore is a decently sized, lightweight speaker that can be easily tucked into a backpack, or set on a desk without taking up too much space. This speaker has three color options, including black, blue and red, all with the same rectangular design.
The Anker Soundcore is a great everyday speaker that can be taken on trips or used outdoors, as it is fully waterproof and holds a charge for up to 24 hours. As far as sound and connectivity goes, the Soundcore has a Bluetooth radius of about 66ft from the device it is casting from. However, users have reported some issues with stability in the connection, which can occur when using Bluetooth devices. The Anker Soundcore features strong, loud stereo speakers, and a dynamic bass that changes in real time. For under $30, the Anker Soundcore is truly one of the best portable sound systems with great value.
Divoom Ditoo Retro Pixel Art Game Bluetooth Speaker
For users craving a Bluetooth speaker that also acts as a fun, boredom killer, the Divoom Ditoo speaker is the right choice. Acting as not only a Bluetooth speaker, the Divoom Ditoo features in-app compatibility that allows the user to create and display pixel art, play games, act as a music visualizer and more. Designed to look like a retro CRT TV, the Divoom Ditoo features a pixelated display with RGB keycaps and a working joystick with a button.
- Brand
- Divoom
- Speaker Type
- Bluetooth
- Maximum output power
- 15W
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Weight
- 533g
- Dimensions
- 114.2×90×121.2 mm
- Battery
- 4 hours to charge, 8 hours playback
- Frequency
- 30-20K Hz
- Speakers
- 48mm
- High-Quality Speaker
- App-Controlled LED Display
- Cool Retro Aesthetic
- Long Charge Time
- Wireless Range Only 33ft
- Bit Expensive
For users seeking a unique gift to give to a tech enthusiast friend, or looking for an interesting addition to their own PC set up, the Divoom Ditoo is a great choice. Although this speaker features many flashy gimmicks that may be off-putting to some, the sound quality is not sacrificed in exchange for fun. In fact, this little Bluetooth speaker packs a great deal of sound into a small package. This speaker excels in its aesthetics, featuring a retro-inspired CRT TV design that is available in five different colors. Users can choose from white, black, pink, blue and green.
The Divoom Ditto stands out for its in-app connections that allow this Bluetooth speaker to be truly versatile. Users can opt to display personalized art, animations and even play games on the Divoom Ditoo speaker. Additionally, this little screen has practical uses, as well as it can be used to display the current time and even act as an alarm clock to keep users on task while working from home.
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Rythflo Bluetooth Speaker
The Rythflo Bluetooth Speaker features an attractive design with two circular lighting effects that has eight modes of customization. These mid-range speakers feature quality, high-res audio that is perfectly suited to being used outdoors or by the pool. Additionally, these speakers can be used in multiple pairs to create the perfect surround sound experience during parties, watching movies or while gaming.
- Brand
- Rythflo
- Speaker Type
- Bluetooth
- Maximum output power
- 24 Watts
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Weight
- 2.4 lbs
- Dimensions
- 4.7 x 10 x 4.8 inches
- Battery
- 24 hours
- Water and dust resistance
- Waterproof
- 24 Hour Battery-Life
- 3 Hour Charge Time
- IPX6 Rated Waterproofing
- RGB Lighting
- A Bit Bulky
- No Color Options
The Rythflo Bluetooth Speaker features a cool, RGB design that is well-suited for indoor and outdoor use. This Bluetooth speaker features a loud 24 Watt maximum output power and IPx6-rated waterproofing. This means that the Rythflo Bluetooth Speaker has enough waterproofing to be used outdoors during rain, although it isn't completely submersible. The Rythflo Bluetooth Speaker is a bit larger than other Bluetooth Speakers on this list, meaning it is better suited to being set up somewhere rather than carried at all times. That being said, this Bluetooth Speaker is small enough to fit inside of the large part of a backpack or bag and taken on trips or to social gatherings.
