We’ve had the Ultimate Ears Boom speaker at the top of our list for years now, and for good reason. The middle child of the UE portable lineup is fun, convenient, and produces some of the most pleasing, well-balanced sound of any speaker of its size on the market. The Boom 4 is our latest pick, and its most notable difference from 2018’s Boom 3 (9/10, WIRED Recommended) is the USB-C charging port. No need to mess with something so close to perfect, right?
We’ve been listening to the latest version for a few days, and no matter what the surroundings, the latest Boom sounds perfect in every way: smooth, clear, and groovy. As before, the waterproof cylinder comes in multiple colors, is as durable as a block of wood, and has a Bluetooth range of over 100 feet. It’s backed by a two-year warranty, and you can connect it to the UE app to unlock EQ and connect to other Ultimate Ears speakers.Ryan Waniata
15 hour battery life, USB-C charging, IP67 dust/water resistant
★We also recommend: If you want to rock the room, even if that “room” is the great outdoors, JBL’s latest Charge ($180) is an ultra-portable treat. The speaker is dust- and moisture-resistant IP67-rated and has great battery life. It’s available in up to eight finishes, and it can charge your phone when you’re away from a power source. Its tubular shape is designed to fit snugly in your hand, and just as importantly, it gets the party started right away. It’s not a dull instrument, but its incredible and frankly incredible low-frequency response never ceases to amaze. If you’re looking for portable party time, JBL has you covered in style. —Simon Lucas
20 hour battery life, USB-C charging, IP67 dust/water resistant