The Rythflo Bluetooth Speaker also stands out for its two RGB lighting effects around the stereo speakers. Users can choose and set the lighting to be one of the eight pre-programmed modes, including circling, flashing, breathing, and more. This Bluetooth speaker also features a 24-hour battery life that can easily be charged to full in less than 3 hours. For users searching for a loud, quality speaker that is still affordable, the Rythflo Bluetooth Speaker stands as a top-tier choice.
ANCOBER Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
The ANCOBER Wireless Bluetooth Speaker is a visually appealing column-style speaker with RGB lighting that can customized with some select modes. Great for parties or general use, this Bluetooth Speaker can also be paired to another of the same model for immersive, stereo sound. Although the ANCOBER Wireless Bluetooth speaker is not submersible, it does boast some water resistance, making it okay to use in a variety of settings both indoors and outdoors. For less than $30, the ANCOBER Wireless Bluetooth speaker is a great price-concious choice.
- Brand
- ANCOBER
- Speaker Type
- Bluetooth
- Maximum output power
- 15 W
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.3, 33ft
- Weight
- 0.79lb
- Dimensions
- 7.1 x 2.7x2.3 inch
- Water and dust resistance
- IPx4
- RGB Lighting
- Good Selection Of Colors
- Good Value
- Not Waterproof, But Splashproof
- 33ft Range
When it comes to shopping for a high-quality Bluetooth speaker on a bit of a budget, the ANCOBER Wireless Bluetooth Speaker is a prime choice. Although not as loud as a few other speakers on this list, the budget-friendly ANCOBER speaker features 15 Watts of output power, which demonstrates that this speaker can be utilized both indoors and outdoors with relative ease. In addition to this, the ANCOBER Bluetooth speaker features splashproof technology, further proving this speaker's ability to be used in a great number of environments.
Priced at less than $30, this triangular column-style speaker features fantastic sound and equally attractive visuals. The ANCOBER Wireless Bluetooth speaker comes equipped with pre-programmed lighting, with several modes to fully customize the listening experience for complete immersion. This speaker boasts another unique trait as well, where users can elect to purchase two of the same model and pair the two speakers together to create a fully immersive surround sound experience, which proves to be ideal for watch parties, dividing music across multiple rooms, and more. This benefit is further highlighted by the Bluetooth speakers' attractive price point, making it an easy investment for immersive listening in any circumstance.
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DEWALT 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker
The DEWALT 20V MAX Bluetooth Speaker is a mighty and rugged speaker ideal for playing music while working outside or in a busy workshop. This thunderous speaker is packed with 420 Watts of output power, meaning users can rely on the DEWALT Bluetooth speaker to reliably reach powerful volumes without noticeable distortion. This speaker can be placed in the middle of a large worksite or a busy party and still maintains a reliable Bluetooth connection within 100ft of the device.
- Brand
- DEWALT
- Speaker Type
- Bluetooth
- Maximum output power
- 420 Watts
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, 100ft range
- Weight
- 3lbs
- Dimensions
- 4.06 x 8.56 x 5.81 inches
- Very Durable & Rugged
- Heavy Duty & Loud
- 100ft Range
- Bulky
- Not Waterproof
The power output wattage found in Bluetooth speakers best translates to the speaker's capability for playing audio at high volumes, with minimal distortion. Generally, users should seek a speaker that has a minimum of 15 to 20 watts to play music loud enough to hear outdoors. The DEWALT 20V MAX Jobsite speaker, on the other hand, is capable of 420 watts of power output, which makes this speaker a bold and powerful choice to be used in especially loud and busy environments.
Although the DEWALT Bluetooth speaker comes with a convenient phone holder, users can put a great amount of distance between their phone and the speaker without breaking the connection. Unlike other speakers on this list, which average a Bluetooth connectivity range of 33 ft – 66 ft, the DEWALT Bluetooth speaker boasts a solid connectivity range of up to 100ft. This means users can set the speaker down somewhere, and keep their phone at their side as they go about their day, knowing that this loud and powerful speaker will not drop the connection.
JBL Clip 3
Users constantly on the move will appreciate the versatility and convenience of the JBL Clip 3. Available in over 10 different colors suitable for any individual, this Bluetooth speaker comes integrated with a metal carabiner. This allows an individual to attach the speaker virtually anywhere: on a backpack or bag, a water bottle, or on their clothes. Wherever the JBL Clip 3 is placed, its convenient carabiner allows it to be brought along anywhere, for hands-free use.
- Brand
- JBL
- Speaker Type
- Bluetooth
- Maximum output power
- 3 Watts
- Weight
- 7.84 ounces
- Dimensions
- 2.17 x 4.33 x 4.3 inches
- Battery
- 10 hour battery life
- Frequency
- 2.402 – 2.480GHz
- Water and dust resistance
- IPx7 Waterproof
- Small, Compact Speaker
- Submersible In Water
- Many Color Options
- Not Very Loud
The JBL Clip 3 stands out for its convenient, hands-free design that allows an individual to bring their Bluetooth speaker along with any adventure. Whether hiking, going for a walk, or even listening to music during chores, the JBL Clip 3 is a fantastic, functional companion for all tasks. The JBL Clip 3 comes in a wide array of colors and patterns, suitable for nearly any individual. Whether the user would prefer to sport a classic all-black design or something more colorful like teal, this Bluetooth Speaker has an ample number of options to choose from for this everyday accessory.
Although it should be noted that the JBL Clip 3 isn't the loudest speaker on this list, rated at about 3 watts of maximum output power, this speaker is still a much better alternative to utilizing phone speakers, as it delivers clearer nearby audio with much better bass. Finally, the JBL Clip 3 is completely waterproof and can be submersed in water, making it an ideal solution for outside use by the beach, pool, or any body of water.
How To Select The Best Bluetooth Speaker
Bluetooth speakers are available in all shapes and sizes, suitable for many different audiences. Before making a decision, users should consider a few key details:
- Budget: First, users should set an appropriate budget for their Bluetooth speaker. Although all the speakers on today's list will be under $100, there are varying price ranges within that parameter. Users should remember that, depending on their budget, sound quality, aesthetics and overall performance will vary with how much they are willing to spend.
- Aesthetics: One of the major details that can define a decision is appearance. Some users are drawn to minimalistic, all-black speakers, whereas others may be more interested in a speaker that includes RGB lighting or a variety of colors to choose from. Another thing to consider is the appearance of size and shape and how a speaker will mesh with a space.
- Versatility & Portability: Users should also consider what they will be using the speaker for. Users interested in an ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker should consider one that is light, small and easy to carry anywhere. Additionally, the speaker should be loud enough, have a battery life that is long enough, and a Bluetooth range that is long enough to suit an individual's needs.
- Durability: Once again, depending on the individual and their intended usage, a speaker should be durable enough to handle a variety of environments. Many Bluetooth speakers are fully waterproof, making them ideal to be used outdoors, in the rain, by a pool, or even in the shower.
- Sound: The prime deciding factor lies in the way a speaker sounds. The audio quality should sound crisp, maintain a good connection via Bluetooth, and should also be loud enough to use in a variety of settings. Bluetooth speakers should also not crackle or have obvious noise when used at louder settings, and a good amount of wattage is one way to determine this.
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FAQ
Q: Which Bluetooth version is best for speakers?
Bluetooth 5.3 is the newest standard. However, anything above 5.0 will grant the user most of the modern benefits associated with 5.0, including better audio, playback, and connection quality.
Q: How many watts is good for Bluetooth speakers?
Anywhere between 15 and 20 watts should be enough to generate audio loud enough for the speaker to be used outside or in busy environments.
Q: Does wattage matter for Bluetooth speakers?
Yes, a speaker with more watts will be able to play audio at a much louder volume with less distortion.